COUNCIL
 BLUFFS, Iowa — Diamond Cook, age 31, of Omaha was sentenced on
 February 16, 2023, to 48 months in prison following his plea of guilty 
to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. After he is 
released from prison, Cook will serve three years of supervised release.

On February 24, 2022, a Fremont County Deputy stopped a car on 
Interstate 29 for not displaying registration and a nonworking brake 
light. The deputy could smell marijuana coming from the car. Cook was a 
passenger and lied about his name. During a search of the car, law 
enforcement located a loaded handgun. Cook is prohibited from having any
 firearms because he is a convicted felon.

United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District 
of Iowa made the announcement. The Fremont Cunty Sheriff’s Office, the 
Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, 
Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program 
bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they
 serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our 
neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Department of Justice
 launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on 
these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our 
communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent 
violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and 
strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

U.S. Attorney's OfficeCOUNCIL
 BLUFFS, Iowa — Diamond Cook, age 31, of Omaha was sentenced on
 February 16, 2023, to 48 months in prison following his plea of guilty 
to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. After he is 
released from prison, Cook will serve three years of supervised release.On February 24, 2022, a Fremont County Deputy stopped a car on 
Interstate 29 for not displaying registration and a nonworking brake 
light. The deputy could smell marijuana coming from the car. Cook was a 
passenger and lied about his name. During a search of the car, law 
enforcement located a loaded handgun. Cook is prohibited from having any
 firearms because he is a convicted felon.United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District 
of Iowa made the announcement. The Fremont Cunty Sheriff’s Office, the 
Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, 
Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program 
bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they
 serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our 
neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Department of Justice
 launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on 
these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our 
communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent 
violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and 
strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

Nebraska man sentenced in federal court for firearm offense

The Alliance Volunteer Fire Department battled an early morning building fire this morning (Feb. 25).&nbsp;

The fire was in an abandoned home outside Alliance in Box Butte County.&nbsp;

"[The fire was] fully involved upon our arrival," Alliance Fire Department said. "We had one engine, two tankers, a command vehicle and nine firefighters on scene."

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677343013945.jpeg" alt="Photos by AVFD" />
 <figcaption>Photos by AVFD</figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Volunteer Fire Department battled an early morning building fire this morning (Feb. 25).&nbsp;The fire was in an abandoned home outside Alliance in Box Butte County.&nbsp;"[The fire was] fully involved upon our arrival," Alliance Fire Department said. "We had one engine, two tankers, a command vehicle and nine firefighters on scene."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677343027858.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Alliance Volunteer Fire Department battle abandoned house fire 

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will accept archery paddlefish permit applications March 1 to 14.

The application period begins at 1 p.m. Central Time on March 1. Postal mail applications must be received in Game and Parks’ Lincoln office by 5 p.m. CST and online applications by 11:59 p.m. March 14.

A nonrefundable $7 application fee is due at the time of application. Applicants supplying valid email addresses will be notified when the draw is complete. Those not providing valid email addresses will be responsible for monitoring their status online.

Results of the draw will be made available by March 20. Payment for awarded permits is due by at 11:59 p.m. April 5.

Permits will be issued in a random drawing based on preference points earned; applicants with the most preference points will receive the highest priority. Permits awarded but unpaid will result in the applicant losing preference points and forfeiting the permit. Unpaid or unawarded permits remaining after the drawing will be made available to the next resident applicant.

An applicant will receive a preference point if he or she is not awarded a permit in the drawing. An additional preference point will be added each year he or she is unsuccessful in the drawing. Any person who is issued a paddlefish permit and any person who does not apply at least once during five consecutive years will lose all accumulated preference points. In lieu of participating in the draw, anglers may purchase one preference point per season during the application period. The cost is $10 for residents and $20 for nonresidents.

Two people – both residents or both nonresidents – may submit a joint application. That application will be assigned to the applicant with the fewest preference points.

A person may have no more than two archery paddlefish permits per year: one earned via application and one bought over the counter, if unsold permits remain. Permits and their accompanying tags are not transferable. Anyone fishing with an archery paddlefish permit also must have a valid Nebraska fish permit.

For more information, refer to the 2023 Nebraska Fishing Guide.

The 2023 archery paddlefish season is June 1-30. To apply for a permit, visit a Game and Parks office,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMjMuNzIxNTA0NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.xr0pIj_btEspVtNvP3aA1IwBL1j-U-SaFpYBkNSTyak/s/2971285407/br/155006768572-l">GoOutdoorsNE.com</a>, or use the form in the 2023 Nebraska Fishing Guide.

Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will accept archery paddlefish permit applications March 1 to 14.The application period begins at 1 p.m. Central Time on March 1. Postal mail applications must be received in Game and Parks’ Lincoln office by 5 p.m. CST and online applications by 11:59 p.m. March 14.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664232305191.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A nonrefundable $7 application fee is due at the time of application. Applicants supplying valid email addresses will be notified when the draw is complete. Those not providing valid email addresses will be responsible for monitoring their status online.Results of the draw will be made available by March 20. Payment for awarded permits is due by at 11:59 p.m. April 5.Permits will be issued in a random drawing based on preference points earned; applicants with the most preference points will receive the highest priority. Permits awarded but unpaid will result in the applicant losing preference points and forfeiting the permit. Unpaid or unawarded permits remaining after the drawing will be made available to the next resident applicant.An applicant will receive a preference point if he or she is not awarded a permit in the drawing. An additional preference point will be added each year he or she is unsuccessful in the drawing. Any person who is issued a paddlefish permit and any person who does not apply at least once during five consecutive years will lose all accumulated preference points. In lieu of participating in the draw, anglers may purchase one preference point per season during the application period. The cost is $10 for residents and $20 for nonresidents.Two people – both residents or both nonresidents – may submit a joint application. That application will be assigned to the applicant with the fewest preference points.A person may have no more than two archery paddlefish permits per year: one earned via application and one bought over the counter, if unsold permits remain. Permits and their accompanying tags are not transferable. Anyone fishing with an archery paddlefish permit also must have a valid Nebraska fish permit.For more information, refer to the 2023 Nebraska Fishing Guide.The 2023 archery paddlefish season is June 1-30. To apply for a permit, visit a Game and Parks office,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMjMuNzIxNTA0NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.xr0pIj_btEspVtNvP3aA1IwBL1j-U-SaFpYBkNSTyak/s/2971285407/br/155006768572-l">GoOutdoorsNE.com</a>, or use the form in the 2023 Nebraska Fishing Guide.

Archery paddlefish applications to be accepted March 1-14

Alliance, NE – Story Time at the Alliance Public Library for ages 3-6 includes several stories, birthdays, puppets, music, craft and more! Upcoming themes include Delightful Dr. Seuss on February 28th and March 2nd, Life on the Farm on March 7th and 9th, St. Patrick’s Celebration on March 14th and 16th, What’s New on March 21st at 10 am only, and Amazing Numbers on March 28th and 30th.

We invite preschool through third grade to participate in “Read Across America” featuring our Dr. Seuss collection from March 1st through 31st, plus a Dr. Seuss coloring contest! Pick up your coloring sheet and sign up for the reading contest at the circulation desk.

Lucky Dog Search for preschool through second grade is March 1st through 17th during library hours with one prize per child.

LEGO Club for grades K-12 meets on Tuesdays, March 7th and 21st from 4-5 pm in the Community Room.

