POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Florida Man Shenanigans

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR Chadron State College

CHADRON – Chadron State College has initiated a student laptop checkout program to help meet students’ technology needs.

Chief Information Officer Ann Burk said CSC President Ron K. Patterson initiated the project.

Patterson said the administration recognized the importance of accessibility and affordability for CSC students.

“We wanted to minimize one of the barriers to attaining a degree.&nbsp;Recognizing that not all students have access to technology, we developed a laptop checkout program to offer students to support their educational journey towards earning their degrees,” he said.

Burk said funding for the laptop initiative was provided by the computer replacement plan managed by the IT Department and the Chadron State Foundation through the Eagles Rise fund.

Chadron State Foundation CEO Ben Watson said funds the Foundation provided came from the Eagles Rise Student Relief Fund a vital initiative established in 2020 in response to meeting unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic.

“The fund remains a steadfast source of support for Chadron State students, offering assistance in moments of need and ensuring that their educational journey is not hindered by unforeseen challenges,” Watson said.

The program, available to local students, includes 12 laptops with cases and power cords.

Director of IT Client Services Kayla Junge said part of the need was for individuals who didn't qualify for the Project Strive laptop checkout program.

“Just last semester, there were two students who didn't qualify for that. I think this new program will be good for those individuals,” she said.

To be eligible to check out a laptop, students must be currently enrolled, and show their Eagle Card ID before completing the checkout form at the IT Help Desk in the King Library. Students will be required to turn in the laptop by the last day of the semester. If they need a laptop the following semester, students will repeat the checkout process.

Burk said IT asks about the general nature of the need on the checkout form.

“This is for tracking purposes so we can determine whether they're waiting for their laptop to be fixed, they don't want to use the labs on campus, or maybe they don't have a computer at home. Maybe they are an athlete and don't have a device they can use when they're traveling with the team,” Burk said.

Junge said the laptops are stored in a charging cart so laptops will always be charged when a student wants to check one out. Student workers at the IT Help Desk in the King Library will guide each student through the process which includes an information sheet with requirements to keep the laptop safe and secure and other reminders such as restarting the laptop if updates need to run.

Since items or settings saved on the laptops are temporary files, and will not be saved, much the same as lab computers, students should save all their work to a cloud service or an external device. CSC is not liable if flash drives or other devices plugged into the borrowed laptop are corrupted.

Junge said after each semester, IT will track the information and if there is a need for more laptops in the future, they will address that need.

“In the past, we haven't had a lot of requests for this. But it's a service we've never offered before. Hopefully, it will take some stress off of students if they have a computer failure or have a particular need,” Burk said.

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR Chadron State College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709053441226.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College students Alivia Taylor, left, and Emmali Taylor, both of Beaver City, Neb., pose with a laptop by the IT Help Desk in the King Library. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College students Alivia Taylor, left, and Emmali Taylor, both of Beaver City, Neb., pose with a laptop by the IT Help Desk in the King Library. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Chadron State College has initiated a student laptop checkout program to help meet students’ technology needs.Chief Information Officer Ann Burk said CSC President Ron K. Patterson initiated the project.Patterson said the administration recognized the importance of accessibility and affordability for CSC students.“We wanted to minimize one of the barriers to attaining a degree.&nbsp;Recognizing that not all students have access to technology, we developed a laptop checkout program to offer students to support their educational journey towards earning their degrees,” he said.Burk said funding for the laptop initiative was provided by the computer replacement plan managed by the IT Department and the Chadron State Foundation through the Eagles Rise fund.Chadron State Foundation CEO Ben Watson said funds the Foundation provided came from the Eagles Rise Student Relief Fund a vital initiative established in 2020 in response to meeting unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic.“The fund remains a steadfast source of support for Chadron State students, offering assistance in moments of need and ensuring that their educational journey is not hindered by unforeseen challenges,” Watson said.The program, available to local students, includes 12 laptops with cases and power cords.Director of IT Client Services Kayla Junge said part of the need was for individuals who didn't qualify for the Project Strive laptop checkout program.“Just last semester, there were two students who didn't qualify for that. I think this new program will be good for those individuals,” she said.To be eligible to check out a laptop, students must be currently enrolled, and show their Eagle Card ID before completing the checkout form at the IT Help Desk in the King Library. Students will be required to turn in the laptop by the last day of the semester. If they need a laptop the following semester, students will repeat the checkout process.Burk said IT asks about the general nature of the need on the checkout form.“This is for tracking purposes so we can determine whether they're waiting for their laptop to be fixed, they don't want to use the labs on campus, or maybe they don't have a computer at home. Maybe they are an athlete and don't have a device they can use when they're traveling with the team,” Burk said.Junge said the laptops are stored in a charging cart so laptops will always be charged when a student wants to check one out. Student workers at the IT Help Desk in the King Library will guide each student through the process which includes an information sheet with requirements to keep the laptop safe and secure and other reminders such as restarting the laptop if updates need to run.Since items or settings saved on the laptops are temporary files, and will not be saved, much the same as lab computers, students should save all their work to a cloud service or an external device. CSC is not liable if flash drives or other devices plugged into the borrowed laptop are corrupted.Junge said after each semester, IT will track the information and if there is a need for more laptops in the future, they will address that need.“In the past, we haven't had a lot of requests for this. But it's a service we've never offered before. Hopefully, it will take some stress off of students if they have a computer failure or have a particular need,” Burk said.

 CSC starts Laptop checkout program for students

Alliance Senior Jonah Amill signed his letter of intent to compete in Track and Field at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln on Monday in front of his parents, teammates and coaches. Here is the Post Podcast with Jonah and his track coach Nate Lanik.

Alliance Senior Jonah Amill signed his letter of intent to compete in Track and Field at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln on Monday in front of his parents, teammates and coaches. Here is the Post Podcast with Jonah and his track coach Nate Lanik.<div><iframe title="Jonah Amill, Coach Lanik talk signing to Nebraska Wesleyan" 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=ex9xj-15948d6-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/2024/2/1709051456523.jpeg" alt="Jonah Amill pictured at Alliance High School" />
 <figcaption>Jonah Amill pictured at Alliance High School</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709051752143.jpeg" alt="Jonah Pictured with his mom Mary and dad Tony" />
 <figcaption>Jonah Pictured with his mom Mary and dad Tony</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709051786080.jpeg" alt="Jonah with his parents and coaches" />
 <figcaption>Jonah with his parents and coaches</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709051833624.jpeg" alt="Jonah with his teammates" />
 <figcaption>Jonah with his teammates</figcaption>
 </figure>

POST PODCAST: Alliance's Jonah Amill talks signing with Nebraska Wesleyan

Press Release by Nebraska Emergency Management

Local officials in Custer and Lincoln counties have declared emergencies and requested state assistance on Monday night due to a large wildfire affecting the area, closing several roads, requiring multiple evacuations and requiring the response of multiple volunteer fire departments from around the region.

The North Platte/Lincoln County Emergency Operations Center was activated immediately and has been monitoring the situation and coordinating resources since the fire started. The fire, which originated north of North Platte, from an unknown cause, is burning on private lands in Lincoln and Custer counties. Governor Jim Pillen approved a state disaster which allows funds from the Governor’s Emergency Fund to be used to assist in the response. 

