Longtime KCOW Sports Director recently retired after 37 years of service in Alliance. Today, he talked about his journey in broadcasting, his thoughts on Jordan Hooper and her jersey retirement for the Huskers, and what some of his favorite memories are as voice of the Bulldogs.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Mike Glesinger discusses Broadcast Journey, Jordan Hooper, Bulldogs and More" 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=9mb2u-153fdda-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Longtime KCOW Sports Director recently retired after 37 years of service in Alliance. Today, he talked about his journey in broadcasting, his thoughts on Jordan Hooper and her jersey retirement for the Huskers, and what some of his favorite memories are as voice of the Bulldogs.&nbsp;

POST PODCAST: Mike Glesinger discusses Broadcast Career, Jordan Hooper and Bulldog memories

Chadron, NE, January 4, 2024 – Chadron Community Hospital (CCH) is proud to announce that we’ve been recognized with a 2024 Women’s Choice Award for Best Hospital driven by our Emergency Care.

 Chadron Community Hospital has been named one of America’s Best Hospitals for Emergency Care by the Women’s Choice Award®, America’s trusted referral source for the best in healthcare. The award signifies that CCH is in the top 7% of U.S. hospitals offering emergency care services.

This award is 100% objective, evidence-based quality designation based on CMS data and accreditations that only the top 10% of hospitals in the nation can qualify for. It is the only recognition in the healthcare industry that focuses on recognizing the best hospitals for women and their families.

By Chadron Community HospitalChadron, NE, January 4, 2024 – Chadron Community Hospital (CCH) is proud to announce that we’ve been recognized with a 2024 Women’s Choice Award for Best Hospital driven by our Emergency Care. Chadron Community Hospital has been named one of America’s Best Hospitals for Emergency Care by the Women’s Choice Award®, America’s trusted referral source for the best in healthcare. The award signifies that CCH is in the top 7% of U.S. hospitals offering emergency care services.This award is 100% objective, evidence-based quality designation based on CMS data and accreditations that only the top 10% of hospitals in the nation can qualify for. It is the only recognition in the healthcare industry that focuses on recognizing the best hospitals for women and their families.

Chadron Community Hospital and Health Services  Recognized with a 2024 Women’s Choice Award

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 1/4/24:

By Cody Thomas Nebraska State Patrol

JANUARY 3, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol removed from the road 65 impaired drivers during the holiday season.

During the final two weeks of 2023, troopers participated in the national&nbsp;Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over&nbsp;campaign. The campaign ran from December 15 through January 1 and included hundreds of law enforcement agencies across the country.

“The holidays are always a busy time of year on Nebraska roadways, and with a winter storm right in the middle this year, our troopers were working around the clock to keep roads safe,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol.

During the campaign, troopers made 65 arrests for driving under the influence. Troopers also cited 985 drivers for speeding, including 51 drivers for traveling at 100 miles per hour or higher. Citations were also issued for no seat belt (15), improper child restraint (14), open alcohol container (31), minor in possession of alcohol (35), and driving under suspension (111). Troopers also performed 656 motorist assists and responded to 123 crashes during the campaign.

The&nbsp;Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over&nbsp;effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation - Highway Safety Office.

As the new year begins, NSP reminds all motorists to be prepared for winter driving conditions over the next few months. Check Nebraska’s 511 system for updated road conditions and keep a winter travel kit in your vehicle, including items such as:

Water&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Food

First Aid kit&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Warm clothes and blankets

Hat and gloves&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cell phone charger

Jumper cables&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bag of sand, salt, or ice melt

Flashlight&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ice scraper

By Cody Thomas Nebraska State PatrolJANUARY 3, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol removed from the road 65 impaired drivers during the holiday season.During the final two weeks of 2023, troopers participated in the national&nbsp;Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over&nbsp;campaign. The campaign ran from December 15 through January 1 and included hundreds of law enforcement agencies across the country.“The holidays are always a busy time of year on Nebraska roadways, and with a winter storm right in the middle this year, our troopers were working around the clock to keep roads safe,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol.During the campaign, troopers made 65 arrests for driving under the influence. Troopers also cited 985 drivers for speeding, including 51 drivers for traveling at 100 miles per hour or higher. Citations were also issued for no seat belt (15), improper child restraint (14), open alcohol container (31), minor in possession of alcohol (35), and driving under suspension (111). Troopers also performed 656 motorist assists and responded to 123 crashes during the campaign.The&nbsp;Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over&nbsp;effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation - Highway Safety Office.As the new year begins, NSP reminds all motorists to be prepared for winter driving conditions over the next few months. Check Nebraska’s 511 system for updated road conditions and keep a winter travel kit in your vehicle, including items such as:Water&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; FoodFirst Aid kit&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Warm clothes and blanketsHat and gloves&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cell phone chargerJumper cables&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bag of sand, salt, or ice meltFlashlight&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ice scraper

Nebraska State Patrol Troopers Arrest 65 Impaired Drivers During Holiday Season

United Way of Western Nebraska’s AmeriCorps Seniors Program will be joining in with the Nebraska AmeriCorps Seniors initiative on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Volunteers will honor Dr. King's legacy by serving their communities. In Scotts Bluff County, volunteers will collect food and paper goods for local emergency food pantries and banks, contributing to the nationwide effort of hundreds of thousands of Americans engaging in volunteer service.

From January 15-19, the community can drop off items at Riverstone Bank Scottsbluff or Gering locations or at the United Way of Western Nebraska office.

Observed each year on the third Monday in January, Martin Luther King, Jr., Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King and improve their communities. AmeriCorps has been charged with leading this effort for more than a quarter century. While much work remains to fulfill Dr. King’s dream of creating the Beloved Community, AmeriCorps remains committed to showing that joining together in service can unify Americans of different backgrounds and experiences to transform unjust systems through a fierce urgency of now.

 AmeriCorps, the federal agency for volunteerism and national service, provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency places more than 200,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in intensive service roles; and empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term, or one-time volunteers. Learn more at AmeriCorps.gov.

To learn more about the United Way AmeriCorps Seniors program or to volunteer, please contact Billy Estes, AmeriCorps Seniors Director at the United Way office at 308-635-2522 or visit uwwn.org.

United Way works in the local community to Give, Advocate and Volunteer.

By United Way of Western NebraskaUnited Way of Western Nebraska’s AmeriCorps Seniors Program will be joining in with the Nebraska AmeriCorps Seniors initiative on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Volunteers will honor Dr. King's legacy by serving their communities. In Scotts Bluff County, volunteers will collect food and paper goods for local emergency food pantries and banks, contributing to the nationwide effort of hundreds of thousands of Americans engaging in volunteer service.From January 15-19, the community can drop off items at Riverstone Bank Scottsbluff or Gering locations or at the United Way of Western Nebraska office.Observed each year on the third Monday in January, Martin Luther King, Jr., Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King and improve their communities. AmeriCorps has been charged with leading this effort for more than a quarter century. While much work remains to fulfill Dr. King’s dream of creating the Beloved Community, AmeriCorps remains committed to showing that joining together in service can unify Americans of different backgrounds and experiences to transform unjust systems through a fierce urgency of now. AmeriCorps, the federal agency for volunteerism and national service, provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency places more than 200,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in intensive service roles; and empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term, or one-time volunteers. Learn more at AmeriCorps.gov.To learn more about the United Way AmeriCorps Seniors program or to volunteer, please contact Billy Estes, AmeriCorps Seniors Director at the United Way office at 308-635-2522 or visit uwwn.org.United Way works in the local community to Give, Advocate and Volunteer.

United Way of Western Nebraska and Americorps to Unite in Service on MLK Day 

By Aaron Berger, Beef Educator, Nebraska Extension, and Chabella Guzman, PREEC Communications

The Nebraska Extension is hosting two hands-on Calving Workshops on Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. MT at the South Platte NRD Building in Sidney and Jan. 19 at 1 p.m. CT at the NCTA Livestock Teaching Center in Curtis.

The workshops will be led by Becky Funk, DVM and Extension Specialist, and Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM and Extension Educator. Topics covered will include calving equipment and proper use, techniques for managing dystocia, when to call for help, and hands-on demonstration and training using a life-size model cow and calf.

Preparing for the calving season can help minimize calf loss and reduce stress on those caring for the cowherd. These hands-on workshops will cover how to correct common malpresentations and approach handling difficult births.

“Pay attention to the nutrition needs of bred heifers and cows prior to calving. Adequate body condition at calving is important as it impacts cow stamina during delivery of the calf, colostrum quality, calf vigor, and subsequent rebreeding,” said Aaron Berger, Nebraska Extension beef educator.&nbsp;

Producers should discuss their herd health plan with their veterinarian. To manage where they can reduce risk and address ways to prevent health problems that have been an issue before. Other aspects of preparation include examining calving facilities, checking gates, pens, alleys, and head catches, and fixing or replacing broken items. Check lights and have replacement bulbs on hand.

“You should also make sure you have a good supply of plastic sleeves, obstetrical lube, obstetrical chains or straps, esophageal feeders, and calf feeding bottles. Make sure your fetal extractor (calf puller) is clean and working properly,” he said.