For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Story Time at the Alliance Public Library for ages 3-6 includes several stories, birthdays, puppets, music, craft and more! Upcoming themes include Delightful Dr. Seuss on February 28th and March 2nd, Life on the Farm on March 7th and 9th, St. Patrick’s Celebration on March 14th and 16th, What’s New on March 21st at 10 am only, and Amazing Numbers on March 28th and 30th.We invite preschool through third grade to participate in “Read Across America” featuring our Dr. Seuss collection from March 1st through 31st, plus a Dr. Seuss coloring contest! Pick up your coloring sheet and sign up for the reading contest at the circulation desk.Lucky Dog Search for preschool through second grade is March 1st through 17th during library hours with one prize per child.LEGO Club for grades K-12 meets on Tuesdays, March 7th and 21st from 4-5 pm in the Community Room.For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

March events to be held at Alliance Public Library

Today we'll return you to the Alliance City Council meeting from Feb. 21. The council approved a municipal code amendment for the eletrical inspection code on first reading, a public hearing on a Class C liquor application for The Dead Unicorn Society located at 716 Flack Avenue and a manger's application. The council also approved an ambulance purchase approval and grant acceptance.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Alliance City Council meeting, Feb. 21" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=84f37-139e965-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Today we'll return you to the Alliance City Council meeting from Feb. 21. The council approved a municipal code amendment for the eletrical inspection code on first reading, a public hearing on a Class C liquor application for The Dead Unicorn Society located at 716 Flack Avenue and a manger's application. The council also approved an ambulance purchase approval and grant acceptance.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677264745945.jpeg" alt="Dead Unicorn Society Owners Daren Jelinek and Megan Johnson discuss bringing live music, art, community events and boutique to their new business.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dead Unicorn Society Owners Daren Jelinek and Megan Johnson discuss bringing live music, art, community events and boutique to their new business.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

Post Podcast: Alliance City Council meeting, Feb. 21

Alliance – The Knight Museum will be hosting a talk, Thursday, March 23rd at 6:00pm, by Andrea Myers about her new book “Behind The Wire”. Inspired by true events, “Behind The Wire” is the coming of age story of a young woman in the Midwest during World War II. This historical fiction is told in epistolary style and includes actual letters from soldiers serving around the globe that were written to the author’s grandmother. There will be books there to purchase and Andrea would be happy to sign them if you wish.

For more information, please contact the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center at (308) 762-2384.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Knight Museum will be hosting a talk, Thursday, March 23rd at 6:00pm, by Andrea Myers about her new book “Behind The Wire”. Inspired by true events, “Behind The Wire” is the coming of age story of a young woman in the Midwest during World War II. This historical fiction is told in epistolary style and includes actual letters from soldiers serving around the globe that were written to the author’s grandmother. There will be books there to purchase and Andrea would be happy to sign them if you wish.For more information, please contact the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center at (308) 762-2384.

Author Andrea Myers to talk at Knight Museum & Sandhills Center

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

According to the Preamble to the Constitution, the purpose of the federal government is “…to establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.” These goals are achieved through federal government taxing and spending.

Federal spending can be broken down into two primary categories: mandatory and discretionary. Mandatory spending is required by existing laws creating things like Social Security. Mandatory spending represents nearly two-thirds of annual federal spending.

Discretionary spending is voted on by Congress in their annual appropriations process. Generally, Congress allocates over half of the discretionary budget towards national defense and the rest to fund the administration of other agencies and programs.

What does our federal income tax pay for? In 2022, the federal budget broke down like this: 19% Social Security; 15% Health; 14% Income Security; 12% National Defense; 12% Medicare; 11% Education and Training; 8% Interest; 4% Veterans Services; 2% Transportation; 2% Government; 1% Other.

Federal revenues come from a variety of sources. The largest is individual income tax, 52%. Social Security and Medicare make up another 34%. The other 14% comes from corporate income tax, excise tax, estate tax, customs and tariffs, land leases, admission to national parks, etc. When our revenues are less than our spending, the government borrows and we have a deficit.

According to the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) the United States actually collects less in taxes than most other nations, 26.6% of our GDP. The international average is 34.1% of GDP.

Income taxes in the United States began in the 1861 to fund the Civil War, and then were repealed in 1872. Prior to and after the Civil War, tariffs on imported goods and excise taxes on products like liquor funded the government.

In 1913 the 16th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified. "The Congress shall have the power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration."

Income tax was set up to be progressive, because the tariffs and excise taxes on products were terribly regressive, meaning lower income people paid a much higher percent of their income to support the government. Progressive taxes divide income into parts called brackets, with

each bracket paying a different rate. If part of a person's income falls into the top bracket, only that portion pays that rate.

Congress in 1913 enacted 1% tax on net personal incomes above $3,000, with a 6% surtax on incomes above $500,000. By 1918, the top rate of the income tax was increased to 77% on income over $1,000,000, equivalent of almost $20 million today, to finance World War I.

In 1932 the top marginal tax rate was increased to 63% during the Great Depression and steadily increased, reaching 94% in 1944 (on income over $200,000, equivalent of $3 million today). During World War II, Congress introduced payroll withholding and quarterly tax payments.

Income tax now is paid by almost two-thirds of the population. The lowest-earning workers, especially those with dependents, pay no income taxes. We each receive a standard deduction to subtract from our total income. Child tax credits and the Earned Income Tax Credit also reduce taxable income.

Taxes continue to be controversial, and there are lots of suggestions for changing the system. Should we all pay more so we don't have a deficit? Should corporations pay more, because they benefit the most from national defense and trade policies? Should we switch to a flat tax rate? National sales (consumption) tax? Value added tax? Each of these has drawbacks but will continue to be debated.

For now we just need to download that Form 1040 and figure our share.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityAccording to the Preamble to the Constitution, the purpose of the federal government is “…to establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.” These goals are achieved through federal government taxing and spending.Federal spending can be broken down into two primary categories: mandatory and discretionary. Mandatory spending is required by existing laws creating things like Social Security. Mandatory spending represents nearly two-thirds of annual federal spending.Discretionary spending is voted on by Congress in their annual appropriations process. Generally, Congress allocates over half of the discretionary budget towards national defense and the rest to fund the administration of other agencies and programs.What does our federal income tax pay for? In 2022, the federal budget broke down like this: 19% Social Security; 15% Health; 14% Income Security; 12% National Defense; 12% Medicare; 11% Education and Training; 8% Interest; 4% Veterans Services; 2% Transportation; 2% Government; 1% Other.Federal revenues come from a variety of sources. The largest is individual income tax, 52%. Social Security and Medicare make up another 34%. The other 14% comes from corporate income tax, excise tax, estate tax, customs and tariffs, land leases, admission to national parks, etc. When our revenues are less than our spending, the government borrows and we have a deficit.According to the OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) the United States actually collects less in taxes than most other nations, 26.6% of our GDP. The international average is 34.1% of GDP.Income taxes in the United States began in the 1861 to fund the Civil War, and then were repealed in 1872. Prior to and after the Civil War, tariffs on imported goods and excise taxes on products like liquor funded the government.In 1913 the 16th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified. "The Congress shall have the power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration."Income tax was set up to be progressive, because the tariffs and excise taxes on products were terribly regressive, meaning lower income people paid a much higher percent of their income to support the government. Progressive taxes divide income into parts called brackets, witheach bracket paying a different rate. If part of a person's income falls into the top bracket, only that portion pays that rate.Congress in 1913 enacted 1% tax on net personal incomes above $3,000, with a 6% surtax on incomes above $500,000. By 1918, the top rate of the income tax was increased to 77% on income over $1,000,000, equivalent of almost $20 million today, to finance World War I.In 1932 the top marginal tax rate was increased to 63% during the Great Depression and steadily increased, reaching 94% in 1944 (on income over $200,000, equivalent of $3 million today). During World War II, Congress introduced payroll withholding and quarterly tax payments.Income tax now is paid by almost two-thirds of the population. The lowest-earning workers, especially those with dependents, pay no income taxes. We each receive a standard deduction to subtract from our total income. Child tax credits and the Earned Income Tax Credit also reduce taxable income.Taxes continue to be controversial, and there are lots of suggestions for changing the system. Should we all pay more so we don't have a deficit? Should corporations pay more, because they benefit the most from national defense and trade policies? Should we switch to a flat tax rate? National sales (consumption) tax? Value added tax? Each of these has drawbacks but will continue to be debated.For now we just need to download that Form 1040 and figure our share.

