By&nbsp;US Marshal Randall Huff and Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's Office

In March 2020, an arrest warrant was issued by the Circuit Court of Outagamie County, Wisconsin for Osman Isael Izaguirre-Zepeda, charging Izaguirre-Zepeda with First Degree Child Sex Assault, Contact with Child Under Age 16, and Use/Threat of Force/Violence; Attempt.&nbsp; The fugitive investigation was adopted by the U.S. Marshals Service led Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force (GLRFTF), Wisconsin Division.&nbsp;

 In December 2023, investigators with the GLRFTF developed information that Izaguirre-Zepeda was living in the Gering, NE area.&nbsp; The GLRFTF requested the assistance of the Wyoming Fugitive Task Force (WFTF) in locating and arresting Izaguirre-Zepeda.&nbsp; Investigators with the WFTF and detectives from the Scottsbluff Police Department conducted surveillance on the location suspected to be used by Izaguirre-Zepeda.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On&nbsp;February 13,&nbsp;2024, while conducting surveillance in Gering, NE, investigators with the WFTF observed a male fitting the description of Izaguirre-Zepeda exit the residence.&nbsp; Investigators stopped and identified the male as Izaguirre-Zepeda who was arrested without incident.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Investigators from the Nebraska WING Task Force assisted with the operation.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Izaguirre-Zepeda used multiple aliases and fraudulent identifications while evading capture by law enforcement.&nbsp; Izaguirre-Zepeda was transported to the Scottsbluff County Jail pending an extradition hearing to Wisconsin.&nbsp;

The WFTF is compromised of the U.S. Marshals Service, Cheyenne Police Department, Laramie County Sheriff’s Office, Department of Criminal Investigation, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.&nbsp;

 The WFTF partners with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies combining efforts to locate and arrest violent fugitives.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;US Marshal Randall Huff and Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's OfficeIn March 2020, an arrest warrant was issued by the Circuit Court of Outagamie County, Wisconsin for Osman Isael Izaguirre-Zepeda, charging Izaguirre-Zepeda with First Degree Child Sex Assault, Contact with Child Under Age 16, and Use/Threat of Force/Violence; Attempt.&nbsp; The fugitive investigation was adopted by the U.S. Marshals Service led Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force (GLRFTF), Wisconsin Division.&nbsp; In December 2023, investigators with the GLRFTF developed information that Izaguirre-Zepeda was living in the Gering, NE area.&nbsp; The GLRFTF requested the assistance of the Wyoming Fugitive Task Force (WFTF) in locating and arresting Izaguirre-Zepeda.&nbsp; Investigators with the WFTF and detectives from the Scottsbluff Police Department conducted surveillance on the location suspected to be used by Izaguirre-Zepeda.&nbsp;&nbsp;On&nbsp;February 13,&nbsp;2024, while conducting surveillance in Gering, NE, investigators with the WFTF observed a male fitting the description of Izaguirre-Zepeda exit the residence.&nbsp; Investigators stopped and identified the male as Izaguirre-Zepeda who was arrested without incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;Investigators from the Nebraska WING Task Force assisted with the operation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Izaguirre-Zepeda used multiple aliases and fraudulent identifications while evading capture by law enforcement.&nbsp; Izaguirre-Zepeda was transported to the Scottsbluff County Jail pending an extradition hearing to Wisconsin.&nbsp;The WFTF is compromised of the U.S. Marshals Service, Cheyenne Police Department, Laramie County Sheriff’s Office, Department of Criminal Investigation, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.&nbsp; The WFTF partners with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies combining efforts to locate and arrest violent fugitives.&nbsp;

Authorities arrest fugitive in Gering

By Erin Laborie, Nebraska Extension Educator

Nebraska Extension will be hosting a four-session webinar series in March that will explain the fundamentals of understanding a cow's nutrition requirements and the options available to meet a cow's needs with grazed or harvested feed. The series will be held Monday and Thursday evenings, March 11, 14, 18 and 21, from 7:30 - 8:45 p.m. CT.

Feed costs are often the largest expense category for cow-calf producers in Nebraska. Understanding how the cow’s nutrient requirements change throughout the year and how to meet those requirements with the feed resources available cost-effectively can greatly influence an operation’s bottom line.

The cost of the course is $50 and includes a notebook of Nebraska Extension resources. The course is limited to 35 participants. To register, visit<a href="https://go.unl.edu/feedingthecow" target="_blank">&nbsp;https://go.unl.edu/feedingthecow</a>. Participants are asked to register by March 4 to ensure webinar resources are received before the series begins. A computer and internet connection will be needed to participate in the webinar series.

By Erin Laborie, Nebraska Extension EducatorNebraska Extension will be hosting a four-session webinar series in March that will explain the fundamentals of understanding a cow's nutrition requirements and the options available to meet a cow's needs with grazed or harvested feed. The series will be held Monday and Thursday evenings, March 11, 14, 18 and 21, from 7:30 - 8:45 p.m. CT.Feed costs are often the largest expense category for cow-calf producers in Nebraska. Understanding how the cow’s nutrient requirements change throughout the year and how to meet those requirements with the feed resources available cost-effectively can greatly influence an operation’s bottom line.Topics to be covered include:<ul>
 <li>What impacts a cow's nutrient requirements, and how do they change throughout the year?</li><li>How do you read and understand a feed test analysis as well as a feed tag? What do the numbers mean?</li><li>When comparing feed options, which is the best buy when all things are considered?</li><li>What are things to consider when developing a year-round feeding plan?</li>
 </ul>The cost of the course is $50 and includes a notebook of Nebraska Extension resources. The course is limited to 35 participants. To register, visit<a href="https://go.unl.edu/feedingthecow" target="_blank">&nbsp;https://go.unl.edu/feedingthecow</a>. Participants are asked to register by March 4 to ensure webinar resources are received before the series begins. A computer and internet connection will be needed to participate in the webinar series.

Nebraska Extension hosts series on ‘fundamentals of feeding the cow’ 

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR

CHADRON – For Black History Month, the Chadron State College Art Department will host a show in Memorial Hall’s Main Gallery featuring the work of the late William Artis who taught at CSC from 1954 to 1965. The show will be open from until March 8 with a reception in Memorial Hall’s Lobby on Feb. 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. A book,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/2023/william-artis-revealed.html" target="_blank">Uncovering Uncle William</a>, written about Artis by his niece, Dr. Shirley Jones, will be available for sale.

