Jason Wentworth, Mike Glesinger and Kalin Krohe welcome new News/Sports Director Alex Benzegala to the KCOW family.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Meeting The Newest KCOW Announcer" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=pkwri-1444184-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Jason Wentworth, Mike Glesinger and Kalin Krohe welcome new News/Sports Director Alex Benzegala to the KCOW family.&nbsp;&nbsp;

POST PODCAST: Meeting The Newest KCOW Announcer

Alliance – The City of Alliance would like to remind residents of the City’s Ordinance for legal dates, times, and age restrictions for discharging fireworks.

Fireworks may be legally discharged between the hours of 9:00 am and 10:00 pm on June 28th – July 3rd; and between the hours of 9:00 am and 12:00 midnight on July 4th. It shall be unlawful to discharge any firework as defined and permitted by Ordinance No. 2956, prior to June 28th, and after July 4th and at any time other than the dates and times specifically authorized.

The use or possession of fireworks by any person under 12 years of age is prohibited unless direct supervision is provided by a person 18 years of age and older.

The full Ordinance can be found on our website www.cityofalliance.net as well as <a href="https://library.municode.com/ne/alliance/codes/code_of_ordinances">https://library.municode.com/ne/alliance/codes/code_of_ordinances</a> by searching for Ordinance No. 2956.

For more information, please contact the City Administrative team by calling (308) 762-5400.

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687794824883.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance – The City of Alliance would like to remind residents of the City’s Ordinance for legal dates, times, and age restrictions for discharging fireworks.Fireworks may be legally discharged between the hours of 9:00 am and 10:00 pm on June 28th – July 3rd; and between the hours of 9:00 am and 12:00 midnight on July 4th. It shall be unlawful to discharge any firework as defined and permitted by Ordinance No. 2956, prior to June 28th, and after July 4th and at any time other than the dates and times specifically authorized.The use or possession of fireworks by any person under 12 years of age is prohibited unless direct supervision is provided by a person 18 years of age and older.The full Ordinance can be found on our website www.cityofalliance.net as well as <a href="https://library.municode.com/ne/alliance/codes/code_of_ordinances">https://library.municode.com/ne/alliance/codes/code_of_ordinances</a> by searching for Ordinance No. 2956.For more information, please contact the City Administrative team by calling (308) 762-5400.

City of Alliance reminds community about new fireworks ordinance 

Alliance – The Alliance Senior Center will be hosting a weekly corn hole tournament starting, Tuesday July 11th at 9:30am. 

This tournament requires a two-man team including at least one senior (60+). Call the Senior Center to register your team by Friday, July 7th.

For more information, call Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

By City of Alliance&nbsp;Alliance – The Alliance Senior Center will be hosting a weekly corn hole tournament starting, Tuesday July 11th at 9:30am. This tournament requires a two-man team including at least one senior (60+). Call the Senior Center to register your team by Friday, July 7th.For more information, call Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

Alliance Senior Center to hold corn hole tournament

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne has issued a

* Tornado Warning for...
  Southwestern Cheyenne County in the Panhandle of Nebraska...
  Southeastern Kimball County in the Panhandle of Nebraska...

* Until 730 PM MDT.

* At 658 PM MDT, a large and extremely dangerous tornado was located
  12 miles south of Kimball Airport, or 14 miles south of Kimball,
  moving east at 30 mph.

  This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. TAKE COVER NOW!

  HAZARD...Damaging tornado.

  SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

  IMPACT...You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris
           may be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile
           homes will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes,
           businesses, and vehicles is likely and complete
           destruction is possible.

* This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of
  southwestern Cheyenne and southeastern Kimball Counties.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

To repeat, a large, extremely dangerous and potentially deadly
tornado is developing. To protect your life, TAKE COVER NOW! Move to
a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy
building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in
a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect
yourself from flying debris.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne has issued a

  Southwestern Kimball County in the Panhandle of Nebraska...

* At 613 PM MDT, a confirmed tornado was located five miles south of

  Bushnell, or 11 miles west of Kimball, moving southeast at 25 mph.