Getting Ahead: Federal taxes 

My Road Trip this week, took me clear across town. For Valentines Day, my friend Betty Jo and I decided to go to Sam &amp; Louie's right here in Alliance. She had a lunch of lasagna and tomato bisque soup, with tortellini's in it. She said it was fantastic and it was under $10. I decided to go for the T Rex spaghetti. It was huge! It came with a salad, bread and a huge plate of spaghetti with meatballs, bacon, mozzarella. And it was so delicious. It may be my new favorite.

Needless to say we both had to ask for boxes to take our food home. 

Our waitress was a very sweet and charming young lady and on top of things. Hope to get her again next time. 

Owner Chris Mills came in, and was working the tables. I got a chance to visit with him about Alliance, which is my favorite subject. He truly believes in Alliance and the people here. 

Sam &amp; Louie's has always been very supportive of the community, the kids, and the non profits. Glad to have them in Alliance, and cant wait to&nbsp;&nbsp;go for lunch again. Their pizza is out of this world!

By Tami Cox Swearingen&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677256536902.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>My Road Trip this week, took me clear across town. For Valentines Day, my friend Betty Jo and I decided to go to Sam &amp; Louie's right here in Alliance. She had a lunch of lasagna and tomato bisque soup, with tortellini's in it. She said it was fantastic and it was under $10. I decided to go for the T Rex spaghetti. It was huge! It came with a salad, bread and a huge plate of spaghetti with meatballs, bacon, mozzarella. And it was so delicious. It may be my new favorite. Needless to say we both had to ask for boxes to take our food home. Our waitress was a very sweet and charming young lady and on top of things. Hope to get her again next time. Owner Chris Mills came in, and was working the tables. I got a chance to visit with him about Alliance, which is my favorite subject. He truly believes in Alliance and the people here. Sam &amp; Louie's has always been very supportive of the community, the kids, and the non profits. Glad to have them in Alliance, and cant wait to&nbsp;&nbsp;go for lunch again. Their pizza is out of this world!

Road Trip: Sam & Louie's in Alliance

United
 States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Socorro Alejandres 
Alvarez, 32, of Mexico, was sentenced Wednesday in federal court in Lincoln,
 Nebraska, for distribution of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.&nbsp; 
Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Alvarez to
 180 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp; 
After his release from prison, he will begin a 10-year term of 
supervised release.

On June 24, 2020, while incarcerated in the Great Plains Correctional
 Facility in Hinton, Oklahoma, Alvarez used an illicit cell phone to 
contact Rosalio Reynosao Arrellano in Los Angeles, California, to 
arrange for a package of methamphetamine to be delivered to Nebraska.&nbsp; 
Law enforcement intercepted the package, and it contained 420 grams of 
actual methamphetamine.&nbsp; Alvarez had made prior shipments of 
methamphetamine to Nebraska while incarcerated.&nbsp; These shipments were 
sent to Shannon Rojas, Shane Lawrence, and Jeremiah Schnoor.&nbsp;

Shannon Rojas was sentenced to 70 months’ incarceration on May 27, 
2022, for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.&nbsp; Shane 
Lawrence was sentenced to 198 months’ incarceration on February 11, 
2022, for possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of actual
 methamphetamine. On February 15, 2023, Jeremiah Schnoor entered a plea 
of guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to 
distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. He is scheduled for 
sentencing on May 18, 2023.

This case was investigated by the WING (Western Nebraska Intelligence
 Narcotics Group), which is made up of the Nebraska State Patrol, Scotts
 Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Scottsbluff Police Department, and the 
Sidney Police Department.&nbsp; Kearney Police Department was also involved 
in this investigation as was the&nbsp;&nbsp; Central Nebraska Drug and Safe 
Streets Task Force (CNDSSTF).&nbsp; CNDSSTF consists of the Federal Bureau of
 Investigation, Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s 
Office, and the Nebraska State Patrol.&nbsp;

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force
 (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the 
highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States 
using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. 
Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at <a href="https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF">https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF</a>.

U.S. Attorney's OfficeUnited
 States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Socorro Alejandres 
Alvarez, 32, of Mexico, was sentenced Wednesday in federal court in Lincoln,
 Nebraska, for distribution of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.&nbsp; 
Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Alvarez to
 180 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.&nbsp; 
After his release from prison, he will begin a 10-year term of 
supervised release.On June 24, 2020, while incarcerated in the Great Plains Correctional
 Facility in Hinton, Oklahoma, Alvarez used an illicit cell phone to 
contact Rosalio Reynosao Arrellano in Los Angeles, California, to 
arrange for a package of methamphetamine to be delivered to Nebraska.&nbsp; 
Law enforcement intercepted the package, and it contained 420 grams of 
actual methamphetamine.&nbsp; Alvarez had made prior shipments of 
methamphetamine to Nebraska while incarcerated.&nbsp; These shipments were 
sent to Shannon Rojas, Shane Lawrence, and Jeremiah Schnoor.&nbsp;Shannon Rojas was sentenced to 70 months’ incarceration on May 27, 
2022, for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.&nbsp; Shane 
Lawrence was sentenced to 198 months’ incarceration on February 11, 
2022, for possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of actual
 methamphetamine. On February 15, 2023, Jeremiah Schnoor entered a plea 
of guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to 
distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. He is scheduled for 
sentencing on May 18, 2023.This case was investigated by the WING (Western Nebraska Intelligence
 Narcotics Group), which is made up of the Nebraska State Patrol, Scotts
 Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Scottsbluff Police Department, and the 
Sidney Police Department.&nbsp; Kearney Police Department was also involved 
in this investigation as was the&nbsp;&nbsp; Central Nebraska Drug and Safe 
Streets Task Force (CNDSSTF).&nbsp; CNDSSTF consists of the Federal Bureau of
 Investigation, Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s 
Office, and the Nebraska State Patrol.&nbsp;This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force
 (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the 
highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States 
using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. 
Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at <a href="https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF">https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF</a>.

Mexican man sentenced for conspiracy to distribute meth

By MATT PIKE&nbsp; St. Joseph Post&nbsp;

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — We're a month into the tax season and officials with the Internal Revenue Service reporting things seem to be going smoothly.&nbsp;

Spokesman for the IRS Michael Devine said as of Feb. 10 almost 29 million tax returns have been filed for this tax season. &nbsp;

Devine says to get your returns ready to be filed, most people should be looking out for their W-2s from employers and a variety of the form 1099.&nbsp;

"So, these are the forms that you normally get, and unless your situation has really changed from last year go back and look at the 2021 tax return," Devine said. "That would give you a very good starting point on what your 2022 return will look like, and it will also tell you what documents you used then and which ones you should have now."&nbsp;

Devine said people should already have their tax forms, and if you do already have those forms, there's no need to wait until the last minute to file.&nbsp;

"Because April 18th is the date you have to file your tax return or get an extension, it's also the day that you have to pay any taxes that are due, there's no extension on paying just an extension on actually preparing the tax return," Devine said. "So, waiting until the last minute is something a lot of people do, it's not a good thing to do."&nbsp;

Devine says if you have not received your tax forms by the end of this month you should check your spam folder if they were emailed or call your employer.&nbsp; You can also contact the IRS for help if you are missing forms.&nbsp;

This year, thanks to some legalities, taxpayers will have extra time to file their returns.&nbsp;

Devine says normally tax returns are due by April 15th, however that day falls on a Saturday and legally taxes cannot be collected on a weekend or holiday, so it would roll over to the following Monday&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, or fortunately for taxpayers, April 16th is Emancipation Day, that's a holiday that's celebrated in Washington D.C." Devine said. &nbsp;

And because that's on a Sunday, the federal holiday would move to Monday, April 17, pushing the tax deadline to April 18. &nbsp;

