By Molly Langhorst,&nbsp; &nbsp;CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS&nbsp;

CHADRON – The current Mrs. South Dakota and Chadron State College alumna Jenita (Qualm) Derga, of Onida, South Dakota, competed for the 2023 Mrs. America title in Las Vegas in August.&nbsp;

Derga is the founder and CEO of Wild Prairie Solutions LLC, where she works as a licensed crop insurance agent. According to Derga, her company specializes in helping ranchers and grass managers create grazing strategies and soil health that increases the profitability of operations and increase the ecological viability of their grassland ecosystem.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Derga was crowned Mrs. South Dakota in April, but her journey began a couple of years ago when she reached out to a former Mrs. South Dakota on social media inquiring about what the title required.&nbsp;

“I knew I didn’t have the ability to give up my career to pursue the title,” Derga said, “but she (former Mrs. South Dakota) let me know that the title should be considered a hobby and should not require your full-time investment. I decided this year would be a good time to give it a shot.”&nbsp;

She said she felt called to talk about the things that are important to her. Additionally, she said she enjoys the pageant lifestyle. Working in agriculture in rural South Dakota, Derga said she doesn’t have a lot of opportunities to get dressed up. &nbsp;

“I spend most of my days in jeans and boots out on the land,” Derga said. “I love that I can be a country girl who is comfortable in jeans and boots as well as a woman who enjoys doing full glam hair and makeup and putting on a ballgown. Both of these things are a part of me, and they each create unique opportunities to connect with people in completely different ways.”&nbsp;

As Mrs. South Dakota, Derga has been able to highlight topics and events related to agriculture such as South Dakota Cattlemen's Prime Time Gala, an event that fundraises for Feeding South Dakota, an organization where cattlemen provide beef for food security programs in South Dakota. She has also been able to speak about the South Dakota Grassland Coalition and its work to empower ranching families and grass managers. &nbsp;

All state title holders in the Mrs. America System compete in the Mrs. America Pageant, but Derga’s desire to hold the title stems from her passion for rural America and her belief that the area is often underrepresented.&nbsp;

“I knew going into the Mrs. America Pageant that the same reasons I wanted to be Mrs. South Dakota apply to why I want to be Mrs. America,” Derga said. “I’m passionate about rural America and I think that the people in rural America are often not represented on a national platform, yet we have amazing and unique stories to tell.”&nbsp;

Derga, originally from Ericson, Nebraska, graduated from&nbsp;CSC&nbsp;with a degree in Rangeland Ecology.&nbsp;

After graduation, Derga spent time working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) as well as the U.S. Forest Service for 10 years. She has worked in agriculture in New Mexico, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, and South Dakota. She left her career as a grazing specialist for NRCS when the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation introduced new programs geared toward livestock producers and grassland managers in the late 2010s. &nbsp;

Derga said she started Wild Prairie Solutions LLC because she didn’t want to leave behind the work she was doing on rangelands with ranchers as a grazing specialist and her new business allowed her to continue as a grazing consultant in South Dakota and surrounding states. &nbsp;

Derga also noted that a large number of her clients come from graduates of the South Dakota Grassland Coalition grazing schools where she teaches each summer.&nbsp;

Derga believes that her Rangeland Ecology degree has helped her in many ways during her time as Mrs. South Dakota. &nbsp;

“My degree ultimately took me into five different states for my career and countless others in pursuit of continued knowledge or experience,” Derga said. “The experiences I had are what makes me so passionate about rural communities and the work happening within them that I strive to highlight as Mrs. South Dakota.”&nbsp;

Although the Mrs. America Pageant is over, Derga looks forward to the remaining seven months she has as reigning Mrs. South Dakota and intends to continue to positively impact South Dakota and beyond with the time she has left. &nbsp;

By Molly Langhorst,&nbsp; &nbsp;CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS&nbsp;CHADRON – The current Mrs. South Dakota and Chadron State College alumna Jenita (Qualm) Derga, of Onida, South Dakota, competed for the 2023 Mrs. America title in Las Vegas in August.&nbsp;Derga is the founder and CEO of Wild Prairie Solutions LLC, where she works as a licensed crop insurance agent. According to Derga, her company specializes in helping ranchers and grass managers create grazing strategies and soil health that increases the profitability of operations and increase the ecological viability of their grassland ecosystem.&nbsp; &nbsp;Derga was crowned Mrs. South Dakota in April, but her journey began a couple of years ago when she reached out to a former Mrs. South Dakota on social media inquiring about what the title required.&nbsp;“I knew I didn’t have the ability to give up my career to pursue the title,” Derga said, “but she (former Mrs. South Dakota) let me know that the title should be considered a hobby and should not require your full-time investment. I decided this year would be a good time to give it a shot.”&nbsp;She said she felt called to talk about the things that are important to her. Additionally, she said she enjoys the pageant lifestyle. Working in agriculture in rural South Dakota, Derga said she doesn’t have a lot of opportunities to get dressed up. &nbsp;“I spend most of my days in jeans and boots out on the land,” Derga said. “I love that I can be a country girl who is comfortable in jeans and boots as well as a woman who enjoys doing full glam hair and makeup and putting on a ballgown. Both of these things are a part of me, and they each create unique opportunities to connect with people in completely different ways.”&nbsp;As Mrs. South Dakota, Derga has been able to highlight topics and events related to agriculture such as South Dakota Cattlemen's Prime Time Gala, an event that fundraises for Feeding South Dakota, an organization where cattlemen provide beef for food security programs in South Dakota. She has also been able to speak about the South Dakota Grassland Coalition and its work to empower ranching families and grass managers. &nbsp;All state title holders in the Mrs. America System compete in the Mrs. America Pageant, but Derga’s desire to hold the title stems from her passion for rural America and her belief that the area is often underrepresented.&nbsp;“I knew going into the Mrs. America Pageant that the same reasons I wanted to be Mrs. South Dakota apply to why I want to be Mrs. America,” Derga said. “I’m passionate about rural America and I think that the people in rural America are often not represented on a national platform, yet we have amazing and unique stories to tell.”&nbsp;Derga, originally from Ericson, Nebraska, graduated from&nbsp;CSC&nbsp;with a degree in Rangeland Ecology.&nbsp;After graduation, Derga spent time working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) as well as the U.S. Forest Service for 10 years. She has worked in agriculture in New Mexico, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, and South Dakota. She left her career as a grazing specialist for NRCS when the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation introduced new programs geared toward livestock producers and grassland managers in the late 2010s. &nbsp;Derga said she started Wild Prairie Solutions LLC because she didn’t want to leave behind the work she was doing on rangelands with ranchers as a grazing specialist and her new business allowed her to continue as a grazing consultant in South Dakota and surrounding states. &nbsp;Derga also noted that a large number of her clients come from graduates of the South Dakota Grassland Coalition grazing schools where she teaches each summer.&nbsp;Derga believes that her Rangeland Ecology degree has helped her in many ways during her time as Mrs. South Dakota. &nbsp;“My degree ultimately took me into five different states for my career and countless others in pursuit of continued knowledge or experience,” Derga said. “The experiences I had are what makes me so passionate about rural communities and the work happening within them that I strive to highlight as Mrs. South Dakota.”&nbsp;Although the Mrs. America Pageant is over, Derga looks forward to the remaining seven months she has as reigning Mrs. South Dakota and intends to continue to positively impact South Dakota and beyond with the time she has left. &nbsp;

CSC alumna runs for Mrs. America 

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

The Alliance Bulldogs (15-17) are one win away from their first trip to the State tournament since 2018, but the #14 Bulldogs will have to do it by upsetting perennial Nebraska power and #3 Omaha Skutt Catholic (25-13) in Omaha on Saturday morning.