Pieces for the exhibit were selected from collections in the Sandoz Center, the Chadron State Foundation, and Memorial Hall. One sculpture, titled “Madonna &amp; Child,” was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/2023/artis-sculpture-donated-to-csc.html" target="_blank">donated</a>&nbsp;to the college in August 2023 by Cathy Clary. Her late husband, Morse, was a student of Artis’ and bought the piece from another student, Robert Yost, in 1968.

Professor Mary Donahue, who organized the show, said she credits former CSC Art Professor Dick Bird with revitalizing awareness and acknowledgment of Artis’ work.

“I am thankful that when I started here, we knew of William Artis’ work and his prominence in African American sculpture,” Donohue said.

Trudy Denham, who teaches three-dimensional art, said Artis was an exceptional artist and equally talented educator.

“Chadron State College is fortunate to have multiple works by Artis in the permanent collection.&nbsp;His pottery and sculptures are used in classes as examples and an opportunity for students to examine prominent works of art.&nbsp;Through his artwork, Artis still connects to and inspires students,” Denham said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707857022415.jpeg" alt="Art exhibit in Memorial Hall's Main Gallery featuring works by the late William Artis, a Harlem Renaissance potter, who taught at CSC 1954-1964. The display is open Feb. 8-March 8, 2024, with a reception Feb. 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Memorial Hall's Lobby. (Photo by Daniella Akwanamnye/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Art exhibit in Memorial Hall's Main Gallery featuring works by the late William Artis, a Harlem Renaissance potter, who taught at CSC 1954-1964. The display is open Feb. 8-March 8, 2024, with a reception Feb. 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Memorial Hall's Lobby. (Photo by Daniella Akwanamnye/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATORCHADRON – For Black History Month, the Chadron State College Art Department will host a show in Memorial Hall’s Main Gallery featuring the work of the late William Artis who taught at CSC from 1954 to 1965. The show will be open from until March 8 with a reception in Memorial Hall’s Lobby on Feb. 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. A book,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/2023/william-artis-revealed.html" target="_blank">Uncovering Uncle William</a>, written about Artis by his niece, Dr. Shirley Jones, will be available for sale.Pieces for the exhibit were selected from collections in the Sandoz Center, the Chadron State Foundation, and Memorial Hall. One sculpture, titled “Madonna &amp; Child,” was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/2023/artis-sculpture-donated-to-csc.html" target="_blank">donated</a>&nbsp;to the college in August 2023 by Cathy Clary. Her late husband, Morse, was a student of Artis’ and bought the piece from another student, Robert Yost, in 1968.Professor Mary Donahue, who organized the show, said she credits former CSC Art Professor Dick Bird with revitalizing awareness and acknowledgment of Artis’ work.“I am thankful that when I started here, we knew of William Artis’ work and his prominence in African American sculpture,” Donohue said.Trudy Denham, who teaches three-dimensional art, said Artis was an exceptional artist and equally talented educator.“Chadron State College is fortunate to have multiple works by Artis in the permanent collection.&nbsp;His pottery and sculptures are used in classes as examples and an opportunity for students to examine prominent works of art.&nbsp;Through his artwork, Artis still connects to and inspires students,” Denham said.

 CSC Show honors Artis during Black History Month

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/state-senators-advance-compromise-bill-to-increase-tax-revenue-oversight-of-now-common-skill-games/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A bill to increase taxes on so-called “skill” video gaming machines that are now common in convenience stores and bars easily advanced Monday from first-round debate.

Legislative Bill 685 was introduced in the Nebraska Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/19/steep-increase-and-spread-of-slot-machine-like-skill-games-prompt-concern/">amid a rapid increase</a>&nbsp;in the games and a desire to harness some of their proceeds for property tax relief.

The skill games look and operate much like video slot machines in casinos, but they require some “skill” to win. Thus, they are regulated differently from slot machines, which are considered games of chance.

But state problem gambling officials say the skill games are just as addictive, and harmful, as regular slot machines.

Nebraska has seen a 60% increase in skill game machines across the state over the past year.

More than 5,800 licensed skill games can now be found at 1,611 locations, according to state registration figures. Machines are in truck stops, gas stations, convenience and grocery stores, service clubs and even a “de facto” casino.

An initial proposal from State Sen. John Lowe of Kearney&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/01/22/compromise-on-taxing-skill-games-gets-a-thumbs-down-from-small-operators/">ran into pushback from operators of the devices,</a>&nbsp;who called it heavy-handed and likely to put them out of business.

So Lowe came back with a compromise that he said responded to some of the criticism.

Among the provisions in LB 685 advanced on a 31-0 vote on Monday were:

Elmwood Sen. Rob Clements, who has introduced a bill this year to repeal the state’s inheritance tax, said LB 685 might provide some replacement revenue for counties — which currently get more than $60 million a year in inheritance tax revenue.

A fiscal note based on the initially proposed 20% tax estimated revenue of about $2.2 million a year for counties and cities. A fiscal estimate on a 5% tax was not immediately available. Such estimates are typically not made until after an amendment is adopted, as happened Monday.