"So, this year you have three extra days to file, but we really say if you've got all the documents you need, don't wait," Devine said. &nbsp;

Devine said just because the deadline to file is April 18, you still have to pay those taxes that are due, which you cannot get an extension on.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp; St. Joseph Post&nbsp;ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — We're a month into the tax season and officials with the Internal Revenue Service reporting things seem to be going smoothly.&nbsp;Spokesman for the IRS Michael Devine said as of Feb. 10 almost 29 million tax returns have been filed for this tax season. &nbsp;Devine says to get your returns ready to be filed, most people should be looking out for their W-2s from employers and a variety of the form 1099.&nbsp;"So, these are the forms that you normally get, and unless your situation has really changed from last year go back and look at the 2021 tax return," Devine said. "That would give you a very good starting point on what your 2022 return will look like, and it will also tell you what documents you used then and which ones you should have now."&nbsp;Devine said people should already have their tax forms, and if you do already have those forms, there's no need to wait until the last minute to file.&nbsp;"Because April 18th is the date you have to file your tax return or get an extension, it's also the day that you have to pay any taxes that are due, there's no extension on paying just an extension on actually preparing the tax return," Devine said. "So, waiting until the last minute is something a lot of people do, it's not a good thing to do."&nbsp;Devine says if you have not received your tax forms by the end of this month you should check your spam folder if they were emailed or call your employer.&nbsp; You can also contact the IRS for help if you are missing forms.&nbsp;This year, thanks to some legalities, taxpayers will have extra time to file their returns.&nbsp;Devine says normally tax returns are due by April 15th, however that day falls on a Saturday and legally taxes cannot be collected on a weekend or holiday, so it would roll over to the following Monday&nbsp;"Unfortunately, or fortunately for taxpayers, April 16th is Emancipation Day, that's a holiday that's celebrated in Washington D.C." Devine said. &nbsp;And because that's on a Sunday, the federal holiday would move to Monday, April 17, pushing the tax deadline to April 18. &nbsp;"So, this year you have three extra days to file, but we really say if you've got all the documents you need, don't wait," Devine said. &nbsp;Devine said just because the deadline to file is April 18, you still have to pay those taxes that are due, which you cannot get an extension on.&nbsp;

IRS: Have all your forms? Don't put off filing 2022 taxes

ACE, the Public Alliance for Community Energy, is distributing $12,377 to the City of Alliance as its share of $200,000 being distributed through ACE’s revenue return program to the 76 Nebraska member communities of the not-for-profit, community-owned natural gas supplier.

At the direction of the ACE Board,&nbsp; The City of Alliance has received $263,000 since the inception of ACE,&nbsp; for community betterment use. Since then the City has used these funds to assist with a suicide awareness and prevention training;&nbsp; purchase umbrellas and octopus at Big Blue Bay;&nbsp; construct Hal Murray Softball Complex sidewalks&nbsp; and protective backstop fencing;&nbsp; replace Senior Center windows; install Bower Park sprinkler system;&nbsp; expand the Rolling Prairie Disc Golf Course;&nbsp; assist with purchase of the holiday decorations for 3rd Street; and contribute toward the outside play equipment for the AllianceRecreation Center.

This year’s Choice Gas selection period will run from April 6-26, 2023. During this period, customers can elect ACE as their provider among a list of other providers,&nbsp; and customers choosing ACE can choose a competitive rate and pricing option online at www.ACEenergy.org or by calling ACE at (800) 454-4759.&nbsp; Selection forms will be mailed out to all eligible customers prior to the start of the selection period.

Learn more about Choice Gas,&nbsp; ACE and its support of Nebraska communities, and role in the Nebraska Choice Gas program at www.ACEenergy.org.&nbsp; For questions about ACE funding, please contact the Utility Office at (308) 762-5075.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571965688810.png" alt="City of Alliance" />
 <figcaption>City of Alliance</figcaption>
 </figure>ACE, the Public Alliance for Community Energy, is distributing $12,377 to the City of Alliance as its share of $200,000 being distributed through ACE’s revenue return program to the 76 Nebraska member communities of the not-for-profit, community-owned natural gas supplier.At the direction of the ACE Board,&nbsp; The City of Alliance has received $263,000 since the inception of ACE,&nbsp; for community betterment use. Since then the City has used these funds to assist with a suicide awareness and prevention training;&nbsp; purchase umbrellas and octopus at Big Blue Bay;&nbsp; construct Hal Murray Softball Complex sidewalks&nbsp; and protective backstop fencing;&nbsp; replace Senior Center windows; install Bower Park sprinkler system;&nbsp; expand the Rolling Prairie Disc Golf Course;&nbsp; assist with purchase of the holiday decorations for 3rd Street; and contribute toward the outside play equipment for the AllianceRecreation Center.This year’s Choice Gas selection period will run from April 6-26, 2023. During this period, customers can elect ACE as their provider among a list of other providers,&nbsp; and customers choosing ACE can choose a competitive rate and pricing option online at www.ACEenergy.org or by calling ACE at (800) 454-4759.&nbsp; Selection forms will be mailed out to all eligible customers prior to the start of the selection period.Learn more about Choice Gas,&nbsp; ACE and its support of Nebraska communities, and role in the Nebraska Choice Gas program at www.ACEenergy.org.&nbsp; For questions about ACE funding, please contact the Utility Office at (308) 762-5075.

ACE Funding for the City of Alliance

<a>Carnegie is pleased to announce the award recipients for the exhibit,&nbsp;Box Butte Art Society Judged Spring Show.&nbsp; </a>

<a>This years’ exhibit includes twelve adult artists and two youth artists. There are thirty-four pieces total.&nbsp; Works include&nbsp; photography, sculpture,&nbsp; mixed media,&nbsp; wood working,&nbsp; oil painting,&nbsp; watercolor painting, and acrylic paintings.&nbsp; Art educator Millicent Butler of Hemingford&nbsp; served as the judge for the exhibit this year and had the very difficult job of selecting awarded pieces from a wide array of beautiful artwork.&nbsp; &nbsp;</a><a></a>The awards selected are as follows.&nbsp;

Best of Show was awarded to Clarice Hynes watercolor, “Winter Flicker.”

Certificates of Excellence went to Robert Peltz’ acrylic painting, “Oasis” and Audrey Powles’ photograph, “Velma” from her Cows in Hats series. 

Honorable Mentions went to Becci Thomas’ mixed media sculpture, “Serengeti Splendor”,&nbsp; Steph Mantooth’s photograph, “O Give Me a Home”,&nbsp; and Mark Van Housen’s wood sculpture, “Bud Vase.” 

Youth Certificate of Excellence went to Olive Radice’s mixed media piece, “The Curious Burning of Ms. Dorothy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The exhibit will be on display in the Skala upper galleries and will exhibit from February 14th&nbsp;through March 18th!&nbsp; &nbsp;The artist receptions will take place March 11th&nbsp;from 5-7pm.&nbsp; The event is open to the public and food and beverage will be provided.