At the request of county officials, Nebraska’s Incident Management Team, as well as members of the state’s Wildland Incident Response Assistant Team, have been deployed and will assist local responders in the coming days. Two National Guard UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters will be deployed to the fire and begin.

Operations to drop water on the fire beginning today. Additional aircraft will be used to map the fire to assist teams as they plan the best strategy to fight the fire.

Press Release by Nebraska Emergency ManagementLocal officials in Custer and Lincoln counties have declared emergencies and requested state assistance on Monday night due to a large wildfire affecting the area, closing several roads, requiring multiple evacuations and requiring the response of multiple volunteer fire departments from around the region.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709004741343.jpeg" alt="Fire north of Brady (Courtesty of Ryan Boden)" />
 <figcaption>Fire north of Brady (Courtesty of Ryan Boden)</figcaption>
 </figure>The North Platte/Lincoln County Emergency Operations Center was activated immediately and has been monitoring the situation and coordinating resources since the fire started. The fire, which originated north of North Platte, from an unknown cause, is burning on private lands in Lincoln and Custer counties. Governor Jim Pillen approved a state disaster which allows funds from the Governor’s Emergency Fund to be used to assist in the response. At the request of county officials, Nebraska’s Incident Management Team, as well as members of the state’s Wildland Incident Response Assistant Team, have been deployed and will assist local responders in the coming days. Two National Guard UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters will be deployed to the fire and begin.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709004799692.jpeg" alt="Fire north of Brady (Courtesy of Ryan Boden) 2" />
 <figcaption>Fire north of Brady (Courtesy of Ryan Boden) 2</figcaption>
 </figure>Operations to drop water on the fire beginning today. Additional aircraft will be used to map the fire to assist teams as they plan the best strategy to fight the fire.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709004883064.jpeg" alt="Second Fire that started west of Stapleton, Picture from Stapleton School looking north around 4pm Monday (Courtesty of Lacie Benell)" />
 <figcaption>Second Fire that started west of Stapleton, Picture from Stapleton School looking north around 4pm Monday (Courtesty of Lacie Benell)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Gov. Pillen issues state disaster as wildfire in Central Nebraska continues

This is the Post Podcast, I'm Kalin Krohe. Today we spoke with Pat from Upper Niobrara White NRD about the partnerships they have with many agencies.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Upper Niobrara White NRD talks about partnerships with agencies" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kvu8p-1594864-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>This is the Post Podcast, I'm Kalin Krohe. Today we spoke with Pat from Upper Niobrara White NRD about the partnerships they have with many agencies.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709050464336.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

POST PODCAST: Upper Niobrara White NRD talks about partnerships 

The North Platte Area had several serious Fires that required assistance from Panhandle communities as far away as Bridgeport Fire along with Bayard, Gering, Alliance, Gordon, Chadron and Crawford. Coverage from our sister stations and North Platte Post below.

Up To Date Story on Fires available on Post Facebook (below)

FIRE ALONG THE DAM OF LAKE MALONEY MOVING EAST- PREPARE TO EVACUATE (Per North Platte Police Department) (Contained shortly after reported)

Mutual Aid for North Platte Area Fires came from communities as far away as Bridgeport Fire along with Bayard, Gering, Alliance, Gordon, Chadron and Crawford

IF you're in need of shelter due to evacuations, these places are helping out.&nbsp;

The Salvation Army at 1020 N Adams in North Platte is open for those impacted by the grass fire evacuation.

LINCOLN COUNTY - The grass fire that was started northeast of North Platte sometime after 10:30am Monday morning, is quickly spreading to the east.&nbsp;

According to the North Platte Police Department,&nbsp;All residents north of Brady and Gothenburg are ordered to evacuate due to large grass fire. Roads are now being closed in the area due to the fire and crews can battle the blaze. According to officials, N Maxwell Rd, N Brady Rd, and Hwy 47 are closed from Hwy 30 North. Please avoid the area at this time.

This is a developing story and will update when information becomes available.

NORTH PLATTE - Crews are battling a large grass fire just northeast of North Platte and the North Platte Police Department says residents between Rolling Hills Rd and N Maxwell Rd need to evacuate due to the fire.&nbsp;

Mutual aid was requested by the North Platte Fire Department and surrounding communities have responded to the call. NPPD says the Salvation Army in North Platte is open to those impacted by the fire.&nbsp;

NPPD has requested that residents north of Brady to turn on their center pivots to help battle the grass fire as it heads east.

According to the National Weather Service, Lincoln County and much of Nebraska is in a red flag warning and will remain in effect until 6:00pm CT tonight. Winds can reach up to 15-25 mph with gust up to 45 mph.

This is a developing story and will be updated when more information becomes available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708972720101.jpeg" alt="Smoke from the grass fire northeast of North Platte can be seen from the North Platte Airport. (Photo taken from Canon Rath/North Platte Post)" />
 <figcaption>Smoke from the grass fire northeast of North Platte can be seen from the North Platte Airport. (Photo taken from Canon Rath/North Platte Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>The North Platte Area had several serious Fires that required assistance from Panhandle communities as far away as Bridgeport Fire along with Bayard, Gering, Alliance, Gordon, Chadron and Crawford. Coverage from our sister stations and North Platte Post below.Up To Date Story on Fires available on Post Facebook (below)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0egVrbATUihZ8rdb9JcTGeaeP1gH1HDksHC7exVdX8DUKw1EHYs52HNVgTznhWjfcl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="715" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Updated Story 6:15pmFIRE ALONG THE DAM OF LAKE MALONEY MOVING EAST- PREPARE TO EVACUATE (Per North Platte Police Department) (Contained shortly after reported)Updated Story 5:46pm CSTMutual Aid for North Platte Area Fires came from communities as far away as Bridgeport Fire along with Bayard, Gering, Alliance, Gordon, Chadron and Crawford<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708989120725.png" alt="Nebraska State Patrol X Fire 2-26-24" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska State Patrol X Fire 2-26-24</figcaption>
 </figure>IF you're in need of shelter due to evacuations, these places are helping out.&nbsp;The Salvation Army at 1020 N Adams in North Platte is open for those impacted by the grass fire evacuation.The Brady Community Center Camp Comeca south of Cozad________________________________LINCOLN COUNTY - The grass fire that was started northeast of North Platte sometime after 10:30am Monday morning, is quickly spreading to the east.&nbsp;According to the North Platte Police Department,&nbsp;All residents north of Brady and Gothenburg are ordered to evacuate due to large grass fire. Roads are now being closed in the area due to the fire and crews can battle the blaze. According to officials, N Maxwell Rd, N Brady Rd, and Hwy 47 are closed from Hwy 30 North. Please avoid the area at this time.This is a developing story and will update when information becomes available.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708981672439.jpeg" alt="Grass fire northeast of North Platte moving to the east. (Photo taken from Canon Rath/North Platte Post)" />
 <figcaption>Grass fire northeast of North Platte moving to the east. (Photo taken from Canon Rath/North Platte Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>----Original StoryNORTH PLATTE - Crews are battling a large grass fire just northeast of North Platte and the North Platte Police Department says residents between Rolling Hills Rd and N Maxwell Rd need to evacuate due to the fire.&nbsp;Mutual aid was requested by the North Platte Fire Department and surrounding communities have responded to the call. NPPD says the Salvation Army in North Platte is open to those impacted by the fire.&nbsp;NPPD has requested that residents north of Brady to turn on their center pivots to help battle the grass fire as it heads east.According to the National Weather Service, Lincoln County and much of Nebraska is in a red flag warning and will remain in effect until 6:00pm CT tonight. Winds can reach up to 15-25 mph with gust up to 45 mph.This is a developing story and will be updated when more information becomes available.&nbsp;

