Wally A. Seiler has announced the recent awarding of grants and scholarships totaling $8,900 by the Darold A. Newblom Foundation to three organizations and six individuals. Seiler serves as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Foundation which was created under the terms of the Last Will and Testament of the late Mr. Newblom.

Those organizations receiving grants are Post Playhouse, Inc., Crawford, Nebraska ($3,150 to fund internships for students in stage management/technology); White River Wacipi, Crawford, Nebraska ($750 to aid with the cost of speakers and presenters); and Crawford Public Schools, Crawford, Nebraska ($2,000 to help implement the 8 to Great curriculum).

Individuals receiving scholarships, each in the amount of $500, are Alliance residents Chloe Blumanthal and Nicholas Waldron; Chadron resident Maralee Rischling; Crawford resident Ty Brady; and Hemingford residents Rylie Wright and Taren Hunter.

This marks the thirty-third year that grants and scholarships have been given by the Newblom Foundation which was established to support activities for the moral, mental, intellectual and physical development of young men and women in Box Butte and Dawes Counties, Nebraska; to provide scholarships for assisting students in obtaining an education; and to assist in the founding, equipping and maintaining of associations or institutions engaged in the advancement of learning. During the past thirty-three years, the Newblom Foundation has provided funding of $408,651.19 in support of its goals.

Grants and scholarships from the Newblom Foundation are awarded once a year. Applications for the 2024 grants and scholarships will be available from Seiler after January 1, 2024, at his home at 1208 Laramie Avenue, Alliance, Nebraska 69301.

News ReleaseWally A. Seiler has announced the recent awarding of grants and scholarships totaling $8,900 by the Darold A. Newblom Foundation to three organizations and six individuals. Seiler serves as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Foundation which was created under the terms of the Last Will and Testament of the late Mr. Newblom.Those organizations receiving grants are Post Playhouse, Inc., Crawford, Nebraska ($3,150 to fund internships for students in stage management/technology); White River Wacipi, Crawford, Nebraska ($750 to aid with the cost of speakers and presenters); and Crawford Public Schools, Crawford, Nebraska ($2,000 to help implement the 8 to Great curriculum).Individuals receiving scholarships, each in the amount of $500, are Alliance residents Chloe Blumanthal and Nicholas Waldron; Chadron resident Maralee Rischling; Crawford resident Ty Brady; and Hemingford residents Rylie Wright and Taren Hunter.This marks the thirty-third year that grants and scholarships have been given by the Newblom Foundation which was established to support activities for the moral, mental, intellectual and physical development of young men and women in Box Butte and Dawes Counties, Nebraska; to provide scholarships for assisting students in obtaining an education; and to assist in the founding, equipping and maintaining of associations or institutions engaged in the advancement of learning. During the past thirty-three years, the Newblom Foundation has provided funding of $408,651.19 in support of its goals.Grants and scholarships from the Newblom Foundation are awarded once a year. Applications for the 2024 grants and scholarships will be available from Seiler after January 1, 2024, at his home at 1208 Laramie Avenue, Alliance, Nebraska 69301.

Newblom Foundation announce scholarship, grant recipients 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 7/12/23

Lincoln, NE – Due to high sales, the Multi-State Lottery Association has increased the estimated jackpot amount for the Wednesday, July 12 Powerball drawing to $750 million or $378.8 million with the cash option selected.

The Powerball jackpot starts at $20 million and continues to grow each drawing until it is won. There have been 35 consecutive Powerball drawings since April 22 without a jackpot winner.

Ten jackpots ranging from $2.5 million to $365 million have been won in Nebraska since the Nebraska Lottery began offering Powerball in July of 1994. The largest Powerball jackpot won in Nebraska occurred in February 2006 when a group of eight coworkers at the ConAgra Foods ham and corned beef plant in Lincoln split a $365 million jackpot.

Because of the high Powerball jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at problemgambling.nebraska.gov.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $936 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

By&nbsp;Nebraska LotteryLincoln, NE – Due to high sales, the Multi-State Lottery Association has increased the estimated jackpot amount for the Wednesday, July 12 Powerball drawing to $750 million or $378.8 million with the cash option selected.The Powerball jackpot starts at $20 million and continues to grow each drawing until it is won. There have been 35 consecutive Powerball drawings since April 22 without a jackpot winner.Ten jackpots ranging from $2.5 million to $365 million have been won in Nebraska since the Nebraska Lottery began offering Powerball in July of 1994. The largest Powerball jackpot won in Nebraska occurred in February 2006 when a group of eight coworkers at the ConAgra Foods ham and corned beef plant in Lincoln split a $365 million jackpot.Play ResponsiblyBecause of the high Powerball jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at problemgambling.nebraska.gov.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $936 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Powerball Jackpot increased for Wednesday drawing

There have been some new businesses popping up in the panhandle recently,  and one of them is a little dirty. Dirty Pop is a soda shop that opened up in Alliance about two weeks ago. LuAnne Hancock is the co-owner of Dirty Pop with her sister in law Bailey Griffith, and LuAnne explains what makes the drinks dirty. 

"We have dirty soda's and dirty energy drink's, so what that means that when you put any flavoring into a soda, it makes it into a dirty soda," Hancock said.&nbsp;

LuAnne  says  that Dirty Pop has more common flavors like vanilla, lemonade and root beer, but also has unique flavors like cheesecake, toasted marshmallows and s'mores. Another unique aspect is&nbsp; that each drink is named after a 90's band. The top selling drink at the moment is the "Truly, madly deeply" which is Dr. Pepper, vanilla  and coconut cream. LuAnne says that they are happy with how they have been welcomed so far by the community.

  Dirty Pop is located across the street from the Dairy Queen in Alliance and you can find them on Facebook by just typing in Dirty Pop and also on Instagram at Dirty Pop Soda Shop.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThere have been some new businesses popping up in the panhandle recently, and one of them is a little dirty. Dirty Pop is a soda shop that opened up in Alliance about two weeks ago. LuAnne Hancock is the co-owner of Dirty Pop with her sister in law Bailey Griffith, and LuAnne explains what makes the drinks dirty. "We have dirty soda's and dirty energy drink's, so what that means that when you put any flavoring into a soda, it makes it into a dirty soda," Hancock said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689129075958.jpeg" alt="Dirty Pop" />
 <figcaption>Dirty Pop</figcaption>
 </figure>LuAnne says that Dirty Pop has more common flavors like vanilla, lemonade and root beer, but also has unique flavors like cheesecake, toasted marshmallows and s'mores. Another unique aspect is&nbsp; that each drink is named after a 90's band. The top selling drink at the moment is the "Truly, madly deeply" which is Dr. Pepper, vanilla and coconut cream. LuAnne says that they are happy with how they have been welcomed so far by the community. Dirty Pop is located across the street from the Dairy Queen in Alliance and you can find them on Facebook by just typing in Dirty Pop and also on Instagram at Dirty Pop Soda Shop.

Dirty Pop brings unique variety to Soda in Alliance

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

In 2017 Alliance was on the center line for an amazing solar eclipse. We had visitors from all over the world. I was on the eclipse planning committee, and that weekend Earl and I hosted five speakers at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center who shared information about the astronomy projects they were working on or the videos they were making. Each program had several hundred attendees, and we talked to many of them. People were amazed that the parks and recreation facilities were open to the public, and most activities were free. Universally, our guests commented on how beautiful Alliance is!