The match starts at 10 a.m MT and will be broadcasted on NFHS with a subscription. go to www.nfhsnetwork.com to watch the match.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Alliance Bulldogs (15-17) are one win away from their first trip to the State tournament since 2018, but the #14 Bulldogs will have to do it by upsetting perennial Nebraska power and #3 Omaha Skutt Catholic (25-13) in Omaha on Saturday morning.The match starts at 10 a.m MT and will be broadcasted on NFHS with a subscription. go to www.nfhsnetwork.com to watch the match.

HS Volleyball: Alliance battles Skutt Catholic in Omaha for trip to state

We are living in the worst border crisis on record.&nbsp;It is a humanitarian and security crisis.&nbsp;U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/cbp-releases-september-2023-monthly-update" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;yet another&nbsp;record&nbsp;with&nbsp;269,735 encounters at the southern border last month.&nbsp;There have now been&nbsp;over 8 million encounters&nbsp;with individuals at the border&nbsp;since Joe Biden became President.&nbsp;To put it in perspective, that’s more encounters in less than three years than the 12 years while both Donald Trump and Barack Obama were president&nbsp;combined.&nbsp;Unfortunately, that number doesn’t even include the over 1.7 million known gotaways&nbsp;–&nbsp;individuals CBP saw but were unable to apprehend&nbsp;–&nbsp;during the Biden administration.

Last month,&nbsp;border officials arrested&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/border-patrol-stop-record-number-people-terror-watchlist-southern-border" target="_blank">18 people</a>&nbsp;on the FBI’s terror watchlist. The&nbsp;total&nbsp;of&nbsp;people on the watchlist encountered at the border this year&nbsp;is now 172.&nbsp;Those 172 encounters&nbsp;not only smashed&nbsp;the previous record of 98, set last year, but is larger than the number of such encounters the previous six fiscal years&nbsp;<a href="https://nypost.com/2023/10/22/u-s-customs-and-border-protection-report-more-venezuelans-enter-u-s-illegally-than-mexicans/" target="_blank">combined</a>.&nbsp;This number used to be in the single digits every year.

This week, I visited the border with a group of Senators led by Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz of Texas to get an update on the&nbsp;crisis. I also unveiled a comprehensive package of Senate solutions to secure the border. These solutions attack Biden’s border security failures head on – from building the wall to stopping sanctuary cities policies in liberal states and cities to going after cartels and reforming our broken asylum process.

My Ensure Uniform Border Inspection Practices Act, introduced with Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, would require annual comprehensive reviews of how people and fentanyl are being transported across ports of entry. These reviews would identify areas where&nbsp;the&nbsp;implementation of inspection practices is weak and help us hold accountable those responsible for failures.

Further, this week&nbsp;I re-affirmed my support for 10 additional pieces of legislation to address the illegal immigration crisis and enforce existing laws. One major priority is the Secure the Border Act. The bill would tighten asylum standards, resume construction of the border wall, and&nbsp;criminalize visa overstays. In addition, it would&nbsp;increase the number of Border Patrol Agents and crack down on entities assisting illegal&nbsp;immigrants. I’m also supporting the Stopping Border Surges Act to close immigration loopholes, eliminate incentives for sending children to the border, and disrupt the power of human traffickers and cartels.

I’m working to stop dangerous sanctuary cities and attack the income streams of those who traffic deadly drugs like fentanyl. One of the bills gives the Department of Homeland Security powers similar to those under Title 42 to combat the fentanyl-related health emergency. We also need to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule 1 drugs and make the distribution of fentanyl resulting in death punishable by federal felony charges.

The Biden administration’s failed policies created this crisis. Only smarter, more effective policies will guide us out of it. I promised Nebraskans I would fight to secure the border in the Senate. Each of the bills I’m supporting will make our state and country safer. I will fight tirelessly to get illegal immigration and the border crisis under control.

My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>. I am honored to serve our great state and will continue to work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

By Senator Pete RickettsWe are living in the worst border crisis on record.&nbsp;It is a humanitarian and security crisis.&nbsp;U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/cbp-releases-september-2023-monthly-update" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;yet another&nbsp;record&nbsp;with&nbsp;269,735 encounters at the southern border last month.&nbsp;There have now been&nbsp;over 8 million encounters&nbsp;with individuals at the border&nbsp;since Joe Biden became President.&nbsp;To put it in perspective, that’s more encounters in less than three years than the 12 years while both Donald Trump and Barack Obama were president&nbsp;combined.&nbsp;Unfortunately, that number doesn’t even include the over 1.7 million known gotaways&nbsp;–&nbsp;individuals CBP saw but were unable to apprehend&nbsp;–&nbsp;during the Biden administration.Last month,&nbsp;border officials arrested&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/border-patrol-stop-record-number-people-terror-watchlist-southern-border" target="_blank">18 people</a>&nbsp;on the FBI’s terror watchlist. The&nbsp;total&nbsp;of&nbsp;people on the watchlist encountered at the border this year&nbsp;is now 172.&nbsp;Those 172 encounters&nbsp;not only smashed&nbsp;the previous record of 98, set last year, but is larger than the number of such encounters the previous six fiscal years&nbsp;<a href="https://nypost.com/2023/10/22/u-s-customs-and-border-protection-report-more-venezuelans-enter-u-s-illegally-than-mexicans/" target="_blank">combined</a>.&nbsp;This number used to be in the single digits every year.This week, I visited the border with a group of Senators led by Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz of Texas to get an update on the&nbsp;crisis. I also unveiled a comprehensive package of Senate solutions to secure the border. These solutions attack Biden’s border security failures head on – from building the wall to stopping sanctuary cities policies in liberal states and cities to going after cartels and reforming our broken asylum process.My Ensure Uniform Border Inspection Practices Act, introduced with Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, would require annual comprehensive reviews of how people and fentanyl are being transported across ports of entry. These reviews would identify areas where&nbsp;the&nbsp;implementation of inspection practices is weak and help us hold accountable those responsible for failures.Further, this week&nbsp;I re-affirmed my support for 10 additional pieces of legislation to address the illegal immigration crisis and enforce existing laws. One major priority is the Secure the Border Act. The bill would tighten asylum standards, resume construction of the border wall, and&nbsp;criminalize visa overstays. In addition, it would&nbsp;increase the number of Border Patrol Agents and crack down on entities assisting illegal&nbsp;immigrants. I’m also supporting the Stopping Border Surges Act to close immigration loopholes, eliminate incentives for sending children to the border, and disrupt the power of human traffickers and cartels.I’m working to stop dangerous sanctuary cities and attack the income streams of those who traffic deadly drugs like fentanyl. One of the bills gives the Department of Homeland Security powers similar to those under Title 42 to combat the fentanyl-related health emergency. We also need to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule 1 drugs and make the distribution of fentanyl resulting in death punishable by federal felony charges.The Biden administration’s failed policies created this crisis. Only smarter, more effective policies will guide us out of it. I promised Nebraskans I would fight to secure the border in the Senate. Each of the bills I’m supporting will make our state and country safer. I will fight tirelessly to get illegal immigration and the border crisis under control.My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>. I am honored to serve our great state and will continue to work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

Senator Ricketts’ Weekly Column: Senate Solutions to Secure Our Southern Border

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Entrepreneur and inventor Mike Farmer.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6_t2AHbfg80?si=hYdF3La0wE5SDbxQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Entrepreneur and inventor Mike Farmer.