— Nebraska Examiner reporter Zach Wendling contributed to this story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707854839617.jpeg" alt="So-called “skill games,” like these at the Daily Double keno parlor in Denton, have proliferated across the state. They are not considered “gambling” because it takes some level of skill to win. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>So-called “skill games,” like these at the Daily Double keno parlor in Denton, have proliferated across the state. They are not considered “gambling” because it takes some level of skill to win. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/state-senators-advance-compromise-bill-to-increase-tax-revenue-oversight-of-now-common-skill-games/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A bill to increase taxes on so-called “skill” video gaming machines that are now common in convenience stores and bars easily advanced Monday from first-round debate.Legislative Bill 685 was introduced in the Nebraska Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/10/19/steep-increase-and-spread-of-slot-machine-like-skill-games-prompt-concern/">amid a rapid increase</a>&nbsp;in the games and a desire to harness some of their proceeds for property tax relief.The skill games look and operate much like video slot machines in casinos, but they require some “skill” to win. Thus, they are regulated differently from slot machines, which are considered games of chance.But state problem gambling officials say the skill games are just as addictive, and harmful, as regular slot machines.Nebraska has seen a 60% increase in skill game machines across the state over the past year.More than 5,800 licensed skill games can now be found at 1,611 locations, according to state registration figures. Machines are in truck stops, gas stations, convenience and grocery stores, service clubs and even a “de facto” casino.An initial proposal from State Sen. John Lowe of Kearney&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/01/22/compromise-on-taxing-skill-games-gets-a-thumbs-down-from-small-operators/">ran into pushback from operators of the devices,</a>&nbsp;who called it heavy-handed and likely to put them out of business.So Lowe came back with a compromise that he said responded to some of the criticism.Among the provisions in LB 685 advanced on a 31-0 vote on Monday were:<ul>
 <li>Distributor would pay an annual fee of $100 for each machine up to a maximum of $5,000 for large distributors.</li><li>Owners would still pay $250 per machine annually, which is the current fee.</li><li>A 5% tax on the proceeds from each skill game would be paid to the state, of which 40% would be used for property tax relief, 25% split between the county and city in which the machine is located, and 10% used for tourism promotion. Initially, a tax of 20% had been proposed, which is the same rate paid by casino video slots.</li><li>Businesses that have skill games would be required to derive 60% of their revenue from sources other than the games. That is an attempt to prevent defacto casinos that are filled with the machines. Veterans and fraternal clubs would be exempt from that requirement, and their machines would not be subject to taxes.</li>
 </ul>Elmwood Sen. Rob Clements, who has introduced a bill this year to repeal the state’s inheritance tax, said LB 685 might provide some replacement revenue for counties — which currently get more than $60 million a year in inheritance tax revenue.A fiscal note based on the initially proposed 20% tax estimated revenue of about $2.2 million a year for counties and cities. A fiscal estimate on a 5% tax was not immediately available. Such estimates are typically not made until after an amendment is adopted, as happened Monday.— Nebraska Examiner reporter Zach Wendling contributed to this story.

State senators advance compromise bill to increase tax revenue, oversight of now common ‘skill’ games

FEBRUARY 13, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;—&nbsp; Nebraska State Patrol troopers removed 18 impaired drivers from the road this weekend as part of a special enforcement effort around the Super Bowl. The campaign included numerous law enforcement agencies across the state and entire country.

In total, troopers arrested 18 motorists for driving under the influence. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (144), minor in possession of alcohol (2), driving under suspension (13), no seat belt (2), and improper child restraint (2). Troopers also performed 63 motorists assists over the weekend.

NSP’s effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

As 2024 continues, NSP reminds all motorists to help keep Nebraska roads safe. Always drive sober, follow posted speed limits, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt. Troopers will participate in many additional traffic safety initiatives throughout the coming spring and summer months.

By Cody ThomasNebraska State PatrolFEBRUARY 13, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;—&nbsp; Nebraska State Patrol troopers removed 18 impaired drivers from the road this weekend as part of a special enforcement effort around the Super Bowl. The campaign included numerous law enforcement agencies across the state and entire country.In total, troopers arrested 18 motorists for driving under the influence. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (144), minor in possession of alcohol (2), driving under suspension (13), no seat belt (2), and improper child restraint (2). Troopers also performed 63 motorists assists over the weekend.NSP’s effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.As 2024 continues, NSP reminds all motorists to help keep Nebraska roads safe. Always drive sober, follow posted speed limits, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt. Troopers will participate in many additional traffic safety initiatives throughout the coming spring and summer months.

Troopers Arrest 18 Impaired Drivers in Super Bowl Campaign

By John Weare Keep Alliance Beautiful

Author’s Note: This is the third and final installment in a multi-part look at the Alliance Municipal Landfill.

Anything that came about within your lifetime, looking back, cannot possibly be old. The Alliance Municipal Landfill, for example, has witnessed fewer years than I. Opening of Cell 2 was an intriguing assignment as a still young newspaper reporter. Expansion is expected again before the end of the decade. The site itself and the waste that ends up there each have their own life expectancy.

Landfill and Refuse Collection Foreman Clint Fankhauser described a practice to extend the capacity of where his loader operator now places the community’s baled municipal solid waste. “We are refacing the south side of the current cell’s slope to gain back some of the space – been doing it for two and half years now,” Clint said as we talked in his office recently. A shift from an 8 to 1 ratio to the steeper 3 to 1 was easy to spot during a tour later that morning. January snow accentuated the difference, adding texture to the fill dirt and garbage bales. Asked how much time the process will add, he replied, “Three to four years (more) on the current cell, then we’ll start the process of Cell 3.”

Of course, hundreds, maybe thousands, of tons could have been kept out of both cells through recycling. Speaking for myself, I hope to see a big enough increase in what Keep Alliance Beautiful processes for tonnage to begin a downward trend at the landfill.

Landfills that ultimately fill an allotted volume have been closed and covered then evolve into green space, golf courses or another tract to benefit area residents. However, what lies beneath that par 4 hole will never disappear during the lives of the local high school girls golf team. “Metal and plastic will last forever,” Clint explained. “(You) can still find things across the street from 1900 (when the city dump was there). It will never truly go away. At least we have a lined landfill now. This is the difference between a landfill and a dump – won’t get into the water supply.”

Decomposing refuse produces methane, which Clint said is checked quarterly and turned in to the State of Nebraska. “We hardly ever have a trace because of our soil content, so harnessing it (to generate energy) is not feasible,” he said.

As far as size design and other attributes, Alliance’s landfill is similar to others in the area. Clint pointed out that Chadron is unique since theirs does not need an artificial liner because of a stone base there. He added that Alliance stands out for its use of a burn box, about the size of a large garbage rolloff, to reduce branches and brush to ash. Kearney is the closest with the same equipment. The City elected to add the box rather than replacing a tub grinder that had spit out our piles of mulch.