Alliance and other Panhandle Fire Departments assist in Monday fires in North Platte

Press release by Carnegie Arts Center

<a>Announcing the award winners of the 2024 Box Butte Art Society Spring Show at Carnegie Arts Center! Best of Show went to Joy Price for her piece “Sheep.” Certificates of Excellence went to Joy Price for “Rubidoux Trading Post” and Sam Boone for her piece “Desert Sunset.”&nbsp; Honorable mentions went to Audrey Powles for “Patty’s Legacy”, Linda Lacy for “La Casta,” and Becky McDonald for the “Sound of Silence.”&nbsp; The Youth Certificate of Excellence went to Ayvrie Waldron for “Eternal Enigma.” We want to congratulate all that entered this year’s exhibit. Many of our members have not been practicing artists their entire lives but have found great joy in the process of creating. We are so pleased to be able to come together to celebrate our passion for art through the Art Society. Box Butte Art Society members that are also Association of Nebraska Art Club members will have their pieces taken to the state show to compete amongst thousands of artists, only a handful of which will be selected for the traveling statewide show.&nbsp; The show was judged by Kathy Brock, art educator of Alliance High School. Our judges are selected based on their advanced experience and knowledge of the arts. Mrs. Brock has years of experience educating young minds about numerous media forms as well as the technical skills, principles, and fundamentals that go into art production.&nbsp; We greatly appreciate the time and thought she put into accessing all the art pieces.</a>

None of what we do would be possible without the support of generous community members and businesses! Thank you to our&nbsp;February business sponsors Seasons of Hope Counseling, Edward Jones-Dalsey Lambley Financial Advisor, and Girard Well Service.&nbsp;We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding, the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support. Thank you, DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Carnegie Arts Center" 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=kiujn-1592a75-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>Press release by Carnegie Arts Center<a>Announcing the award winners of the 2024 Box Butte Art Society Spring Show at Carnegie Arts Center! Best of Show went to Joy Price for her piece “Sheep.” Certificates of Excellence went to Joy Price for “Rubidoux Trading Post” and Sam Boone for her piece “Desert Sunset.”&nbsp; Honorable mentions went to Audrey Powles for “Patty’s Legacy”, Linda Lacy for “La Casta,” and Becky McDonald for the “Sound of Silence.”&nbsp; The Youth Certificate of Excellence went to Ayvrie Waldron for “Eternal Enigma.” We want to congratulate all that entered this year’s exhibit. Many of our members have not been practicing artists their entire lives but have found great joy in the process of creating. We are so pleased to be able to come together to celebrate our passion for art through the Art Society. Box Butte Art Society members that are also Association of Nebraska Art Club members will have their pieces taken to the state show to compete amongst thousands of artists, only a handful of which will be selected for the traveling statewide show.&nbsp; The show was judged by Kathy Brock, art educator of Alliance High School. Our judges are selected based on their advanced experience and knowledge of the arts. Mrs. Brock has years of experience educating young minds about numerous media forms as well as the technical skills, principles, and fundamentals that go into art production.&nbsp; We greatly appreciate the time and thought she put into accessing all the art pieces.</a>None of what we do would be possible without the support of generous community members and businesses! Thank you to our&nbsp;February business sponsors Seasons of Hope Counseling, Edward Jones-Dalsey Lambley Financial Advisor, and Girard Well Service.&nbsp;We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding, the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support. Thank you, DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

POST PODCAST:  Carnegie Arts Center showcases award winners, gallery

Petition below made by Elyse Draper, Josie Brown and&nbsp;Ashley Valdovinos

We would like to add soccer to our Alliance Middle School and High School&nbsp; sports program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1i7ozKhkkgzoSAX--nu1XzHwERxJABKx4vLv7rEvj6EQ/edit?ts=65d93b76" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1i7ozKhkkgzoSAX--nu1XzHwERxJABKx4vLv7rEvj6EQ/edit?ts=65d93b76</a>

Elyse Draper: (308)763-8731&nbsp; Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Elysedraper2021@gmail.com">Elysedraper2021@gmail.com</a>

Josie Brown: (308)763-8771&nbsp; Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Josie.Brown@alliancebulldogs.org">Josie.Brown@alliancebulldogs.org</a>

Ashley Valdovinos: (308) 760-8760&nbsp; Email:<a href="mailto:Ashley.Valdovinos@alliancebulldogs.org">Ashley.Valdovinos@alliancebulldogs.org</a>

Petition below made by Elyse Draper, Josie Brown and&nbsp;Ashley ValdovinosWe would like to add soccer to our Alliance Middle School and High School&nbsp; sports program.&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>If you are entering grades 7-12 next year and are interested in playing soccer please sign the petition or let us know.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>If you would be interested in volunteering for the soccer program or helping to make this happen please call, text or email us!</li>
 </ul><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1i7ozKhkkgzoSAX--nu1XzHwERxJABKx4vLv7rEvj6EQ/edit?ts=65d93b76" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1i7ozKhkkgzoSAX--nu1XzHwERxJABKx4vLv7rEvj6EQ/edit?ts=65d93b76</a>Elyse Draper: (308)763-8731&nbsp; Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Elysedraper2021@gmail.com">Elysedraper2021@gmail.com</a>Josie Brown: (308)763-8771&nbsp; Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Josie.Brown@alliancebulldogs.org">Josie.Brown@alliancebulldogs.org</a>Ashley Valdovinos: (308) 760-8760&nbsp; Email:<a href="mailto:Ashley.Valdovinos@alliancebulldogs.org">Ashley.Valdovinos@alliancebulldogs.org</a>

Petition made to add soccer to Alliance Middle and High Schools

By JOHN E. WEARE Keep Alliance Beautiful

Hundreds came to their feet to applaud Bill Toone, the sound pale in comparison to what the conservation biologist related the past hour during “Roar of the Monarch Butterfly.”

Just before gathering a backpack and carry on for the airport, I caught Toone’s message as my last session at the Keep America Beautiful 2024 National Conference in San Diego earlier this month. There is head knowledge of prominent threatened and endangered species then there is the moment when you see the plight through another person’s eyes. Toone connected with a diverse audience through humor, personal experience and facts related to, perhaps, the world’s most famous winged insect. The rest of the presentation’s title put the ball in our court with a call to action: The Sound of a Billion Butterflies is Fading, But You Can Help!