It’s also good to have colostrum or colostrum replacement products on hand. The calf’s ability to absorb immunoglobulin antibodies across the intestine decreases rapidly six to 12 hours after birth. “It is critical the calf receives colostrum during this time. If the quality or quantity of the colostrum is a concern, consult your veterinarian as to which replacement products are best,” Berger said.&nbsp;

Weather is another consideration, and producers should be aware calves born during cold, wet conditions can quickly succumb to hypothermia. For mild hypothermia (body temperature between 94 and 100°F), giving a calf warm, body temperature colostrum or colostrum replacement products and drying the calf off with towels and warm air can quickly bring a calf’s temperature back to normal. Providing wind protection and a clean, dry environment will keep stress and disease occurrence low.

The cost to attend is $30. Students attend for free. To register for the Sidney workshop, call Aaron Berger at 308-235-3122 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aberger2@unl.edu">aberger2@unl.edu</a>. To register for the Curtis workshop, call Erin Laborie at 308-268-3105 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:erin.laborie@unl.edu">erin.laborie@unl.edu</a>.&nbsp;

By Aaron Berger, Beef Educator, Nebraska Extension, and Chabella Guzman, PREEC CommunicationsThe Nebraska Extension is hosting two hands-on Calving Workshops on Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. MT at the South Platte NRD Building in Sidney and Jan. 19 at 1 p.m. CT at the NCTA Livestock Teaching Center in Curtis.The workshops will be led by Becky Funk, DVM and Extension Specialist, and Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM and Extension Educator. Topics covered will include calving equipment and proper use, techniques for managing dystocia, when to call for help, and hands-on demonstration and training using a life-size model cow and calf.Preparing for the calving season can help minimize calf loss and reduce stress on those caring for the cowherd. These hands-on workshops will cover how to correct common malpresentations and approach handling difficult births.“Pay attention to the nutrition needs of bred heifers and cows prior to calving. Adequate body condition at calving is important as it impacts cow stamina during delivery of the calf, colostrum quality, calf vigor, and subsequent rebreeding,” said Aaron Berger, Nebraska Extension beef educator.&nbsp;Producers should discuss their herd health plan with their veterinarian. To manage where they can reduce risk and address ways to prevent health problems that have been an issue before. Other aspects of preparation include examining calving facilities, checking gates, pens, alleys, and head catches, and fixing or replacing broken items. Check lights and have replacement bulbs on hand.“You should also make sure you have a good supply of plastic sleeves, obstetrical lube, obstetrical chains or straps, esophageal feeders, and calf feeding bottles. Make sure your fetal extractor (calf puller) is clean and working properly,” he said.It’s also good to have colostrum or colostrum replacement products on hand. The calf’s ability to absorb immunoglobulin antibodies across the intestine decreases rapidly six to 12 hours after birth. “It is critical the calf receives colostrum during this time. If the quality or quantity of the colostrum is a concern, consult your veterinarian as to which replacement products are best,” Berger said.&nbsp;Weather is another consideration, and producers should be aware calves born during cold, wet conditions can quickly succumb to hypothermia. For mild hypothermia (body temperature between 94 and 100°F), giving a calf warm, body temperature colostrum or colostrum replacement products and drying the calf off with towels and warm air can quickly bring a calf’s temperature back to normal. Providing wind protection and a clean, dry environment will keep stress and disease occurrence low.The cost to attend is $30. Students attend for free. To register for the Sidney workshop, call Aaron Berger at 308-235-3122 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aberger2@unl.edu">aberger2@unl.edu</a>. To register for the Curtis workshop, call Erin Laborie at 308-268-3105 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:erin.laborie@unl.edu">erin.laborie@unl.edu</a>.&nbsp;

Engaging Agriculture: Calving workshops scheduled in Sidney and Curtis

Hunters may begin purchasing their 2024 spring turkey season permits from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission beginning at 1 p.m. Central time Jan. 8. They also should reacquaint themselves with major changes from 2023.

Those spring season changes that began in 2023:

New for 2024, the price of a nonresident turkey permit, including issuing fee, has increased from $128 to $143. The nonresident landowner permit cost rose from $65.50 to $73. All youth turkey permits remain $8.

The spring archery season opens March 25, youth shotgun on April 6, and the regular shotgun on April 13. All spring turkey seasons close May 31.

Visit Game and Parks’ permitting site&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuZ29vdXRkb29yc25lLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTA0Ljg4MDA0NTQxIn0.s_SI-dkBPW5uX9Jy_Uq2owiYxHr40WcnzOPatTwDVbk/s/497221906/br/234276570857-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsNE.com</a>&nbsp;or a permitting office to purchase permits starting Jan. 8.

For more information on turkey hunting in Nebraska visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTA0Ljg4MDA0NTQxIn0.__KhVHVQR6n01p8obCLCizdWmfcfG00Q9mDrnn-NmDw/s/497221906/br/234276570857-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.

By Nebraska Game &amp; ParksHunters may begin purchasing their 2024 spring turkey season permits from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission beginning at 1 p.m. Central time Jan. 8. They also should reacquaint themselves with major changes from 2023.Those spring season changes that began in 2023:<ul>
 <li>Hunters may purchase up to two spring permits instead of three.</li><li>A hunter may harvest no more than one turkey per calendar day during the spring season.</li><li>10,000 spring permits are available for sale to nonresident hunters.</li><li>All turkey harvests must be reported via Telecheck.</li>
 </ul>New for 2024, the price of a nonresident turkey permit, including issuing fee, has increased from $128 to $143. The nonresident landowner permit cost rose from $65.50 to $73. All youth turkey permits remain $8.The spring archery season opens March 25, youth shotgun on April 6, and the regular shotgun on April 13. All spring turkey seasons close May 31.Visit Game and Parks’ permitting site&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuZ29vdXRkb29yc25lLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTA0Ljg4MDA0NTQxIn0.s_SI-dkBPW5uX9Jy_Uq2owiYxHr40WcnzOPatTwDVbk/s/497221906/br/234276570857-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsNE.com</a>&nbsp;or a permitting office to purchase permits starting Jan. 8.For more information on turkey hunting in Nebraska visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMTA0Ljg4MDA0NTQxIn0.__KhVHVQR6n01p8obCLCizdWmfcfG00Q9mDrnn-NmDw/s/497221906/br/234276570857-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.

Hunters may start buying spring turkey permits Jan. 8

CHADRON – Nominations are now open for Discover Northwest Nebraska’s annual tourism industry awards. The awards recognize outstanding people and businesses participating in the regional tourism industry.

Nominations are open for awards in three categories: Frontline Employee of the Year, Tourism Business/Attraction of the Year and Tourism Volunteer of the Year.

“Our tourism industry professionals work hard each year to provide a fun, affordable vacation to hundreds of thousands of visitors to Northwest Nebraska,” said Discover Northwest Nebraska Director Kerri Rempp. “We want to honor outstanding performances by the employees and businesses that contribute so much to the economic activity of the region.”

The travel and tourism industry generates more than $25 million in direct travel spending by visitors annually in Dawes and Sioux counties and supports more than 200 jobs.

The award winners will be announced this spring at the annual Treasure Chest of the Northwest industry gathering hosted by Discover Northwest Nebraska, Chadrad Communications and the Chadron Chamber of Commerce. Nominations are due March 1, 2024, and can be submitted online at http://discovernwnebraska.com/industry-awards/ or by contacting Rempp at 308-432-3006 or at director@discovernwnebraska.com.

By Discover Northwest NebraskaCHADRON – Nominations are now open for Discover Northwest Nebraska’s annual tourism industry awards. The awards recognize outstanding people and businesses participating in the regional tourism industry.Nominations are open for awards in three categories: Frontline Employee of the Year, Tourism Business/Attraction of the Year and Tourism Volunteer of the Year.“Our tourism industry professionals work hard each year to provide a fun, affordable vacation to hundreds of thousands of visitors to Northwest Nebraska,” said Discover Northwest Nebraska Director Kerri Rempp. “We want to honor outstanding performances by the employees and businesses that contribute so much to the economic activity of the region.”The travel and tourism industry generates more than $25 million in direct travel spending by visitors annually in Dawes and Sioux counties and supports more than 200 jobs.The award winners will be announced this spring at the annual Treasure Chest of the Northwest industry gathering hosted by Discover Northwest Nebraska, Chadrad Communications and the Chadron Chamber of Commerce. Nominations are due March 1, 2024, and can be submitted online at http://discovernwnebraska.com/industry-awards/ or by contacting Rempp at 308-432-3006 or at director@discovernwnebraska.com.

Nominations open for Northwest Nebraska tourism industry awards

Note: Qualified Youth Interested in the Beef Industry Encouraged to Apply

LINCOLN, NE (January 3, 2024) – The&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZSyFqrP9YzZ8NYqYReCmIstmN_OeZHZoOzYtf3sVDHtiMKn-rkw2HMDv1i6l5a4jLevLMmQGMDu8MbgKPckSS3GWz7FSQpiL9gGDv-MRZ0ksvgotb75Gu3ejzyRvIZ4ww3GYK64WiGfU=&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">Nebraska Cattlemen Research and Education Foundation</a>&nbsp;(NCF) announced they are accepting scholarships applications for the 2024-2025 academic year from qualified youth in Nebraska with an interest in the beef industry.&nbsp;

“The NCF’s generous donors share the belief that education is fundamental to the future success of the beef cattle industry, and we encourage students to consider applying for one of our scholarships,”&nbsp;said NCF President Loren Berger.