What were their comments based on? The Performing Arts Center is a grand facility. The open skies and Sandhills landscapes are like nothing most of our visitors had ever seen. But what made the biggest impression was our community's parks, jewels which we continue to enjoy.

The Alliance Parks System runs through the center of town and is tied together by the Snake Creek trail. All day long you'll see walkers, runners, and people on bicycles using the trail. Today if guests don't bring bikes, there are locations along the trail where they can borrow a green bike provided by Activate Alliance.

Central Park has open spaces for games, a large playground, and picnic shelters. The sunken gardens are surrounded by majestic pillars. Central Park hosts the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, the Sallows Military Museum, and the Conservatory. The Central Park Fountain was built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. In 1988 Alliance raised money to renovate the fountain, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On a summer evening, the fountain's light-and-water show is entrancing.

Laing Lake is the centerpiece of the northern end of the park system and is a great place for fishing and canoeing, especially for kids. The park surrounding the lake has a disc golf course, skateboard park, playground, and shelters.

Many people travel with their pets. Wiggly Field Dog Park is located at 1603 Box Butte Avenue. Your dogs can enjoy 2 1/2 acres of fenced-in grassy freedom from sunrise to sundown! Amenities include drinking water, small wading pools, multiple cleanup bag stations, separate area for small dogs or dogs that need a private space, covered gazebo and stone benches. Handicapped access parking is available at Big Blue Bay swimming pool.

The Big Blue Bay swimming pool has water slides, diving boards, two water features, and a zero-entry area. Special times are set aside for lap swimming. Guests to Alliance often drop their kids off to swim while they visit the Alliance Public Library. The library offers wireless internet, computers, and places to sit and read.

The park system has four ball field areas with eight fields. The two tennis court areas are also used for basketball and pickleball. Scattered through the community we have several neighborhood parks and playgrounds.

In last week's column I talked about all the activities in Alliance that we need to take our guests to: Carhenge, Dobby's Frontier Town, Carnegie Arts Center, the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, Sallows Military Museum, the Nebraska Veteran's Cemetery, and Skyview Golf Course. We often take our attractions, museums, and parks for granted. Most are free or low cost. Our conversations during the 2017 Eclipse with people from all over the United States and several foreign countries made us realize that Alliance truly is an exceptional town. We have so many wonderful activities in our community, so much to be proud of!

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityIn 2017 Alliance was on the center line for an amazing solar eclipse. We had visitors from all over the world. I was on the eclipse planning committee, and that weekend Earl and I hosted five speakers at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center who shared information about the astronomy projects they were working on or the videos they were making. Each program had several hundred attendees, and we talked to many of them. People were amazed that the parks and recreation facilities were open to the public, and most activities were free. Universally, our guests commented on how beautiful Alliance is!What were their comments based on? The Performing Arts Center is a grand facility. The open skies and Sandhills landscapes are like nothing most of our visitors had ever seen. But what made the biggest impression was our community's parks, jewels which we continue to enjoy.The Alliance Parks System runs through the center of town and is tied together by the Snake Creek trail. All day long you'll see walkers, runners, and people on bicycles using the trail. Today if guests don't bring bikes, there are locations along the trail where they can borrow a green bike provided by Activate Alliance.Central Park has open spaces for games, a large playground, and picnic shelters. The sunken gardens are surrounded by majestic pillars. Central Park hosts the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, the Sallows Military Museum, and the Conservatory. The Central Park Fountain was built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. In 1988 Alliance raised money to renovate the fountain, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On a summer evening, the fountain's light-and-water show is entrancing.Laing Lake is the centerpiece of the northern end of the park system and is a great place for fishing and canoeing, especially for kids. The park surrounding the lake has a disc golf course, skateboard park, playground, and shelters.Many people travel with their pets. Wiggly Field Dog Park is located at 1603 Box Butte Avenue. Your dogs can enjoy 2 1/2 acres of fenced-in grassy freedom from sunrise to sundown! Amenities include drinking water, small wading pools, multiple cleanup bag stations, separate area for small dogs or dogs that need a private space, covered gazebo and stone benches. Handicapped access parking is available at Big Blue Bay swimming pool.The Big Blue Bay swimming pool has water slides, diving boards, two water features, and a zero-entry area. Special times are set aside for lap swimming. Guests to Alliance often drop their kids off to swim while they visit the Alliance Public Library. The library offers wireless internet, computers, and places to sit and read.The park system has four ball field areas with eight fields. The two tennis court areas are also used for basketball and pickleball. Scattered through the community we have several neighborhood parks and playgrounds.In last week's column I talked about all the activities in Alliance that we need to take our guests to: Carhenge, Dobby's Frontier Town, Carnegie Arts Center, the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, Sallows Military Museum, the Nebraska Veteran's Cemetery, and Skyview Golf Course. We often take our attractions, museums, and parks for granted. Most are free or low cost. Our conversations during the 2017 Eclipse with people from all over the United States and several foreign countries made us realize that Alliance truly is an exceptional town. We have so many wonderful activities in our community, so much to be proud of!

Getting Ahead: Alliance's park system 

The Alliance Municipal Building phone lines are back up and functional.&nbsp;

Alliance – Due to the phone system upgrade, the Municipal Building’s phone system is temporarily non-operational. This includes the Administration offices, Community Development, Utility Office and Fire Department.

You may contact the Public Works Facility at (308) 762-1907 for service until the main contact line is restored.

By City of AllianceUPDATE 9:20 a.m.&nbsp;The Alliance Municipal Building phone lines are back up and functional.&nbsp;------------------Alliance – Due to the phone system upgrade, the Municipal Building’s phone system is temporarily non-operational. This includes the Administration offices, Community Development, Utility Office and Fire Department.You may contact the Public Works Facility at (308) 762-1907 for service until the main contact line is restored.

UPDATE: Alliance Municipal Building experiencing phone issues 

The 100 and 200 blocks of Bordeaux Street and the 100 and 200 blocks of East Second Street are closed for the set up of the carnival for Fur Trade Days.&nbsp; If you have a vehicle parked in this area, please have it removed.&nbsp; This closure will be in effect for the remainder of the week.&nbsp; 

We appreciate your cooperation and if there are any questions, please contact the police department at <a href="tel:4320510">432-0510</a>.

By City of Chadron&nbsp;The 100 and 200 blocks of Bordeaux Street and the 100 and 200 blocks of East Second Street are closed for the set up of the carnival for Fur Trade Days.&nbsp; If you have a vehicle parked in this area, please have it removed.&nbsp; This closure will be in effect for the remainder of the week.&nbsp; We appreciate your cooperation and if there are any questions, please contact the police department at <a href="tel:4320510">432-0510</a>.

City of Chadron announce street closure 

&nbsp;The Alliance Public Library will host a Firefly Painting Workshop with local artist and Instructor Rachelle Eversole on Saturday, July 22nd at 10:30am in the APL Community Room. The class is $45.

To sign up or for more information, call 308.762.1387 or email nstewart@cityofalliance.net.

By City of Alliance&nbsp;The Alliance Public Library will host a Firefly Painting Workshop with local artist and Instructor Rachelle Eversole on Saturday, July 22nd at 10:30am in the APL Community Room. The class is $45.To sign up or for more information, call 308.762.1387 or email nstewart@cityofalliance.net.