🎤 Forward Ever: Entrepreneur and inventor Mike Farmer

Alliance, NE – The last days for yard waste collection will be Friday, December 1st for blue steel containers and Wednesday, November 29th for blue rollout bins.

For more information, contact Public Works Director Ross Grant at 762-1907.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The last days for yard waste collection will be Friday, December 1st for blue steel containers and Wednesday, November 29th for blue rollout bins.For more information, contact Public Works Director Ross Grant at 762-1907.

City of Alliance announces 2023 Yard Waste Collection End dates

This weekend marks the final shows at the Sandhills Drive-in Alliance for the 2023 season, starting with Fundraiser Friday. Edison Red Nest has details about the shows and where proceeds will go to.

"The movie will be Ghostbusters Afterlife followed by Queen of the Damned," Red Nest said.&nbsp; "it's a Fundraiser Friday so all of the proceeds for this fundraiser will go towards the Alliance Marching Band, to help them get to the Peach Bowl. "

Red Nest explains why it is important to support the Alliance High School band and their trip to Georgia.

"They put in a lot of hard work, a lot of these kids have been doing band since they were little," Red Nest said.&nbsp; This is kind of like the pinnacle of their band career so we want to help them as much as we can."

Gates open at 6 p.m tonight and the show starts at dusk at the Sandhills Drive-in located at 2617 County Road 57 in Alliance.&nbsp; The show is free will donation.

For questions, call 308-458-7927, or find them on Facebook at Sand-hills Drive-In.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThis weekend marks the final shows at the Sandhills Drive-in Alliance for the 2023 season, starting with Fundraiser Friday. Edison Red Nest has details about the shows and where proceeds will go to. "The movie will be Ghostbusters Afterlife followed by Queen of the Damned," Red Nest said.&nbsp; "it's a Fundraiser Friday so all of the proceeds for this fundraiser will go towards the Alliance Marching Band, to help them get to the Peach Bowl. "Red Nest explains why it is important to support the Alliance High School band and their trip to Georgia. "They put in a lot of hard work, a lot of these kids have been doing band since they were little," Red Nest said.&nbsp; This is kind of like the pinnacle of their band career so we want to help them as much as we can."Gates open at 6 p.m tonight and the show starts at dusk at the Sandhills Drive-in located at 2617 County Road 57 in Alliance.&nbsp; The show is free will donation.For questions, call 308-458-7927, or find them on Facebook at Sand-hills Drive-In.

Fundraiser Friday at Sandhills Drive-in, proceeds to Alliance Marching Band trip

WESTCO invites the public to an open house for their new Tire Center on Friday, November 3 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. 

The open house is an opportunity for the public to see the new building, have refreshments that include cake, and give aways as well.

WESTCO Tire Center in Alliance is now located at 1630 W 10th St, and you can give them a call with any questions at 308-762-3291.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostWESTCO invites the public to an open house for their new Tire Center on Friday, November 3 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. The open house is an opportunity for the public to see the new building, have refreshments that include cake, and give aways as well.WESTCO Tire Center in Alliance is now located at 1630 W 10th St, and you can give them a call with any questions at 308-762-3291.&nbsp;

Grand opening event at WESTCO Tire in Alliance next Friday

BEVERAGES OF THE DAMNED: Huckleberry Soda and Bean Brownies

Oct. 26, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;– The Nebraska Broadband Office (NBO) is moving to the next phase of efforts to ensure access to reliable broadband for all Nebraskans.

As part of this effort, there will be ongoing public engagements across the state including a series of nine public meetings and an open comment period from Nov. 13 to Dec. 13. During the open comment period the public will be asked to provide comments on NBO’s long-term goals and objectives to deploy broadband and plans to coordinate with local representatives. 

Meetings and comments will also focus on NBO’s sub grantee selection process and plan to ensure the availability of a skilled workforce, and affordable and middle-income internet plans. Opportunities will be available to submit public comments online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ndot.info/community" target="_blank">broadband.nebraska.gov</a>,&nbsp;or in-person at one of the following meetings hosted by the Nebraska Broadband Office:

Western Nebraska Community College, 371 S College Dr., Room 1516

Springfield Community Center, 170 N 3rd St.

Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, 753 33rd Ave.

Holiday Inn Express, 206 Pony Express Ln.

By Nebraska Broadband OfficeOct. 26, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;– The Nebraska Broadband Office (NBO) is moving to the next phase of efforts to ensure access to reliable broadband for all Nebraskans.As part of this effort, there will be ongoing public engagements across the state including a series of nine public meetings and an open comment period from Nov. 13 to Dec. 13. During the open comment period the public will be asked to provide comments on NBO’s long-term goals and objectives to deploy broadband and plans to coordinate with local representatives. Meetings and comments will also focus on NBO’s sub grantee selection process and plan to ensure the availability of a skilled workforce, and affordable and middle-income internet plans. Opportunities will be available to submit public comments online at&nbsp;<a href="https://ndot.info/community" target="_blank">broadband.nebraska.gov</a>,&nbsp;or in-person at one of the following meetings hosted by the Nebraska Broadband Office:<ul>
 <li>Sidney, Nov. 7, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Western Nebraska Community College, 371 S College Dr., Room 1516<ul>
 <li>Chadron, Nov. 8, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Holiday Inn Express, 247 Ash St.<ul>
 <li>O’Neill, Nov. 9, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>The Evergreen, 300 Jeanette Way<ul>
 <li>Fairbury, Nov. 13, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Union Bank, 1313 K St.<ul>
 <li>Springfield, Nov. 14, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Springfield Community Center, 170 N 3rd St.<ul>
 <li>Lincoln, Nov. 15, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>NDOT Headquarters, 1500 Nebraska Pkwy.<ul>
 <li>Columbus, Nov. 16, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, 753 33rd Ave.<ul>
 <li>Kearney, Nov. 20, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Holiday Inn Express, 110 2nd Ave.<ul>
 <li>Ogallala, Nov. 21, 5:30-7 p.m.</li>
 </ul>Holiday Inn Express, 206 Pony Express Ln.

NBO holding public meetings in Western Nebraska on Broadband

Many in the Rushville community are concerned after information revealed the potential of the town losing their primary grocery store, Rushville Super Foods, formerly known as Ideal Market.&nbsp;

The Rushville Chamber of Commerce issued a statement on Thursday saying that they received word that Rushville Super Foods, the only grocery store in town is closing soon.

There is a community meeting set on Friday morning at 8:30 A.M at the Security First Center Theater to discuss the situation.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostMany in the Rushville community are concerned after information revealed the potential of the town losing their primary grocery store, Rushville Super Foods, formerly known as Ideal Market.&nbsp;The Rushville Chamber of Commerce issued a statement on Thursday saying that they received word that Rushville Super Foods, the only grocery store in town is closing soon.There is a community meeting set on Friday morning at 8:30 A.M at the Security First Center Theater to discuss the situation.

Rushville may lose grocery store, community meeting on Friday

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post&nbsp;

The DEA National Takeback Day will be on Saturday in Box Butte County, as residents are encouraged to turn in their unneeded medication for safe disposal.

In Box Butte County the collection site is at the Regional Law Enforcement Center in Alliance at 512 Niobrara Ave from 10 a.m to 2 p.m.

Box Butte County Sherrif J.D Sutphen comments on the importance of this event.