Although baled and non-baleable municipal solid waste (MSW) account for the largest share of materials that came through the gates in fiscal year 2023 (Sept. 1, 2022 - Sept. 30, 2023) other categories of material are reused or recycled. Contents of the blue yard waste containers become compost. Trucks haul out appliances with freon removed and taken to a local heating and cooling business. During 2023 tires were the most striking example. A tire amnesty week netted almost 444 tons that have since been relocated outside the state for recycling. Clint noted the City will apply for funding to host the collection in 2025 then every odd year. “No guarantee we’re going to get it, but we’ll apply anyway,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707858113885.jpeg" alt="Workers have been creating a steeper slope at the Alliance Municipal Landfill to extend the life of the current cell by several years." />
 <figcaption>Workers have been creating a steeper slope at the Alliance Municipal Landfill to extend the life of the current cell by several years.</figcaption>
 </figure>By John Weare Keep Alliance BeautifulAuthor’s Note: This is the third and final installment in a multi-part look at the Alliance Municipal Landfill.Anything that came about within your lifetime, looking back, cannot possibly be old. The Alliance Municipal Landfill, for example, has witnessed fewer years than I. Opening of Cell 2 was an intriguing assignment as a still young newspaper reporter. Expansion is expected again before the end of the decade. The site itself and the waste that ends up there each have their own life expectancy.Landfill and Refuse Collection Foreman Clint Fankhauser described a practice to extend the capacity of where his loader operator now places the community’s baled municipal solid waste. “We are refacing the south side of the current cell’s slope to gain back some of the space – been doing it for two and half years now,” Clint said as we talked in his office recently. A shift from an 8 to 1 ratio to the steeper 3 to 1 was easy to spot during a tour later that morning. January snow accentuated the difference, adding texture to the fill dirt and garbage bales. Asked how much time the process will add, he replied, “Three to four years (more) on the current cell, then we’ll start the process of Cell 3.”Of course, hundreds, maybe thousands, of tons could have been kept out of both cells through recycling. Speaking for myself, I hope to see a big enough increase in what Keep Alliance Beautiful processes for tonnage to begin a downward trend at the landfill.Landfills that ultimately fill an allotted volume have been closed and covered then evolve into green space, golf courses or another tract to benefit area residents. However, what lies beneath that par 4 hole will never disappear during the lives of the local high school girls golf team. “Metal and plastic will last forever,” Clint explained. “(You) can still find things across the street from 1900 (when the city dump was there). It will never truly go away. At least we have a lined landfill now. This is the difference between a landfill and a dump – won’t get into the water supply.”Decomposing refuse produces methane, which Clint said is checked quarterly and turned in to the State of Nebraska. “We hardly ever have a trace because of our soil content, so harnessing it (to generate energy) is not feasible,” he said.As far as size design and other attributes, Alliance’s landfill is similar to others in the area. Clint pointed out that Chadron is unique since theirs does not need an artificial liner because of a stone base there. He added that Alliance stands out for its use of a burn box, about the size of a large garbage rolloff, to reduce branches and brush to ash. Kearney is the closest with the same equipment. The City elected to add the box rather than replacing a tub grinder that had spit out our piles of mulch.Although baled and non-baleable municipal solid waste (MSW) account for the largest share of materials that came through the gates in fiscal year 2023 (Sept. 1, 2022 - Sept. 30, 2023) other categories of material are reused or recycled. Contents of the blue yard waste containers become compost. Trucks haul out appliances with freon removed and taken to a local heating and cooling business. During 2023 tires were the most striking example. A tire amnesty week netted almost 444 tons that have since been relocated outside the state for recycling. Clint noted the City will apply for funding to host the collection in 2025 then every odd year. “No guarantee we’re going to get it, but we’ll apply anyway,” he said.

Alliance Landfill – Life Expectancy Of Rubbish

CHADRON – Nearly 130 high school musicians gathered at CSC last week for the 52nd&nbsp;High Plains Band and Choir Festival. Following workshops and rehearsals on Monday and Tuesday, the band and choir presented a public concert Tuesday evening. The Honor Band Guest Conductor was Dr. Frank Tracz, Professor of Music and Director of Bands at Kansas State University.

Students who have attended the festival for three or four years were honored with certificates.

Emily Hauck at Gering High School has been bringing band students for three years. She likes the opportunity for students and teachers to work with guest conductors.

“I like the sessions they do with us because we get to learn as well and like the reading sessions are really good. So, they get to see all the different instruments at the Hill’s Music display and also look through sheet music,” she said. “I like that the event is two days long so they can work on the music and think about it a little more. They can practice their music ahead of time and then get more creative when they get together,”

She recalls lasting friendships she made when she attended the festival as a student at Gering.

“When I attended, I made a friend here and we were roommates in college,” Hauck said.

Doug Babic, the band teacher from Bridgeport, has been bringing students to High Plains for 12 years.

“They get to play with quality musicians and quality directors and spend two days just making music,” Babic said.

His wife, Michaela Babic, attended High Plains when she was a student and has been bringing students to the event for 12 years. This year, she brought 10 choir students from Bridgeport.

She sees several benefits for her students.

“They get the opportunity to do things musically beyond what we can do in our classroom. When you have the best of the best all in one place, they can take things one step further,” Michaela Babic said.

Nikki Bunnell from Mitchell has been attending for three years and this year brought four choir students.

“It’s the most I've ever brought and one student received a three-year award,” she said. “They get to do a higher level of music. The kids who are in my classroom, working extremely hard, appreciate the harder level. It's not always possible when you have a mixed group. So, when they come here, they’ve practiced, and the end product is a much higher level.”

Bunnell, who graduated from CSC in 2018, said she had Dr. Joel Schreuder as her choral director.

“He teaches very differently from how I teach, so my students get to see a whole new style of teaching. They get to meet new people and see what campus is like,” Bunnell said.

She appreciated the professional development session for the teachers.

“Dr. Tracz spoke about building his program by getting himself out there. He became the director of his community band. He took the students to play and welcome teams home even in the middle of the night as the bus pulled in, which I think is very interesting. He's animated. He's got a lot of good things to teach,” Bunnell said.