Don’t forget to also check out Alliance Arts Council featured artist, Michaela Bradley from Omaha, NE.&nbsp; Her exhibit&nbsp;Holographic&nbsp;exhibits digital artwork creating using a computer.&nbsp; Michaela is the owner of her own design agency, Painted Wolf Studios&nbsp; and will be visiting us all the way from Omaha, NE for her reception on March 11th.&nbsp; Please come celebrate her talent as well as our many local talented artists on display right now.&nbsp;

As always, we want to thank the incredible local businesses that support arts opportunities for our community. Thank you to our&nbsp;February business sponsors... Seasons of Hope Counseling,&nbsp; Edward Jones-Dalsey Lambley Financial Advisor,&nbsp; and R &amp; J Industries.&nbsp; We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding,&nbsp; The Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment.&nbsp; Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support.&nbsp; Thank you, DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, United Way Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Thanks to Carnegie Arts Center<a>Carnegie is pleased to announce the award recipients for the exhibit,&nbsp;Box Butte Art Society Judged Spring Show.&nbsp; </a><a>This years’ exhibit includes twelve adult artists and two youth artists. There are thirty-four pieces total.&nbsp; Works include&nbsp; photography, sculpture,&nbsp; mixed media,&nbsp; wood working,&nbsp; oil painting,&nbsp; watercolor painting, and acrylic paintings.&nbsp; Art educator Millicent Butler of Hemingford&nbsp; served as the judge for the exhibit this year and had the very difficult job of selecting awarded pieces from a wide array of beautiful artwork.&nbsp; &nbsp;</a><a></a>The awards selected are as follows.&nbsp; Best of Show was awarded to Clarice Hynes watercolor, “Winter Flicker.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677188226439.jpeg" alt="Clarice Hynes&nbsp; "Winter Filcker"" />
 <figcaption>Clarice Hynes&nbsp; "Winter Filcker"</figcaption>
 </figure>Certificates of Excellence went to Robert Peltz’ acrylic painting, “Oasis” and Audrey Powles’ photograph, “Velma” from her Cows in Hats series. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677188284543.jpeg" alt="Audrey Powles&nbsp; "Velma"" />
 <figcaption>Audrey Powles&nbsp; "Velma"</figcaption>
 </figure>Honorable Mentions went to Becci Thomas’ mixed media sculpture, “Serengeti Splendor”,&nbsp; Steph Mantooth’s photograph, “O Give Me a Home”,&nbsp; and Mark Van Housen’s wood sculpture, “Bud Vase.” Youth Certificate of Excellence went to Olive Radice’s mixed media piece, “The Curious Burning of Ms. Dorothy.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The exhibit will be on display in the Skala upper galleries and will exhibit from February 14th&nbsp;through March 18th!&nbsp; &nbsp;The artist receptions will take place March 11th&nbsp;from 5-7pm.&nbsp; The event is open to the public and food and beverage will be provided.Don’t forget to also check out Alliance Arts Council featured artist, Michaela Bradley from Omaha, NE.&nbsp; Her exhibit&nbsp;Holographic&nbsp;exhibits digital artwork creating using a computer.&nbsp; Michaela is the owner of her own design agency, Painted Wolf Studios&nbsp; and will be visiting us all the way from Omaha, NE for her reception on March 11th.&nbsp; Please come celebrate her talent as well as our many local talented artists on display right now.&nbsp;As always, we want to thank the incredible local businesses that support arts opportunities for our community. Thank you to our&nbsp;February business sponsors... Seasons of Hope Counseling,&nbsp; Edward Jones-Dalsey Lambley Financial Advisor,&nbsp; and R &amp; J Industries.&nbsp; We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding,&nbsp; The Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment.&nbsp; Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support.&nbsp; Thank you, DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, United Way Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Carnegie Award Recipients

CHADRON – Chadron State College will host the annual Western District History Day March 3. Coordinator of the event, Project Coordinator Kate Pope, said the schools registered to participate include Chadron Middle School, Chadron High School, Crawford Elementary School, and Crawford High School.

The theme is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nhd.org/frontiers-history" target="_blank">Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas</a>. Categories include performance, exhibits, websites, documentary, and research paper. The public awards ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. in the Student Center.

Winners of the district contest will advance to the state contest in Lincoln April 1, according to Pope.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589407420971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By : CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College will host the annual Western District History Day March 3. Coordinator of the event, Project Coordinator Kate Pope, said the schools registered to participate include Chadron Middle School, Chadron High School, Crawford Elementary School, and Crawford High School.The theme is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nhd.org/frontiers-history" target="_blank">Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas</a>. Categories include performance, exhibits, websites, documentary, and research paper. The public awards ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. in the Student Center.Winners of the district contest will advance to the state contest in Lincoln April 1, according to Pope.

CSC to host annual Western District History Day March 3

By MOLLY LANGHORST, COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON – Chadron State College student Juliana Sellars is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for January. Sellars, a junior from Westminster, Colorado, said she chose CSC because of its affordability and location, which she said is the perfect distance from home.

Sellars, a Rangeland Management major with minors in Equine Management and Agribusiness said she wasn’t sure what she wanted to study when she came to college.

“I was set on pre-vet when I first came here because I have always wanted to help horses, but did an internship when I was a senior in high school to become a vet and didn’t love it as much as I thought I would. So I started thinking of other ways I could help horses,” Sellars said. “That’s when I started to look into equine therapy.”

Growing up around horses, Sellars said she was familiar with equine massage and acupuncture because it was something she and her aunt both invested in to help their horses, but she always thought a veterinary license was necessary to practice it.

Sellars said her initial interest in horses began in middle school.

“I rode horses when I was little and then got into competing as I got older. I earned my first title in middle school as Jefferson County Junior Princess and my career really took off from there,” said Sellars.

She said her most notable accomplishment so far was being named the Rodeo Queen for Deer Trail, Colorado, home of the world’s first rodeo in 1869.

“I was crowned at the 150th anniversary of the rodeo, which was really cool,” Sellars said.

Sellars didn’t picture herself being a rodeo queen when she was younger but has learned to enjoy the benefits of being in the role.

“Being a rodeo queen has helped with gaining confidence in so many ways,” said Sellars. “Always being in the public eye helps me be more conscious of my actions and behaviors. It makes me want to be the best version of myself.”

After graduating from CSC, Sellars plans to earn her license for equine acupuncture and massage, a process she plans to complete through a 12-month course.

“I definitely thought about not going to college at all and just taking the courses to get my license in equine acupuncture and massage right after graduation, but was encouraged to visit some colleges and fell in love with CSC when I toured,” Sellars said.

Sellars is a Resident Advisor, a position she always knew she wanted.

“I was kind of a leader in high school, and I knew I wanted to be an RA in college,” Sellars said. “I also didn’t get any scholarships to come to college and when my grandparents volunteered to pay for my education, I wanted to do everything I could to make the bill as small as possible.”

Amanda Lewin, Retention Specialist for Project Strive/TRiO said Sellars is deserving of Student of the Month for her hard work in academics and responsibility.

“Juliana is a very optimistic and responsible person who works hard at her academics,” Lewin said. “She is very active, both in our program and on campus. She has volunteered to lead a Paint the Library program later this month, a program designed to create student artwork to decorate the King Library where she works. We are continually impressed by Juliana and grateful to have her be part of our program.”

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first-generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low-income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677179344454.jpeg" alt="CSC Photo" />
 <figcaption>CSC Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MOLLY LANGHORST, COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College student Juliana Sellars is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for January. Sellars, a junior from Westminster, Colorado, said she chose CSC because of its affordability and location, which she said is the perfect distance from home.Sellars, a Rangeland Management major with minors in Equine Management and Agribusiness said she wasn’t sure what she wanted to study when she came to college.“I was set on pre-vet when I first came here because I have always wanted to help horses, but did an internship when I was a senior in high school to become a vet and didn’t love it as much as I thought I would. So I started thinking of other ways I could help horses,” Sellars said. “That’s when I started to look into equine therapy.”Growing up around horses, Sellars said she was familiar with equine massage and acupuncture because it was something she and her aunt both invested in to help their horses, but she always thought a veterinary license was necessary to practice it.Sellars said her initial interest in horses began in middle school.“I rode horses when I was little and then got into competing as I got older. I earned my first title in middle school as Jefferson County Junior Princess and my career really took off from there,” said Sellars.She said her most notable accomplishment so far was being named the Rodeo Queen for Deer Trail, Colorado, home of the world’s first rodeo in 1869.“I was crowned at the 150th anniversary of the rodeo, which was really cool,” Sellars said.Sellars didn’t picture herself being a rodeo queen when she was younger but has learned to enjoy the benefits of being in the role.“Being a rodeo queen has helped with gaining confidence in so many ways,” said Sellars. “Always being in the public eye helps me be more conscious of my actions and behaviors. It makes me want to be the best version of myself.”After graduating from CSC, Sellars plans to earn her license for equine acupuncture and massage, a process she plans to complete through a 12-month course.“I definitely thought about not going to college at all and just taking the courses to get my license in equine acupuncture and massage right after graduation, but was encouraged to visit some colleges and fell in love with CSC when I toured,” Sellars said.Sellars is a Resident Advisor, a position she always knew she wanted.“I was kind of a leader in high school, and I knew I wanted to be an RA in college,” Sellars said. “I also didn’t get any scholarships to come to college and when my grandparents volunteered to pay for my education, I wanted to do everything I could to make the bill as small as possible.”Amanda Lewin, Retention Specialist for Project Strive/TRiO said Sellars is deserving of Student of the Month for her hard work in academics and responsibility.“Juliana is a very optimistic and responsible person who works hard at her academics,” Lewin said. “She is very active, both in our program and on campus. She has volunteered to lead a Paint the Library program later this month, a program designed to create student artwork to decorate the King Library where she works. We are continually impressed by Juliana and grateful to have her be part of our program.”Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first-generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low-income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/</a>.