A thirty-four-year time frame, based on Toone’s first date with his wife Sunny when they tagged Monarchs, illustrated changes as the couple has traveled to Mexico to see the butterflies and lead tours every season since. Back then I was about the same age my daughter is now. Monarchs were common enough in Northwest Nebraska. I remember learning the distinguishing characteristics to avoid confusing similar-sized orange butterflies. A few hours before sunrise on an early autumn day, my only Monarch sighting of 2023 came on a Pine Ridge hiking trail. I could only admire the extreme traveler as he flitted away. En route to reach an overlook, my camera was zipped in the pack.

Facts stored in the back of my mind about Monarchs pinged as Toone outlined their lifecycle. He noted the species has been introduced throughout the world. Caterpillars grow from 2,000 to 3,000 times their original weight, storing cardiac glycosides that are passed on in the chrysalis “so the butterfly is poisonous to predators,” he said. People who find one of the plump striped caterpillars in the final (wandering) stage should not put it back on a plant as the goal is to find a safe spot to form its chrysalis. To illustrate the complete transformation, Toone observed that even opening the changing chamber right away would reveal something that looks like green soup. Butterflies that emerge in Canada, the Methuselah generation, migrate all the way to Mexico. Monarchs take four generations a year to return.

Choose a discipline to study, cause to rally around or even a serious hobby and there are people who came before that were instrumental in its development. For the uninitiated, Toone told the story of Fred and Norah Urquhart. Fred was a little kid in southern Canada and fell in love with Monarchs, he said. Fred would go on to earn a PhD. in Entomology. He enlisted volunteers ranging from hippies to service clubs in California to tag the butterflies for tracking. “Fred and Norah tracked them all over the United States and lost them at the U.S./Mexico border,” Toone said. “Norah did a radio show and got a story published in Mexico City asking for help to find them.” During two years spent trying to find the tagged butterflies, Fred and Norah talked to some of the indigenous people discovering 978 tons of Monarchs in their part of the forest. Fred turned to them and asked why they didn’t tell anybody, Toone related. They answered, “Doesn’t this happen everywhere?” Fred sat down and out of 1 billion Monarchs picked up one with his tags.

Toone left last week for Mexico where there are now 10 percent of the Monarchs found three decades ago. The butterflies have a symbiotic relationship with the specific species of birch they land on. “You can stand and feel, hear the roar of Monarch wings as they warm up the trees. The roar we heard 34 years ago is a whisper today. People in this room can change that,” he emphasized.

Founding ECOLIFE Conservation, Toone showed how providing woodburning stoves has helped counter Monarch habitat loss. Residents no longer have to breathe smoke for three-stone cooking fires and require less fuel than the up to 40 trees they had been cutting down. Just completing their 15,000th stove, ECOLIFE has saved a million trees.

Loss of habitat has also reached critical levels in America, Toone said as he showed pictures of urban and agriculture settings, adding “Now we even spray weeds along roadsides.” He encouraged the audience to plant milkweed to sustain and attract monarchs. Even though Toone said it is best to plant varieties native to the area, he admitted tropical milkweed is here to stay. Tropical has more toxicity, which the butterflies crave and will find up to three miles away. “Plant a couple tropicals to really attract them, they’ll stay for native milkweed,” he said.

More than enough time to order milkweed seeds to plant here before spring. Within a few years our “Oasis in the Sandhills” could quench the thirst of a kaleidoscope of Monarchs.

By JOHN E. WEARE Keep Alliance BeautifulHundreds came to their feet to applaud Bill Toone, the sound pale in comparison to what the conservation biologist related the past hour during “Roar of the Monarch Butterfly.”Just before gathering a backpack and carry on for the airport, I caught Toone’s message as my last session at the Keep America Beautiful 2024 National Conference in San Diego earlier this month. There is head knowledge of prominent threatened and endangered species then there is the moment when you see the plight through another person’s eyes. Toone connected with a diverse audience through humor, personal experience and facts related to, perhaps, the world’s most famous winged insect. The rest of the presentation’s title put the ball in our court with a call to action: The Sound of a Billion Butterflies is Fading, But You Can Help!A thirty-four-year time frame, based on Toone’s first date with his wife Sunny when they tagged Monarchs, illustrated changes as the couple has traveled to Mexico to see the butterflies and lead tours every season since. Back then I was about the same age my daughter is now. Monarchs were common enough in Northwest Nebraska. I remember learning the distinguishing characteristics to avoid confusing similar-sized orange butterflies. A few hours before sunrise on an early autumn day, my only Monarch sighting of 2023 came on a Pine Ridge hiking trail. I could only admire the extreme traveler as he flitted away. En route to reach an overlook, my camera was zipped in the pack.Facts stored in the back of my mind about Monarchs pinged as Toone outlined their lifecycle. He noted the species has been introduced throughout the world. Caterpillars grow from 2,000 to 3,000 times their original weight, storing cardiac glycosides that are passed on in the chrysalis “so the butterfly is poisonous to predators,” he said. People who find one of the plump striped caterpillars in the final (wandering) stage should not put it back on a plant as the goal is to find a safe spot to form its chrysalis. To illustrate the complete transformation, Toone observed that even opening the changing chamber right away would reveal something that looks like green soup. Butterflies that emerge in Canada, the Methuselah generation, migrate all the way to Mexico. Monarchs take four generations a year to return.Choose a discipline to study, cause to rally around or even a serious hobby and there are people who came before that were instrumental in its development. For the uninitiated, Toone told the story of Fred and Norah Urquhart. Fred was a little kid in southern Canada and fell in love with Monarchs, he said. Fred would go on to earn a PhD. in Entomology. He enlisted volunteers ranging from hippies to service clubs in California to tag the butterflies for tracking. “Fred and Norah tracked them all over the United States and lost them at the U.S./Mexico border,” Toone said. “Norah did a radio show and got a story published in Mexico City asking for help to find them.” During two years spent trying to find the tagged butterflies, Fred and Norah talked to some of the indigenous people discovering 978 tons of Monarchs in their part of the forest. Fred turned to them and asked why they didn’t tell anybody, Toone related. They answered, “Doesn’t this happen everywhere?” Fred sat down and out of 1 billion Monarchs picked up one with his tags.Toone left last week for Mexico where there are now 10 percent of the Monarchs found three decades ago. The butterflies have a symbiotic relationship with the specific species of birch they land on. “You can stand and feel, hear the roar of Monarch wings as they warm up the trees. The roar we heard 34 years ago is a whisper today. People in this room can change that,” he emphasized.Founding ECOLIFE Conservation, Toone showed how providing woodburning stoves has helped counter Monarch habitat loss. Residents no longer have to breathe smoke for three-stone cooking fires and require less fuel than the up to 40 trees they had been cutting down. Just completing their 15,000th stove, ECOLIFE has saved a million trees.Loss of habitat has also reached critical levels in America, Toone said as he showed pictures of urban and agriculture settings, adding “Now we even spray weeds along roadsides.” He encouraged the audience to plant milkweed to sustain and attract monarchs. Even though Toone said it is best to plant varieties native to the area, he admitted tropical milkweed is here to stay. Tropical has more toxicity, which the butterflies crave and will find up to three miles away. “Plant a couple tropicals to really attract them, they’ll stay for native milkweed,” he said.More than enough time to order milkweed seeds to plant here before spring. Within a few years our “Oasis in the Sandhills” could quench the thirst of a kaleidoscope of Monarchs.