The prestigious&nbsp;Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholarship&nbsp;awards a&nbsp;$10,000 scholarship&nbsp;to an outstanding college junior, senior or graduate-level student. Eligible students must be residents of Nebraska and be enrolled in a Nebraska college or university pursuing a beef industry-related degree. The scholarship will be awarded based on student need, Nebraska beef industry involvement including past achievements and future plans, and academics.&nbsp;Completed applications are due in the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation office by close of business on&nbsp;Thursday, February 15, 2024.&nbsp;Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified. Finalist will be invited to a personal interview with the selection committee.

NCF offers numerous other $1,000 minimum scholarships, awarded on the basis of academic achievement, beef industry involvement and goals/quality of application.&nbsp;Completed applications are due in the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation office by close of business on&nbsp;Friday, March 15, 2024. Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified.&nbsp;Scholarship recipients must be a high school senior or college student, have a "C" or higher-grade point average, and be enrolled or intending to enroll full time in a college or university that offers a bachelor’s degree, an approved vocation or trade school, or a state accredited junior college.&nbsp;

Refer to the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZS1kpsP1Y69VQEy0F2Cna1JwxQd0MB0HUXNJOSrjvGgyoLOZQgGjE3wdPNxKHy5S2bOgy-xGZ0lBDhIvJGREPrsx6Al9yU6vm6UoNTaIwnF3xHJp-reme4NzIV7_5tTlNMIZc5HD4dtzU4093-8zdmd6Q_EwzXabDP7NTr95y4k-ZO5KZpZ1Gcf4McQqtgFLZ&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">Nebraska Beef State Scholarship</a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZS1kpsP1Y69VQEy0F2Cna1JwxQd0MB0HUXNJOSrjvGgyoLOZQgGjE3wdPNxKHy5S2bOgy-xGZ0lBDhIvJGREPrsx6Al9yU6vm6UoNTaIwnF3xHJp-reme4NzIV7_5tTlNMIZc5HD4dtzU4093-8zdmd6Q_EwzXabDP7NTr95y4k-ZO5KZpZ1Gcf4McQqtgFLZ&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">&nbsp;application</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZrh46FbWZyIoSKFyRQZD94GPB3n0BGtJdOtiubVbvd4tnmV0jdwPxZnWXHa5eSHzHa5hSticxpwFXzjLhakAe6trvbfclH2WmoeAQR-2KOeKLoJdJqA3-wlQJPNpVX6JO5i-_s52sBWQkaMgVxzhw61PaUA7Fvaf04jygN_48e_3C03lrC80nBg==&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">general scholarship</a>&nbsp;application for complete selection requirements.&nbsp;Applications are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZSyFqrP9YzZ8NYqYReCmIstmN_OeZHZoOzYtf3sVDHtiMKn-rkw2HMDv1i6l5a4jLevLMmQGMDu8MbgKPckSS3GWz7FSQpiL9gGDv-MRZ0ksvgotb75Gu3ejzyRvIZ4ww3GYK64WiGfU=&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">Nebraska Cattlemen website&nbsp;</a>or can be obtained by contacting the NCF office at (402) 475-2333 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:NCF@necattlemen.org">NCF@necattlemen.org</a>.

All scholarship winners will be announced during the Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Midyear Meeting in June 2024.

Note: Qualified Youth Interested in the Beef Industry Encouraged to ApplyBy Nebraska CattlemenLINCOLN, NE (January 3, 2024) – The&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZSyFqrP9YzZ8NYqYReCmIstmN_OeZHZoOzYtf3sVDHtiMKn-rkw2HMDv1i6l5a4jLevLMmQGMDu8MbgKPckSS3GWz7FSQpiL9gGDv-MRZ0ksvgotb75Gu3ejzyRvIZ4ww3GYK64WiGfU=&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">Nebraska Cattlemen Research and Education Foundation</a>&nbsp;(NCF) announced they are accepting scholarships applications for the 2024-2025 academic year from qualified youth in Nebraska with an interest in the beef industry.&nbsp;“The NCF’s generous donors share the belief that education is fundamental to the future success of the beef cattle industry, and we encourage students to consider applying for one of our scholarships,”&nbsp;said NCF President Loren Berger.The prestigious&nbsp;Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholarship&nbsp;awards a&nbsp;$10,000 scholarship&nbsp;to an outstanding college junior, senior or graduate-level student. Eligible students must be residents of Nebraska and be enrolled in a Nebraska college or university pursuing a beef industry-related degree. The scholarship will be awarded based on student need, Nebraska beef industry involvement including past achievements and future plans, and academics.&nbsp;Completed applications are due in the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation office by close of business on&nbsp;Thursday, February 15, 2024.&nbsp;Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified. Finalist will be invited to a personal interview with the selection committee.NCF offers numerous other $1,000 minimum scholarships, awarded on the basis of academic achievement, beef industry involvement and goals/quality of application.&nbsp;Completed applications are due in the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation office by close of business on&nbsp;Friday, March 15, 2024. Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified.&nbsp;Scholarship recipients must be a high school senior or college student, have a "C" or higher-grade point average, and be enrolled or intending to enroll full time in a college or university that offers a bachelor’s degree, an approved vocation or trade school, or a state accredited junior college.&nbsp;Refer to the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZS1kpsP1Y69VQEy0F2Cna1JwxQd0MB0HUXNJOSrjvGgyoLOZQgGjE3wdPNxKHy5S2bOgy-xGZ0lBDhIvJGREPrsx6Al9yU6vm6UoNTaIwnF3xHJp-reme4NzIV7_5tTlNMIZc5HD4dtzU4093-8zdmd6Q_EwzXabDP7NTr95y4k-ZO5KZpZ1Gcf4McQqtgFLZ&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">Nebraska Beef State Scholarship</a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZS1kpsP1Y69VQEy0F2Cna1JwxQd0MB0HUXNJOSrjvGgyoLOZQgGjE3wdPNxKHy5S2bOgy-xGZ0lBDhIvJGREPrsx6Al9yU6vm6UoNTaIwnF3xHJp-reme4NzIV7_5tTlNMIZc5HD4dtzU4093-8zdmd6Q_EwzXabDP7NTr95y4k-ZO5KZpZ1Gcf4McQqtgFLZ&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">&nbsp;application</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZrh46FbWZyIoSKFyRQZD94GPB3n0BGtJdOtiubVbvd4tnmV0jdwPxZnWXHa5eSHzHa5hSticxpwFXzjLhakAe6trvbfclH2WmoeAQR-2KOeKLoJdJqA3-wlQJPNpVX6JO5i-_s52sBWQkaMgVxzhw61PaUA7Fvaf04jygN_48e_3C03lrC80nBg==&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">general scholarship</a>&nbsp;application for complete selection requirements.&nbsp;Applications are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EBSr042RLm6HufWW3B60WtYm4gtGw7Kl-GBP3X05mxkXpta9_TiFkEukbefznTgZSyFqrP9YzZ8NYqYReCmIstmN_OeZHZoOzYtf3sVDHtiMKn-rkw2HMDv1i6l5a4jLevLMmQGMDu8MbgKPckSS3GWz7FSQpiL9gGDv-MRZ0ksvgotb75Gu3ejzyRvIZ4ww3GYK64WiGfU=&amp;c=heh5jDFKrgpJ62nEUnL4ssH8OiTiPisJguCk5_2snKU-JaXVnfEoPw==&amp;ch=GxmaJn0SKir9DkdQJn3IV-Jz0LEc43bm4lm0TRgpSqhwP-ehe9MRLA==" target="_blank">Nebraska Cattlemen website&nbsp;</a>or can be obtained by contacting the NCF office at (402) 475-2333 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:NCF@necattlemen.org">NCF@necattlemen.org</a>.All scholarship winners will be announced during the Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Midyear Meeting in June 2024.

Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Now Accepting Scholarship Applications for the 2024-2025 Academic Year

Lincoln, NE – January 3, 2024 – The Nebraska Lottery recently distributed among its beneficiary funds $13,419,326, derived from a share of Scratch and Lotto ticket sales for the previous three months.

A total of $965,167,822 has been distributed in quarterly transfers since the Nebraska Lottery began operation on September 11, 1993. The latest transfer, made the week of December 29, was distributed among beneficiaries in the following manner:

Nebraska Education Improvement Fund, $5,971,600;Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund, $5,971,600;Nebraska State Fair Support and Improvement Fund, $1,341,933; andCompulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund, $134,193.

Amendment 4 passed by Nebraska voters in November of 2004 established the following distribution formula: Education as directed by the Legislature (44.5 percent) - currently distributed to the Nebraska Education Improvement Fund; Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund (44.5 percent); Nebraska State Fair (10 percent); and the Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund (1 percent, plus the first $500,000 in fund proceeds each fiscal year).

The funds' respective totals to date are:

Nebraska Education Improvement Fund, $157,431,122;Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund, $414,122,444;Nebraska State Fair Support and Improvement Fund, $73,519,260; andCompulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund, $21,481,682.

Prior to July 1, 2016, the Education Innovation Fund received proceeds totaling $174,222,842, and the Nebraska Opportunity Grant Fund received proceeds totaling $100,929,476.