Sellars Named Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for January 

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne is calling for temperatures to rise into the weekend, offering relief from the bitter cold.

After a projected high of just 6 degrees Thursday, the mercury will rise to the mid-20s Friday, jumping all the way to the mid-40s on Saturday and Sunday.

The overnight and Friday morning wind chill values will be as low as 25 below zero, the NWS warned.

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne is calling for temperatures to rise into the weekend, offering relief from the bitter cold.After a projected high of just 6 degrees Thursday, the mercury will rise to the mid-20s Friday, jumping all the way to the mid-40s on Saturday and Sunday.The overnight and Friday morning wind chill values will be as low as 25 below zero, the NWS warned.

NWS: Relief from bitter cold on the way to the Panhandle

NORTH PLATTE — On Tuesday, administrative staff at the North Platte High School reported receiving information that a staff member was acting inappropriately around a student. The information was turned over to the School Resource Officer who investigated the concerning activity&nbsp;between the staff member and student,&nbsp;in conjunction with the North Platte Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division.

Investigators interviewed&nbsp;a&nbsp;17-year-old&nbsp;student on&nbsp;Wednesday morning and&nbsp;several items of evidence&nbsp;were collected. Probable cause was developed, that included evidence of sexual contact between the student and staff member. &nbsp;The suspect was taken into custody later that afternoon by the School Resource Officer at North Platte High School.

The&nbsp;suspect,&nbsp;46-year-old&nbsp;David D. Cooper,&nbsp;was&nbsp;arrested for Sexual Abuse by a School Employee, a class IIA felony. &nbsp;He was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center.

Cooper is a math teacher at North Platte High School, according to the district's website.

North Platte Public Schools issued the following statement:

"Yesterday, Wednesday, February 22, 2023, an employee was taken into custody by the North Platte Police Department. While we cannot share the specific details of this personnel matter, we can assure you that North Platte Public Schools remains committed to educating our students in a safe learning environment. Additionally, we will continue to work with law enforcement throughout this investigation. The North Platte Police Department is handling this ongoing criminal investigation; we cannot elaborate further."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677164484209.png" alt="Cooper" />
 <figcaption>Cooper</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Police DepartmentNORTH PLATTE — On Tuesday, administrative staff at the North Platte High School reported receiving information that a staff member was acting inappropriately around a student. The information was turned over to the School Resource Officer who investigated the concerning activity&nbsp;between the staff member and student,&nbsp;in conjunction with the North Platte Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division.Investigators interviewed&nbsp;a&nbsp;17-year-old&nbsp;student on&nbsp;Wednesday morning and&nbsp;several items of evidence&nbsp;were collected. Probable cause was developed, that included evidence of sexual contact between the student and staff member. &nbsp;The suspect was taken into custody later that afternoon by the School Resource Officer at North Platte High School.The&nbsp;suspect,&nbsp;46-year-old&nbsp;David D. Cooper,&nbsp;was&nbsp;arrested for Sexual Abuse by a School Employee, a class IIA felony. &nbsp;He was incarcerated at the Lincoln County Detention Center.Cooper is a math teacher at North Platte High School, according to the district's website.North Platte Public Schools issued the following statement:"Yesterday, Wednesday, February 22, 2023, an employee was taken into custody by the North Platte Police Department. While we cannot share the specific details of this personnel matter, we can assure you that North Platte Public Schools remains committed to educating our students in a safe learning environment. Additionally, we will continue to work with law enforcement throughout this investigation. The North Platte Police Department is handling this ongoing criminal investigation; we cannot elaborate further."

North Platte High teacher arrested on suspicion of sexual abuse

By AARON SANDERFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/22/bonding-bill-would-finish-nebraska-expressways-faster-supporters-say/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A highway funding bill with Gov. Jim Pillen’s backing could help Nebraska finish a four-lane expressway system that the state has spent four decades building.

But the proposal to borrow money by 
issuing bonds to fund highway and major road construction would end 
Nebraska’s decades-old, pay-as-you-go approach to major road 
construction.&nbsp;

Legislative Bill 706 would speed up 
construction projects by letting the Nebraska Department of 
Transportation issue up to $450 million in bonds over 19 years. It 
proposes to pay them off using a portion of sales taxes already being 
collected.

The bill’s sponsor, State Sen. Mike 
Moser of Columbus, said the measure aims to help manufacturers, 
agricultural producers and communities situated farther from Interstate 
80.

During Wednesday’s public hearing for
 LB 706, Moser described the expressway system as a “critical” link 
between western, central and eastern Nebraska.

The expressway system, codified into 
law in 1988, has struggled for funding and is now slated to be completed
 by 2035. Bonding could cut years off the wait, Moser said.

“It’s an economic development thing 
for us, being able to get more quickly to Lincoln or to Omaha or to the 
Interstate system,” he told the Revenue Committee.

‘Fiscally responsible’ approach&nbsp;

Pillen, who testified that Nebraska 
needs to be able to issue bonds for highways to compete, said the state 
“dropped the ball” by opposing proposals to issue bonds for highway 
construction.

Projects that could have been done in
 five years took 50, he said. And the work cost Nebraska taxpayers 
millions of dollars more than they would have because of inflation.

Pillen argued that bonding is a 
“fiscally responsible” approach when construction inflation runs 10% a 
year in a good year and is running 20% today.

“Just think of the economic activity 
that’s been lost waiting for our state to grow,” the governor said. “Our
 timelines just haven’t cut it.”&nbsp;

Moser’s bill is built off a 2021 bill by Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont.&nbsp;

The largest expressway sections yet 
to be built would connect Fremont, Norfolk and Columbus — the governor’s
 hometown — to the Interstate and Omaha, expressway advocates said.

About a third of the expressway 
system still needs to be finished, including a section of U.S. 75 
between Nebraska City and Omaha that is being widened.&nbsp;

Walz said she was “excited to see the
 bonding proposal.” She said it would be a “great tool” to finish the 
expressways and build future projects.&nbsp;

“We should always err on the side of 
caution,” she said of bonding. “It’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all 
solution, but it’s a great step.”

The Walz bill stalled two years ago, in part, because then-Gov. Pete Ricketts opposed bonding for roads.&nbsp;

None of Nebraska’s last five 
governors — four Republicans and one Democrat — supported the state 
using bonding for building highways while in office.&nbsp;

Ricketts and former Gov. Kay Orr, two
 of Pillen’s top Republican supporters in the 2022 governor’s race, had 
no immediate comment Wednesday on LB 706.

Both have argued before that they 
preferred the state not to go into debt to build highways, as did former
 Govs. Dave Heineman, Mike Johanns and Ben Nelson.&nbsp;

Nelson on Wednesday said he still 
would rather see Nebraska pay as it goes, unless there is a compelling 
argument for new economic development tied to a road.