Keep America Beautiful Conference: Heed The Whisper Of Monarchs’ Wings

Spring has come early, and Nebraskans are eager to fish. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is scheduling the release of rainbow trout in waters across the state this spring.

This will give anglers and families, especially at city ponds and lakes, additional angling opportunities for this popular species.

It starts March 9, opening day of the Trout Lake at Two Rivers State Recreation Area in Douglas County. All trout caught in this lake must be harvested and not released. Anglers first must purchase from the park office a daily trout tag for $6. Each tag is good for a daily bag limit of four trout. A person may have up to three tags per day and 12 trout in possession. An adult angler may have two children under the age of 16 fishing under the authority of his/her tag, but the group bag limit still is limited to four trout per tag.

The Trout Lake (Lake No. 5) will be open from 7 a.m. to sunset each day. Anglers, except residents younger than age 16, must have a Nebraska fishing license. All vehicles entering the park must have a park entry permit. Anglers possessing trout on any other lake at Two Rivers must have a trout tag, as well. Anglers will be allowed to use one fishing rod and reel each.

Adults might enjoy it, but trout fishing is a great way to introduce children to fishing, too, because simple and inexpensive equipment may be used.

“Rainbow trout are especially good for new anglers because they will bite readily on anything, including corn, wadded up pieces of bread or worms, and are easy and safe to handle,” said Larry Pape, aquatic education specialist with Game and Parks. “You can use a simple spin-cast combo or a spinning rod and have a fun day catching trout.”

For resources to help beginners or even experienced anglers, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9maXNoL2xlYXJuLXRvLWZpc2gvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjYuOTA4Mjc1MTEifQ.LRTg0PMfbhLfRtJfe4sq1Vk6p0XBlj_PJkNca4iWlIs/s/497221906/br/237740797267-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/fish/learn-to-fish</a>. Buy a fishing permit at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuT3V0ZG9vck5lYnJhc2thLmdvdj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI2LjkwODI3NTExIn0.jLluuEyOemGPA-2XoaqpYZbBXaDpyCc81i3RwWSJCv4/s/497221906/br/237740797267-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.

Stockings begin the week of March 4 when tiger trout – a hybrid of brown and brook trout – are released at the following: Chadron State Park Pond, 500 fish; Bessey Pond, Nebraska National Forest, Halsey, 500; Alliance Golf Course Pond, 300; Curtis Golf Course Pond, 150; and Rock Creek State Recreation Area Lake, Parks, 1,000.

The following is a schedule for rainbow trout set to be stocked, including quantities. Dates can change because of weather or unforeseen circumstances and times, where listed, are tentative:

Additional March rainbow trout stockings as time and weather permit

April rainbow trout stockings as time and weather permit

For information on fish stocking online, including upcoming trout stocking dates, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyNi45MDgyNzUxMSJ9.8PH3kf2oFahn9H8tBsZA-P0Hmby9e_V-To4GEf5beBs/s/497221906/br/237740797267-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and search “Fish Stocking Database.”

By Nebraska Game &amp; ParksSpring has come early, and Nebraskans are eager to fish. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is scheduling the release of rainbow trout in waters across the state this spring.This will give anglers and families, especially at city ponds and lakes, additional angling opportunities for this popular species.It starts March 9, opening day of the Trout Lake at Two Rivers State Recreation Area in Douglas County. All trout caught in this lake must be harvested and not released. Anglers first must purchase from the park office a daily trout tag for $6. Each tag is good for a daily bag limit of four trout. A person may have up to three tags per day and 12 trout in possession. An adult angler may have two children under the age of 16 fishing under the authority of his/her tag, but the group bag limit still is limited to four trout per tag.The Trout Lake (Lake No. 5) will be open from 7 a.m. to sunset each day. Anglers, except residents younger than age 16, must have a Nebraska fishing license. All vehicles entering the park must have a park entry permit. Anglers possessing trout on any other lake at Two Rivers must have a trout tag, as well. Anglers will be allowed to use one fishing rod and reel each.Adults might enjoy it, but trout fishing is a great way to introduce children to fishing, too, because simple and inexpensive equipment may be used.“Rainbow trout are especially good for new anglers because they will bite readily on anything, including corn, wadded up pieces of bread or worms, and are easy and safe to handle,” said Larry Pape, aquatic education specialist with Game and Parks. “You can use a simple spin-cast combo or a spinning rod and have a fun day catching trout.”For resources to help beginners or even experienced anglers, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9maXNoL2xlYXJuLXRvLWZpc2gvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMjYuOTA4Mjc1MTEifQ.LRTg0PMfbhLfRtJfe4sq1Vk6p0XBlj_PJkNca4iWlIs/s/497221906/br/237740797267-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/fish/learn-to-fish</a>. Buy a fishing permit at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuT3V0ZG9vck5lYnJhc2thLmdvdj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjI2LjkwODI3NTExIn0.jLluuEyOemGPA-2XoaqpYZbBXaDpyCc81i3RwWSJCv4/s/497221906/br/237740797267-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.Stockings begin the week of March 4 when tiger trout – a hybrid of brown and brook trout – are released at the following: Chadron State Park Pond, 500 fish; Bessey Pond, Nebraska National Forest, Halsey, 500; Alliance Golf Course Pond, 300; Curtis Golf Course Pond, 150; and Rock Creek State Recreation Area Lake, Parks, 1,000.The following is a schedule for rainbow trout set to be stocked, including quantities. Dates can change because of weather or unforeseen circumstances and times, where listed, are tentative:March 11<ul>
 <li>CenturyLink Lake, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, Ashland, 2,500</li><li>Gretna Crossing Pond, 200</li><li>Humboldt City Park Lake, 350</li><li>Pawnee City Pond, 300</li><li>Rotary Club Lake, Auburn, 800</li><li>Stanton Lake, Falls City, 200</li><li>Steinhart Park East Pond, Nebraska City, 800</li><li>Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area No. 2, Fremont, 4,500</li><li>Ponca SP Pond, Ponca, 750</li>
 </ul>March 12<ul>
 <li>Heartwell Park Lake, Hastings, 450</li><li>Suck’s Lake, Grand Island, 650</li><li>Lake Halleck, Papillion, 1,200</li><li>Weeping Water Pond 1, 1,500</li><li>Louisville SRA 1A, Louisville, 600</li><li>Fort Kearny SRA No. 6, Kearney, 1,200</li><li>Windmill SRA No. 2, Gibbon, 900</li><li>Ponca SP Pond, Ponca, 750</li>
 </ul>March 13<ul>
 <li>Geneva Pond, 300</li><li>Bethphage Pond, Axtell, 200</li><li>Holdrege City Lake, 800</li><li>North Morrill Pond, 2,250</li><li>Middle Morrill Pond, 450</li>
 </ul>March 14<ul>
 <li>Auble Pond, Ord, 750</li><li>Victoria Springs SRA Lake, Anselmo, 1,200</li><li>Carney Pond, O’Neill, 750</li><li>Terry’s Pit, Terrytown, 1,500</li><li>Riverside Park Pond, Scottsbluff, 900</li>
 </ul>March 16<ul>
 <li>Ta-Ha-Zouka Park Lake, Norfolk, 1,500 at 8:30 a.m.</li><li>Pawnee Park West Lake, Columbus, 1,500 at 9:30 a.m.</li><li>Neligh Park Pond, West Point, 800 at 10:30 a.m.</li><li>Holmes Lake, Lincoln, 4,000 at 1 p.m.</li><li>Lake Helen, Gothenburg, 2,000 at 12:30 p.m.</li><li>Plum Creek Park Lake, Lexington, 750 at 2 p.m.</li>
 </ul>March 18<ul>
 <li>David City Park Pond West, 600</li><li>Rock Creek SRA Lake, Parks, 500</li><li>Oxford City Lake, 150</li>
 </ul>March 19<ul>
 <li>North Platte I-80 Lake, 2,700</li>
 </ul>March 20<ul>
 <li>Bridgeport SRA Middle Lake, 2,000</li><li>Bridgeport SRA Northwest Lake, 1,400</li>
 </ul>Additional March rainbow trout stockings as time and weather permit<ul>
 <li>Lake Ogallala SRA, Ogallala, 10,000</li><li>Gracie Creek Pond, Burwell, 1,000</li><li>Elm Creek, Red Cloud, 500</li><li>East Branch of Verdigre Creek, Royal, 1,000</li><li>Two Rivers SRA No. 5 (Trout Lake), Waterloo, 10,500</li>
 </ul>April rainbow trout stockings as time and weather permit<ul>
 <li>East Branch of Verdigre Creek, Royal, 800</li><li>Two Rivers SRA No. 5 (Trout Lake), Waterloo, 6,000</li><li>Keller Park SRA No. 4, 250</li><li>Keller Park SRA No. 5, 400</li><li>Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area Sandpit, Royal, 50</li><li>Sand Springs, Plum Creek Valley WMA, 250</li><li>North Platte I-80 Lake, 2,700</li><li>Lake Ogallala SRA, Ogallala, 10,000</li><li>South Grable Pond, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 1,200</li><li>Middle Grable Pond, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 600</li><li>Gilbert-Baker WMA Pond, Harrison, 600</li><li>Chadron City Reservoir North, 1,700</li><li>Chadron City Reservoir South, 1,700</li><li>Chadron SP Pond, 500</li><li>North Morrill Pond, 2,250</li><li>Middle Morrill Pond, 450</li><li>Riverside Park Pond, Scottsbluff, 900</li><li>Bridgeport SRA Northwest Lake, 1,400</li><li>Terry’s Pit, Terrytown, 1,000</li><li>Bridgeport SRA Middle Lake, 2,000</li><li>Cherry Creek Diversion Pond, Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 250</li><li>Laing Lake, Alliance, 1,000</li><li>Rock Creek SRA Lake, Parks, 1,500</li>
 </ul>For information on fish stocking online, including upcoming trout stocking dates, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyNi45MDgyNzUxMSJ9.8PH3kf2oFahn9H8tBsZA-P0Hmby9e_V-To4GEf5beBs/s/497221906/br/237740797267-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and search “Fish Stocking Database.”