"We're just getting a lot of this medication off of the street, out of people's homes and to give the opportunity to dispose of it properly," Sutphen said.&nbsp;

For more information or to find a collection site near you, visit DEATakeBack.com&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post&nbsp;The DEA National Takeback Day will be on Saturday in Box Butte County, as residents are encouraged to turn in their unneeded medication for safe disposal.In Box Butte County the collection site is at the Regional Law Enforcement Center in Alliance at 512 Niobrara Ave from 10 a.m to 2 p.m.Box Butte County Sherrif J.D Sutphen comments on the importance of this event."We're just getting a lot of this medication off of the street, out of people's homes and to give the opportunity to dispose of it properly," Sutphen said.&nbsp;For more information or to find a collection site near you, visit DEATakeBack.com&nbsp;

DEA National Prescription Takeback day on Saturday in Box Butte County

Overall crime has gone down in Alliance in the last couple of years according to data released by the Alliance Police Department and a report in March that included Alliance as a top ten safest city in Nebraska.

However, motor vehicle thefts are on the rise according to Alliance Police Officer Tyler Sherlock.&nbsp;

"This year we've seen an influx of motor vehicle thefts, and that's primarily due to people leaving their cars unlocked with their keys inside, making it a crime of opportunity," Sherlock said.

Sherlock says that the best way to keep yourself safe from crime is to make yourself a hard target and that includes having a list of your personal items in case they are lost and stolen and making sure to lock all house, shed and car doors.

If you have any questions or need to report a crime, call the Alliance Police Department at 308-762-4955, Crimestoppers at 308-762-3181, and in case of an emergency dial 911.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostOverall crime has gone down in Alliance in the last couple of years according to data released by the Alliance Police Department and a report in March that included Alliance as a top ten safest city in Nebraska.However, motor vehicle thefts are on the rise according to Alliance Police Officer Tyler Sherlock.&nbsp; "This year we've seen an influx of motor vehicle thefts, and that's primarily due to people leaving their cars unlocked with their keys inside, making it a crime of opportunity," Sherlock said.Sherlock says that the best way to keep yourself safe from crime is to make yourself a hard target and that includes having a list of your personal items in case they are lost and stolen and making sure to lock all house, shed and car doors.If you have any questions or need to report a crime, call the Alliance Police Department at 308-762-4955, Crimestoppers at 308-762-3181, and in case of an emergency dial 911.

October recently proclaimed Crime Prevention Month in Alliance

By Jessica Davies Panhandle Public Health District

Activate Alliance, a community group working to make Alliance a safer place to walk, bike, and roll, is excited to offer a bike repair station for community use and sponsored by Healthy Blue.

The station is conveniently located at 18th and Box Butte on the south side of Laing Lake and is available for anyone needing spur-of-the-moment maintenance and repair. The station offers bike mounting, nine common bicycle tools tethered to the station, an air pump, an ADA-compliant design, and a QR code for maintenance instructions for viewing from a smartphone.

“We’re grateful to Healthy Blue for their sponsorship and to Activate Alliance for their continued enhancements around the community to support safe access for walking, biking, and rolling,” said Janelle Visser, Injury Prevention Coordinator with Panhandle Public Health District.

By Jessica Davies Panhandle Public Health District<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698333040950.jpeg" alt="– Dan Newhoff, Shelbi Pitt, Daylin Libsack, Larry Bolinger, Earl Jones, Shaun Ridgeway, and Janelle Visser&nbsp; at the Alliance Bike Repair Station Ribbon Cutting Ceremony&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>– Dan Newhoff, Shelbi Pitt, Daylin Libsack, Larry Bolinger, Earl Jones, Shaun Ridgeway, and Janelle Visser&nbsp; at the Alliance Bike Repair Station Ribbon Cutting Ceremony&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Activate Alliance, a community group working to make Alliance a safer place to walk, bike, and roll, is excited to offer a bike repair station for community use and sponsored by Healthy Blue.The station is conveniently located at 18th and Box Butte on the south side of Laing Lake and is available for anyone needing spur-of-the-moment maintenance and repair. The station offers bike mounting, nine common bicycle tools tethered to the station, an air pump, an ADA-compliant design, and a QR code for maintenance instructions for viewing from a smartphone.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698332855756.jpeg" alt=" Alliance Community Bikes mounted on the bike repair station" />
 <figcaption> Alliance Community Bikes mounted on the bike repair station</figcaption>
 </figure>“We’re grateful to Healthy Blue for their sponsorship and to Activate Alliance for their continued enhancements around the community to support safe access for walking, biking, and rolling,” said Janelle Visser, Injury Prevention Coordinator with Panhandle Public Health District.

Bike Repair Station Added at South Side of Laing Lake in Alliance

OCTOBER 25, 2023 (SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the WING Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs – Division of Drug Enforcement, and the FBI Badlands Safe Trails Task Force, arrested three people after locating 1.6 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop Tuesday.

Early Tuesday,&nbsp;NSP&nbsp;received information of a vehicle suspected to be trafficking a controlled substance through western Nebraska. The vehicle was believed to be traveling to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

At approximately 3:15 a.m. Tuesday, a trooper located the vehicle, a Nissan Rogue, traveling northbound on Highway 385 near Gurley. During the traffic stop, the trooper discovered that the driver, Breohnna Big Crow, had an outstanding warrant and was in possession of a controlled substance. A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 1.6 pounds of methamphetamine and a smaller amount of psilocybin mushrooms.

The driver, Breohnna Big Crow, 25, and passengers Monique Merrival, 37, and Dawn Dowty, 33, all of Rapid City, South Dakota, were arrested for possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. All three were lodged in Cheyenne County Jail.

The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit also assisted in this incident.

By Nebraska State PatrolOCTOBER 25, 2023 (SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the WING Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs – Division of Drug Enforcement, and the FBI Badlands Safe Trails Task Force, arrested three people after locating 1.6 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop Tuesday.Early Tuesday,&nbsp;NSP&nbsp;received information of a vehicle suspected to be trafficking a controlled substance through western Nebraska. The vehicle was believed to be traveling to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.At approximately 3:15 a.m. Tuesday, a trooper located the vehicle, a Nissan Rogue, traveling northbound on Highway 385 near Gurley. During the traffic stop, the trooper discovered that the driver, Breohnna Big Crow, had an outstanding warrant and was in possession of a controlled substance. A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 1.6 pounds of methamphetamine and a smaller amount of psilocybin mushrooms.The driver, Breohnna Big Crow, 25, and passengers Monique Merrival, 37, and Dawn Dowty, 33, all of Rapid City, South Dakota, were arrested for possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. All three were lodged in Cheyenne County Jail.The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit also assisted in this incident.

   Three Arrested in Western Nebraska After Troopers Locate Meth During Traffic Stop

This is the Post Podcast. Today we spoke with Kylen Armstrong from Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District about their K-12 Poster Contest.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Upper Niobrara White NRD Poster Contest" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=34jb5-14de5c0-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565801151254.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is the Post Podcast. Today we spoke with Kylen Armstrong from Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District about their K-12 Poster Contest.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698265348243.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Post Podcast: Upper Niobrara White NRD Poster Contest 

Case Number Date/Time Incident Description Address

SPD-P2303540 10/15/23 01:11 ALL OTHER OFFENSES 2521 AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF

Officers were dispatched to 2521 Avenue B in regards to a male being threatened by his son with a knife. As a result of the investigation, Bradley

Pettis, 18 of Scottsbluff was arrested for Terroristic threats. 