  HAZARD...Damaging tornado and baseball size hail.

  SOURCE...Emergency Management confirmed tornado.

  IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without

           shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.

           Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur.  Tree

* This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of

This includes Interstate 80 in Nebraska between mile markers 6 and

To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a

basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy

building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in

a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYUpdate at 6:58pm&nbsp;The National Weather Service in Cheyenne has issued a

* Tornado Warning for...
 Southwestern Cheyenne County in the Panhandle of Nebraska...
 Southeastern Kimball County in the Panhandle of Nebraska...

* Until 730 PM MDT.

* At 658 PM MDT, a large and extremely dangerous tornado was located
 12 miles south of Kimball Airport, or 14 miles south of Kimball,
 moving east at 30 mph.

 This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. TAKE COVER NOW!

 HAZARD...Damaging tornado.

 SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

 IMPACT...You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris
 may be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile
 homes will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes,
 businesses, and vehicles is likely and complete
 destruction is possible.

* This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of
 southwestern Cheyenne and southeastern Kimball Counties.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

To repeat, a large, extremely dangerous and potentially deadly
tornado is developing. To protect your life, TAKE COVER NOW! Move to
a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy
building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in
a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect
yourself from flying debris.&nbsp;----------------------------The National Weather Service in Cheyenne has issued a* Tornado Warning for... Southwestern Kimball County in the Panhandle of Nebraska...* Until 645 PM MDT.* At 613 PM MDT, a confirmed tornado was located five miles south of Bushnell, or 11 miles west of Kimball, moving southeast at 25 mph. HAZARD...Damaging tornado and baseball size hail. SOURCE...Emergency Management confirmed tornado. IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.* This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of southwestern Kimball County.This includes Interstate 80 in Nebraska between mile markers 6 and16.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to abasement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdybuilding. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or ina vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protectyourself from flying debris.

UPDATE: Tornado touches down near Kimball, Bushnell

All are welcome to join at 8:30am at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center.

Pre-registration is no longer required. We do not want anyone interested to miss out on this opportunity.

We have arranged for additional meals; however, we may not have enough to feed everyone lunch. With that said, everyone is still welcome to join.

We will have registration and start the tour at my white pickup in the southeast corner of the parking lot.

Sell cows or buy feed? That’s the question most ranchers face when drought hits. The best time to plan for drought is in a wet year, and one of the best ways to plan for drought is to build flexibility into a cattle operation.

Adding a stocker or yearling element to a cow-calf operation is one way to provide short-term flexibility without sacrificing capital or genetics. When the operation includes either a retained or purchased stocker or yearling herd, it can be adjusted when feed supplies run short, allowing the core cowherd to be maintained. It is also an option for reducing labor requirements.

This year’s stocker/yearling tour, organized by Nebraska Extension, will be near Harrison, Nebraska and focus on the Skavdahl ranch, which is run by brothers, Josh and Jud, their dad, Bill and uncles Jim and Charlie. Their family has ranched in Sioux County for generations, and they run cattle from start to finish. Each part of the family has their own operation, but they share labor, equipment and resources. A stocker/yearling operation allows them to adjust stocking rates to maintain range quality and their cowherd in dry years.

This year’s tour is Thursday, June 29 in Harrison. Participants will meet at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, then tour the Skavdahls’ cow-calf operation. That tour will be followed by lunch at the Harrison Fire Hall, sponsored by Merck Animal Health, and presentations about what new implant rules mean for use in stockers, and a producer panel about retaining calves as a stocker operation. The day will finish with a second tour, of Skavdahls’ stocker/yearling enterprise near Harrison.

Several educators and specialists with Nebraska Extension, as well as cattle producers, will be available for questions and discussion about stocker/yearling programs, implants and other topics.

The day’s program is free, but&nbsp;pre-registration is required, for a meal count.&nbsp; Pre-register by Monday, June 19 by calling the Sheridan County Extension Office at 308-327-2312.