 Nebraska Game & Parks announces statewide rainbow trout stockings

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Weekend Wrapup

POST PODCAST: United Way Grant Funding Deadline Approaching

Alliance Police activity Report for 2/18 - /2/24

P202400083 00:57 DUI : DUI officers assisted Nebraska State Patrol in a traffic stop/ Investigation was conducted, one female was arrested and transported to the Box Butte County Jail.&nbsp;Closed - Charges&nbsp;Recommended

P202400084 21:12 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY: officers responded to a hit and run accident on the 1200 block of Sweetwater Avenue/ Accident report

P202400085 10:13 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Was dispatched to the address for possible gun shots to the residence. Upon arrival, I met with the complainant and was shown two holes in a glass window and two holes in the siding, which is believed to be from a pellet gun.&nbsp;Open - Under&nbsp;Investigation

P202400093 19:09 ANIMAL :&nbsp; Officer disposed of a injured wild animal on Kansas street.&nbsp;Closed - Resolved

P202400087 22:35 WELFARE : WELFARE officers responded to Meadows Trailer Court in reference to a welfare check.&nbsp; Investigation was conducted,&nbsp; one female was transported to BBGH.&nbsp; One male was arrested and transported to the Box Butte County jail.&nbsp;Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400088 07:59 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Inactive - Case&nbsp;Suspended

P202400089 09:20 DEATH : UNATTENDED Closed - Resolved

P202400090 12:57 FOUND : FOUND Inactive - Case&nbsp;Suspended

P202400091 21:09 STOLEN VEHICLE : Closed - Resolved

P202400094 16:14 DRUGS : DRUGS Closed - Charges&nbsp;Recommended

Code : Description Case Comments Disposition

P202400096 10:19 JUV : JUVENILE AMS / Report of a student with drugs / Search by staff / Located drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a knife / Charges recommended case closed.&nbsp; Resolved

P202400099 15:30 ERROR : INCIDENT CALL Issued In Error

P202400101 16:33 INFO : INFORMATIONAL officer responded to 2900 block of Cheyenne DR in reference to damage property/Inactive - Case Suspended 

P202400102 17:36 WARRANT : ARREST officers arrested one female on a warrant out of Box Butte County/ Female was transported to the Box Butte County jail.

Alliance Police activity Report for 2/18 - /2/2402/18/24P202400083 00:57 DUI : DUI officers assisted Nebraska State Patrol in a traffic stop/ Investigation was conducted, one female was arrested and transported to the Box Butte County Jail.&nbsp;Closed - Charges&nbsp;RecommendedP202400084 21:12 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY: officers responded to a hit and run accident on the 1200 block of Sweetwater Avenue/ Accident report02/18/24 Total: 202/19/24P202400085 10:13 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Was dispatched to the address for possible gun shots to the residence. Upon arrival, I met with the complainant and was shown two holes in a glass window and two holes in the siding, which is believed to be from a pellet gun.&nbsp;Open - Under&nbsp;InvestigationP202400093 19:09 ANIMAL :&nbsp; Officer disposed of a injured wild animal on Kansas street.&nbsp;Closed - ResolvedP202400087 22:35 WELFARE : WELFARE officers responded to Meadows Trailer Court in reference to a welfare check.&nbsp; Investigation was conducted,&nbsp; one female was transported to BBGH.&nbsp; One male was arrested and transported to the Box Butte County jail.&nbsp;Closed - Charges Recommended02/19/24 Total: 302/20/24P202400088 07:59 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Inactive - Case&nbsp;SuspendedP202400089 09:20 DEATH : UNATTENDED Closed - ResolvedP202400090 12:57 FOUND : FOUND Inactive - Case&nbsp;SuspendedP202400091 21:09 STOLEN VEHICLE : Closed - Resolved02/20/24 Total: 402/21/24P202400094 16:14 DRUGS : DRUGS Closed - Charges&nbsp;Recommended02/21/24 Total: 102/22/24Case Number Incident Start TimeCode : Description Case Comments DispositionP202400096 10:19 JUV : JUVENILE AMS / Report of a student with drugs / Search by staff / Located drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a knife / Charges recommended case closed.&nbsp; Resolved02/22/24 Total: 102/23/24P202400099 15:30 ERROR : INCIDENT CALL Issued In Error02/23/24 Total: 102/24/24P202400101 16:33 INFO : INFORMATIONAL officer responded to 2900 block of Cheyenne DR in reference to damage property/Inactive - Case Suspended P202400102 17:36 WARRANT : ARREST officers arrested one female on a warrant out of Box Butte County/ Female was transported to the Box Butte County jail.