Firefly Painting Workshop  coming to Alliance

A policy change was approved on Monday at the Alliance  Public Schools board meeting,&nbsp; APS  School Superintendent Troy Unziker says that it is a policy that is a mandatory and randomized drug testing for students that are involved in extra-curricular activities and while also giving parents the opportunity to opt-in&nbsp; even if the students are not involved in extra-curriculars.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The policy passed on a majority vote of 4-1 as the 2nd reading of the policy after it was brought to the board in June.

The policy states that those students that  have tested positive for either drugs and or alcohol will receive varying disciplinary actions  that includes missing practice for the first two  failed tests  to more strict consequences like suspension and expulsion of activities for the final fourth and 5th failed drug tests.

Despite the  consequences for the students with failed tests, Dr. Unziker says the policy is not intended for punishment.&nbsp; The hopes of implementing a policy like this is to be a deterrent," Unziker said."It gives the kids&nbsp; another reason, another opportunity to avoid that peer pressure."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Many in attendance on Monday were in favor of the policy, including&nbsp;Tearza Mashburn, who talked about the issue  of drug use in Alliance, and her own life experiences in support of the policy.&nbsp;

"I would like for this policy to be seen as a positive aspect,&nbsp; Mashburn said.&nbsp; "To send the message that 'we see you, we see that you need help and we will help."

Not all  were in support of the policy, as Jeff Schneider said that he felt that was already policies in place to address drug and alcohol use in schools and that the new policy is an overreach. "I don't feel that while my kids are in activities that it is the job of the school, to do that. That's my job."

By: Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostA policy change was approved on Monday at the Alliance Public Schools board meeting,&nbsp; APS School Superintendent Troy Unziker says that it is a policy that is a mandatory and randomized drug testing for students that are involved in extra-curricular activities and while also giving parents the opportunity to opt-in&nbsp; even if the students are not involved in extra-curriculars.&nbsp;&nbsp;The policy passed on a majority vote of 4-1 as the 2nd reading of the policy after it was brought to the board in June.The policy states that those students that have tested positive for either drugs and or alcohol will receive varying disciplinary actions that includes missing practice for the first two failed tests to more strict consequences like suspension and expulsion of activities for the final fourth and 5th failed drug tests.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689101456890.jpeg" alt="APS School board meeting" />
 <figcaption>APS School board meeting</figcaption>
 </figure>Despite the consequences for the students with failed tests, Dr. Unziker says the policy is not intended for punishment.&nbsp; The hopes of implementing a policy like this is to be a deterrent," Unziker said."It gives the kids&nbsp; another reason, another opportunity to avoid that peer pressure."&nbsp;&nbsp;Many in attendance on Monday were in favor of the policy, including&nbsp;Tearza Mashburn, who talked about the issue of drug use in Alliance, and her own life experiences in support of the policy.&nbsp;"I would like for this policy to be seen as a positive aspect,&nbsp; Mashburn said.&nbsp; "To send the message that 'we see you, we see that you need help and we will help."Not all were in support of the policy, as Jeff Schneider said that he felt that was already policies in place to address drug and alcohol use in schools and that the new policy is an overreach. "I don't feel that while my kids are in activities that it is the job of the school, to do that. That's my job."The policy will be enacted next fall.

Alliance Public Schools approve mandatory, randomized drug testing

This is the Post Podcast, I'm Kalin Krohe. We spoke with Haley Anders from Upper Niobrara White NRD recently about their water sampling program.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Upper Niobrara Water NRD talks water sampling program" 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=8it2u-1453719-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>This is the Post Podcast, I'm Kalin Krohe. We spoke with Haley Anders from Upper Niobrara White NRD recently about their water sampling program.&nbsp;<figure>
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Post Podcast: Upper Niobrara White NRD talks water sampling program 

Biologists are continuing to tag and track walleye and sauger in the Missouri River and Lewis and Clark Lake between Fort Randall and Gavins Point dams as part of an effort to understand declines in the fishery following historic flooding in 2011.

Since 2021, 201 fish have been tagged in the river and reservoir as part of a study of fish movement. The fish sport metal jaw tags, but also have acoustic transmitters implanted in their abdomens. Fifteen receivers spaced every 5 miles throughout the system record any fish that passes within a half mile. So far, 44 fish have been caught and 39 harvested. Two fish have been caught three times.

Biologists hope to use this information to help determine why fishing has declined in the reservoir since 2011, when months of high flows flushed many fish through the Gavins Point dam. The loss included emerald shiners, the primary forage base in the reservoir, which hasn’t recovered. Neither have walleye, despite more than 100 million fry and fingerlings being stocked since 2014.

Will Radigan, the University of Nebraska-­­­­­Lincoln graduate student doing the field work for the project, said so far the study has shown about 25% of the nearly 200 tagged fish are moving less than a mile, while 10% have moved more than 60. One fish tagged in May 2022 below Fort Randall dam moved 66 miles downstream to Gavins Point dam by September, turned around and went back upstream and was caught in April near where it was tagged.

Two walleye and two sauger have passed through Gavins Point Dam, a fact that is suspected to be part of the issue facing the fishery. Radigan is also sampling larval fish in the spillway below the dam and has found during peak entrainment, more than 20,000 fish per hour pass through the dam. More than 90% are freshwater drum, which is now the primary forage base in the reservoir, but walleye and sauger are also moving through the dam.

Biologists used nets, electrofishing and hook and line to catch a sampling of fish from different reaches of the river, reservoir and the delta at its upper end. They even enlisted the help of Mike Hansa of Yutan, a fishing guide with The Walleye Guys, who helped catch 56 fish to tag.

A few more fish will be tagged next spring, and tracking will continue through 2025.

Jaw tags are stamped with a three-digit number. Anglers catching these fish are asked to call the conservation agency in their state to report the tag number. If they harvest the fish, they are asked to recover the transmitter and return it as well.

In Nebraska, anglers should report tag numbers to the Northeast District Office in Norfolk at 402-370-3373.

Partners on this research project include the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, South Dakota Game, Fish &amp; Parks, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Natural Resources.

By Nebraska Game and ParksBiologists are continuing to tag and track walleye and sauger in the Missouri River and Lewis and Clark Lake between Fort Randall and Gavins Point dams as part of an effort to understand declines in the fishery following historic flooding in 2011.Since 2021, 201 fish have been tagged in the river and reservoir as part of a study of fish movement. The fish sport metal jaw tags, but also have acoustic transmitters implanted in their abdomens. Fifteen receivers spaced every 5 miles throughout the system record any fish that passes within a half mile. So far, 44 fish have been caught and 39 harvested. Two fish have been caught three times.Biologists hope to use this information to help determine why fishing has declined in the reservoir since 2011, when months of high flows flushed many fish through the Gavins Point dam. The loss included emerald shiners, the primary forage base in the reservoir, which hasn’t recovered. Neither have walleye, despite more than 100 million fry and fingerlings being stocked since 2014.Will Radigan, the University of Nebraska-­­­­­Lincoln graduate student doing the field work for the project, said so far the study has shown about 25% of the nearly 200 tagged fish are moving less than a mile, while 10% have moved more than 60. One fish tagged in May 2022 below Fort Randall dam moved 66 miles downstream to Gavins Point dam by September, turned around and went back upstream and was caught in April near where it was tagged.Two walleye and two sauger have passed through Gavins Point Dam, a fact that is suspected to be part of the issue facing the fishery. Radigan is also sampling larval fish in the spillway below the dam and has found during peak entrainment, more than 20,000 fish per hour pass through the dam. More than 90% are freshwater drum, which is now the primary forage base in the reservoir, but walleye and sauger are also moving through the dam.Biologists used nets, electrofishing and hook and line to catch a sampling of fish from different reaches of the river, reservoir and the delta at its upper end. They even enlisted the help of Mike Hansa of Yutan, a fishing guide with The Walleye Guys, who helped catch 56 fish to tag.A few more fish will be tagged next spring, and tracking will continue through 2025.Jaw tags are stamped with a three-digit number. Anglers catching these fish are asked to call the conservation agency in their state to report the tag number. If they harvest the fish, they are asked to recover the transmitter and return it as well.In Nebraska, anglers should report tag numbers to the Northeast District Office in Norfolk at 402-370-3373.Partners on this research project include the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, South Dakota Game, Fish &amp; Parks, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Natural Resources.