For more information, contact Erin Laborie (308-268-3105;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:erin.laborie@unl.edu">erin.laborie@unl.edu</a>) or Brent Plugge (308-236-1235;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:brent.plugge@unl.edu">brent.plugge@unl.edu</a>).

All are welcome to join at 8:30am at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center.Pre-registration is no longer required. We do not want anyone interested to miss out on this opportunity.We have arranged for additional meals; however, we may not have enough to feed everyone lunch. With that said, everyone is still welcome to join.We will have registration and start the tour at my white pickup in the southeast corner of the parking lot.Sell cows or buy feed? That’s the question most ranchers face when drought hits. The best time to plan for drought is in a wet year, and one of the best ways to plan for drought is to build flexibility into a cattle operation.Adding a stocker or yearling element to a cow-calf operation is one way to provide short-term flexibility without sacrificing capital or genetics. When the operation includes either a retained or purchased stocker or yearling herd, it can be adjusted when feed supplies run short, allowing the core cowherd to be maintained. It is also an option for reducing labor requirements.This year’s stocker/yearling tour, organized by Nebraska Extension, will be near Harrison, Nebraska and focus on the Skavdahl ranch, which is run by brothers, Josh and Jud, their dad, Bill and uncles Jim and Charlie. Their family has ranched in Sioux County for generations, and they run cattle from start to finish. Each part of the family has their own operation, but they share labor, equipment and resources. A stocker/yearling operation allows them to adjust stocking rates to maintain range quality and their cowherd in dry years.This year’s tour is Thursday, June 29 in Harrison. Participants will meet at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, then tour the Skavdahls’ cow-calf operation. That tour will be followed by lunch at the Harrison Fire Hall, sponsored by Merck Animal Health, and presentations about what new implant rules mean for use in stockers, and a producer panel about retaining calves as a stocker operation. The day will finish with a second tour, of Skavdahls’ stocker/yearling enterprise near Harrison.Several educators and specialists with Nebraska Extension, as well as cattle producers, will be available for questions and discussion about stocker/yearling programs, implants and other topics.The day’s program is free, but&nbsp;pre-registration is required, for a meal count.&nbsp; Pre-register by Monday, June 19 by calling the Sheridan County Extension Office at 308-327-2312.For more information, contact Erin Laborie (308-268-3105;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:erin.laborie@unl.edu">erin.laborie@unl.edu</a>) or Brent Plugge (308-236-1235;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:brent.plugge@unl.edu">brent.plugge@unl.edu</a>).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687981017040.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Stocker/Yearling Tour to be held at Skavdahl Ranch near Harrison

By Chabella Guzman,&nbsp;Nebraska Extension Communications Specialist

Storms coming out of Chugwater and Hawk Springs, Wyo. led to tornados and hail in the Panhandle on Friday, June 23.&nbsp;

“The primary storm tracked through Chugwater to Hawk Springs to Scottsbluff. It’s what we call a cyclic tornadic thunderstorm. It periodically produces tornados that drop down and then back up,” said Rob Cox, National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyo., meteorologist.&nbsp;

The secondary storm produced more hail from pea to softball size. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center had some of the larger hail damage vehicles, the greenhouse, and many of the plots with various crops.&nbsp;

One of the crops at the extension center hit hard was the winter peas, in a research study led by Dipak Santra, Nebraska Extension alternative crop breeding specialist.&nbsp;

“It was a beautiful-looking field, I was so happy last week,” he said. “I came on Saturday morning, and everything was flat.”

The winter peas were in the flowering stage, and many had pods, but after the hail, the plants are a loss. Santra had some other plots of spring peas, which were not as far along in growth and could still produce a decreased yield. He cautions growers with peas to be on the lookout for bacterial blight.

Anytime enough plant material or foliage is lost, it increases the chance of bacterial or fungal disease.

“It’s always possible, but the disease had to be present before it would spread around,” said Bob Harveson, Nebraska Extension plant pathologist.&nbsp;

With the damage to plants, the likely challenge will be bacterial, such as bacterial wilt and common blight. Harveson said both are distributed through winds, debris, or splashing water.&nbsp;

The dry edible beans at the extension took the biggest hit but look to be okay, and the Mitchell plots are good. Another problem the extension and area growers will need to be aware of is weeds.