Alliance Police Activity for 2-18/2-24

&nbsp;North Platte,
Nebraska - Starting now and running through mid-April, approximately one
million Sandhill Cranes will spend about six weeks in the Platte River Valley
on their way north to Canada and Siberia. 400,000 of these Sandhill Cranes will
spend that time in the North Platte and Lincoln County area. While these
incredible creatures visit, they feed in the cornfields and wet meadows by day
in preparation for their long journey ahead, and roost in the shallow flowing
waters of the Platte River at night.

This migration event draws people from all over the globe,
and it can be experienced right here in North Platte. Dusty Trails offers
Sandhill Crane Tours daily from March 12th through April 1st. There are morning
and evening blind tours available that offer breathtaking views of the Sandhill
Cranes ascending from and descending to the wide and shallow riverbeds of the
North Platte River. There are also bus tours during the day which take you out
into the cornfields to watch the birds perform their unique dances and mating
rituals. 

This tour is set at their most active courting time and
allows plenty of time for photography. The tours are also very reasonably
priced, at $45 per person, making this a great affordable activity for the
whole family! There are also self-guided options for viewing the Sandhill
Cranes including three viewing blinds in the area that are open to the public,
as well as a recommended driving route to see the Sandhill Cranes in the corn
fields during the day. 

For more information on this including blind details and a
map, brochures can be picked up from the Visit North Platte office at 101
Halligan Drive or you can go to <a href="https://www.visitnorthplatte.com/things-to-do/attractions/sandhill-cranes/">VisitNorthPlatte.com</a>.

According to an Economic Impact study done for Central
Nebraska in 2017, approximately 46,500 crane visitors came to Central Nebraska
during the migration that year. The average visitor’s length of stay was 2.7
days with an average spending per visitor, per day totaling up to $93.37.
Together, the overall economic impact of the Sandhill Crane Migration on
Central Nebraska was $14.30 million in 2017, supporting 182 year-round
equivalent jobs. Moreover, given economic activity is taxed by local government,
it is estimated that this economic impact generates $379,000 per year in local
property, sales, and lodging tax revenue. 

&nbsp;North Platte,
Nebraska - Starting now and running through mid-April, approximately one
million Sandhill Cranes will spend about six weeks in the Platte River Valley
on their way north to Canada and Siberia. 400,000 of these Sandhill Cranes will
spend that time in the North Platte and Lincoln County area. While these
incredible creatures visit, they feed in the cornfields and wet meadows by day
in preparation for their long journey ahead, and roost in the shallow flowing
waters of the Platte River at night.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708707200720.png" alt="Sandhill Cranes (Photo from VisitNorthPlatte.com)" />
 <figcaption>Sandhill Cranes (Photo from VisitNorthPlatte.com)</figcaption>
 </figure>This migration event draws people from all over the globe,
and it can be experienced right here in North Platte. Dusty Trails offers
Sandhill Crane Tours daily from March 12th through April 1st. There are morning
and evening blind tours available that offer breathtaking views of the Sandhill
Cranes ascending from and descending to the wide and shallow riverbeds of the
North Platte River. There are also bus tours during the day which take you out
into the cornfields to watch the birds perform their unique dances and mating
rituals. This tour is set at their most active courting time and
allows plenty of time for photography. The tours are also very reasonably
priced, at $45 per person, making this a great affordable activity for the
whole family! There are also self-guided options for viewing the Sandhill
Cranes including three viewing blinds in the area that are open to the public,
as well as a recommended driving route to see the Sandhill Cranes in the corn
fields during the day. For more information on this including blind details and a
map, brochures can be picked up from the Visit North Platte office at 101
Halligan Drive or you can go to <a href="https://www.visitnorthplatte.com/things-to-do/attractions/sandhill-cranes/">VisitNorthPlatte.com</a>. According to an Economic Impact study done for Central
Nebraska in 2017, approximately 46,500 crane visitors came to Central Nebraska
during the migration that year. The average visitor’s length of stay was 2.7
days with an average spending per visitor, per day totaling up to $93.37.
Together, the overall economic impact of the Sandhill Crane Migration on
Central Nebraska was $14.30 million in 2017, supporting 182 year-round
equivalent jobs. Moreover, given economic activity is taxed by local government,
it is estimated that this economic impact generates $379,000 per year in local
property, sales, and lodging tax revenue.

Sandhill Cranes return to the North Platte River Valley

Stephen Crile is resigning as head girls' basketball coach at the conclusion of the 2023-24 season.&nbsp; Coach Crile led the Lady Bulldogs for three seasons, compiling 28 wins and one district final appearance.&nbsp;

Coach Crile would like to thank the community, the administration, our fans and most importantly, our players.&nbsp; The players gave everything they had day in and day out.&nbsp; He was honored to be entrusted with leading this historic program.

Stephen plans to work on finishing a master's degree in Administration.&nbsp; Mr. Crile will continue to teach at Alliance High School.&nbsp; We thank Stephen for all he has done for our girl's basketball program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Alliance Public SchoolsStephen Crile is resigning as head girls' basketball coach at the conclusion of the 2023-24 season.&nbsp; Coach Crile led the Lady Bulldogs for three seasons, compiling 28 wins and one district final appearance.&nbsp;Coach Crile would like to thank the community, the administration, our fans and most importantly, our players.&nbsp; The players gave everything they had day in and day out.&nbsp; He was honored to be entrusted with leading this historic program.Stephen plans to work on finishing a master's degree in Administration.&nbsp; Mr. Crile will continue to teach at Alliance High School.&nbsp; We thank Stephen for all he has done for our girl's basketball program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alliance Head Girls Basketball Coach resigns after 3 seasons

&nbsp;By Scotts Bluff National Monument

GERING, NE— Today, the National Park Service announced that 400 national parks reported a total of 325.5 million visits in 2023, an increase of 13 million or 4% over 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

At Scotts Bluff National Monument, 2023 visitation numbers were nearly equal to those of the previous year even though the monument saw long stretches of cold and snowy weather in January through mid-March of 2023.&nbsp;“Cold, snowy weather at the beginning of the year really reduced visitation last January, February and March,” said Acting Superintendent Britt Salapek. “However, visitation numbers really rebounded starting in April, and remained strong through the end of the year.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The monument saw over 20,000 visitors per month May through September. If you would like to visit with smaller crowds, but generally pleasant weather, Scotts Bluff staff recommend visiting in April or October.&nbsp;&nbsp;Monument staff also remind visitors about&nbsp;our neighboring National Park Service sites, Fort Laramie National Historic Site and Agate Fossil Beds National Monument. Both are within an hour’s drive. Together, the three parks tell interesting stories with smaller crowds than many other National Park Service sites.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visitation figures and trends guide how the National Park Service manages parks to ensure the best experience possible for park visitors. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/visitor-use-statistics-dashboard.htm" target="_blank">NPS Visitor Statistics Dashboard</a>&nbsp;provides recreational visit statistics for every park in the US for 2023 and also for previous years, dating back to 1979 for some parks. There are 428 parks in the National Park System, and 400 parks counted visitors in 2023. For the first time, there are now parks reporting their visitation numbers from all 50 states, the &nbsp;