Prior to July 1, 1997, the Solid Waste Landfill Closure Assistance Fund received proceeds totaling $18,460,996. In 2004, the Legislature directed that a one-time transfer of $5 million be made to the State General Fund.

Criteria for proceeds distribution are established by the beneficiary funds in accordance with legislative mandates. Every county in Nebraska has received service through grants funded with Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

The Nebraska Lottery marked $3.5 billion in total sales (since 1993) in December 2021.

By Nebraska LotteryLincoln, NE – January 3, 2024 – The Nebraska Lottery recently distributed among its beneficiary funds $13,419,326, derived from a share of Scratch and Lotto ticket sales for the previous three months.A total of $965,167,822 has been distributed in quarterly transfers since the Nebraska Lottery began operation on September 11, 1993. The latest transfer, made the week of December 29, was distributed among beneficiaries in the following manner:Nebraska Education Improvement Fund, $5,971,600;Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund, $5,971,600;Nebraska State Fair Support and Improvement Fund, $1,341,933; andCompulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund, $134,193.Amendment 4 passed by Nebraska voters in November of 2004 established the following distribution formula: Education as directed by the Legislature (44.5 percent) - currently distributed to the Nebraska Education Improvement Fund; Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund (44.5 percent); Nebraska State Fair (10 percent); and the Compulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund (1 percent, plus the first $500,000 in fund proceeds each fiscal year).The funds' respective totals to date are:Nebraska Education Improvement Fund, $157,431,122;Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund, $414,122,444;Nebraska State Fair Support and Improvement Fund, $73,519,260; andCompulsive Gamblers Assistance Fund, $21,481,682.Prior to July 1, 2016, the Education Innovation Fund received proceeds totaling $174,222,842, and the Nebraska Opportunity Grant Fund received proceeds totaling $100,929,476.Prior to July 1, 1997, the Solid Waste Landfill Closure Assistance Fund received proceeds totaling $18,460,996. In 2004, the Legislature directed that a one-time transfer of $5 million be made to the State General Fund.Criteria for proceeds distribution are established by the beneficiary funds in accordance with legislative mandates. Every county in Nebraska has received service through grants funded with Nebraska Lottery proceeds.The Nebraska Lottery marked $3.5 billion in total sales (since 1993) in December 2021.

$13.4 Million in Proceeds Raised for Nebraska Lottery

Getting Ahead, THE SUMMER EBT CONTROVERSY

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Nebraska will be opting out of a new federal child nutrition program this summer.

The state does not intend to participate in Summer EBT, a new federal program that would give $120 in EBT (food stamps/ SNAP) benefits to students who receive free or reduced-price lunch at school. The program would have provided about $18 million in benefits to be distributed to about 150,000 low-income children in Nebraska who experience food insecurity in the summer months.

Nebraska would have expenses of about $300,000 annually in administrative costs. This calculates to $2 per child who would have received Summer EBT.

Fifteen state senators, from both political parties, urged the Department of Health and Human Services and the Governor to reconsider accepting the federal money, which they said would both ensure that Nebraska addresses the needs of its vulnerable children and benefit the state economically.

The state had until January 1 to “express interest” in participation with the USDA to have the option to participate this summer. The non-profit organization Nebraska Appleseed on Friday, December 29, submitted a petition with more than 6,100 signatures from 230 communities asking Governor Pillen to reverse his decision. (I signed through Panhandle Partnership.)

But Governor Pillen has held firm on his decision to not apply for Summer EBT.

On December 29, Governor Pillen issued the following statement: “COVID-19 is over and Nebraska taxpayers expect that pandemic-era government relief programs will end too.

"To be clear, this does not mean that hungry kids will lose access to summer nutrition programs. Nebraska continues to participate in the existing USDA Summer Food Services Program (SFSB), which best ensures access to nutritious food options and protective services to children who are in need.

"Those added benefits are simply not available through the enhanced S-EBT program. Children who are fed on-site by trained program providers are ensured healthy meals and snacks, as well as access to educational and enrichment activities.

"The on-site aspect of SFSB also allows providers to spot more serious issues like malnutrition, neglect and abuse – which are often missed when children are out of school during the summer months.”

The SFSB programs are common in Omaha and Lincoln, but rare in rural Nebraska.

How does this affect us in Box Butte County? According to the Nebraska Department of Education, 944 of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch and would have qualified for the additional $120 Summer EBT benefit.

Hemingford Public Schools has 35% of its student body, or 138 students, qualifying for lunch assistance.

St. Agnes Academy and Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School have 45 students who receive free or reduced lunch benefits.

Alliance Public Schools has 761 students who qualify for school lunch assistance, 57% of the school's total enrollment Early Childhood through High School. Alliance does offer the Summer Food Services Program (SFSP) that Governor Pillen is touting until the end of June. However, when summer school classes end, so does this program.

That is a total of $113,280 that would have been received and spent in our area, feeding hungry children.

Getting Ahead, THE SUMMER EBT CONTROVERSYBy Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityNebraska will be opting out of a new federal child nutrition program this summer.The state does not intend to participate in Summer EBT, a new federal program that would give $120 in EBT (food stamps/ SNAP) benefits to students who receive free or reduced-price lunch at school. The program would have provided about $18 million in benefits to be distributed to about 150,000 low-income children in Nebraska who experience food insecurity in the summer months.Nebraska would have expenses of about $300,000 annually in administrative costs. This calculates to $2 per child who would have received Summer EBT.Fifteen state senators, from both political parties, urged the Department of Health and Human Services and the Governor to reconsider accepting the federal money, which they said would both ensure that Nebraska addresses the needs of its vulnerable children and benefit the state economically.The state had until January 1 to “express interest” in participation with the USDA to have the option to participate this summer. The non-profit organization Nebraska Appleseed on Friday, December 29, submitted a petition with more than 6,100 signatures from 230 communities asking Governor Pillen to reverse his decision. (I signed through Panhandle Partnership.)But Governor Pillen has held firm on his decision to not apply for Summer EBT.On December 29, Governor Pillen issued the following statement: “COVID-19 is over and Nebraska taxpayers expect that pandemic-era government relief programs will end too."To be clear, this does not mean that hungry kids will lose access to summer nutrition programs. Nebraska continues to participate in the existing USDA Summer Food Services Program (SFSB), which best ensures access to nutritious food options and protective services to children who are in need."Those added benefits are simply not available through the enhanced S-EBT program. Children who are fed on-site by trained program providers are ensured healthy meals and snacks, as well as access to educational and enrichment activities."The on-site aspect of SFSB also allows providers to spot more serious issues like malnutrition, neglect and abuse – which are often missed when children are out of school during the summer months.”The SFSB programs are common in Omaha and Lincoln, but rare in rural Nebraska.How does this affect us in Box Butte County? According to the Nebraska Department of Education, 944 of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch and would have qualified for the additional $120 Summer EBT benefit.Hemingford Public Schools has 35% of its student body, or 138 students, qualifying for lunch assistance.St. Agnes Academy and Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran School have 45 students who receive free or reduced lunch benefits.Alliance Public Schools has 761 students who qualify for school lunch assistance, 57% of the school's total enrollment Early Childhood through High School. Alliance does offer the Summer Food Services Program (SFSP) that Governor Pillen is touting until the end of June. However, when summer school classes end, so does this program.That is a total of $113,280 that would have been received and spent in our area, feeding hungry children.

Getting Ahead: The Summer EBT Controversy

LINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;— January 3, 2024 —&nbsp;The NE Chamber and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business today announced the 2024 inductees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame, including:&nbsp;

These leaders will officially be inducted at the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Banquet Thursday, February 1, at a 5:30 p.m. reception and 6:30 p.m. banquet held at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. To join in honoring these individuals and their families, register at&nbsp;<a href="https://web.nechamber.com/events/NEChamber%20Annual%20Meeting%20and%20Nebraska%20Business%20Hall%20of%20Fame%20Banquet-506/details" target="_blank">nechamber.com/events</a>&nbsp;or contact the NE Chamber at 402-474-4422. To sponsor, contact James Berringer at 402-474-4717 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jberringer@nechamber.com">jberringer@nechamber.com</a>.&nbsp;

“This year’s honorees include some of the most impactful business leaders in Nebraska,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Their innovative aspirations, grit and business success is just the tip of the iceberg.&nbsp;&nbsp;They have also made remarkable contributions to their communities and the entire state.”&nbsp;

These individuals join a distinguished group of more than 135 business leaders whose work to grow their businesses in Nebraska have made a significant impact on the free enterprise system, Nebraska’s economy, overall job opportunities and quality of life in their communities. Candidates are nominated by individuals from the business community, business associations and academia. The program was established in 1992 by the NE Chamber and UNL College of Business.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are excited to recognize and salute the accomplishments of the 2023 Nebraska Business Hall of Fame honorees&nbsp;whose&nbsp;contributions to Nebraska’s economy and business environment are broad and far reaching. This group includes entrepreneurs, exceptional business leaders and highly engaged citizens who made a tremendous impact on the state,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean of the UNL College of Business.&nbsp;

The NE Chamber is the largest, statewide business association, proudly serving as the voice of Nebraska’s business community since 1912. The organization promotes and protects Nebraska’s free enterprise system by ensuring a competitive business climate, economic growth and greater prosperity for all Nebraskans. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nechamber.com/" target="_blank">nechamber.com</a>.