4 Years&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

3 Years&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Aubrey Milburn of Chadron&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Delaney Pohl of Bridgeport, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eden Strawn of Bridgeport, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Marybelle Ward of Valentine, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dru Weimer of Sidney, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707854675102.jpeg" alt="Dr. John Wojcik leads a rehearsal Feb. 5, 2024, in Memorial Hall during Chadron State College's 52nd Annual High Plains Band and Choir Festival. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. John Wojcik leads a rehearsal Feb. 5, 2024, in Memorial Hall during Chadron State College's 52nd Annual High Plains Band and Choir Festival. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATORCHADRON – Nearly 130 high school musicians gathered at CSC last week for the 52nd&nbsp;High Plains Band and Choir Festival. Following workshops and rehearsals on Monday and Tuesday, the band and choir presented a public concert Tuesday evening. The Honor Band Guest Conductor was Dr. Frank Tracz, Professor of Music and Director of Bands at Kansas State University.Students who have attended the festival for three or four years were honored with certificates.Emily Hauck at Gering High School has been bringing band students for three years. She likes the opportunity for students and teachers to work with guest conductors.“I like the sessions they do with us because we get to learn as well and like the reading sessions are really good. So, they get to see all the different instruments at the Hill’s Music display and also look through sheet music,” she said. “I like that the event is two days long so they can work on the music and think about it a little more. They can practice their music ahead of time and then get more creative when they get together,”She recalls lasting friendships she made when she attended the festival as a student at Gering.“When I attended, I made a friend here and we were roommates in college,” Hauck said.Doug Babic, the band teacher from Bridgeport, has been bringing students to High Plains for 12 years.“They get to play with quality musicians and quality directors and spend two days just making music,” Babic said.His wife, Michaela Babic, attended High Plains when she was a student and has been bringing students to the event for 12 years. This year, she brought 10 choir students from Bridgeport.She sees several benefits for her students.“They get the opportunity to do things musically beyond what we can do in our classroom. When you have the best of the best all in one place, they can take things one step further,” Michaela Babic said.Nikki Bunnell from Mitchell has been attending for three years and this year brought four choir students.“It’s the most I've ever brought and one student received a three-year award,” she said. “They get to do a higher level of music. The kids who are in my classroom, working extremely hard, appreciate the harder level. It's not always possible when you have a mixed group. So, when they come here, they’ve practiced, and the end product is a much higher level.”Bunnell, who graduated from CSC in 2018, said she had Dr. Joel Schreuder as her choral director.“He teaches very differently from how I teach, so my students get to see a whole new style of teaching. They get to meet new people and see what campus is like,” Bunnell said.She appreciated the professional development session for the teachers.“Dr. Tracz spoke about building his program by getting himself out there. He became the director of his community band. He took the students to play and welcome teams home even in the middle of the night as the bus pulled in, which I think is very interesting. He's animated. He's got a lot of good things to teach,” Bunnell said.HONOR BAND4 Years&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Emma Arp of Custer, S.D.Taya Butler of Hill City S.D.Amanda Kittell of ChadronToni McGinley of Mitchell, Neb.Ethan Prokop of GeringAllan Tullis of Gordon/Rushville, Neb.3 Years&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Danika Bohl of Mitchell, NebLanden Branstiter of Alliance, Neb.Anna Cheek of Mitchell, Neb.Jodean Chesley of Chadron, Neb.Katie Eckhardt of Bridgeport, Neb.Ethan Euneau of Hill City, S.D.Amelia Her Many Horses of Oelrichs, S.D.Lily Kadolph of Gering, Neb.Daulton Mangas of Alliance, Neb.Jayse Marez of Mitchell, Neb.Natalie Peterson of Gering, Neb.Lucy Rischling of ChadronTaya Ritterbush of Hot Springs, S.D.Skye Schultz of Custer, S.D.Lukah Schwery of Mitchell, Neb.Grant Springer of Valentine, Neb.Alex Williams-Hardy of ChadronHONOR CHOIR4 YearsAubrey Milburn of Chadron&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Delaney Pohl of Bridgeport, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Eden Strawn of Bridgeport, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3 Years&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lucas Booe of Sidney, Neb.Shirley Cotant of Mitchell, Neb.&nbsp;Ty Grunig of Sidney, Neb.Deanna Horst of Sidney, Neb.Marybelle Ward of Valentine, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dru Weimer of Sidney, Neb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mason Wilkes of Torrington, Wyo.

High Plains Band and Choir Festival at CSC celebrates 52nd year

If you are a resident of Box Butte County and registered as a Republican on the county’s voting rolls, you are eligible to register as a delegate for the Box Butte County Republican Party Convention. 

The deadline to do so is March 1, 2024. Registration forms are available at the Box Butte County Clerk’s Office at the Courthouse in Alliance.&nbsp;

The Box Butte County Republican Convention has been set for Saturday, March 16, at the Alliance Public Library, Rooms A&amp;B. Coffee and sign-in will start at 10:15am with Call to Order at 10:30am. Please watch for the official convention public notice to be published the week before the Convention.

By Box Butte County RepublicansIf you are a resident of Box Butte County and registered as a Republican on the county’s voting rolls, you are eligible to register as a delegate for the Box Butte County Republican Party Convention. The deadline to do so is March 1, 2024. Registration forms are available at the Box Butte County Clerk’s Office at the Courthouse in Alliance.&nbsp;The Box Butte County Republican Convention has been set for Saturday, March 16, at the Alliance Public Library, Rooms A&amp;B. Coffee and sign-in will start at 10:15am with Call to Order at 10:30am. Please watch for the official convention public notice to be published the week before the Convention.

Box Butte County Republican Convention set for March 16.

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Wrestling Week

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR Chadron State College

CHADRON – The Chadron State College Theatre Department will present highlights of 37 Shakespeare plays including comedies, histories, and tragedies in 97 minutes. The director of the Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), CSC alum Zackary Wellnitz, said the production was written in 1984.

The performances will be in the Black Box Theatre and tickets are free but must be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/academics/theatre/seatreservation/" target="_blank">reserved</a>&nbsp;online due to limited seating. Patrons will receive an email confirmation from&nbsp;<a href="mailto:theatretix@csc.edu">theatretix@csc.edu</a>.

Wellnitz said the three characters in the play all love Shakespeare.

“The beauty of this show is that three actors are trying their best to do Shakespeare. The comedy lies in the fact that even though they are trying really hard, it's not truly working. With the improv aspect, each performance will be slightly different,” Wellnitz said.

Wellnitz said he and Theatre Professor Scott Cavin chose the show because the setup allows more audience engagement.

“The audience is going to feel really involved,” Wellnitz said. “After I graduated from CSC, I worked in a theme park and was able to interact with the customers. I wish I would have been able to practice audience interaction and learn more about improv. Scott and I wanted a play that could teach those skills to students so they could be more prepared for the future.”

The tribute to Shakespeare will involve stage combat with foils and swords.

“They are wearing period costumes and trying to be involved in the universe of Shakespeare. I've tasked the actors with really taking Shakespeare seriously and making sure to do Shakespeare justice. So, it's a period piece in that aspect. But overall, it is a modern comedy,” Wellnitz said.

CSC alum Casey Kearns designed the costumes for the play. After graduating from CSC in 1997, he pursued his master's degree in scenography, consisting of scenic, lighting, and costume design. He has been a theatre professor for 23 years and is currently living in Chadron and working as a freelance scenic designer.

Although he rarely designs costumes, Kearns has designed scenery for nearly 300 shows. He started his professional career at the Post Playhouse at Fort Robinson in 1990 before he graduated from Chadron High School. He has shows pending, in construction, or in performance in Florida, Missouri, Colorado, Texas, Wyoming, and Nebraska.&nbsp;

Reidun Hammer said the production is chaotic and will keep the attention of audience members.