District of Columbia, and four US territories. Five national parks began reporting in 2023, and this is the first year a park from Delaware is included.&nbsp;

&nbsp;By Scotts Bluff National MonumentGERING, NE— Today, the National Park Service announced that 400 national parks reported a total of 325.5 million visits in 2023, an increase of 13 million or 4% over 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At Scotts Bluff National Monument, 2023 visitation numbers were nearly equal to those of the previous year even though the monument saw long stretches of cold and snowy weather in January through mid-March of 2023.&nbsp;“Cold, snowy weather at the beginning of the year really reduced visitation last January, February and March,” said Acting Superintendent Britt Salapek. “However, visitation numbers really rebounded starting in April, and remained strong through the end of the year.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The monument saw over 20,000 visitors per month May through September. If you would like to visit with smaller crowds, but generally pleasant weather, Scotts Bluff staff recommend visiting in April or October.&nbsp;&nbsp;Monument staff also remind visitors about&nbsp;our neighboring National Park Service sites, Fort Laramie National Historic Site and Agate Fossil Beds National Monument. Both are within an hour’s drive. Together, the three parks tell interesting stories with smaller crowds than many other National Park Service sites.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visitation figures and trends guide how the National Park Service manages parks to ensure the best experience possible for park visitors. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/visitor-use-statistics-dashboard.htm" target="_blank">NPS Visitor Statistics Dashboard</a>&nbsp;provides recreational visit statistics for every park in the US for 2023 and also for previous years, dating back to 1979 for some parks. There are 428 parks in the National Park System, and 400 parks counted visitors in 2023. For the first time, there are now parks reporting their visitation numbers from all 50 states, the &nbsp;District of Columbia, and four US territories. Five national parks began reporting in 2023, and this is the first year a park from Delaware is included.&nbsp;

Scottsbluff National Monument visitation numbers for 2023 announced

<a>Carnegie&nbsp;has been full of life this month! We are excited to announce that our talented local Box Butte Art Society is back with their Spring Show in the Gretchen Garwood Gallery. The exhibit will be on display from February 13th&nbsp;to March 23rd.&nbsp; We encourage all members of the community to come out and support the talented artists of the Box Butte Art Society. Their works are truly unique and inspiring, and we are proud to showcase them in our gallery. From painting to pottery, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We hope to see you at the artist reception on February 24th&nbsp;5-7PM, where we will announce the award winners and celebrate the creativity of our local artists. A quick reminder that any community member is welcome to join the Art Society. Most of our current members would probably not label themselves as, “professional” artists, but produce their media purely for the love of creating. We welcome all art styles and any level of creative development. Contact Kyren Gibson or Steph Mantooth to become a member!</a>

In addition to the talents of the Arts Society, The Alliance Arts Council is celebrating a local legend, Native American artist Lea Short Bull. Lea is no longer with us, but her works are now a part of the collections of our town residents. These kind folks have generously lent us her works to organize into a beautifully cohesive display. Lea’s works are whimsical, full of pattern and color. The public reception for her work will also be February 24th&nbsp;from 5-7PM.&nbsp; Last weekend we were pleased to work with our friends at the Arts Council and host a special chocolate bar reception with live music for their season ticket holders. It was truly a special thank you to those who continue to be dedicated supporters of the Arts Council and all the hard work they put into bringing performing arts opportunities to our community.

During these exhibits we enjoyed one of our favorite annual events, the 4th&nbsp;grade elementary school art tour. Over the course of three days students arrived at the gallery and toured the exhibits, learning about the art and the artists on display. In addition to touring the exhibits, students also enjoyed art lessons with professional artist, Robert Peltz. Peltz and Kasa Sherlock have been busy at work teaching our 37 Winter Adventures Art Camp Students for the past six weeks. It has bene such a joy to have our studio full of young, creative minds.&nbsp;

By Carnegie Arts Center<a>Carnegie&nbsp;has been full of life this month! We are excited to announce that our talented local Box Butte Art Society is back with their Spring Show in the Gretchen Garwood Gallery. The exhibit will be on display from February 13th&nbsp;to March 23rd.&nbsp; We encourage all members of the community to come out and support the talented artists of the Box Butte Art Society. Their works are truly unique and inspiring, and we are proud to showcase them in our gallery. From painting to pottery, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We hope to see you at the artist reception on February 24th&nbsp;5-7PM, where we will announce the award winners and celebrate the creativity of our local artists. A quick reminder that any community member is welcome to join the Art Society. Most of our current members would probably not label themselves as, “professional” artists, but produce their media purely for the love of creating. We welcome all art styles and any level of creative development. Contact Kyren Gibson or Steph Mantooth to become a member!</a>In addition to the talents of the Arts Society, The Alliance Arts Council is celebrating a local legend, Native American artist Lea Short Bull. Lea is no longer with us, but her works are now a part of the collections of our town residents. These kind folks have generously lent us her works to organize into a beautifully cohesive display. Lea’s works are whimsical, full of pattern and color. The public reception for her work will also be February 24th&nbsp;from 5-7PM.&nbsp; Last weekend we were pleased to work with our friends at the Arts Council and host a special chocolate bar reception with live music for their season ticket holders. It was truly a special thank you to those who continue to be dedicated supporters of the Arts Council and all the hard work they put into bringing performing arts opportunities to our community.During these exhibits we enjoyed one of our favorite annual events, the 4th&nbsp;grade elementary school art tour. Over the course of three days students arrived at the gallery and toured the exhibits, learning about the art and the artists on display. In addition to touring the exhibits, students also enjoyed art lessons with professional artist, Robert Peltz. Peltz and Kasa Sherlock have been busy at work teaching our 37 Winter Adventures Art Camp Students for the past six weeks. It has bene such a joy to have our studio full of young, creative minds.&nbsp;None of what we do would be possible without the support of generous community members and businesses! Thank you to our&nbsp;February business sponsors Seasons of Hope Counseling, Edward Jones-Dalsey Lambley Financial Advisor, and Girard Well Service.&nbsp;We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding, the Nebraska Arts Council and Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support. Thank you, DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Carnegie Arts Center hosting artist reception on Saturday

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

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

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

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

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

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

County Farm Bureaus to Host Legislative District 43 Candidate Forum

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

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

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

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

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

Murder at the Juice Joint is March 1 at Arbor Lodge

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

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

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

Reserve sharp-tailed grouse viewing at Niobrara State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nebraska state park events coming up in March

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager On Police Chief Selection

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk:  Jason reminisces about play-by-play career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

State lawmakers advance detasseling bill to protect Nebraska youth workers

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

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

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

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

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