“Borrowing is for growth, for new 
streets and roads for growth,” Nelson said, drawing a distinction with 
maintenance. “You have to be careful. Once you start down that slope, 
it’s steep.”

Heineman, reached Wednesday, said 
that while he has opposed bonding for roads in the past, he understands 
why Pillen was taking another look at doing so.

“I think it’s worth a look,” he said,
 citing the importance rural Nebraskans place on four-lane access. 
“Nebraskans will want them to take it slow.”&nbsp;

Expressway advocates from Gering to 
Nebraska City have complained that previous governors did not prioritize
 spending on the expressway system.

Several pointed to now-U.S. Sen. Deb 
Fischer, R-Neb., who faced opposition as a state lawmaker when she tried
 to earmark part of the state sales tax revenue for the expressways.&nbsp;

They say investors are clamoring for 
safe places to put money and said passage of a federal infrastructure 
bill means more money to build roads and bridges.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Norfolk Mayor Josh Moenning, who 
helped cities and counties to advocate for completion of the four-lane 
expressway system for years, applauded LB 706.

He called the state’s previous 
approach “penny wise and pound foolish.” In 1988, he said, completion of
 the system was expected to cost $200 million.

Today, the same project would cost more than $2 billion, he said. The longer you wait, he said, the more expensive it gets.

“I’ve seen through business 
recruitment that good infrastructure access is (vital),” he said. “If 
you don’t have it, you’re going to get passed by.”

Road builders have said the 
expressways took so long because the state dedicated little funding 
beyond the gas tax, which is politically difficult to increase.

LB 706 would cap how much the state 
could pay for the bonds in a given year, as well, limiting annual debt 
service on such bonds to no more than $30 million a year.

The bill also would extend the 
Nebraska law dedicating 1/4 of 1% of state sales tax revenue to the 
expressway system, priority projects and maintenance.

That sales tax earmark, currently 
scheduled to sunset in 2033, would be extended to 2042, which advocates 
said would provide the state with enough revenue to pay off the new 
bonds.

No new bonds would be issued after June 2029.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677161749380.png" alt="Drivers head into a construction zone on U.S. 75 near Bellevue, Neb. Improving the highway between Nebraska City and Omaha is part of the state’s expressway system still under construction. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Drivers head into a construction zone on U.S. 75 near Bellevue, Neb. Improving the highway between Nebraska City and Omaha is part of the state’s expressway system still under construction. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>By AARON SANDERFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/02/22/bonding-bill-would-finish-nebraska-expressways-faster-supporters-say/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A highway funding bill with Gov. Jim Pillen’s backing could help Nebraska finish a four-lane expressway system that the state has spent four decades building.But the proposal to borrow money by 
issuing bonds to fund highway and major road construction would end 
Nebraska’s decades-old, pay-as-you-go approach to major road 
construction.&nbsp;Legislative Bill 706 would speed up 
construction projects by letting the Nebraska Department of 
Transportation issue up to $450 million in bonds over 19 years. It 
proposes to pay them off using a portion of sales taxes already being 
collected.The bill’s sponsor, State Sen. Mike 
Moser of Columbus, said the measure aims to help manufacturers, 
agricultural producers and communities situated farther from Interstate 
80.During Wednesday’s public hearing for
 LB 706, Moser described the expressway system as a “critical” link 
between western, central and eastern Nebraska.The expressway system, codified into 
law in 1988, has struggled for funding and is now slated to be completed
 by 2035. Bonding could cut years off the wait, Moser said.“It’s an economic development thing 
for us, being able to get more quickly to Lincoln or to Omaha or to the 
Interstate system,” he told the Revenue Committee.<h2>‘Fiscally responsible’ approach&nbsp;</h2>Pillen, who testified that Nebraska 
needs to be able to issue bonds for highways to compete, said the state 
“dropped the ball” by opposing proposals to issue bonds for highway 
construction.Projects that could have been done in
 five years took 50, he said. And the work cost Nebraska taxpayers 
millions of dollars more than they would have because of inflation.Pillen argued that bonding is a 
“fiscally responsible” approach when construction inflation runs 10% a 
year in a good year and is running 20% today.“Just think of the economic activity 
that’s been lost waiting for our state to grow,” the governor said. “Our
 timelines just haven’t cut it.”&nbsp;Moser’s bill is built off a 2021 bill by Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont.&nbsp;The largest expressway sections yet 
to be built would connect Fremont, Norfolk and Columbus — the governor’s
 hometown — to the Interstate and Omaha, expressway advocates said.About a third of the expressway 
system still needs to be finished, including a section of U.S. 75 
between Nebraska City and Omaha that is being widened.&nbsp;Walz said she was “excited to see the
 bonding proposal.” She said it would be a “great tool” to finish the 
expressways and build future projects.&nbsp;“We should always err on the side of 
caution,” she said of bonding. “It’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all 
solution, but it’s a great step.”The Walz bill stalled two years ago, in part, because then-Gov. Pete Ricketts opposed bonding for roads.&nbsp;<h2>Former governors resisted bonding</h2>None of Nebraska’s last five 
governors — four Republicans and one Democrat — supported the state 
using bonding for building highways while in office.&nbsp;Ricketts and former Gov. Kay Orr, two
 of Pillen’s top Republican supporters in the 2022 governor’s race, had 
no immediate comment Wednesday on LB 706.Both have argued before that they 
preferred the state not to go into debt to build highways, as did former
 Govs. Dave Heineman, Mike Johanns and Ben Nelson.&nbsp;Nelson on Wednesday said he still 
would rather see Nebraska pay as it goes, unless there is a compelling 
argument for new economic development tied to a road.“Borrowing is for growth, for new 
streets and roads for growth,” Nelson said, drawing a distinction with 
maintenance. “You have to be careful. Once you start down that slope, 
it’s steep.”Heineman, reached Wednesday, said 
that while he has opposed bonding for roads in the past, he understands 
why Pillen was taking another look at doing so.“I think it’s worth a look,” he said,
 citing the importance rural Nebraskans place on four-lane access. 
“Nebraskans will want them to take it slow.”&nbsp;Expressway advocates from Gering to 
Nebraska City have complained that previous governors did not prioritize
 spending on the expressway system.Several pointed to now-U.S. Sen. Deb 
Fischer, R-Neb., who faced opposition as a state lawmaker when she tried
 to earmark part of the state sales tax revenue for the expressways.&nbsp;They say investors are clamoring for 
safe places to put money and said passage of a federal infrastructure 
bill means more money to build roads and bridges.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Good infrastructure called vital</h2>Norfolk Mayor Josh Moenning, who 
helped cities and counties to advocate for completion of the four-lane 
expressway system for years, applauded LB 706.He called the state’s previous 
approach “penny wise and pound foolish.” In 1988, he said, completion of
 the system was expected to cost $200 million.Today, the same project would cost more than $2 billion, he said. The longer you wait, he said, the more expensive it gets.“I’ve seen through business 
recruitment that good infrastructure access is (vital),” he said. “If 
you don’t have it, you’re going to get passed by.”Road builders have said the 
expressways took so long because the state dedicated little funding 
beyond the gas tax, which is politically difficult to increase.LB 706 would cap how much the state 
could pay for the bonds in a given year, as well, limiting annual debt 
service on such bonds to no more than $30 million a year.The bill also would extend the 
Nebraska law dedicating 1/4 of 1% of state sales tax revenue to the 
expressway system, priority projects and maintenance.That sales tax earmark, currently 
scheduled to sunset in 2033, would be extended to 2042, which advocates 
said would provide the state with enough revenue to pay off the new 
bonds.No new bonds would be issued after June 2029.

Supporters: Bonding bill would finish Neb. expressways faster

United
 States Attorney Steven Russell announced Wednesday that Garry Hunter Little
 Walker, 34, of Winnebago, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Omaha by
 Chief United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter Jr., to a 
three-year term of probation for Assault on an Officer with Bodily 
Contact.