NEBRASKA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME&nbsp;

LANCE FRITZ, Union Pacific, Omaha&nbsp;

Lance Fritz&nbsp;is Union Pacific chairman, president and chief executive officer. He stepped into these roles in 2015, when he was also elected to the corporation’s board of directors. He began his Union Pacific career in July 2000 as vice president and general manager – Energy in the company’s Marketing and Sales Department. Since then, Fritz has served as executive vice president – Operations, vice president – Labor Relations, and president and chief operating officer. Fritz graduated from Bucknell University and earned a master’s degree in management from Northwestern University.

He serves as a member of the board of directors of Parker-Hannifin Corporation, Business Roundtable, The Business Council, Nebraska Medicine, Omaha Zoological Society, STRATCOM Consultation Committee and the Association of American Railroads. He also serves on the Georgia Institute of Technology president’s advisory board. Union Pacific was founded in 1862 and operates North America’s premier railroad franchise, covering 23 states in the western two-thirds of the U.S.&nbsp;

SID DINSDALE, Pinnacle Bancorp, Inc., Lincoln&nbsp;

Sid Dinsdale&nbsp;is Chairman of Pinnacle Bancorp, Inc., a family-owned business that owns 100% of four bank charters: Pinnacle Bank Nebraska, Bank of Colorado, Pinnacle Bank Texas and Pinnacle Bank Wyoming. He grew up in Palmer, NE, a town of 425 people, and grew up working in the family feedlot, hay fields and irrigation operations. After graduating from Palmer High School, Dinsdale attended Hastings College then transferred to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he graduated with a degree in Finance.

He later attended the Graduate School of Baking at the University of Colorado and completed the Presidents Program at Harvard University. He is a member of the Omaha Business Hall of Fame and UNL Business School Hall of Fame. He and his wife, Dawn, were named “Aksarben’s Most Honored Citizens” in 2022. Dinsdale has been a Governor of Aksarben, on the board of Midlands Hospital, Children’s Hospital, Humane Society, STRATCOM Consultation Committee and the University of Nebraska Foundation, amongst others. 

He currently serves on the Methodist Health System board, Ameritas Life Insurance board and the boards of the banks and holding company.&nbsp;

HORNADY FAMILY, Hornady Manufacturing Company, Grand Island

Steve and Jason Hornady&nbsp;serve as the President and Vice President of Hornady Manufacturing Company, started by Steve’s father Joyce in 1949. Steve assumed leadership of the company from his father in 1981 and Jason followed in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps, joining the family business in 2006.&nbsp;

Steve Hornady has been a lifelong shooter, avid hunter and advocate for the shooting sports industry. Steve, a lifetime Nebraska resident, began his career at Hornady Manufacturing in 1971. 10 years later, he took the reins of the company after his father’s passing and led Hornady to what it is today.&nbsp;

Jason Hornady grew up in Grand Island and worked in the Hornady Manufacturing ballistics lab as a teenager. After graduating from the University of Wyoming in 1992, Jason worked for Sportco Marketing, Redfield Riflescopes and Dunkin-Lewis before finding himself back at the family company in 2006 as director of sales.&nbsp;

Both Jason and his father Steve have served on several boards and are currently involved with the NRA, the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturer’s Institute (SAAMI) and National Shooting Sports Foundation. Steve was recognized by the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence as the 2005 Shooting Industry Man of the Year and in 2013, he was recognized by the NRA as the Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award recipient. In 2019, Hornady Manufacturing was named Ammunition Manufacturer of the Year for the ninth time by the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;— January 3, 2024 —&nbsp;The NE Chamber and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) College of Business today announced the 2024 inductees into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame, including:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Sid Dinsdale, Pinnacle Bancorp, Inc.&nbsp;</li><li>Lance Fritz,&nbsp;Union Pacific, Inc.&nbsp;</li><li>Hornady Family,&nbsp;Hornady Manufacturing Co.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>These leaders will officially be inducted at the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Banquet Thursday, February 1, at a 5:30 p.m. reception and 6:30 p.m. banquet held at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel. To join in honoring these individuals and their families, register at&nbsp;<a href="https://web.nechamber.com/events/NEChamber%20Annual%20Meeting%20and%20Nebraska%20Business%20Hall%20of%20Fame%20Banquet-506/details" target="_blank">nechamber.com/events</a>&nbsp;or contact the NE Chamber at 402-474-4422. To sponsor, contact James Berringer at 402-474-4717 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jberringer@nechamber.com">jberringer@nechamber.com</a>.&nbsp;“This year’s honorees include some of the most impactful business leaders in Nebraska,” said NE Chamber President Bryan Slone.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Their innovative aspirations, grit and business success is just the tip of the iceberg.&nbsp;&nbsp;They have also made remarkable contributions to their communities and the entire state.”&nbsp;These individuals join a distinguished group of more than 135 business leaders whose work to grow their businesses in Nebraska have made a significant impact on the free enterprise system, Nebraska’s economy, overall job opportunities and quality of life in their communities. Candidates are nominated by individuals from the business community, business associations and academia. The program was established in 1992 by the NE Chamber and UNL College of Business.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are excited to recognize and salute the accomplishments of the 2023 Nebraska Business Hall of Fame honorees&nbsp;whose&nbsp;contributions to Nebraska’s economy and business environment are broad and far reaching. This group includes entrepreneurs, exceptional business leaders and highly engaged citizens who made a tremendous impact on the state,” said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Endowed Dean of the UNL College of Business.&nbsp;The NE Chamber is the largest, statewide business association, proudly serving as the voice of Nebraska’s business community since 1912. The organization promotes and protects Nebraska’s free enterprise system by ensuring a competitive business climate, economic growth and greater prosperity for all Nebraskans. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nechamber.com/" target="_blank">nechamber.com</a>.NEBRASKA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME&nbsp;2023 HONOREES&nbsp;LANCE FRITZ, Union Pacific, Omaha&nbsp;Lance Fritz&nbsp;is Union Pacific chairman, president and chief executive officer. He stepped into these roles in 2015, when he was also elected to the corporation’s board of directors. He began his Union Pacific career in July 2000 as vice president and general manager – Energy in the company’s Marketing and Sales Department. Since then, Fritz has served as executive vice president – Operations, vice president – Labor Relations, and president and chief operating officer. Fritz graduated from Bucknell University and earned a master’s degree in management from Northwestern University. He serves as a member of the board of directors of Parker-Hannifin Corporation, Business Roundtable, The Business Council, Nebraska Medicine, Omaha Zoological Society, STRATCOM Consultation Committee and the Association of American Railroads. He also serves on the Georgia Institute of Technology president’s advisory board. Union Pacific was founded in 1862 and operates North America’s premier railroad franchise, covering 23 states in the western two-thirds of the U.S.&nbsp;SID DINSDALE, Pinnacle Bancorp, Inc., Lincoln&nbsp;Sid Dinsdale&nbsp;is Chairman of Pinnacle Bancorp, Inc., a family-owned business that owns 100% of four bank charters: Pinnacle Bank Nebraska, Bank of Colorado, Pinnacle Bank Texas and Pinnacle Bank Wyoming. He grew up in Palmer, NE, a town of 425 people, and grew up working in the family feedlot, hay fields and irrigation operations. After graduating from Palmer High School, Dinsdale attended Hastings College then transferred to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he graduated with a degree in Finance. He later attended the Graduate School of Baking at the University of Colorado and completed the Presidents Program at Harvard University. He is a member of the Omaha Business Hall of Fame and UNL Business School Hall of Fame. He and his wife, Dawn, were named “Aksarben’s Most Honored Citizens” in 2022. Dinsdale has been a Governor of Aksarben, on the board of Midlands Hospital, Children’s Hospital, Humane Society, STRATCOM Consultation Committee and the University of Nebraska Foundation, amongst others. He currently serves on the Methodist Health System board, Ameritas Life Insurance board and the boards of the banks and holding company.&nbsp;HORNADY FAMILY, Hornady Manufacturing Company, Grand IslandSteve and Jason Hornady&nbsp;serve as the President and Vice President of Hornady Manufacturing Company, started by Steve’s father Joyce in 1949. Steve assumed leadership of the company from his father in 1981 and Jason followed in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps, joining the family business in 2006.&nbsp;Steve Hornady has been a lifelong shooter, avid hunter and advocate for the shooting sports industry. Steve, a lifetime Nebraska resident, began his career at Hornady Manufacturing in 1971. 10 years later, he took the reins of the company after his father’s passing and led Hornady to what it is today.&nbsp;Jason Hornady grew up in Grand Island and worked in the Hornady Manufacturing ballistics lab as a teenager. After graduating from the University of Wyoming in 1992, Jason worked for Sportco Marketing, Redfield Riflescopes and Dunkin-Lewis before finding himself back at the family company in 2006 as director of sales.&nbsp;Both Jason and his father Steve have served on several boards and are currently involved with the NRA, the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturer’s Institute (SAAMI) and National Shooting Sports Foundation. Steve was recognized by the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence as the 2005 Shooting Industry Man of the Year and in 2013, he was recognized by the NRA as the Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award recipient. In 2019, Hornady Manufacturing was named Ammunition Manufacturer of the Year for the ninth time by the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers.&nbsp;

2024 Nebraska Business Hall of Fame Honorees Announced 

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) has issued a ruling in a proposed Contract Termination Payment (CTP) submitted by Tri-State Generation and Transmission, Inc. (Tri State) of which Northwest Rural Public Power District (NRPPD) has protested. 