Officers responded to the 1000 block of 15th Avenue for an assault in progress. Sky Valdez, 33 of Scottsbluff was arrested for two counts of 3rd

SPD-P2303539 10/15/23 01:34 ASSAULT SIMPLE 1001 15TH AVE, APT 154, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers were called to the above address for a report of a stolen vehicle. Vehicle was stolen sometime after 10pm on 10-14-23. No known suspect.

SPD-P2303543 10/15/23 09:41 THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE 314 W 24TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF

Officers responded to a theft from a motor vehicle. No suspects were identified. 

SPD-P2303544 10/15/23 13:11 THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE 2401 AVE D, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to WalMart in reference to an active shoplifting. Upon investigation, Tonya Janis, 40 of Scottsbluff, and Daniel Rios, 36 of

SPD-P2303546 10/15/23 14:00 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 3322 AVE I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361

An Officer responded to the police station in reference to an online scam. Suspect has not been identified.

SPD-P2303548 10/15/23 15:22 SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE 1108 E 7TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to a bicycle theft at McCaffree Park. No suspects were identified. 

SPD-P2303549 10/15/23 17:22 THEFT ALL OTHER W 15TH ST / AVE G, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers arrested John Sissons, 34 of Scottsbluff, for an active Scotts Bluff County arrest warrant. 

SPD-P2303551 10/15/23 18:35 WARRANT ARRESTING AGENCY 1700BLK 15TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officer was contacted in regards to a found key in the 100 block of West 27th Street.

SPD-P2303550 10/15/23 19:19 PROPERTY FOUND 121 W 27TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to a report of a hit and run motor vehicle accident. Run car has not been identified.

SPD-P2303552 10/15/23 20:19 ACCIDENT NON INJURY E 26TH ST / 5TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers were dispatched to 818 East Overland Drive in regards to a female who was trespassing in the store. Laraine Valdez, 46 of Scottsbluff

SPD-P2303553 10/15/23 20:49 TRESPASSING 818 E OVERLAND DR, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers received a call of a scam involving a deposit that was sent via Venmo for various items. Upon further investigation, it was found that the

victim had sent a deposit of $300 via Venmo to a fraudulent account appearing to be legitimate. The investigation is ongoing to try and locate a suspect. 

SPD-P2303554 10/16/23 09:57 FRAUD - FALSE PRETENSES 222 E 37TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Police responded to a female breaking out a window of a residence. After investigations made on scene, Phoenix Red Feather, 48 of Scottsbluff

SPD-P2303556 10/16/23 11:01 VANDALISM 1605 7TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers received a potential child abuse/neglect intake report from Department of Health and Human Services. The investigation into allegations is ongoing.

SPD-P2303555 10/16/23 11:03 CHILD ABUSE 561 W 40TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF

Officers were dispatched to 2502 Addison Avenue in reference to a headstone that was found in the yard at that property. Upon arrival, officers

made contact with a male resident who showed us the headstone. Upon further investigation it was determined that the headstone was legitimate

SPD-P2303557 10/16/23 12:13 PROPERTY FOUND 2502 ADDISON AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to Target in reference to an active shoplifting. Upon arrival, officers made contact with 2 females. After investigation, Savanna

Kingsley, 21, and Kristal Morgan, 32 both of Torrington, Wyoming were arrested for Shoplifting less than $500. 

SPD-P2303560 10/16/23 12:35 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 1401 N FRONTAGE RD, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

I was contacted on my school phone by a parent in reference to her juvenile son running away. Juvenile was found and returned home.

SPD-P2303561 10/16/23 14:34 JUVENILE RUNAWAY 1514 AVE P, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

On July 7, 2023 a child abuse/neglect intake was received. Health and Human Services had already investigated the incident and no law

enforcement action was necessary. See supplement.

SPD-I2303562 10/16/23 15:47 CHILD ABUSE 2020 AVE D, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Police were contacted in reference to a disturbance, parties were separated. No citations were issued.

SPD-P2303563 10/16/23 16:05 DOMESTIC NON-VIOLENT 1409 E 17TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers were dispatched to 30 Terry Boulevard in reference to a vehicle that had been taken and not returned. Upon arrival officers met with the

vehicle owner and the owner wanted to file a stolen vehicle report. The car and suspect identified as Summer Rain Lone Dog, 31 of Scottsbluff

were found the next morning. Lone Dog was subsequently arrested and charged for Theft-Unlawful Taking (Motor Vehicle) and Unauthorized Use

of a Stolen Financial Transaction Device. 

SPD-P2303564 10/16/23 16:10 THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE 30 TERRY BLVD, TERRYTOWN

Officers conducted a traffic stop in the 1400 block 5th Avenue. The driver of the vehicle, Cameron Little Hoop, 32 of Scottsbluff was cited for Driving under Suspension. 

SPD-P2303565 10/16/23 19:41 DRIVING UNDER SUSPENSION 1400 BLK 5TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to a Non-Injury Motor Vehicle Accident in front of the Western Nebraska Community College Applied Technological Building.

SPD-P2303567 10/17/23 09:48 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 1601 E 27TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to Main Street Market in reference to a shoplifting that had occurred the day before. Upon arrival, Officers met with employees

at the store and obtained information regarding the shoplifting. The investigation is ongoing in trying to identify and locate a suspect. 

SPD-P2303568 10/17/23 10:24 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 401 S BELTLINE HIGHWAY W, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Police made contact with a female with active Scotts Bluff County warrants. Shannon Kephart, 59 of Scottsbluff was arrested on her warrants for disturbing the peace.

SPD-P2303569 10/17/23 10:49 WARRANT ARRESTING AGENCY 1409 E 17TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Police responded to a non injury accident at Elite Fitness. Accident report completed, no citations issued.

SPD-P2303570 10/17/23 11:22 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 820 W 42ND ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Received a report of a 13 year old juvenile in possession of a THC vape pen and THC vape cartridge. Parents were contacted and juvenile issued

a citation for possession of drug paraphernalia.

SPD-P2303571 10/17/23 12:43 NARCOTIC VIOLATION 27 E 23RD ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Police were contacted in reference to a shoplifting at Target. Currently under investigation.

SPD-P2303573 10/17/23 15:05 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 1401 N FRONTAGE RD, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

A missing wallet was turned in to the Scottsbluff Public Safety Building. Another Law Enforcement Agency was notified to try to contact the owner as they live in another jurisdiction.

SPD-P2303574 10/17/23 15:46 PROPERTY FOUND 1801 AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers were dispatched to the ringdown at the Scottsbluff Police Department in reference to a suspicious circumstance involving fraudulent activity. Officers made contact with a male. After further investigation, it was determined that someone had opened a checking account in his name. 

SPD-P2303575 10/17/23 16:27 FRAUD - FALSE PRETENSES 1926 BROADWAY AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361&nbsp;

Officer responded to the ringdown phone in reference to a juvenile runaway. Juvenile was found the next day.

SPD-P2303576 10/17/23 18:28 JUVENILE RUNAWAY 1801 AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officer responded to a non injury motor vehicle collision that occurred in the 600 block of West 27th Street. After investigation, Ivan Arriaga, 18 of

Scottsbluff, was issued a citation for no operator's permit and leaving the scene of an accident.

SPD-P2303577 10/17/23 18:41 ACCIDENT NON INJURY W 27TH ST.3. / AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to a residence in reference to a reported juvenile runaway. Juvenile was found the next day.