“Weeds germinate better when there is not any vegetation above them,” said Nevin Lawrence, Nebraska Extension integrated weed management specialist. “With the defoliation that did occur, we can expect more weed germination.”

The lack of a canopy could mean applying a soil residual herbicide to prevent weeds. Lawrence said, depending on your last herbicide application. You may already have an effective herbicide applied. If not for corn and sugar beets, herbicides include Dual and Warrant, and in dry edible beans, post-emergence growers can use Outlook.

If you decide to replant, Lawrence said growers should be aware of replanting restrictions if they go from corn to dry bean or wheat.

The center, like many farmers, has crop insurance on some of its plots.

”Producers who have crop damage from the storm should be in close contact with their crop insurance agent,” said Jessica Groskopf, Panhandle Ag Economist. “Once a field has been inspected by an adjustor, options for management of affected fields will be more clear.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information on hail, and crops, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://disaster.unl.edu/" target="_blank">https://disaster.unl.edu/</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://cropwatch.unl.edu/hail-know/hail-storm-0" target="_blank">https://cropwatch.unl.edu/hail-know/hail-storm-0</a>&nbsp;

By Chabella Guzman,&nbsp;Nebraska Extension Communications SpecialistStorms coming out of Chugwater and Hawk Springs, Wyo. led to tornados and hail in the Panhandle on Friday, June 23.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687967405867.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“The primary storm tracked through Chugwater to Hawk Springs to Scottsbluff. It’s what we call a cyclic tornadic thunderstorm. It periodically produces tornados that drop down and then back up,” said Rob Cox, National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyo., meteorologist.&nbsp;The secondary storm produced more hail from pea to softball size. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center had some of the larger hail damage vehicles, the greenhouse, and many of the plots with various crops.&nbsp;One of the crops at the extension center hit hard was the winter peas, in a research study led by Dipak Santra, Nebraska Extension alternative crop breeding specialist.&nbsp;“It was a beautiful-looking field, I was so happy last week,” he said. “I came on Saturday morning, and everything was flat.”The winter peas were in the flowering stage, and many had pods, but after the hail, the plants are a loss. Santra had some other plots of spring peas, which were not as far along in growth and could still produce a decreased yield. He cautions growers with peas to be on the lookout for bacterial blight.Anytime enough plant material or foliage is lost, it increases the chance of bacterial or fungal disease.“It’s always possible, but the disease had to be present before it would spread around,” said Bob Harveson, Nebraska Extension plant pathologist.&nbsp;With the damage to plants, the likely challenge will be bacterial, such as bacterial wilt and common blight. Harveson said both are distributed through winds, debris, or splashing water.&nbsp;The dry edible beans at the extension took the biggest hit but look to be okay, and the Mitchell plots are good. Another problem the extension and area growers will need to be aware of is weeds.“Weeds germinate better when there is not any vegetation above them,” said Nevin Lawrence, Nebraska Extension integrated weed management specialist. “With the defoliation that did occur, we can expect more weed germination.”The lack of a canopy could mean applying a soil residual herbicide to prevent weeds. Lawrence said, depending on your last herbicide application. You may already have an effective herbicide applied. If not for corn and sugar beets, herbicides include Dual and Warrant, and in dry edible beans, post-emergence growers can use Outlook.If you decide to replant, Lawrence said growers should be aware of replanting restrictions if they go from corn to dry bean or wheat.The center, like many farmers, has crop insurance on some of its plots.”Producers who have crop damage from the storm should be in close contact with their crop insurance agent,” said Jessica Groskopf, Panhandle Ag Economist. “Once a field has been inspected by an adjustor, options for management of affected fields will be more clear.”&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information on hail, and crops, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://disaster.unl.edu/" target="_blank">https://disaster.unl.edu/</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://cropwatch.unl.edu/hail-know/hail-storm-0" target="_blank">https://cropwatch.unl.edu/hail-know/hail-storm-0</a>&nbsp;