The Commission sided with NRPPD finding that the CTP proposed by Tri-State was unjust and unreasonable. NRPPD currently has an electric wholesale power supply contract with Tri-State, based out of Westminster, Colorado. NRPPD has given notice to terminate that contract effective May 1, 2024.

 NRPPD is situated in the Eastern Interconnection (Nebraska) as opposed to the majority of Tri-State’s service territory in the Western Interconnection (Colorado, New Mexico and Wyoming). NRPPD protested Tri-State’s calculation of the amount due under Tri-State’s proposed CTP, more than $43M, which attempted to recover funds through a Lost Revenue Approach. NRPPD claimed no amount should be paid to Tri-State to cover stranded assets as Tri-State has no generating assets in the Eastern Interconnection serving NRPPD. 

The Commission upheld NRPPD’s protest and determined, “Under the Adopted Balance Sheet Approach, withdrawing members must pay their pro rata share of generation-related assets, debt and other obligations.” The Commission further concluded, “Based on cost causation principles, this pro rata share will be among Tri-State members in the Western Interconnection.” And that, “…Northwest Rural, as an Eastern Interconnection member, would pay its proportion of Purchase Power Agreements that are used to serve its load…” 

Tri-State currently serves NRPPD through Purchase Power Agreements between Tri-State and Basin Electric Power Cooperative, based in Bismarck, ND and from federal hydro-power contracts with the Western Area Power Administration, based in Lakewood, CO. 

General Manager of NRPPD, Chance Briscoe, says, “We appreciate the Commission’s clear recognition that NRPPD and other Eastern Interconnection members receive no benefit from assets owned by Trii State serving those members in the Western Interconnection and that NRPPD is not responsible to cover the stranded cost of those assets.” Briscoe continued, “While this isn’t the final step in securing NRPPD’s alternate future power supplier and left a few questions to be answered, the Commission provided a stark rebuke of Tri-State’s position that NRPPD owed Tri-State in excess of $43M to exit and helped to clear the way for our transition.” 

Additionally, the Commission determined, “We uphold the Modified Balance Sheet Approach’s treatment of patronage capital…” This treatment will allow NRPPD to choose between the normal retirement schedule of patronage capital or a lump sum withdrawal upon exit at net present value. Briscoe says, “NRPPD currently has over $6M of patronage capital in Tri-State and this order will provide the option to receive approximately $4M immediately, rather than waiting 50 or 60 years to receive those funds for the benefit of our customers in the rural Panhandle of Nebraska.” 

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) has issued a ruling in a proposed Contract Termination Payment (CTP) submitted by Tri-State Generation and Transmission, Inc. (Tristate) of which Northwest Rural Public Power District (NRPPD) has protested. The Commission sided with NRPPD finding that the CTP proposed by Tri-State was unjust and unreasonable. NRPPD currently has an electric wholesale power supply contract with Tri-State, based out of Westminster, Colorado. 

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) has issued a ruling in a proposed Contract Termination Payment (CTP) submitted by Tri-State Generation and Transmission, Inc. (Tri State) of which Northwest Rural Public Power District (NRPPD) has protested. The Commission sided with NRPPD finding that the CTP proposed by Tri-State was unjust and unreasonable. NRPPD currently has an electric wholesale power supply contract with Tri-State, based out of Westminster, Colorado. NRPPD has given notice to terminate that contract effective May 1, 2024. NRPPD is situated in the Eastern Interconnection (Nebraska) as opposed to the majority of Tri-State’s service territory in the Western Interconnection (Colorado, New Mexico and Wyoming). NRPPD protested Tri-State’s calculation of the amount due under Tri-State’s proposed CTP, more than $43M, which attempted to recover funds through a Lost Revenue Approach. NRPPD claimed no amount should be paid to Tri-State to cover stranded assets as Tri-State has no generating assets in the Eastern Interconnection serving NRPPD. The Commission upheld NRPPD’s protest and determined, “Under the Adopted Balance Sheet Approach, withdrawing members must pay their pro rata share of generation-related assets, debt and other obligations.” The Commission further concluded, “Based on cost causation principles, this pro rata share will be among Tri-State members in the Western Interconnection.” And that, “…Northwest Rural, as an Eastern Interconnection member, would pay its proportion of Purchase Power Agreements that are used to serve its load…” Tri-State currently serves NRPPD through Purchase Power Agreements between Tri-State and Basin Electric Power Cooperative, based in Bismarck, ND and from federal hydro-power contracts with the Western Area Power Administration, based in Lakewood, CO. General Manager of NRPPD, Chance Briscoe, says, “We appreciate the Commission’s clear recognition that NRPPD and other Eastern Interconnection members receive no benefit from assets owned by Trii State serving those members in the Western Interconnection and that NRPPD is not responsible to cover the stranded cost of those assets.” Briscoe continued, “While this isn’t the final step in securing NRPPD’s alternate future power supplier and left a few questions to be answered, the Commission provided a stark rebuke of Tri-State’s position that NRPPD owed Tri-State in excess of $43M to exit and helped to clear the way for our transition.” Additionally, the Commission determined, “We uphold the Modified Balance Sheet Approach’s treatment of patronage capital…” This treatment will allow NRPPD to choose between the normal retirement schedule of patronage capital or a lump sum withdrawal upon exit at net present value. Briscoe says, “NRPPD currently has over $6M of patronage capital in Tri-State and this order will provide the option to receive approximately $4M immediately, rather than waiting 50 or 60 years to receive those funds for the benefit of our customers in the rural Panhandle of Nebraska.” The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission) has issued a ruling in a proposed Contract Termination Payment (CTP) submitted by Tri-State Generation and Transmission, Inc. (Tristate) of which Northwest Rural Public Power District (NRPPD) has protested. The Commission sided with NRPPD finding that the CTP proposed by Tri-State was unjust and unreasonable. NRPPD currently has an electric wholesale power supply contract with Tri-State, based out of Westminster, Colorado.

FERC issues order on Contract Termination Payment between NRPPD and Tri-State

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/01/02/gov-pillen-loads-up-pitch-to-raise-state-sales-tax-by-2-cents-to-shift-taxes-away-from-property/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

Editor’s note: This article has been updated to include comments from the governor’s spokeswoman and additional state senators.

LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen, in his quest to reduce local property taxes, has loaded up a self-described “bold and courageous” proposal to decrease property taxes via an increase in state sales taxes.

The state sales tax rate would climb by 2 cents, from 5.5 cents to 7.5 cents, the Examiner learned Tuesday. Revenue from the 36% hike in sales taxes would be used to help lower local property taxes — a “tax shift” rejected by former Gov. Pete Ricketts as really a tax increase.

A spokeswoman for Pillen said that the “bold and courageous” idea has been prompted by the failure of other recent efforts to decrease local property taxes.

“Nebraskans cannot afford to keep watching their property taxes skyrocket, with absolutely no relief in sight,” spokeswoman Laura Strimple said Tuesday.

A state sales tax rate of 7.5% in Nebraska would make it the highest in the country, according to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.salestaxinstitute.com/resources/rates">Sales Tax Institute,</a>&nbsp;as of Jan. 1.

The tax shift is the keystone of Pillen’s promised&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/01/02/gov-pillen-previews-his-property-tax-plan-other-goals-for-2024-legislative-session/">“transformative” proposal on property taxes</a>&nbsp;to reduce them from a total of $5 billion a year on all taxpayers to $3 billion. The plan includes a tougher lid on local spending.

Immediate reaction to the proposal, which was endorsed Tuesday&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/07/25/with-property-valuations-skyrocketing-pillen-appoints-working-group-to-consider-reforms/">by a “working group”</a>&nbsp;of government and business officials appointed by Pillen, was mixed.

Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, who chairs the legislative committee that deals with tax issues, said that such an increase deserves a discussion in the Legislature, which opens its 2024 session Wednesday.

Lawmakers, she said, have increased state payments to reduce local property taxes by $1 billion during her seven years in the Unicameral, but property taxes keep rising and have outpaced that additional aid.

“We have to do something about our over-reliance on property taxes in Nebraska.&nbsp;It’s really ridiculous,” said Linehan, a key ally of Pillen in the Legislature.

Under the proposal, groceries would continue to be tax-exempt in the state, possibly blunting some opposition from advocates for low-income Nebraskans. But the cost of other goods, such as automobiles, clothes and supplies such as diapers, would see a jump.

Rebecca Firestone, the executive director of the OpenSky Policy Institute, which analyzes state policies, tweeted that such an increase in sales taxes would make the Nebraska tax code “even more regressive” for lower-income citizens.

“That’s a 36-percent increase for all consumers in the state, for the purpose of reducing taxes for just property owners,” Firestone tweeted.

Is this something that’s going to be really painful, or something we can sell to the public?

Currently, the highest state sales tax rate in the nation is in California, at 7.25%, followed by a handful of states at 7%.

The highest state sales tax rate among Nebraska’s neighbors is in Kansas at 6.5%.