Research seeks answers to Missouri River fishery decline after 2011 flood

SCOTTSBLUFF&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested three people after locating multiple controlled substances during a traffic stop in Scotts Bluff County.

At approximately 5:30 p.m. MT, Friday, July 7, a trooper observed a northbound Ford F-250 speeding on Highway 71, south of Gering. During the traffic stop, a Gering Police Department K9 detected the odor of a controlled substance in the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle revealed over 1,400 suspected fentanyl pills and smaller amounts of suspected methamphetamine and marijuana, as well as drug paraphernalia. One of the passengers in the vehicle also provided false identification.

The driver, Schuyler Lammers, 36, and passengers, Cory Croyle, 36, and Kaylonie Goff, 29, all of Rapid City, South Dakota, were arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver an exceptionally hazardous drug, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana – less than one ounce, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Goff was also cited for criminal impersonation. All three were lodged in Scotts Bluff County Jail.

By NSPSCOTTSBLUFF&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested three people after locating multiple controlled substances during a traffic stop in Scotts Bluff County.At approximately 5:30 p.m. MT, Friday, July 7, a trooper observed a northbound Ford F-250 speeding on Highway 71, south of Gering. During the traffic stop, a Gering Police Department K9 detected the odor of a controlled substance in the vehicle.A search of the vehicle revealed over 1,400 suspected fentanyl pills and smaller amounts of suspected methamphetamine and marijuana, as well as drug paraphernalia. One of the passengers in the vehicle also provided false identification.The driver, Schuyler Lammers, 36, and passengers, Cory Croyle, 36, and Kaylonie Goff, 29, all of Rapid City, South Dakota, were arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver an exceptionally hazardous drug, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana – less than one ounce, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Goff was also cited for criminal impersonation. All three were lodged in Scotts Bluff County Jail.

Troopers find fentanyl pills, arrest 3 in traffic stop near Gering   

By&nbsp; ALEX BENZEGALA Panhandle Post

Tonight (Monday) there is an Alliance Public Schools School Board meeting at the Alliance Board of Education room at 7 PM. Some of the items at the meeting include accepting and discussion of staff resignations, and also approve hiring recommendations for the upcoming school year. 

Another item will be holding a public hearing on a proposed student fee policy, and the public will be given a chance to voice their opinions before a vote a on the policy. Thee meeting will be at 1604 Sweetwater Ave in Alliance.

By&nbsp; ALEX BENZEGALA Panhandle PostTonight (Monday) there is an Alliance Public Schools School Board meeting at the Alliance Board of Education room at 7 PM. Some of the items at the meeting include accepting and discussion of staff resignations, and also approve hiring recommendations for the upcoming school year. Another item will be holding a public hearing on a proposed student fee policy, and the public will be given a chance to voice their opinions before a vote a on the policy. Thee meeting will be at 1604 Sweetwater Ave in Alliance.

Alliance School Board to discuss student fee policy 

LEXINGTON, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office and the Lexington Police Department, have arrested a Colorado man after he reportedly pointed a rifle at another person at the I-80 Eastbound Rest Area near Cozad.

At approximately 8:55 a.m. Sunday, NSP received a report of a verbal altercation between two men at the I-80 rest area at mile marker 226. The reporting party stated that the man he was arguing with pulled out a rifle and pointed it towards him. The reporting party observed the other man place the rifle into a minivan, then get into a different vehicle. The suspect’s vehicle, a Chevrolet Malibu, and the minivan then departed the rest area together, eastbound on I-80.

Troopers were able to locate the Malibu near mile marker 233 and perform a traffic stop. The driver, Jonah McKinley, 28, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, was taken into custody. Dawson County Sheriff’s Deputies were able to locate the minivan and perform a traffic stop. Deputies located the rifle, which was defaced, in the minivan, which was being driven by McKinley’s girlfriend.

Troopers also discovered that McKinley is prohibited from possessing a firearm and was in violation of a protection order held by his girlfriend against him. He was arrested for making terroristic threats, use of a firearm to commit a felony, possession of a defaced firearm, possession of a short rifle, violation of a protection order, and no operator’s license. He was lodged in Dawson County Jail.

By Nebraska State PatrolLEXINGTON, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office and the Lexington Police Department, have arrested a Colorado man after he reportedly pointed a rifle at another person at the I-80 Eastbound Rest Area near Cozad.At approximately 8:55 a.m. Sunday, NSP received a report of a verbal altercation between two men at the I-80 rest area at mile marker 226. The reporting party stated that the man he was arguing with pulled out a rifle and pointed it towards him. The reporting party observed the other man place the rifle into a minivan, then get into a different vehicle. The suspect’s vehicle, a Chevrolet Malibu, and the minivan then departed the rest area together, eastbound on I-80.Troopers were able to locate the Malibu near mile marker 233 and perform a traffic stop. The driver, Jonah McKinley, 28, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, was taken into custody. Dawson County Sheriff’s Deputies were able to locate the minivan and perform a traffic stop. Deputies located the rifle, which was defaced, in the minivan, which was being driven by McKinley’s girlfriend.Troopers also discovered that McKinley is prohibited from possessing a firearm and was in violation of a protection order held by his girlfriend against him. He was arrested for making terroristic threats, use of a firearm to commit a felony, possession of a defaced firearm, possession of a short rifle, violation of a protection order, and no operator’s license. He was lodged in Dawson County Jail.

Colorado man arrested after pointing rifle in altercation at rest area

By ALEX BENZEGALA &nbsp;Panhandle Post

There was severe weather in the Nebraska Panhandle on Saturday afternoon that included up to golf sized hail in some areas.  Damage included destroyed crops, trees and plants just northeast of Sidney, along with power outages in Chappelle. 

 There were also reports of a rollover accident on Highway 26 east of Minatare. 

Hail on the road and dense fog was reported at the time of the accident  and there were also   flood waters were also seen over county roads near Redington and in Bayard in Morrill County.  The severe weather was mostly between 3 and 5 pm on  Saturday.

By ALEX BENZEGALA &nbsp;Panhandle PostThere was severe weather in the Nebraska Panhandle on Saturday afternoon that included up to golf sized hail in some areas. Damage included destroyed crops, trees and plants just northeast of Sidney, along with power outages in Chappelle. There were also reports of a rollover accident on Highway 26 east of Minatare. Hail on the road and dense fog was reported at the time of the accident and there were also flood waters were also seen over county roads near Redington and in Bayard in Morrill County. The severe weather was mostly between 3 and 5 pm on Saturday.

Saturday weather caused damages to Panhandle

Pickleball is one of the fastest rising sports in the country and this upcoming weekend there are two pickleball events in Alliance.