On June 3, Victim 1, an officer with the Omaha Nation Law 
Enforcement Services was called to a residence near Lyndon Ave. in 
Rosalie, Nebraska, which is within the territorial confines of the Omaha
 Indian Reservation. Upon arrival, Victim 1 found Little Walker seated 
in the vehicle having an argument with his grandmother and the mother of
 his children. Victim 1 attempted to place Little Walker in handcuffs 
and Little Walker pushed Victim 1 and began running away. Victim 1 
unsuccessfully attempted to deploy his taser twice. Little Walker ran 
into a house and shut and locked the door. 

Upon Victim 1 entering the 
house, he found Little Walker standing in the kitchen with his fists 
clenched and standing in a fighting posture. Little Walker stated he was
 not going to go to jail. When told he had very little options, Little 
Walker asked Victim 1, “How do you want it then? I’m going to rack real 
hard.” 

Victim 1 took a step toward Little Walker and Little Walker 
lifted his right hand and swung over his grandmother and struck Victim 1
 in the left side of the head. Little Walker then grabbed Victim 1 by 
the head. Victim 1 lifted Little Walker and then took him to the ground.
 Little Walker would not let go of Victim 1’s head after repeated orders
 to let go. Little Walker then began reaching for Victim 1’s gun. Victim
 1 pepper sprayed Little Walker and, in the process, incapacitated 
himself as well. 

Victim 1 while still suffering the effects of the 
pepper spray tried to take Little Walker out of the house. While doing 
so, Little Walker lunged at Victim 1 and elbowed him in the face before 
falling onto the ground. Victim 1 received his law enforcement training 
from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy and the Omaha Nation 
Law Enforcement Services operates under a 638 contract.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Omaha Nation Law Enforcement Services.

United States Attorney's OfficeUnited
 States Attorney Steven Russell announced Wednesday that Garry Hunter Little
 Walker, 34, of Winnebago, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Omaha by
 Chief United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter Jr., to a 
three-year term of probation for Assault on an Officer with Bodily 
Contact.On June 3, Victim 1, an officer with the Omaha Nation Law 
Enforcement Services was called to a residence near Lyndon Ave. in 
Rosalie, Nebraska, which is within the territorial confines of the Omaha
 Indian Reservation. Upon arrival, Victim 1 found Little Walker seated 
in the vehicle having an argument with his grandmother and the mother of
 his children. Victim 1 attempted to place Little Walker in handcuffs 
and Little Walker pushed Victim 1 and began running away. Victim 1 
unsuccessfully attempted to deploy his taser twice. Little Walker ran 
into a house and shut and locked the door. Upon Victim 1 entering the 
house, he found Little Walker standing in the kitchen with his fists 
clenched and standing in a fighting posture. Little Walker stated he was
 not going to go to jail. When told he had very little options, Little 
Walker asked Victim 1, “How do you want it then? I’m going to rack real 
hard.” Victim 1 took a step toward Little Walker and Little Walker 
lifted his right hand and swung over his grandmother and struck Victim 1
 in the left side of the head. Little Walker then grabbed Victim 1 by 
the head. Victim 1 lifted Little Walker and then took him to the ground.
 Little Walker would not let go of Victim 1’s head after repeated orders
 to let go. Little Walker then began reaching for Victim 1’s gun. Victim
 1 pepper sprayed Little Walker and, in the process, incapacitated 
himself as well. Victim 1 while still suffering the effects of the 
pepper spray tried to take Little Walker out of the house. While doing 
so, Little Walker lunged at Victim 1 and elbowed him in the face before 
falling onto the ground. Victim 1 received his law enforcement training 
from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy and the Omaha Nation 
Law Enforcement Services operates under a 638 contract.This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Omaha Nation Law Enforcement Services.

Neb. man receives probation for physical assault on an officer

United States Attorney Steven 
Russell announced that Catherine Gibson, 45, of North Platte was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for her role in
 a methamphetamine conspiracy.&nbsp; United States District Judge Brian
 C. Buescher sentenced Gibson to 46 months of imprisonment.&nbsp; There is no
 parole in the federal system.&nbsp; After her release from prison, she will 
begin a three-year term of supervised release.


In February and March of 2021, 
Gibson was part of a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in western
 Nebraska.&nbsp; As part of the conspiracy, on both February 22, 2021, and 
February 23, 2021, Gibson sold approximately 28 grams of methamphetamine
 to an informant.&nbsp; On March 3, 2021, law enforcement searched Gibson’s 
rental car and located approximately 110 grams of methamphetamine 
(actual) and ten fentanyl pills.&nbsp; 

On the same day, officers searched 
Gibson’s Alliance residence and located
 an additional approximately 92 grams of methamphetamine.&nbsp; Gibson told 
officers that she picked up methamphetamine and was bringing it to 
Alliance to sell.

This case was investigated by 
the Nebraska State Patrol, the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office and 
the Federal Bureau of Investigation.


U.S. Attorney's OfficeUnited States Attorney Steven 
Russell announced that Catherine Gibson, 45, of North Platte was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for her role in
 a methamphetamine conspiracy.&nbsp; United States District Judge Brian
 C. Buescher sentenced Gibson to 46 months of imprisonment.&nbsp; There is no
 parole in the federal system.&nbsp; After her release from prison, she will 
begin a three-year term of supervised release.
In February and March of 2021, 
Gibson was part of a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in western
 Nebraska.&nbsp; As part of the conspiracy, on both February 22, 2021, and 
February 23, 2021, Gibson sold approximately 28 grams of methamphetamine
 to an informant.&nbsp; On March 3, 2021, law enforcement searched Gibson’s 
rental car and located approximately 110 grams of methamphetamine 
(actual) and ten fentanyl pills.&nbsp; On the same day, officers searched 
Gibson’s Alliance residence and located
 an additional approximately 92 grams of methamphetamine.&nbsp; Gibson told 
officers that she picked up methamphetamine and was bringing it to 
Alliance to sell.This case was investigated by 
the Nebraska State Patrol, the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office and 
the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

North Platte woman sentenced for role in meth conspiracy

A wind chill warning will remain in effect until 9 a.m. Thursday in the Alliance area, the National Weather Service in Cheyenne reported.

With the overnight low expected to reach to nearly 20 below zero and winds gusting to 35 mph, the NWS is warning of wind chill values as low as 35 below zero.

At those levels, frostbite can occur in as little as 10 minutes.

Snow is expected to continue until&nbsp; approximately 10 p.m. before tapering off.

The high temperature Thursday is ionly forecast to reach 6 degrees, dropping to an overnight low of 8 below zero.&nbsp;

By Saturday, a warmup will arrive, with highs in the low- to mid-40s through Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677103560854.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A wind chill warning will remain in effect until 9 a.m. Thursday in the Alliance area, the National Weather Service in Cheyenne reported.With the overnight low expected to reach to nearly 20 below zero and winds gusting to 35 mph, the NWS is warning of wind chill values as low as 35 below zero.At those levels, frostbite can occur in as little as 10 minutes.Snow is expected to continue until&nbsp; approximately 10 p.m. before tapering off.The high temperature Thursday is ionly forecast to reach 6 degrees, dropping to an overnight low of 8 below zero.&nbsp;By Saturday, a warmup will arrive, with highs in the low- to mid-40s through Tuesday.Check Panhandle Post for the latest on cancellations and delays.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">600 AM 2/22 - Wind Chill Warnings are in effect for very cold winds chills expected tonight through Thursday morning. Temperatures slowly increase going into the weekend. Stay warm and remember to take the necessary precautions if going outdoors! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wywx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wywx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/newx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#newx</a> <a href="https://t.co/KJDw0KZohR">pic.twitter.com/KJDw0KZohR</a>&mdash; NWS Cheyenne (@NWSCheyenne) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSCheyenne/status/1628380147127836673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

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