“It's a very engaging show. You can tell we're having a lot of fun, so I feel like that will translate to the audience being able to have fun with it as well,” she said.

Wellnitz said without everyone’s hard work and dedication, the challenging show would not have come together as well as it did.

“This show is nothing like any other show that has been performed at CSC,” he said.

Each performer will use their name as their character

Kolton Drogowski of Williamsburg, Michigan

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR Chadron State College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707841583206.jpeg" alt="From left, Amber Harvey, Reidun Hammer, and Kolton Drogowski star in the Chadron State College Theatre production of "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)." (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>From left, Amber Harvey, Reidun Hammer, and Kolton Drogowski star in the Chadron State College Theatre production of "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)." (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – The Chadron State College Theatre Department will present highlights of 37 Shakespeare plays including comedies, histories, and tragedies in 97 minutes. The director of the Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), CSC alum Zackary Wellnitz, said the production was written in 1984.The performances will be in the Black Box Theatre and tickets are free but must be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/academics/theatre/seatreservation/" target="_blank">reserved</a>&nbsp;online due to limited seating. Patrons will receive an email confirmation from&nbsp;<a href="mailto:theatretix@csc.edu">theatretix@csc.edu</a>.Wellnitz said the three characters in the play all love Shakespeare.“The beauty of this show is that three actors are trying their best to do Shakespeare. The comedy lies in the fact that even though they are trying really hard, it's not truly working. With the improv aspect, each performance will be slightly different,” Wellnitz said.Wellnitz said he and Theatre Professor Scott Cavin chose the show because the setup allows more audience engagement.“The audience is going to feel really involved,” Wellnitz said. “After I graduated from CSC, I worked in a theme park and was able to interact with the customers. I wish I would have been able to practice audience interaction and learn more about improv. Scott and I wanted a play that could teach those skills to students so they could be more prepared for the future.”The tribute to Shakespeare will involve stage combat with foils and swords.“They are wearing period costumes and trying to be involved in the universe of Shakespeare. I've tasked the actors with really taking Shakespeare seriously and making sure to do Shakespeare justice. So, it's a period piece in that aspect. But overall, it is a modern comedy,” Wellnitz said.CSC alum Casey Kearns designed the costumes for the play. After graduating from CSC in 1997, he pursued his master's degree in scenography, consisting of scenic, lighting, and costume design. He has been a theatre professor for 23 years and is currently living in Chadron and working as a freelance scenic designer.Although he rarely designs costumes, Kearns has designed scenery for nearly 300 shows. He started his professional career at the Post Playhouse at Fort Robinson in 1990 before he graduated from Chadron High School. He has shows pending, in construction, or in performance in Florida, Missouri, Colorado, Texas, Wyoming, and Nebraska.&nbsp;Reidun Hammer said the production is chaotic and will keep the attention of audience members.“It's a very engaging show. You can tell we're having a lot of fun, so I feel like that will translate to the audience being able to have fun with it as well,” she said.Wellnitz said without everyone’s hard work and dedication, the challenging show would not have come together as well as it did.“This show is nothing like any other show that has been performed at CSC,” he said.CastEach performer will use their name as their characterAmber Harvey of Centennial, ColoradoReidun Hammer of Dubois, WyomingKolton Drogowski of Williamsburg, MichiganCrewStage Manager: Olivia FreezeAssistant Stage Manager: Maiya TimmPerformancesFeb. 16-17 at 7 p.m.Feb. 18 at 2 p.m.Feb. 22-24 at 7 p.m.Feb. 25 at 2 p.m.

 CSC Theatre Department presenting the Complete Works of Shakespeare 

LINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;—&nbsp;A cohort of twenty-nine leaders from across the state of Nebraska were honored for successfully completing Class XV of Leadership Nebraska. The graduation ceremony, held on Thursday, February 8th, in Lincoln, marked a significant milestone for these individuals as they were presented with certificates and commemorative awards in recognition of their accomplishments.

Graduates are current and emerging leaders from communities throughout Nebraska. The program enhances their leadership skills and deepens their knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing our state. Leadership Nebraska is dedicated to the development of informed leaders who understand issues, define problems, develop solutions and achieve positions of higher responsibility in Nebraska.

“We’re pleased to add such a great group of individuals to the larger network of Leadership Nebraska alumni,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber president. “These individuals truly represent the state of Nebraska and are actively shaping their organizations, communities and the state.”

The program includes six, three-day sessions held in various locations across Nebraska. Topic areas include economic development, healthcare, agriculture, education, and government and policy.

Leadership Nebraska Class XV members who graduated Thursday include:

AUBURN:&nbsp;Crystal Dunekacke,&nbsp;City of Auburn

AURORA:&nbsp;Adam Jurgens,&nbsp;Hamilton Telecommunications&nbsp;&nbsp;

BLAIR:&nbsp;Kelli Vondra,&nbsp;Great Plains Communications&nbsp;&nbsp;

COLUMBUS:&nbsp;David Mazankowski,&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Brett Rains,&nbsp;Columbus Credit Services&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

DESHLER: Julie Deepe,&nbsp;Midwest Bank&nbsp;&nbsp;

ELWOOD:&nbsp;Jenna Roberts,&nbsp;Pinnacle Bank-Elwood&nbsp;&nbsp;

GRAND ISLAND:&nbsp;Shane Labenz,&nbsp;CMBA Architects&nbsp;&nbsp;

HASTINGS:&nbsp;Jason Davis,&nbsp;Central Community College&nbsp;&nbsp;

HEMINGFORD:&nbsp;Gina Jespersen,&nbsp;Hemingford Public Schools&nbsp;&nbsp;

HOLDREGE:&nbsp;Alex Linden,&nbsp;Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District&nbsp;&nbsp;

KEARNEY:&nbsp;Lauren Brandt,&nbsp;City of Kearney&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Doug Sutko,&nbsp;FNBO&nbsp;&nbsp;

LINCOLN:&nbsp;Katie Bass,&nbsp;First Five Nebraska&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Stacy Clouse,&nbsp;Olsson&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Lee Ann Heflebower,&nbsp;Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;David Sharp,&nbsp;Hexagon Agility&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Courtney Wittstruck,&nbsp;Nebraska Community College Association&nbsp;&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE:&nbsp;Cassie Condon,&nbsp;North Platte Area Chamber &amp; Development&nbsp;&nbsp;

OMAHA:&nbsp;Kyleigh Austin,&nbsp;Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Patrick Burke,&nbsp;Viterra&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Cristina Castro – Matukewicz,&nbsp;Wells Fargo &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Beth Coffman,&nbsp;Omaha Public Power District&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rosalee Higgs,&nbsp;Nonprofit Association of the Midlands&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Itzel Lopez,&nbsp;Latino Economic Development Council&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tami Soper,&nbsp;Boys Town&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Michaela Valentin,&nbsp;Omaha Public Power District&nbsp;&nbsp;

PAPILLION:&nbsp;Jennifer Peters,&nbsp;Black Hills Energy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Amber Powers,&nbsp;City of Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

After graduation, participants join a network of 360 alumni committed to lifelong learning and community engagement.