Emily Stein is the Program Coordinator for Sport &amp; Recreation for youth and adults at the Alliance Recreation Center, and talked to Panhandle Post about details about the events and pickleball in general. "The first one is Saturday, July 15th and it is a youth pickleball clinic from 9 am to 11 am," Stein said. "Parents are encouraged to learn alongside their kids it's a fun thing for families to do together." Stein said.

The price for members of the ARC for the youth clinic is $7 per child and $10 per child for non-members. Parents are free and deadline to sign-up is Thursday 7/13.

 On Sunday, adults will have a chance to participate in a doubles pickleball tournament, with prizes available to the winners. Stein says that pickleball has been growing in popularity in Alliance that shows in the turnout for open pickleball at the ARC. Open pickleball  at Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3  to 5pm.

 For more information you can reach the Alliance Recreation Center at 308-762-2201.

By ALEX BENZGALA,&nbsp; Panhandle PostPickleball is one of the fastest rising sports in the country and this upcoming weekend there are two pickleball events in Alliance.Emily Stein is the Program Coordinator for Sport &amp; Recreation for youth and adults at the Alliance Recreation Center, and talked to Panhandle Post about details about the events and pickleball in general. "The first one is Saturday, July 15th and it is a youth pickleball clinic from 9 am to 11 am," Stein said. "Parents are encouraged to learn alongside their kids it's a fun thing for families to do together." Stein said.The price for members of the ARC for the youth clinic is $7 per child and $10 per child for non-members. Parents are free and deadline to sign-up is Thursday 7/13. On Sunday, adults will have a chance to participate in a doubles pickleball tournament, with prizes available to the winners. Stein says that pickleball has been growing in popularity in Alliance that shows in the turnout for open pickleball at the ARC. Open pickleball at Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3 to 5pm. For more information you can reach the Alliance Recreation Center at 308-762-2201.

Pickleball events scheduled for this weekend in Alliance

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Nebraska State Troopers took 36 impaired drivers off the road in the days surrounding the Independence Day holiday.

“Our troopers stayed busy this weekend as Nebraskans gathered to celebrate America,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As the summer continues, we encourage all travelers to drive safely no matter how far the road trip takes you.”

Troopers and dispatchers worked overtime from June 30 through July 5 as part of a nationwide effort to keep roads safe for 4th&nbsp;of July travel. NSP’s campaign was made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

In addition to the 36 arrests for driving under the influence, troopers also issued citations for speeding (612), speeding over 100 MPH (19), open alcohol container (30), minor in possession of alcohol (25), driving under suspension (30), no seat belt (18), and improper child restraint (13). Troopers also performed 278 motorist assists across the state.

Troopers will continue specialized traffic enforcement efforts this summer across the entire state. Any motorist in need of help on the roadway can call *55 to speak directly with an NSP dispatcher.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Nebraska State Troopers took 36 impaired drivers off the road in the days surrounding the Independence Day holiday.“Our troopers stayed busy this weekend as Nebraskans gathered to celebrate America,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As the summer continues, we encourage all travelers to drive safely no matter how far the road trip takes you.”Troopers and dispatchers worked overtime from June 30 through July 5 as part of a nationwide effort to keep roads safe for 4th&nbsp;of July travel. NSP’s campaign was made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.In addition to the 36 arrests for driving under the influence, troopers also issued citations for speeding (612), speeding over 100 MPH (19), open alcohol container (30), minor in possession of alcohol (25), driving under suspension (30), no seat belt (18), and improper child restraint (13). Troopers also performed 278 motorist assists across the state.Troopers will continue specialized traffic enforcement efforts this summer across the entire state. Any motorist in need of help on the roadway can call *55 to speak directly with an NSP dispatcher.

Troopers make 36 DUI arrests in Independence Day holiday campaign

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful

One bale. OK, one heavy cardboard bale’s worth of weight would account for the difference in recycling volumes at Keep Alliance Beautiful during the second quarter of 2023 compared to the same period the previous year. We processed 215,129 pounds at the recycling center this past April-June compared to 214,121 pounds last spring. The overall numbers, as usual, do not reveal the tales of how the years differ.

Long- and short-term trends in local and national recycling appear in the quarterly numbers logged at KAB, such as the decrease in newsprint over the past three decades or the increase in Hefty energy bag plastics since we joined the program. This summer, I anticipated that the latest total would be closer to a quarter-million pounds as we began to serve Chadron. Helping a neighboring community restart comprehensive recycling did not pop out from the figures though I am reassured that what we do at KAB should not be relegated to how often a loaded trailer leaves the center.

Keep Alliance Beautiful has been receiving regular (usually weekly) loads of cardboard from Keep Chadron Beautiful as well as filling our green trailer during community collection events in May and June. Our 2023 cardboard totals increased markedly between the first and second quarters, 104,750 to 127,525 pounds. That 11 ½ tons is comparable to the volumes in 2022, when the difference was even greater at just over 13 tons (84,500 pounds in the first quarter and 110,875 in the second). The overall tonnage is up looking at the same quarter, yet the data from 2022 suggests there will be a busy third quarter then a lighter fourth quarter.

Really, I will wait to consider how Chadron fits into our overall operation (numberswise). As a new spoke served by our hub, we are able to track their loads, just as we log what comes from Box Butte General Hospital on a weekly basis.

Beyond cardboard, 2023 totals for materials shipped in the second quarter are (in pounds): #1-7 plastics – 14,750, steel/tin cans – 9,918, aluminum cans – 3,456, fiber board 5,800, magazines/books – 7,559, mixed paper 27,056, ink cartridges – 410, electronics – 3,805, glass – 14,705, Hefty bags – 3,787, paint – 2,237, and other – 1,482.

Chandra at the KAB office further broke the above totals out by the load, as materials headed to Kimball and Ogallala. Dixie, one of my co-workers at the center, has been striving to enhance our day-to-day operations by helping us all keep better records. Whenever we pick up loads at businesses and locations there is an entry, which helps the two shifts coordinate. We tally the number of people who drop something off or visit the center. Recyclers coming from outside Box Butte County are asked to sign in and log time spent on the road. Other entries track bales (there were four cardboard and one plastic last Wednesday), boxes processed, et cetera. Dixie has been an awesome influence! As the weeks go by an account will emerge on paper and, ideally, foster better organization and efficiency while chronicalling each day’s work.

Anyone interested can consider the volume reports from KAB. Wondering where it all goes? That information is available too. I like to hear where it comes from. People arrive at the south door on a routine run or loaded to the brim from a current project or hand off a bag or two. How

we fit into their day is the fun part during brief conversations with arms loaded. A few more months and dozens of visitors later the time will surely be worth the weight.