SPD-P2303578 10/17/23 21:14 JUVENILE RUNAWAY 1724 12TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers were patrolling in the 700 block of West 26th Street and encountered a verbal disturbance. Upon investigation, it was revealed that

multiple parties were involved in a physical disturbance. The case is ongoing. 

SPD-P2303580 10/18/23 00:28 ASSAULT SIMPLE 700 BLK W 26TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to the 2200 block of 2nd Avenue in reference to a vehicles being broken into. No suspect(s) identified at this time.

SPD-P2303582 10/18/23 07:45 THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE 2211 2ND AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to the 2100 block of 1st Avenue in reference to a motor vehicle being broken into. No suspect(s) at this time.

SPD-P2303584 10/18/23 09:52 THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE 2105 1ST AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to a non-injury accident in the parking lot of First National Bank of Omaha. No citations were issued.

SPD-P2303585 10/18/23 13:41 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 1926 BROADWAY AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to the 1500 block of East 20th Street in reference to a motor vehicle being stolen. Reporting party contacted Officer on

SPD-P2303587 10/18/23 13:45 THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE 1515 E 20TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

On August 31, 2023 I received an Adult Protective Services Intake regarding potential financial exploitation. Allegation was investigated and

SPD-I2303586 10/18/23 14:07 SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE 111 W 36TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361

Officers responded to WalMart in reference to a shoplifting. This is currently under investigation and a suspect has been identified.