<a href="https://www.leadershipnebraska.com/" target="_blank">Leadership Nebraska</a>&nbsp;is an NE Chamber Foundation program designed for current and future Nebraska leaders to view challenges and opportunities that face Nebraska. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nechamber.com/foundation.html" target="_blank">NE Chamber Foundation</a>&nbsp;is focused on meeting the needs of current business, community and state leaders, as well as equipping Nebraska’s next generation of leaders with the experiences, information and research they need to turn big ideas into bold moves.

By Leadership NebraskaLINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;—&nbsp;A cohort of twenty-nine leaders from across the state of Nebraska were honored for successfully completing Class XV of Leadership Nebraska. The graduation ceremony, held on Thursday, February 8th, in Lincoln, marked a significant milestone for these individuals as they were presented with certificates and commemorative awards in recognition of their accomplishments.Graduates are current and emerging leaders from communities throughout Nebraska. The program enhances their leadership skills and deepens their knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing our state. Leadership Nebraska is dedicated to the development of informed leaders who understand issues, define problems, develop solutions and achieve positions of higher responsibility in Nebraska.“We’re pleased to add such a great group of individuals to the larger network of Leadership Nebraska alumni,” said Bryan Slone, NE Chamber president. “These individuals truly represent the state of Nebraska and are actively shaping their organizations, communities and the state.”The program includes six, three-day sessions held in various locations across Nebraska. Topic areas include economic development, healthcare, agriculture, education, and government and policy.Leadership Nebraska Class XV members who graduated Thursday include:AUBURN:&nbsp;Crystal Dunekacke,&nbsp;City of AuburnAURORA:&nbsp;Adam Jurgens,&nbsp;Hamilton Telecommunications&nbsp;&nbsp;BLAIR:&nbsp;Kelli Vondra,&nbsp;Great Plains Communications&nbsp;&nbsp;COLUMBUS:&nbsp;David Mazankowski,&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Brett Rains,&nbsp;Columbus Credit Services&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;DESHLER: Julie Deepe,&nbsp;Midwest Bank&nbsp;&nbsp;ELWOOD:&nbsp;Jenna Roberts,&nbsp;Pinnacle Bank-Elwood&nbsp;&nbsp;GRAND ISLAND:&nbsp;Shane Labenz,&nbsp;CMBA Architects&nbsp;&nbsp;HASTINGS:&nbsp;Jason Davis,&nbsp;Central Community College&nbsp;&nbsp;HEMINGFORD:&nbsp;Gina Jespersen,&nbsp;Hemingford Public Schools&nbsp;&nbsp;HOLDREGE:&nbsp;Alex Linden,&nbsp;Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District&nbsp;&nbsp;KEARNEY:&nbsp;Lauren Brandt,&nbsp;City of Kearney&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Doug Sutko,&nbsp;FNBO&nbsp;&nbsp;LINCOLN:&nbsp;Katie Bass,&nbsp;First Five Nebraska&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Stacy Clouse,&nbsp;Olsson&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Lee Ann Heflebower,&nbsp;Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;David Sharp,&nbsp;Hexagon Agility&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Courtney Wittstruck,&nbsp;Nebraska Community College Association&nbsp;&nbsp;NORTH PLATTE:&nbsp;Cassie Condon,&nbsp;North Platte Area Chamber &amp; Development&nbsp;&nbsp;OMAHA:&nbsp;Kyleigh Austin,&nbsp;Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Patrick Burke,&nbsp;Viterra&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Cristina Castro – Matukewicz,&nbsp;Wells Fargo &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Beth Coffman,&nbsp;Omaha Public Power District&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Rosalee Higgs,&nbsp;Nonprofit Association of the Midlands&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Itzel Lopez,&nbsp;Latino Economic Development Council&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Tami Soper,&nbsp;Boys Town&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Michaela Valentin,&nbsp;Omaha Public Power District&nbsp;&nbsp;PAPILLION:&nbsp;Jennifer Peters,&nbsp;Black Hills Energy &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Amber Powers,&nbsp;City of Papillion&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After graduation, participants join a network of 360 alumni committed to lifelong learning and community engagement.<a href="https://www.leadershipnebraska.com/" target="_blank">Leadership Nebraska</a>&nbsp;is an NE Chamber Foundation program designed for current and future Nebraska leaders to view challenges and opportunities that face Nebraska. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nechamber.com/foundation.html" target="_blank">NE Chamber Foundation</a>&nbsp;is focused on meeting the needs of current business, community and state leaders, as well as equipping Nebraska’s next generation of leaders with the experiences, information and research they need to turn big ideas into bold moves.

Hemingford's Gina Jespersen recognized among 28 graduates of Leadership Nebraska

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Super Bowl Recap

By Chabella Guzman, PREEC communications

The Nebraska Extension will host its annual Dryland Crop Production on the High Plains meeting on Feb. 15 at the Western Nebraska Community College in Sidney.

The morning will begin with registration at 8:30 a.m., and a welcome from John Westra, Director of the Panhandle Research and Extension Center, will follow at 9 a.m. He will also give an update on PREEC to the audience. The majority of the morning will be devoted to research updates.

“We will be looking at our four sites across Nebraska and giving an update on our winter wheat fertility research,” said Bijesh Maharjan, Nebraska Extension soil and nutrient management specialist.&nbsp;

The morning will also feature an alternative crops breeding update, commodity marketing and grain quality, building a sawfly research team, and strategic supplementation strategies for yearling cattle grazing cool-season pastures in the summer. The meeting will also include the Testing Ag Performance Solutions, TAPS, wheat contest results from Jessica Groskopf, Nebraska Extension educator, and Cody Creech, dryland cropping systems specialist.