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688999485547.jpeg" alt="An aluminum cube from the May Chadron recycling event perches on top of a bale at the KAB Recycling Center, part of 3,456 pounds processed in the second quarter of 2023." />
 <figcaption>An aluminum cube from the May Chadron recycling event perches on top of a bale at the KAB Recycling Center, part of 3,456 pounds processed in the second quarter of 2023.</figcaption>
 </figure>One bale. OK, one heavy cardboard bale’s worth of weight would account for the difference in recycling volumes at Keep Alliance Beautiful during the second quarter of 2023 compared to the same period the previous year. We processed 215,129 pounds at the recycling center this past April-June compared to 214,121 pounds last spring. The overall numbers, as usual, do not reveal the tales of how the years differ.Long- and short-term trends in local and national recycling appear in the quarterly numbers logged at KAB, such as the decrease in newsprint over the past three decades or the increase in Hefty energy bag plastics since we joined the program. This summer, I anticipated that the latest total would be closer to a quarter-million pounds as we began to serve Chadron. Helping a neighboring community restart comprehensive recycling did not pop out from the figures though I am reassured that what we do at KAB should not be relegated to how often a loaded trailer leaves the center.Keep Alliance Beautiful has been receiving regular (usually weekly) loads of cardboard from Keep Chadron Beautiful as well as filling our green trailer during community collection events in May and June. Our 2023 cardboard totals increased markedly between the first and second quarters, 104,750 to 127,525 pounds. That 11 ½ tons is comparable to the volumes in 2022, when the difference was even greater at just over 13 tons (84,500 pounds in the first quarter and 110,875 in the second). The overall tonnage is up looking at the same quarter, yet the data from 2022 suggests there will be a busy third quarter then a lighter fourth quarter.Really, I will wait to consider how Chadron fits into our overall operation (numberswise). As a new spoke served by our hub, we are able to track their loads, just as we log what comes from Box Butte General Hospital on a weekly basis.Beyond cardboard, 2023 totals for materials shipped in the second quarter are (in pounds): #1-7 plastics – 14,750, steel/tin cans – 9,918, aluminum cans – 3,456, fiber board 5,800, magazines/books – 7,559, mixed paper 27,056, ink cartridges – 410, electronics – 3,805, glass – 14,705, Hefty bags – 3,787, paint – 2,237, and other – 1,482.Chandra at the KAB office further broke the above totals out by the load, as materials headed to Kimball and Ogallala. Dixie, one of my co-workers at the center, has been striving to enhance our day-to-day operations by helping us all keep better records. Whenever we pick up loads at businesses and locations there is an entry, which helps the two shifts coordinate. We tally the number of people who drop something off or visit the center. Recyclers coming from outside Box Butte County are asked to sign in and log time spent on the road. Other entries track bales (there were four cardboard and one plastic last Wednesday), boxes processed, et cetera. Dixie has been an awesome influence! As the weeks go by an account will emerge on paper and, ideally, foster better organization and efficiency while chronicalling each day’s work.Anyone interested can consider the volume reports from KAB. Wondering where it all goes? That information is available too. I like to hear where it comes from. People arrive at the south door on a routine run or loaded to the brim from a current project or hand off a bag or two. Howwe fit into their day is the fun part during brief conversations with arms loaded. A few more months and dozens of visitors later the time will surely be worth the weight.

Keep Alliance Beautiful: Behind the numbers

P202300476 01:51 DISTURBANCE : Officers were dispatched to Maverik convenience store for a disturbance. The employee at Maverik advised an unknown female had just thrown a full fountain pop on her and ran out of the store Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300479 12:49 THEFT : THEFT Juvenile reported to be taken by grandmother with out permission. Report is under investigation. Open - Under Investigation

P202300477 22:28 ASSAULT : ASSAULT 2500 block of Big Horn Drive // Report of an assault between 2 juveniles // Investigation and interviews were conducted // Charges recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300478 14:00 THEFT : THEFT Parent reports minor children being taken by biological mother out of state against custody order / Open - Under Investigation

P202300480 16:08 INTAKE : INTAKE Elderly female was receiving scam phone calls and being asked to draw money out of her account. Wells Fargo employees noticed something was wrong and reported the situation. The elderly female did not send any money to the unknown suspects. Closed - Resolved

P202300481 20:58 DISTURBANCE : Reported disturbance at 211 Missouri Avenue. Upon arrival contacted the reporting party who advised her grandson had went after her husband trying to assault him and hit the back window of her vehicle but luckily didn't break it. Made contact with the suspect who confirmed everything the reporting party said and he was placed under arrest for Disorderly Conduct. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300483 02:06 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Report of an intoxicated male who damaged the front door of a residence near the 700 block of Mississippi Ave. Charges have been recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300484 08:39 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYMVA / No injury / Stop sign knocked over / Vehicle was stuck in reverse Closed - Resolved

P202300487 23:29 INTAKE : INTAKE Intake regarding individuals inside the Other Human Development residence. Investigation is ongoing Closed - Resolved

P202300488 12:23 Report of physical disturbance / suspects located / Officers investigated / suspect placed into custody Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300488 12:23 Report of physical disturbance / suspects located / Officers investigated / suspect placed into custody Closed - Resolved

P202300489 20:58 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Investigation into a suicidal missing person near the area of the KCOW apartments. Person was located alive and well. Person was returned home. Closed - Resolved

P202300490 08:03 THEFT : THEFT Theft 200 S Potash / Boat fuel tank / Unknown suspects Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300491 17:46 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYInvestigation of a two vehicle accident in the 2000 block of Box Butte Ave. No injuries sustained. Closed - Resolved

P202300493 04:11 INTAKE : INTAKE Investigation into an elderly male whose cell phone was cloned and a large amount of money stolen from his bank account. Closed - Resolved

P202300494 04:14 INTAKE : INTAKE Investigation into an alleged sexual assault that occurred outside of the city of Alliance NE. Closed - Resolved

By Alliance Police Department07/02/23P202300476 01:51 DISTURBANCE : Officers were dispatched to Maverik convenience store for a disturbance. The employee at Maverik advised an unknown female had just thrown a full fountain pop on her and ran out of the store Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300479 12:49 THEFT : THEFT Juvenile reported to be taken by grandmother with out permission. Report is under investigation. Open - Under InvestigationP202300477 22:28 ASSAULT : ASSAULT 2500 block of Big Horn Drive // Report of an assault between 2 juveniles // Investigation and interviews were conducted // Charges recommended Closed - Charges Recommended07/02/23 Total: 307/03/23P202300478 14:00 THEFT : THEFT Parent reports minor children being taken by biological mother out of state against custody order / Open - Under InvestigationP202300480 16:08 INTAKE : INTAKE Elderly female was receiving scam phone calls and being asked to draw money out of her account. Wells Fargo employees noticed something was wrong and reported the situation. The elderly female did not send any money to the unknown suspects. Closed - ResolvedP202300481 20:58 DISTURBANCE : Reported disturbance at 211 Missouri Avenue. Upon arrival contacted the reporting party who advised her grandson had went after her husband trying to assault him and hit the back window of her vehicle but luckily didn't break it. Made contact with the suspect who confirmed everything the reporting party said and he was placed under arrest for Disorderly Conduct. Closed - Charges Recommended07/03/23 Total: 307/05/23P202300483 02:06 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Report of an intoxicated male who damaged the front door of a residence near the 700 block of Mississippi Ave. Charges have been recommended Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300484 08:39 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYMVA / No injury / Stop sign knocked over / Vehicle was stuck in reverse Closed - ResolvedP202300487 23:29 INTAKE : INTAKE Intake regarding individuals inside the Other Human Development residence. Investigation is ongoing Closed - Resolved07/05/23 Total: 307/06/23P202300488 12:23 Report of physical disturbance / suspects located / Officers investigated / suspect placed into custody Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300488 12:23 Report of physical disturbance / suspects located / Officers investigated / suspect placed into custody Closed - ResolvedP202300489 20:58 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Investigation into a suicidal missing person near the area of the KCOW apartments. Person was located alive and well. Person was returned home. Closed - Resolved07/06/23 Total: 307/07/23P202300490 08:03 THEFT : THEFT Theft 200 S Potash / Boat fuel tank / Unknown suspects Inactive - Case SuspendedP202300491 17:46 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYInvestigation of a two vehicle accident in the 2000 block of Box Butte Ave. No injuries sustained. Closed - Resolved07/07/23 Total: 207/08/23P202300493 04:11 INTAKE : INTAKE Investigation into an elderly male whose cell phone was cloned and a large amount of money stolen from his bank account. Closed - ResolvedP202300494 04:14 INTAKE : INTAKE Investigation into an alleged sexual assault that occurred outside of the city of Alliance NE. Closed - Resolved07/08/23 Total: 2Total Records: 16