Hail hits Scotts Bluff County Extension and the surrounding area

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE)&nbsp;announced he&nbsp;recently&nbsp;co-sponsored the&nbsp;FEND (Fentanyl Eradication and Narcotics Deterrence) Off Fentanyl Act,&nbsp;a bipartisan effort led by Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) to fight the flow of deadly fentanyl into our country. The bill aims to choke off the income source of those who traffic in synthetic opioids&nbsp;by directing the Treasury Department to target, sanction, and block the financial assets of transnational criminal organizations and key members of drug cartels involved in international fentanyl trafficking.&nbsp;Recently, the&nbsp;bill passed out of the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs&nbsp;by&nbsp;a unanimous vote&nbsp;and can now head to the Senate floor.

“Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for people aged 18-45 and the Senate must do everything possible to address this crisis,”&nbsp;Ricketts said.&nbsp;“I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to bring accountability to the drug cartels and chemical manufacturers in Communist China who profit from the deaths of Americans. I call on Majority Leader Schumer to schedule this bill for a floor vote without delay.”

In addition to Ricketts&nbsp;and Scott, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1271" target="_blank">FEND Off Fentanyl Act</a>&nbsp;has 61 additional co-sponsors in the U.S. Senate and companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. Bill text can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.banking.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fend_off_fentanyl_-_bill_text.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.

The United States is facing the worst drug crisis in our history. In&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=quorum_scott-iq&amp;crop=0000.0000.0000.0000&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fnida.nih.gov%2fresearch-topics%2ftrends-statistics%2foverdose-death-rates&amp;redir_log=684832086842533" target="_blank">2021</a>, over 106,000 Americans died from an overdose, and nearly 70,000 deaths were caused by fentanyl.&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=quorum_scott-iq&amp;crop=0000.0000.0000.0000&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.dea.gov%2fpress-releases%2f2022%2f12%2f20%2fdrug-enforcement-administration-announces-seizure-over-379-million-deadly%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dDrug%2520Enforcement%2520Administration%2520Announces%2520the%2cDoses%2520of%2520Fentanyl%2520in%25202022&amp;redir_log=637067514031423" target="_blank">Last year</a>, the Drug Enforcement Administration seized over 379 million deadly doses of fentanyl - enough to&nbsp;kill every American.

By Office of Sen. Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE)&nbsp;announced he&nbsp;recently&nbsp;co-sponsored the&nbsp;FEND (Fentanyl Eradication and Narcotics Deterrence) Off Fentanyl Act,&nbsp;a bipartisan effort led by Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) to fight the flow of deadly fentanyl into our country. The bill aims to choke off the income source of those who traffic in synthetic opioids&nbsp;by directing the Treasury Department to target, sanction, and block the financial assets of transnational criminal organizations and key members of drug cartels involved in international fentanyl trafficking.&nbsp;Recently, the&nbsp;bill passed out of the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs&nbsp;by&nbsp;a unanimous vote&nbsp;and can now head to the Senate floor.“Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for people aged 18-45 and the Senate must do everything possible to address this crisis,”&nbsp;Ricketts said.&nbsp;“I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to bring accountability to the drug cartels and chemical manufacturers in Communist China who profit from the deaths of Americans. I call on Majority Leader Schumer to schedule this bill for a floor vote without delay.”In addition to Ricketts&nbsp;and Scott, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1271" target="_blank">FEND Off Fentanyl Act</a>&nbsp;has 61 additional co-sponsors in the U.S. Senate and companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. Bill text can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.banking.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fend_off_fentanyl_-_bill_text.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.The United States is facing the worst drug crisis in our history. In&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=quorum_scott-iq&amp;crop=0000.0000.0000.0000&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fnida.nih.gov%2fresearch-topics%2ftrends-statistics%2foverdose-death-rates&amp;redir_log=684832086842533" target="_blank">2021</a>, over 106,000 Americans died from an overdose, and nearly 70,000 deaths were caused by fentanyl.&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=quorum_scott-iq&amp;crop=0000.0000.0000.0000&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.dea.gov%2fpress-releases%2f2022%2f12%2f20%2fdrug-enforcement-administration-announces-seizure-over-379-million-deadly%23%3a%7e%3atext%3dDrug%2520Enforcement%2520Administration%2520Announces%2520the%2cDoses%2520of%2520Fentanyl%2520in%25202022&amp;redir_log=637067514031423" target="_blank">Last year</a>, the Drug Enforcement Administration seized over 379 million deadly doses of fentanyl - enough to&nbsp;kill every American.