The meeting will begin at 8:30 on Thursday, Feb. 15, at the Western Nebraska Community College in Sidney. Following is the agenda for the day.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707756640151.jpeg" alt="Sawfly traps without the nets stand in wheat fields at the High Plains Ag Lab near Sidney. The traps are part of ongoing research on the wheat stem sawfly. Photo by Chabella Guzman" />
 <figcaption>Sawfly traps without the nets stand in wheat fields at the High Plains Ag Lab near Sidney. The traps are part of ongoing research on the wheat stem sawfly. Photo by Chabella Guzman</figcaption>
 </figure>By Chabella Guzman, PREEC communications The Nebraska Extension will host its annual Dryland Crop Production on the High Plains meeting on Feb. 15 at the Western Nebraska Community College in Sidney.The morning will begin with registration at 8:30 a.m., and a welcome from John Westra, Director of the Panhandle Research and Extension Center, will follow at 9 a.m. He will also give an update on PREEC to the audience. The majority of the morning will be devoted to research updates.“We will be looking at our four sites across Nebraska and giving an update on our winter wheat fertility research,” said Bijesh Maharjan, Nebraska Extension soil and nutrient management specialist.&nbsp;The morning will also feature an alternative crops breeding update, commodity marketing and grain quality, building a sawfly research team, and strategic supplementation strategies for yearling cattle grazing cool-season pastures in the summer. The meeting will also include the Testing Ag Performance Solutions, TAPS, wheat contest results from Jessica Groskopf, Nebraska Extension educator, and Cody Creech, dryland cropping systems specialist.The meeting will begin at 8:30 on Thursday, Feb. 15, at the Western Nebraska Community College in Sidney. Following is the agenda for the day.&nbsp;

 Nebraska Extension having High Plains meeting in Sidney on Thursday

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – BNSF Railway, one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies, has been named among “America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2024” by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group.

This year’s list, a result of more than 1.5 million company reviews, features large and mid-size companies that were examined through public data, interviews and anonymous surveys by employees who shared their insights into corporate culture and working environments.

“BNSF is honored to be recognized as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2024, as we are committed to a culture where all employees feel included, belong and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential,” said Judy Carter, BNSF senior vice president and chief human resources officer. We know that BNSF is better as an organization when we create an environment where our unique backgrounds, skills and experiences are considered our greatest strength.”

In its second year, “America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity” highlights companies in 78 industries that have shown a proven commitment to recruiting and advancing individuals of various races, genders, orientations and abilities.

The full report is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsweek.com/rankings/americas-greatest-workplaces-diversity-2024" target="_blank">www.newsweek.com/rankings/americas-greatest-workplaces-diversity-2024</a>.

Press Release by BNSF RailwayFORT WORTH, TEXAS – BNSF Railway, one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies, has been named among “America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2024” by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group.This year’s list, a result of more than 1.5 million company reviews, features large and mid-size companies that were examined through public data, interviews and anonymous surveys by employees who shared their insights into corporate culture and working environments.“BNSF is honored to be recognized as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2024, as we are committed to a culture where all employees feel included, belong and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential,” said Judy Carter, BNSF senior vice president and chief human resources officer. We know that BNSF is better as an organization when we create an environment where our unique backgrounds, skills and experiences are considered our greatest strength.”In its second year, “America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity” highlights companies in 78 industries that have shown a proven commitment to recruiting and advancing individuals of various races, genders, orientations and abilities.The full report is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsweek.com/rankings/americas-greatest-workplaces-diversity-2024" target="_blank">www.newsweek.com/rankings/americas-greatest-workplaces-diversity-2024</a>.

BNSF Railway ranks among America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

There were multiple accidents in Western Nebraska on Saturday due to snow covered roads and dangerous conditions.

The Kimball County Sheriff's Department reported a double fatality accident in Kimball County on Saturday evening. Details have not been released as of Sunday afternoon, but I80 was closed from Pine Bluffs to Kimball due to the accidents.

No information on the two fatalities is available, but authorities do say that the two fatalities are not local to the area.&nbsp;

Kimball County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Bushnell Fire Department, Kimball Fire Department, Kimball EMS, Nebraska Road Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Kimball Police Department, as well as Wyoming Law Enforcement and Emergency Services.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThere were multiple accidents in Western Nebraska on Saturday due to snow covered roads and dangerous conditions.The Kimball County Sheriff's Department reported a double fatality accident in Kimball County on Saturday evening. Details have not been released as of Sunday afternoon, but I80 was closed from Pine Bluffs to Kimball due to the accidents.No information on the two fatalities is available, but authorities do say that the two fatalities are not local to the area.&nbsp;Kimball County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Bushnell Fire Department, Kimball Fire Department, Kimball EMS, Nebraska Road Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Kimball Police Department, as well as Wyoming Law Enforcement and Emergency Services.

Two fatalities in accident in Kimball County, Investigation ongoing

Grant, Ne - The Perkins County Fair in Grant held there annual Winter Concert Saturday evening. The Randy Burghardt Band from Cheyenne, Wyoming played all night to a full audience on a snowy night. 

Just before the show started, Eagle's Derek Beck announced to the crowd that Cooper Alan who opened for the Eli Young Band last July will headline the July 20 show in Grant this summer. Opening for Alan will be Jerrod Niemann who had number 1 country songs with "Lover Lover" and "Drink to That All Night".&nbsp;

Tickets will go on sale at <a href="https://www.perkinscountyfairgrounds.com/">PerkinsCountyFairgrounds.com</a> on Friday morning at 8am. Early bird tickets will be $35.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707616178526.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Grant, Ne - The Perkins County Fair in Grant held there annual Winter Concert Saturday evening. The Randy Burghardt Band from Cheyenne, Wyoming played all night to a full audience on a snowy night. Just before the show started, Eagle's Derek Beck announced to the crowd that Cooper Alan who opened for the Eli Young Band last July will headline the July 20 show in Grant this summer. Opening for Alan will be Jerrod Niemann who had number 1 country songs with "Lover Lover" and "Drink to That All Night".&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FPerkinsCountyFair%2Fvideos%2F720584729962668%2F&show_text=false&width=476&t=0" width="476" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Tickets will go on sale at <a href="https://www.perkinscountyfairgrounds.com/">PerkinsCountyFairgrounds.com</a> on Friday morning at 8am. Early bird tickets will be $35.&nbsp;

Cooper Alan & Jerrod Niemann will headline Perkins County Fair in July

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Chabella Guzman, Panhandle Research and Extension Center

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

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