Bellevue Sen. Carol Blood said there needs to be more consideration of such a tax increase by state lawmakers other than what was provided by Pillen’s working group, which was formed in July initially to look at skyrocketing property valuations across the state. Later, the group’s focus turned to reducing property taxes.

“We have to approach this in a more strategic fashion,” Blood said. &nbsp;“The solution for less property taxes isn’t more taxes.”

Blair Sen. Ben Hansen said that if the result of a sales tax hike is a net decrease in total tax load, by decreasing property taxes, that’s a good thing.

“I’ve always thought that sales tax and consumption tax were more fair than property tax,” Hansen said, because you have some choice in whether to purchase an item.

Hansen added that there’s frustration among lawmakers that past efforts to decrease local property taxes haven’t been as successful as hoped. Then property valuations spiked by double digits during the past year, prompting more desire for change, he said.

“I think what happened with valuation increases really upped the appetite among senators to be a little more bold,” Hansen said.

Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston, who was part of the working group, said lawmakers need to demonstrate that they’re “serious” about tackling the No. 1 issue in the state: high property taxes.

Albrecht said the working group looked at a lot of options, including eliminating some current sales tax exemptions.

“We were peeling people off the ceiling with some of those,” she said.

Albrecht, like others, said that the 2-cent increase is just the starting point and that it could be amended lower. She suggested that if property taxes are lowered, that could be passed along to renters.

The big question, Albrecht said: “Is this something that’s going to be really painful, or something we can sell to the public?”

Two other senators on the working group, Brad von Gillern of Omaha and Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, said they wanted to see the complete proposal from the governor before commenting.

A Lincoln car dealer — who would see the price tag for a $10,000 vehicle increase by $200 — had a lukewarm reaction immediately on Tuesday.

Tom Dean of Durst Motors said Lincoln residents are already paying about 10% to license a car when considering local and state sales and licensing fees, though a 2-cent sales tax hike “is no small item.”

“I don’t care to pay any taxes,” Dean said, adding that the big problem in government is too much spending.

Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/01/02/gov-pillen-loads-up-pitch-to-raise-state-sales-tax-by-2-cents-to-shift-taxes-away-from-property/">Nebraska Examiner</a>Editor’s note: This article has been updated to include comments from the governor’s spokeswoman and additional state senators.LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen, in his quest to reduce local property taxes, has loaded up a self-described “bold and courageous” proposal to decrease property taxes via an increase in state sales taxes.The state sales tax rate would climb by 2 cents, from 5.5 cents to 7.5 cents, the Examiner learned Tuesday. Revenue from the 36% hike in sales taxes would be used to help lower local property taxes — a “tax shift” rejected by former Gov. Pete Ricketts as really a tax increase.A spokeswoman for Pillen said that the “bold and courageous” idea has been prompted by the failure of other recent efforts to decrease local property taxes.“Nebraskans cannot afford to keep watching their property taxes skyrocket, with absolutely no relief in sight,” spokeswoman Laura Strimple said Tuesday.<h2>Rate would be nation’s highest</h2>A state sales tax rate of 7.5% in Nebraska would make it the highest in the country, according to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.salestaxinstitute.com/resources/rates">Sales Tax Institute,</a>&nbsp;as of Jan. 1.The tax shift is the keystone of Pillen’s promised&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/01/02/gov-pillen-previews-his-property-tax-plan-other-goals-for-2024-legislative-session/">“transformative” proposal on property taxes</a>&nbsp;to reduce them from a total of $5 billion a year on all taxpayers to $3 billion. The plan includes a tougher lid on local spending.Immediate reaction to the proposal, which was endorsed Tuesday&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/07/25/with-property-valuations-skyrocketing-pillen-appoints-working-group-to-consider-reforms/">by a “working group”</a>&nbsp;of government and business officials appointed by Pillen, was mixed.Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, who chairs the legislative committee that deals with tax issues, said that such an increase deserves a discussion in the Legislature, which opens its 2024 session Wednesday.<h2>Property taxes keep rising</h2>Lawmakers, she said, have increased state payments to reduce local property taxes by $1 billion during her seven years in the Unicameral, but property taxes keep rising and have outpaced that additional aid.“We have to do something about our over-reliance on property taxes in Nebraska.&nbsp;It’s really ridiculous,” said Linehan, a key ally of Pillen in the Legislature.Under the proposal, groceries would continue to be tax-exempt in the state, possibly blunting some opposition from advocates for low-income Nebraskans. But the cost of other goods, such as automobiles, clothes and supplies such as diapers, would see a jump.Rebecca Firestone, the executive director of the OpenSky Policy Institute, which analyzes state policies, tweeted that such an increase in sales taxes would make the Nebraska tax code “even more regressive” for lower-income citizens.<h2>Tax reduction only for property owners</h2>“That’s a 36-percent increase for all consumers in the state, for the purpose of reducing taxes for just property owners,” Firestone tweeted.Is this something that’s going to be really painful, or something we can sell to the public?– State Sen. Joni AlbrechtCurrently, the highest state sales tax rate in the nation is in California, at 7.25%, followed by a handful of states at 7%.The highest state sales tax rate among Nebraska’s neighbors is in Kansas at 6.5%.Bellevue Sen. Carol Blood said there needs to be more consideration of such a tax increase by state lawmakers other than what was provided by Pillen’s working group, which was formed in July initially to look at skyrocketing property valuations across the state. Later, the group’s focus turned to reducing property taxes.<h2>Need ‘more strategic’ approach</h2>“We have to approach this in a more strategic fashion,” Blood said. &nbsp;“The solution for less property taxes isn’t more taxes.”Blair Sen. Ben Hansen said that if the result of a sales tax hike is a net decrease in total tax load, by decreasing property taxes, that’s a good thing.“I’ve always thought that sales tax and consumption tax were more fair than property tax,” Hansen said, because you have some choice in whether to purchase an item.Hansen added that there’s frustration among lawmakers that past efforts to decrease local property taxes haven’t been as successful as hoped. Then property valuations spiked by double digits during the past year, prompting more desire for change, he said.<h2>‘Peeling people off the ceiling’</h2>“I think what happened with valuation increases really upped the appetite among senators to be a little more bold,” Hansen said.Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston, who was part of the working group, said lawmakers need to demonstrate that they’re “serious” about tackling the No. 1 issue in the state: high property taxes.Albrecht said the working group looked at a lot of options, including eliminating some current sales tax exemptions.“We were peeling people off the ceiling with some of those,” she said.Albrecht, like others, said that the 2-cent increase is just the starting point and that it could be amended lower. She suggested that if property taxes are lowered, that could be passed along to renters.The big question, Albrecht said: “Is this something that’s going to be really painful, or something we can sell to the public?”Two other senators on the working group, Brad von Gillern of Omaha and Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, said they wanted to see the complete proposal from the governor before commenting.A Lincoln car dealer — who would see the price tag for a $10,000 vehicle increase by $200 — had a lukewarm reaction immediately on Tuesday.Tom Dean of Durst Motors said Lincoln residents are already paying about 10% to license a car when considering local and state sales and licensing fees, though a 2-cent sales tax hike “is no small item.”“I don’t care to pay any taxes,” Dean said, adding that the big problem in government is too much spending.

Gov. Pillen loads up pitch to raise state sales tax by 2 cents, to shift taxes away from property

Molly Ridgeway was sworn in on Tuesday as Deputy Clerk of the Box Butte County District Court.

County Clerk Martie Burke swore in Ridgeway at the Box Butte County Courthouse in Downtown Alliance. Ridgeway, a Bridgeport native has been the Records Clerk since July 1. 2019 and is excited for the new position.

"I'm just grateful to have a different title but still do the same thing, while still adding a little more responsibility," Ridgeway said.

District Court Clerk Kevin Horn explains that Ridgeway plays a huge role in the office, such as signing court documents, and will continue to do passports for the Box Butte County, an area Horn says Ridgeway excels in.

"That might not sound like much, but in the world of government, it is," Horn said. We pride ourselves on customer service, and Molly does 90% of the passports currently.&nbsp; It is my hope that anyone that deals with her on passports and everything else we do leaves here with a good feeling about this office and about her."

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704257189060.jpeg" alt="Bridgeport native Molly (Schmunk) Ridgeway was sworn in as Deputy Clerk of the Box Butte County District Court by County Clerk Martie Burke (left) on Tuesday, January 2. Ms. Ridgway, a 2012 graduate of Bridgeport High School, has served as the Box Butte County District Court Records Clerk since July 1, 2019. She and her husband, Sean Ridgeway (in back), reside in Alliance with their two small children." />
 <figcaption>Bridgeport native Molly (Schmunk) Ridgeway was sworn in as Deputy Clerk of the Box Butte County District Court by County Clerk Martie Burke (left) on Tuesday, January 2. Ms. Ridgway, a 2012 graduate of Bridgeport High School, has served as the Box Butte County District Court Records Clerk since July 1, 2019. She and her husband, Sean Ridgeway (in back), reside in Alliance with their two small children.</figcaption>
 </figure>Molly Ridgeway was sworn in on Tuesday as Deputy Clerk of the Box Butte County District Court.County Clerk Martie Burke swore in Ridgeway at the Box Butte County Courthouse in Downtown Alliance. Ridgeway, a Bridgeport native has been the Records Clerk since July 1. 2019 and is excited for the new position."I'm just grateful to have a different title but still do the same thing, while still adding a little more responsibility," Ridgeway said.District Court Clerk Kevin Horn explains that Ridgeway plays a huge role in the office, such as signing court documents, and will continue to do passports for the Box Butte County, an area Horn says Ridgeway excels in. "That might not sound like much, but in the world of government, it is," Horn said. We pride ourselves on customer service, and Molly does 90% of the passports currently.&nbsp; It is my hope that anyone that deals with her on passports and everything else we do leaves here with a good feeling about this office and about her."