By Scottsbluff Police DepartmentCase Number Date/Time Incident Description AddressSPD-P2303540 10/15/23 01:11 ALL OTHER OFFENSES 2521 AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFFOfficers were dispatched to 2521 Avenue B in regards to a male being threatened by his son with a knife. As a result of the investigation, BradleyPettis, 18 of Scottsbluff was arrested for Terroristic threats. SPD-P2303540 10/15/23 01:11 ALL OTHER OFFENSES 2521 AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFFOfficers responded to the 1000 block of 15th Avenue for an assault in progress. Sky Valdez, 33 of Scottsbluff was arrested for two counts of 3rdDegree Assault. SPD-P2303539 10/15/23 01:34 ASSAULT SIMPLE 1001 15TH AVE, APT 154, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers were called to the above address for a report of a stolen vehicle. Vehicle was stolen sometime after 10pm on 10-14-23. No known suspect.SPD-P2303543 10/15/23 09:41 THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE 314 W 24TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFFOfficers responded to a theft from a motor vehicle. No suspects were identified. SPD-P2303544 10/15/23 13:11 THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE 2401 AVE D, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to WalMart in reference to an active shoplifting. Upon investigation, Tonya Janis, 40 of Scottsbluff, and Daniel Rios, 36 ofScottsbluff were cited for shoplifting. SPD-P2303546 10/15/23 14:00 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 3322 AVE I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361An Officer responded to the police station in reference to an online scam. Suspect has not been identified.SPD-P2303548 10/15/23 15:22 SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE 1108 E 7TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to a bicycle theft at McCaffree Park. No suspects were identified. SPD-P2303549 10/15/23 17:22 THEFT ALL OTHER W 15TH ST / AVE G, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers arrested John Sissons, 34 of Scottsbluff, for an active Scotts Bluff County arrest warrant. SPD-P2303551 10/15/23 18:35 WARRANT ARRESTING AGENCY 1700BLK 15TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officer was contacted in regards to a found key in the 100 block of West 27th Street.SPD-P2303550 10/15/23 19:19 PROPERTY FOUND 121 W 27TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to a report of a hit and run motor vehicle accident. Run car has not been identified.SPD-P2303552 10/15/23 20:19 ACCIDENT NON INJURY E 26TH ST / 5TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers were dispatched to 818 East Overland Drive in regards to a female who was trespassing in the store. Laraine Valdez, 46 of Scottsbluffwas issued a citation for trespassing. SPD-P2303553 10/15/23 20:49 TRESPASSING 818 E OVERLAND DR, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers received a call of a scam involving a deposit that was sent via Venmo for various items. Upon further investigation, it was found that thevictim had sent a deposit of $300 via Venmo to a fraudulent account appearing to be legitimate. The investigation is ongoing to try and locate a suspect. SPD-P2303554 10/16/23 09:57 FRAUD - FALSE PRETENSES 222 E 37TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police responded to a female breaking out a window of a residence. After investigations made on scene, Phoenix Red Feather, 48 of Scottsbluffwas cited for vandalism.SPD-P2303556 10/16/23 11:01 VANDALISM 1605 7TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers received a potential child abuse/neglect intake report from Department of Health and Human Services. The investigation into allegations is ongoing.SPD-P2303555 10/16/23 11:03 CHILD ABUSE 561 W 40TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFFOfficers were dispatched to 2502 Addison Avenue in reference to a headstone that was found in the yard at that property. Upon arrival, officersmade contact with a male resident who showed us the headstone. Upon further investigation it was determined that the headstone was legitimateand was seized.SPD-P2303557 10/16/23 12:13 PROPERTY FOUND 2502 ADDISON AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to Target in reference to an active shoplifting. Upon arrival, officers made contact with 2 females. After investigation, SavannaKingsley, 21, and Kristal Morgan, 32 both of Torrington, Wyoming were arrested for Shoplifting less than $500. SPD-P2303560 10/16/23 12:35 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 1401 N FRONTAGE RD, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361I was contacted on my school phone by a parent in reference to her juvenile son running away. Juvenile was found and returned home.SPD-P2303561 10/16/23 14:34 JUVENILE RUNAWAY 1514 AVE P, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361On July 7, 2023 a child abuse/neglect intake was received. Health and Human Services had already investigated the incident and no lawenforcement action was necessary. See supplement.SPD-I2303562 10/16/23 15:47 CHILD ABUSE 2020 AVE D, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police were contacted in reference to a disturbance, parties were separated. No citations were issued.SPD-P2303563 10/16/23 16:05 DOMESTIC NON-VIOLENT 1409 E 17TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers were dispatched to 30 Terry Boulevard in reference to a vehicle that had been taken and not returned. Upon arrival officers met with thevehicle owner and the owner wanted to file a stolen vehicle report. The car and suspect identified as Summer Rain Lone Dog, 31 of Scottsbluffwere found the next morning. Lone Dog was subsequently arrested and charged for Theft-Unlawful Taking (Motor Vehicle) and Unauthorized Useof a Stolen Financial Transaction Device. SPD-P2303564 10/16/23 16:10 THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE 30 TERRY BLVD, TERRYTOWNOfficers conducted a traffic stop in the 1400 block 5th Avenue. The driver of the vehicle, Cameron Little Hoop, 32 of Scottsbluff was cited for Driving under Suspension. SPD-P2303565 10/16/23 19:41 DRIVING UNDER SUSPENSION 1400 BLK 5TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to a Non-Injury Motor Vehicle Accident in front of the Western Nebraska Community College Applied Technological Building.No citations were issued.SPD-P2303567 10/17/23 09:48 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 1601 E 27TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to Main Street Market in reference to a shoplifting that had occurred the day before. Upon arrival, Officers met with employeesat the store and obtained information regarding the shoplifting. The investigation is ongoing in trying to identify and locate a suspect. SPD-P2303568 10/17/23 10:24 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 401 S BELTLINE HIGHWAY W, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police made contact with a female with active Scotts Bluff County warrants. Shannon Kephart, 59 of Scottsbluff was arrested on her warrants for disturbing the peace.SPD-P2303569 10/17/23 10:49 WARRANT ARRESTING AGENCY 1409 E 17TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police responded to a non injury accident at Elite Fitness. Accident report completed, no citations issued.SPD-P2303570 10/17/23 11:22 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 820 W 42ND ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Received a report of a 13 year old juvenile in possession of a THC vape pen and THC vape cartridge. Parents were contacted and juvenile issueda citation for possession of drug paraphernalia.SPD-P2303571 10/17/23 12:43 NARCOTIC VIOLATION 27 E 23RD ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police were contacted in reference to a shoplifting at Target. Currently under investigation.SPD-P2303573 10/17/23 15:05 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 1401 N FRONTAGE RD, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361A missing wallet was turned in to the Scottsbluff Public Safety Building. Another Law Enforcement Agency was notified to try to contact the owner as they live in another jurisdiction.SPD-P2303574 10/17/23 15:46 PROPERTY FOUND 1801 AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers were dispatched to the ringdown at the Scottsbluff Police Department in reference to a suspicious circumstance involving fraudulent activity. Officers made contact with a male. After further investigation, it was determined that someone had opened a checking account in his name. SPD-P2303575 10/17/23 16:27 FRAUD - FALSE PRETENSES 1926 BROADWAY AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361&nbsp;Officer responded to the ringdown phone in reference to a juvenile runaway. Juvenile was found the next day.SPD-P2303576 10/17/23 18:28 JUVENILE RUNAWAY 1801 AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officer responded to a non injury motor vehicle collision that occurred in the 600 block of West 27th Street. After investigation, Ivan Arriaga, 18 ofScottsbluff, was issued a citation for no operator's permit and leaving the scene of an accident.SPD-P2303577 10/17/23 18:41 ACCIDENT NON INJURY W 27TH ST.3. / AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to a residence in reference to a reported juvenile runaway. Juvenile was found the next day.SPD-P2303578 10/17/23 21:14 JUVENILE RUNAWAY 1724 12TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers were patrolling in the 700 block of West 26th Street and encountered a verbal disturbance. Upon investigation, it was revealed thatmultiple parties were involved in a physical disturbance. The case is ongoing. SPD-P2303580 10/18/23 00:28 ASSAULT SIMPLE 700 BLK W 26TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to the 2200 block of 2nd Avenue in reference to a vehicles being broken into. No suspect(s) identified at this time.SPD-P2303582 10/18/23 07:45 THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE 2211 2ND AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to the 2100 block of 1st Avenue in reference to a motor vehicle being broken into. No suspect(s) at this time.SPD-P2303584 10/18/23 09:52 THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE 2105 1ST AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to a non-injury accident in the parking lot of First National Bank of Omaha. No citations were issued.SPD-P2303585 10/18/23 13:41 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 1926 BROADWAY AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to the 1500 block of East 20th Street in reference to a motor vehicle being stolen. Reporting party contacted Officer on10/23/23 to advise vehicle was found.SPD-P2303587 10/18/23 13:45 THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE 1515 E 20TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361On August 31, 2023 I received an Adult Protective Services Intake regarding potential financial exploitation. Allegation was investigated andunfounded. See supplement.SPD-I2303586 10/18/23 14:07 SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE 111 W 36TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to WalMart in reference to a shoplifting. This is currently under investigation and a suspect has been identified.SPD-P2303589 10/18/23 15:14 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 3322 AVE I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361Officers responded to the 2000 block of Avenue I in reference to a man who had a active Scotts Bluff County Warrant. Upon investigation, Gabriel Archuleta, 39 of Scottsbluff was arrested for an attempt of a class 2 misdemeanor warrant and subsequently housed at Scotts Bluff County Detention Center.SPD-P2303590 10/18/23 16:55 WARRANT ARRESTING AGENCY 2002 AVE I, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to an individual sleeping in the roadway in the 1300 block of 4th Avenue. The individual was later taken into civil protective custody and housed at the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center. SPD-P2303591 10/18/23 18:31 PROTECTIVE CUSTODY CIVIL 323 E OVERLAND DR, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to a report of a juvenile runaway. Juvenile was found on 10/24/23.SPD-P2303592 10/18/23 21:11 JUVENILE RUNAWAY 1724 12TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361On the above date and time I responded to 9th Avenue and East 8th Street in reference to a non injury accident. No citations were issued.SPD-P2303593 10/19/23 07:20 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 9TH AVE / E 8TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361I responded to the above address and the reporting party reported someone online wanting $100.00 from him.SPD-P2303594 10/19/23 07:36 SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCE 801 W 31ST ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361I was called to Regional West Medical Center for a minor traffic crash. Someone's vehicle was hit while it was parked in the parking lot. Rundriver unknown.SPD-P2303596 10/19/23 12:09 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 4021 AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to the 700 block of West 27th Street in reference to a non injury motor vehicle accident. No citations were issued.SPD-P2303597 10/19/23 12:16 ACCIDENT NON INJURY W 27TH ST / AVE H, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361I was called to WalMart for a non injury minor traffic crash. Parked car was hit and suspect is unknown.SPD-P2303598 10/19/23 13:15 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 3322 AVE I, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to WalMart in reference to a shoplifting. Upon investigation, Raymond Martinez, 57 of Scottsbluff was cited for shoplifting. SPD-P2303601 10/19/23 13:59 THEFT SHOPLIFTING 3322 AVE I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361An officer responded to Valley Youth Connections in regards to two juveniles leaving without permission. The juveniles later returned to their home.SPD-P2303602 10/19/23 18:14 JUVENILE OTHER 29 S BELTLINE HIGHWAY W, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers were called to the 700 block of East 8th Street in regards to a disturbance. Fernando Villarreal, 41 of Scottsbluff, was subsequentlyarrested for Violation of a Protection Order with Prior Conviction. SPD-P2303603 10/19/23 19:00 PROTECTION ORDER VIOLATION 700 BLK E 8TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police were contacted in reference to a trespassing. Samantha Hightower, 40 of Scottsbluff was cited for trespassing.SPD-P2303604 10/20/23 09:31 TRESPASSING 818 E OVERLAND DR, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers collaborated with the Sheriff's Office in response to an animal cruelty call on Terry Boulevard. Harold Sitting Bear, 49 of Terrytown wascited for animal cruelty.SPD-P2303605 10/20/23 11:17 ANIMAL COMPLAINT 190624 HIGHWAY 26, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police were contacted in reference to a non injury accident. No citations issued.SPD-P2303606 10/20/23 11:20 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 401 S BELTLINE HIGHWAY W, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police were contacted in reference to a juvenile runaway. Juvenile was located the next day.SPD-P2303607 10/20/23 12:39 JUVENILE RUNAWAY 1518 3RD AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to a child exchange between two individuals. A domestic assault simple report was made on the female in response to an argument. SPD-P2303611 10/20/23 17:39 DOMESTIC ASSAULT/SIMPLE 112 W 20TH ST, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. As a result the passenger, Esmeralda Garza, 27 of Scottsbluff was arrested for Possession of aControlled Substance. She was also arrested for three outstanding arrest warrants. The driver James Lara Jr., 29 of Morrill, was arrested forViolation of a Protection Order.SPD-P2303612 10/20/23 17:44 NARCOTIC VIOLATION 818 E OVERLAND DR, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers were dispatched to the alley behind 38 Terry Boulevard in regards to a male with a knife. Upon arrival the male took off running down the alley and was later placed under arrest. The male was identified as Joseph Flood, 38 of Gering. Flood was booked in on the charges of resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.SPD-P2303613 10/20/23 18:22 ALL OTHER OFFENSES 38 TERRY BLVD, TERRYTOWNOfficer responded to the 1900 block of 1st Avenue in reference to a non injury motor vehicle collision. No citations were issued.SPD-P2303615 10/20/23 22:28 ACCIDENT NON INJURY 1919 1ST AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police were contacted in reference to an injury accident. Upon arrival vehicle was unoccupied and the vehicle was reported stolen. Theinvestigation is ongoing.SPD-P2303618 10/21/23 06:40 THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE E OVERLAND DR / 10TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to Highway 26 and Avenue B in reference to a non-injury accident. Upon further investigation, it was determined that a carcrashed into the back of a pickup stopped at the stoplight. James Huper, 58 of Scottsbluff was issued a citation for no Insurance.SPD-P2303617 10/21/23 07:26 ACCIDENT NON INJURY HIGHWAY 26 / AVE B, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police were contacted in reference to a theft from a vehicle. This is currently under investigation.SPD-P2303619 10/21/23 08:53 THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE 1711 11TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Police were contacted in reference to a theft from motor vehicle. Investigation is ongoing.SPD-P2303620 10/21/23 09:24 THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE 1705 11TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361I was dispatched to a hit and run on Woodley Park Road. Driver of run car is unknown.SPD-I2303623 10/21/23 09:56 ACCIDENT NON INJURY WOODLEY PARK RD, TERRYTOWNOfficers were dispatched to the intersection of South Beltline Highway East and 5th Avenue in reference to a motor vehicle accident with injuries.Upon further investigation, it was determined a driver ran a red light traveling eastbound and struck a vehicle that was traveling northbound on 5thAvenue. One of the drivers were transported to Regional West Medical Center for medical evaluation. SPD-P2303624 10/21/23 10:52 ACCIDENT INJURY 5TH AVE / E BELTL, SCOTTSBLUFFI was dispatched to Avenue B and South Beltline Highway West reference a motor vehicle accident. No citations were issued.SPD-I2303625 10/21/23 12:05 ACCIDENT NON INJURY AVE B / S BELTLINE HIGHWAY W, SCOTTSBLUFF, NEPolice were contacted in reference to a suspicious circumstance. The two parties were separated and report was made for documentation only.SPD-P2303627 10/21/23 16:38 DOMESTIC NON-VIOLENT 1701 5TH AVE, SCOTTSBLUFF, NE 69361Officers responded to a residence for a possible burglary. Upon investigation it was determined only the door handle was damaged and no entry was gained into the residence. No suspect at this time.