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation,&nbsp;joined Senator Dan Sullivan R-AK) and 33&nbsp;other Senate colleagues&nbsp;to urge&nbsp;President Biden ensure North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) countries meet&nbsp;their&nbsp;defense spending commitments.&nbsp;

“A strong and effective NATO is more critical to global stability than ever before,”&nbsp;Ricketts said.&nbsp;“Our adversaries&nbsp;are&nbsp;intent on displacing America’s leadership in the world.&nbsp;They’re attempting to disrupt&nbsp;the rules-based&nbsp;system&nbsp;that&nbsp;we set up, which has kept the peace for nearly 80 years.&nbsp;Our&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;allies must step up to meet their 2% GDP&nbsp;commitments for defense spending.”

Ricketts will be attending the&nbsp;annual NATO summit in Vilnius next week&nbsp;as part of an official Congressional Delegation.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;2014, NATO member nations have agreed to commit a minimum of 2 percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense spending. The letter notes that despite increasing levels of aggressive behavior by authoritarian nations, particularly Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many member states continue to fail to meet their treaty obligations.

“As you prepare for the NATO summit this year in Vilnius, we write to underscore the critical need for NATO members to increase and fully meet defense spending commitments to the alliance,”&nbsp;the Senators write.&nbsp;“Failure of many of our allies – including some of NATO’s largest members – to meet commitments of 2% of GDP on defense has the potential to undermine American support for the alliance, severely limits Europe’s ability to contribute to our shared interest in defending against Russia, and is a source of long-term instability in Europe, not to mention frustration for American taxpayers…

“Although we appreciate the assistance that many of our European allies have provided Ukraine, the heavy European emphasis on economic and refugee assistance is directly attributable to the inability of many to meet their NATO commitments in a way the alliance demands. This has immediate implications in Ukraine where our allies could be a force multiplier in helping bring this conflict to a successful end…

“The lack of sufficient progress is politically and economically unsustainable. American citizens rightly question why our government disproportionately bears the burden – decade after decade – for Europe’s defense. In Vilnius, we respectfully request that you make this issue a top priority…”

Read the full letter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/NATO-POTUS.pdf" target="_blank">here.</a>&nbsp;

By Office of Sen. Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation,&nbsp;joined Senator Dan Sullivan R-AK) and 33&nbsp;other Senate colleagues&nbsp;to urge&nbsp;President Biden ensure North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) countries meet&nbsp;their&nbsp;defense spending commitments.&nbsp;“A strong and effective NATO is more critical to global stability than ever before,”&nbsp;Ricketts said.&nbsp;“Our adversaries&nbsp;are&nbsp;intent on displacing America’s leadership in the world.&nbsp;They’re attempting to disrupt&nbsp;the rules-based&nbsp;system&nbsp;that&nbsp;we set up, which has kept the peace for nearly 80 years.&nbsp;Our&nbsp;NATO&nbsp;allies must step up to meet their 2% GDP&nbsp;commitments for defense spending.”Ricketts will be attending the&nbsp;annual NATO summit in Vilnius next week&nbsp;as part of an official Congressional Delegation.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;2014, NATO member nations have agreed to commit a minimum of 2 percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense spending. The letter notes that despite increasing levels of aggressive behavior by authoritarian nations, particularly Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, many member states continue to fail to meet their treaty obligations.“As you prepare for the NATO summit this year in Vilnius, we write to underscore the critical need for NATO members to increase and fully meet defense spending commitments to the alliance,”&nbsp;the Senators write.&nbsp;“Failure of many of our allies – including some of NATO’s largest members – to meet commitments of 2% of GDP on defense has the potential to undermine American support for the alliance, severely limits Europe’s ability to contribute to our shared interest in defending against Russia, and is a source of long-term instability in Europe, not to mention frustration for American taxpayers…“Although we appreciate the assistance that many of our European allies have provided Ukraine, the heavy European emphasis on economic and refugee assistance is directly attributable to the inability of many to meet their NATO commitments in a way the alliance demands. This has immediate implications in Ukraine where our allies could be a force multiplier in helping bring this conflict to a successful end…“The lack of sufficient progress is politically and economically unsustainable. American citizens rightly question why our government disproportionately bears the burden – decade after decade – for Europe’s defense. In Vilnius, we respectfully request that you make this issue a top priority…”Read the full letter&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/NATO-POTUS.pdf" target="_blank">here.</a>&nbsp;

Ricketts joins Senators urging Biden to ensure NATO meet defense spending commitments

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.

-Douglas E Frein, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Issue bad check $0-500

-Danielle B Kaiser, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal mischief $0-500

-TobyJ Chaney, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal trespass 2nd degree

-John F Selders, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal trespass 2nd degree

-Matthew Castillo, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Assault by mutual consent, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace

-Sophia G Condon, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Drive under susp/before being reinstated by state

-Aaron A Wood, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Assault 3rd degree, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace

-Omar Reza, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Trespass 2nd degree/defy order to leave

-Timothy D Shannon, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Dom assault 3rd degree, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace

-Kade Weber, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Assault 3rd degree

-Mawwell H Markeson, Infraction, Speeding, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia

-Alexander C Culbertson, Infraction, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia

-Cassie Cahill, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Compulsory education attendance required

-Erin Jackson, Class 3 Misdemeanor,&nbsp;Compulsory education attendance required

-Justin Jackson,&nbsp;Class 3 Misdemeanor, Compulsory education attendance required

-Rhett W Meier, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Leave accident-fail to furnish info

-James B Gray, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance

-Jeromy Herrick, Class 4 Misdemeanor, Violate personal watercraft op. rules, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations

-Darell Dean,&nbsp;Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations

-Daniel K Jordan, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Number not legible/fail to produce act,&nbsp;Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations

-Michael Jones, Felony, Fugitive from justice

-Gregory Staton, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations, Number not legible/fail to produce act

-Lynnette M Herrick, Class 4 Misdemeanor, Violate personal watercraft op. rules,&nbsp;Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations

-Dawn Blonien, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Infraction, Fail to stay in lane

-William Gilliam, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Drive during revocation/impound

-Justin Misner, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Drive under susp/before reinstated by state, Operate or park unregistered vehicle, Infraction, speeding

-Jeffrey Shumaker, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Violate deer regulations

-Stacey Arthur, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Violate antelope regulations

-Amanda Renz, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal mischief $0-500

-Sylvanus W Lame Jr., Class 2 Misdemeanor, Theft-shoplifting $0-500, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Minor in possession

-Icanma Blue Legs, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Theft-shoplifting $0-500, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Minor in possession, Infraction, Possess/consume open alcohol container

-Eric Vahrenkamp, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Unlawful entry without park permit

-Michael Stephens,&nbsp;Class 5 Misdemeanor, Unlawful entry without park permit

-Dustin Little Moon, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Refuse to submit to test, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Drive under susp/before being reinstated by state

-Scott Debock, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Violate hunting/fishing regulations