Ridgeway sworn in as Deputy Clerk of Box Butte County District Court 

The Alliance City Council held their Council meeting on Tuesday evening and two measures were passed.

The Council passed the first reading of Ordinance No. 2972, to approve and rezone a 3.88 tract of land and in the southwest quarter of Section 26, Township 25 North, Range 48 West of the 6th Principal Meridian. From Ag, Agriculture, to C-3, Heavy Commercial Zoning.&nbsp;

Alliance City Manager Seth Sorensen says it is expected that new buildings will be built but is unsure of a timetable of that occurring.

The Council also moved on&nbsp;Resolution No. 24-02, will accept and award the 2024 Landscaping Services Bid to the All-Seasons Landscaping, LLC, in the total amount of $30,460.00.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sorensen says that after the first year of the contract with All Season, there will be three annual renewals for the contract where the City and Council can choose to continue the contract or terminate it and reopen the project to bids.&nbsp;

Councilwoman Tearza Mashburn made a motion to remove the yearly annual renewals, but her motion did not receive a 2nd motion so the contract will be as originally written.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Alliance City Council held their Council meeting on Tuesday evening and two measures were passed.The Council passed the first reading of Ordinance No. 2972, to approve and rezone a 3.88 tract of land and in the southwest quarter of Section 26, Township 25 North, Range 48 West of the 6th Principal Meridian. From Ag, Agriculture, to C-3, Heavy Commercial Zoning.&nbsp;Alliance City Manager Seth Sorensen says it is expected that new buildings will be built but is unsure of a timetable of that occurring.The Council also moved on&nbsp;Resolution No. 24-02, will accept and award the 2024 Landscaping Services Bid to the All-Seasons Landscaping, LLC, in the total amount of $30,460.00.&nbsp; &nbsp; Sorensen says that after the first year of the contract with All Season, there will be three annual renewals for the contract where the City and Council can choose to continue the contract or terminate it and reopen the project to bids.&nbsp;Councilwoman Tearza Mashburn made a motion to remove the yearly annual renewals, but her motion did not receive a 2nd motion so the contract will be as originally written.

Alliance City Council approves contract with landscaping company, rezoning of part of city

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraskans-invited-to-provide-input-on-update-of-state-wildlife-action-plan/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Public input is being sought on the updating of a state plan to reverse the decline of at-risk wildlife and plant species and preserve key habitats in Nebraska.

Six open house-style meetings are scheduled in January to gather comments on a required update of the state wildlife acton plan, formally known as the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/conservation/conservation-efforts/natural-legacy-project/">Nebraska Natural Legacy Project.</a>

The voluntary, incentive-based plan, created by Congress in 2001, provides a “blueprint” in seeking to reverse the decline of<a target="_blank" href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/NE-SWAP-SGCN-Revision-Supplemental-Document-2018-Final_edited-1.pdf">&nbsp;at-risk species&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;so they do not need to be listed as threatened or endangered federally or by the state.

More than 700 species are listed as “at-risk” in Nebraska, including the burrowing owl, Eastern red bat and Monarch butterfly.

A number of Nebraska conservation and farm groups are listed as partners in putting together the plan, which is coordinated by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. It is part of a nationwide effort to address the needs of declining wildlife populations.

Nebraska’s wildlife action plan initially was published in 2005, and it was updated in 2011. Its next update will be released in 2025.

Open houses are scheduled from 6:30-8 p.m., unless otherwise noted:

Six open houses were already held in 2023.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704212802892.png" alt="State wildlife officials are seeking input on a plan to preserve at-risk wildlife and plant species, including the endangered whooping crane. (Courtesy of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)" />
 <figcaption>State wildlife officials are seeking input on a plan to preserve at-risk wildlife and plant species, including the endangered whooping crane. (Courtesy of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraskans-invited-to-provide-input-on-update-of-state-wildlife-action-plan/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Public input is being sought on the updating of a state plan to reverse the decline of at-risk wildlife and plant species and preserve key habitats in Nebraska.Six open house-style meetings are scheduled in January to gather comments on a required update of the state wildlife acton plan, formally known as the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/conservation/conservation-efforts/natural-legacy-project/">Nebraska Natural Legacy Project.</a>The voluntary, incentive-based plan, created by Congress in 2001, provides a “blueprint” in seeking to reverse the decline of<a target="_blank" href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/NE-SWAP-SGCN-Revision-Supplemental-Document-2018-Final_edited-1.pdf">&nbsp;at-risk species&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;so they do not need to be listed as threatened or endangered federally or by the state.More than 700 species are listed as “at-risk” in Nebraska, including the burrowing owl, Eastern red bat and Monarch butterfly.A number of Nebraska conservation and farm groups are listed as partners in putting together the plan, which is coordinated by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. It is part of a nationwide effort to address the needs of declining wildlife populations.Nebraska’s wildlife action plan initially was published in 2005, and it was updated in 2011. Its next update will be released in 2025.Open houses are scheduled from 6:30-8 p.m., unless otherwise noted:<ul>
 <li>Jan. 10 in Beatrice, Beatrice Public Library, 100 N. 16th&nbsp;St., 5:30-7 p.m.</li><li>Jan. 17 in North Platte, UNL Extension – West Central Research and Extension Center, 402 W. State Farm Road.</li><li>Jan. 18 in Wood River, Crane Trust, 9325 S. Alda Road.</li><li>Jan. 23 in O’Neill, Upper Elkhorn Natural Resources District, 301 N. Harrison St.</li><li>Jan. 24 in Norfolk, Lower Elkhorn NRD, 1508 Square Turn Blvd.</li>
 </ul>Six open houses were already held in 2023.

Nebraskans invited to provide input on update of state ‘wildlife action’ plan

By Cody Thomas, Nebraska State Patrol

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a Sidney woman after a pursuit early Monday morning.

At approximately 2:10 a.m. MT Monday, a trooper was on patrol in Sidney on 6th&nbsp;Avenue when a GMC Terrain nearly rear-ended the trooper’s patrol unit. The trooper contacted the driver of the GMC and observed the strong odor of alcohol. The trooper also saw a child in the backseat of the vehicle. The trooper attempted a traffic stop to conduct a DUI investigation, but the driver refused to comply, accelerated, and fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The vehicle fled on residential streets in Sidney, with speeds of approximately 50 miles per hour, and eventually started traveling westbound on Highway 30 through Sidney. After approximately two miles, the vehicle ran out of fuel and came to a stop. Troopers were able to take the driver into custody and found two young children in the backseat, without car seats or seat belts.

The driver, Karla Fernandez, 27, of Sidney, was arrested for child endangerment, flight to avoid arrest, driving under the influence of alcohol .15+, and obstructing a peace officer. Fernandez was lodged in Cheyenne County Jail. The children were placed with family.

By Cody Thomas, Nebraska State PatrolTroopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a Sidney woman after a pursuit early Monday morning.At approximately 2:10 a.m. MT Monday, a trooper was on patrol in Sidney on 6th&nbsp;Avenue when a GMC Terrain nearly rear-ended the trooper’s patrol unit. The trooper contacted the driver of the GMC and observed the strong odor of alcohol. The trooper also saw a child in the backseat of the vehicle. The trooper attempted a traffic stop to conduct a DUI investigation, but the driver refused to comply, accelerated, and fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit.The vehicle fled on residential streets in Sidney, with speeds of approximately 50 miles per hour, and eventually started traveling westbound on Highway 30 through Sidney. After approximately two miles, the vehicle ran out of fuel and came to a stop. Troopers were able to take the driver into custody and found two young children in the backseat, without car seats or seat belts.The driver, Karla Fernandez, 27, of Sidney, was arrested for child endangerment, flight to avoid arrest, driving under the influence of alcohol .15+, and obstructing a peace officer. Fernandez was lodged in Cheyenne County Jail. The children were placed with family.

 Sidney woman arrested after Monday pursuit with State Trooper

Agenda for Tuesday Alliance City Council meeting

Agenda for Tuesday Alliance City Council meetingAlliance Learning Center 1750 Sweetwater Avenue January 02, 2024-7:00 p.m. A. Consent CalendarApproval ofMinutes, Council Proceedings, Payroll and ClaimsResolution No. 24-01 - 2024 Street Superintendent DesignationB. Ordinance No. 2972-First Reading RezoneOrdinance No. 2972 is before City Council on first reading, which will approve and rezone a 3.88 Tract of Land in the Southwest Quarter of Section 26, Township 25 North, Range 48 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Box Butte County Nebraska, from Ag, Agriculture, to C-3, Heavy Commercial Zoning.C. Resolution No. 24-02-Landscaping Bid AwardResolution No. 24-02 will accept and award the 2024 Landscaping Services Bid to the All Seasons Landscaping, LLC, in the total amount of $30,460.00.

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