Scottsbluff Police Department Activity log: Oct 15-21

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Why in the world do we have this weird holiday at the end of October where people, mostly children, dress up in costumes and go door-to-door begging for candy? Turns out it's based on an ancient Celtic festival called Samhain. Samhain (pronounced “SOW-in”) was one of the four main festivals of the Gaelic calendar, marking the end of harvest and beginning of winter. The festival was brought to America by Irish and Scottish immigrants.

Samhain is halfway between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice. Samhain was a fire festival that marked the end of the light and the beginning of the dark half of the year. It is celebrated on November 1, but in Celtic tradition, the day begins at sundown, so the night of October 31 is when the celebration began. On the sacred night, people gathered to light bonfires, offer sacrifices, and pay homage to the dead.

Wikipedia says that Samhain was a threshold festival, when the boundary between this world and the Otherworld thinned. Doorways were opened, allowing supernatural beings and the souls of the dead to come into our world. We'd call these ghosts and fairies. At Samhain, these spirits were appeased with offerings of food and drink, to ensure the people and livestock survived the winter. The souls of dead family members were thought to revisit their homes seeking hospitality, and a place was set at the table for them during a meal.

Historians have learned that, since at least the 1600's, people went from house to house in costume or disguise, usually reciting songs or verses in exchange for food. They think that the tradition came from people impersonating souls of the dead to get offerings on their behalf. By dressing up as these ghosts or spirits, they were protected from being harmed.

In Scotland, young men went from house to house wearing masks or faces blackened by the ashes from the town's bonfire. They threatened to do mischief if they weren't welcomed and fed cake. (Trick or Treat!)

In parts of Ireland, a man covered in a white sheet and carrying a decorated horse skull would lead a group of youths, blowing on cow horns, from farm to farm. At each they recited verses, and the farmer was expected to donate food. The food was used for the Samhain feast or saved for the winter.

Samhain was a time to take stock of the herds and food supplies. Harvest was completed. Cattle and sheep were brought down to the winter pastures after six months in the higher summer pastures. Some animals were slaughtered, both for the feast and for food during the winter.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityWhy in the world do we have this weird holiday at the end of October where people, mostly children, dress up in costumes and go door-to-door begging for candy? Turns out it's based on an ancient Celtic festival called Samhain. Samhain (pronounced “SOW-in”) was one of the four main festivals of the Gaelic calendar, marking the end of harvest and beginning of winter. The festival was brought to America by Irish and Scottish immigrants.Samhain is halfway between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice. Samhain was a fire festival that marked the end of the light and the beginning of the dark half of the year. It is celebrated on November 1, but in Celtic tradition, the day begins at sundown, so the night of October 31 is when the celebration began. On the sacred night, people gathered to light bonfires, offer sacrifices, and pay homage to the dead.Wikipedia says that Samhain was a threshold festival, when the boundary between this world and the Otherworld thinned. Doorways were opened, allowing supernatural beings and the souls of the dead to come into our world. We'd call these ghosts and fairies. At Samhain, these spirits were appeased with offerings of food and drink, to ensure the people and livestock survived the winter. The souls of dead family members were thought to revisit their homes seeking hospitality, and a place was set at the table for them during a meal.Historians have learned that, since at least the 1600's, people went from house to house in costume or disguise, usually reciting songs or verses in exchange for food. They think that the tradition came from people impersonating souls of the dead to get offerings on their behalf. By dressing up as these ghosts or spirits, they were protected from being harmed.In Scotland, young men went from house to house wearing masks or faces blackened by the ashes from the town's bonfire. They threatened to do mischief if they weren't welcomed and fed cake. (Trick or Treat!)In parts of Ireland, a man covered in a white sheet and carrying a decorated horse skull would lead a group of youths, blowing on cow horns, from farm to farm. At each they recited verses, and the farmer was expected to donate food. The food was used for the Samhain feast or saved for the winter.Samhain was a time to take stock of the herds and food supplies. Harvest was completed. Cattle and sheep were brought down to the winter pastures after six months in the higher summer pastures. Some animals were slaughtered, both for the feast and for food during the winter.Eventually the traditions from Samhain found their way into "All Hallow's Eve," the day before All Saints Day and All Soul's Day. Children and poor people would go door to door and sing songs or recite poetry. People gave them "soul cakes" in exchange for a promise to sing and prayfor the souls of the homeowners’ dead relatives, allowing the soul to escape from purgatory into heaven.In the early 20th century, Irish and Scottish communities practiced "souling" and "guising." Following World War II, Halloween became a holiday celebrated by all children. After sugar was rationed during the war, people were hungry for sweet treats. People handed out things like cookies or popcorn balls. Soon candy companies picked up on the idea and launched advertising campaigns to sell candy.According to the National Retail Federation, Americans will spend over $3 billion on candy for Halloween this year. Over twenty groups will be set up on Box Butte Avenue for Alliance's Trunk or Treat. We'll have dozens of kids ringing our doorbell - shouting Trick or Treat!

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