-Eric Sullivan, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia

-Shelby Phelps, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia, Speeding

-Aran Kutschara, Misdemeanor, Enumeration, Weeds

-Amanda Koger, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia

-Lauren Armstrong, Class 2 Felony, Del/dst/dst/man/pos except haz drug, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia

-Colette Yardley, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Infraction, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia

-Douglas Updike, Class 4 Felony, Drive while revoked from DUI/refusal, Possess controlled substance

-Conrad Randall, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Attempt of a Class 1 Misdemeanor

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.Box Butte Co:&nbsp;-Douglas E Frein, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Issue bad check $0-500-Danielle B Kaiser, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal mischief $0-500-TobyJ Chaney, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal trespass 2nd degree-John F Selders, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal trespass 2nd degree-Matthew Castillo, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Assault by mutual consent, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace-Sophia G Condon, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Drive under susp/before being reinstated by state-Aaron A Wood, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Assault 3rd degree, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace-Faron Schock, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI-Omar Reza, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Trespass 2nd degree/defy order to leave-Timothy D Shannon, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Dom assault 3rd degree, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Disturbing the peace-Kade Weber, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Assault 3rd degree-Mawwell H Markeson, Infraction, Speeding, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia-Alexander C Culbertson, Infraction, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia-Cassie Cahill, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Compulsory education attendance required-Erin Jackson, Class 3 Misdemeanor,&nbsp;Compulsory education attendance required-Justin Jackson,&nbsp;Class 3 Misdemeanor, Compulsory education attendance required-Rhett W Meier, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Leave accident-fail to furnish info-James B Gray, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substanceDawes County:&nbsp;-Jeromy Herrick, Class 4 Misdemeanor, Violate personal watercraft op. rules, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations-Darell Dean,&nbsp;Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations-Daniel K Jordan, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Number not legible/fail to produce act,&nbsp;Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations-Michael Jones, Felony, Fugitive from justice-Gregory Staton, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations, Number not legible/fail to produce act-Lynnette M Herrick, Class 4 Misdemeanor, Violate personal watercraft op. rules,&nbsp;Class 5 Misdemeanor, Violate boating act regulations-Dawn Blonien, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Infraction, Fail to stay in lane-William Gilliam, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Drive during revocation/impound-Justin Misner, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Drive under susp/before reinstated by state, Operate or park unregistered vehicle, Infraction, speeding-Jeffrey Shumaker, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Violate deer regulations-Stacey Arthur, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Violate antelope regulations-Amanda Renz, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Criminal mischief $0-500-Sylvanus W Lame Jr., Class 2 Misdemeanor, Theft-shoplifting $0-500, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Minor in possession-Icanma Blue Legs, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Theft-shoplifting $0-500, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Minor in possession, Infraction, Possess/consume open alcohol container-Eric Vahrenkamp, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Unlawful entry without park permit-Michael Stephens,&nbsp;Class 5 Misdemeanor, Unlawful entry without park permit-Dustin Little Moon, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Refuse to submit to test, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Drive under susp/before being reinstated by state-Scott Debock, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Violate hunting/fishing regulations-Eric Sullivan, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia-Shelby Phelps, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia, Speeding-Aran Kutschara, Misdemeanor, Enumeration, Weeds-Amanda Koger, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia-Lauren Armstrong, Class 2 Felony, Del/dst/dst/man/pos except haz drug, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Infraction, Possess or use drug paraphernalia-Colette Yardley, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Infraction, Possess marijuana 1 oz or less, Possess or use drug paraphernalia-Douglas Updike, Class 4 Felony, Drive while revoked from DUI/refusal, Possess controlled substance-Conrad Randall, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Attempt of a Class 1 Misdemeanor

Panhandle police activity, June 16 - June 29

DNA testing has led to the arrest of a Nebraska man who was repeatedly questioned over decades in the 1978 stabbing death of a woman while he was stationed with the U.S. Army in Germany, authorities said.

Tommy Molina, 69, was arrested in the western Nebraska city of Gering on June 21, the U.S. Marshals Service in Omaha said in a statement Thursday. He is awaiting extradition to Germany to face a murder charge.

German prosecutors in the Bavarian city of Schweinfurt believe Molina, 24 at the time, was having an extramarital affair with 18-year-old Cornelia Hümpfer when she was killed April 20, 1978.

He was initially questioned days after the killing and then again in 1996, after he told his third wife, while intoxicated, that a woman with whom he'd been having an affair had revealed she was pregnant and that he killed her, authorities said in a complaint unsealed at his initial appearance June 30 in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska.

If extradited, Molina will face murder charges in Germany that could lead to at least 15 years in prison. A date for his next hearing has not been set.

His public defender in the extradition case did not immediately return a call Friday seeking comment.

The case is laid out in the complaint, which seeks his extradition and includes documents from German prosecutors, the U.S. Army and the FBI.

The day after Hümpfer was killed, her body was discovered on a roadside with 14 stab wounds in the neck and back. A witness said she had seen a small car with a green license plate used by the American military near where the woman’s body was found. The vehicle description matched the Fiat 124 Molina owned at the time.

German authorities questioned Molina five days after the killing but didn't move forward with charges. He said he had been at home with his wife that night, and the wife said she couldn’t remember the night.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688845039102.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DNA testing has led to the arrest of a Nebraska man who was repeatedly questioned over decades in the 1978 stabbing death of a woman while he was stationed with the U.S. Army in Germany, authorities said.Tommy Molina, 69, was arrested in the western Nebraska city of Gering on June 21, the U.S. Marshals Service in Omaha said in a statement Thursday. He is awaiting extradition to Germany to face a murder charge.German prosecutors in the Bavarian city of Schweinfurt believe Molina, 24 at the time, was having an extramarital affair with 18-year-old Cornelia Hümpfer when she was killed April 20, 1978.He was initially questioned days after the killing and then again in 1996, after he told his third wife, while intoxicated, that a woman with whom he'd been having an affair had revealed she was pregnant and that he killed her, authorities said in a complaint unsealed at his initial appearance June 30 in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska.If extradited, Molina will face murder charges in Germany that could lead to at least 15 years in prison. A date for his next hearing has not been set.His public defender in the extradition case did not immediately return a call Friday seeking comment.The case is laid out in the complaint, which seeks his extradition and includes documents from German prosecutors, the U.S. Army and the FBI.The day after Hümpfer was killed, her body was discovered on a roadside with 14 stab wounds in the neck and back. A witness said she had seen a small car with a green license plate used by the American military near where the woman’s body was found. The vehicle description matched the Fiat 124 Molina owned at the time.German authorities questioned Molina five days after the killing but didn't move forward with charges. He said he had been at home with his wife that night, and the wife said she couldn’t remember the night.For years, investigators made little progress until U.S. military authorities received new information, German prosecutors said.In 1995, according to the complaint, Molina’s third wife contacted U.S. Army criminal investigators in Fort Riley, Kansas, alleging that an intoxicated Molina repeatedly told her he had killed a German woman with a knife while stationed in Schweinfurt. He told her that he had been having an affair with her, and that she had said she was pregnant and intended to tell his wife.Molina strongly denied involvement when questioned again in 1996, and the investigation moved slowly after that.Later, the availability of new DNA technology led investigators to reopen the file.They got a blood sample from Molina in 2020 under a federal search warrant and confirmed that genetic traces from the suspect were on key parts of the victim’s clothing, German prosecutors said.

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