Ricketts-backed bill to fight fentanyl crisis advances with bipartisan support

Former Chadron State College President Janie Park died Tuesday in Billings, Montana. She was 76. A memorial service for close family members will be scheduled at a later date.

Park, who served as CSC’s 10th President from 2005 to 2012, was the institution’s first female President. She brought a calm demeanor and provided a steady hand while the college experienced bizarre circumstances, including a wildfire in 2006 that threatened campus and the city of Chadron.

“Janie and I worked together for most of 17 years,” CSC President Randy Rhine said. “She was a great mentor and a dear friend, whom I will miss.”

Park also led the college to enrollment increases after several down years, its first-ever comprehensive campaign, capital improvements to the institution’s two oldest facilities – Old Admin and Sparks Hall – and shepherded the college’s sustainable fuel efforts while improving the campus landscape.

“The past seven years have been, without exception, an honor and a privilege to serve this great college, and I’ll miss you all more than I can express,” said Park in a story announcing her retirement.

Prior to joining CSC, Park was provost and academic vice chancellor and professor of biological sciences at Montana State University-Billings for nine years. At Montana State, she managed six colleges, the honors program and academic support services, including the library, graduate studies, distance delivery and telecommunications, continuing education, and several university centers. She was also responsible for a $20 million budget, academic assessment, faculty and staff evaluations and served on the collective bargaining team for the faculty unions.

Previously, she served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Montana State University in Billings for three years. She also was associate dean of the College of Science and Liberal Arts at the Florida Institute of Technology at Melbourne for three years.

Park is survived by her husband, Tom, sons, Eric and Chris, and three grandchildren.

By Chadron State College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687964931669.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Former Chadron State College President Janie Park died Tuesday in Billings, Montana. She was 76. A memorial service for close family members will be scheduled at a later date.Park, who served as CSC’s 10th President from 2005 to 2012, was the institution’s first female President. She brought a calm demeanor and provided a steady hand while the college experienced bizarre circumstances, including a wildfire in 2006 that threatened campus and the city of Chadron.“Janie and I worked together for most of 17 years,” CSC President Randy Rhine said. “She was a great mentor and a dear friend, whom I will miss.”Park also led the college to enrollment increases after several down years, its first-ever comprehensive campaign, capital improvements to the institution’s two oldest facilities – Old Admin and Sparks Hall – and shepherded the college’s sustainable fuel efforts while improving the campus landscape.“The past seven years have been, without exception, an honor and a privilege to serve this great college, and I’ll miss you all more than I can express,” said Park in a story announcing her retirement.Prior to joining CSC, Park was provost and academic vice chancellor and professor of biological sciences at Montana State University-Billings for nine years. At Montana State, she managed six colleges, the honors program and academic support services, including the library, graduate studies, distance delivery and telecommunications, continuing education, and several university centers. She was also responsible for a $20 million budget, academic assessment, faculty and staff evaluations and served on the collective bargaining team for the faculty unions.Previously, she served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Montana State University in Billings for three years. She also was associate dean of the College of Science and Liberal Arts at the Florida Institute of Technology at Melbourne for three years.Park is survived by her husband, Tom, sons, Eric and Chris, and three grandchildren.

Former CSC President, Park, dies in Montana

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen announced he is accepting applications for a newly created at large position on the Tax Equalization and Review Commission. The new position is legislatively mandated through passage of LB 243 (2023). The six-year term will start July 1, 2023 and continue until January 1, 2028.

The selected appointee may reside in any congressional district. Other members of the commission represent each of Nebraska’s three congressional districts

Qualifications for this appointment can be found under Rev. Neb. Stat. §77-5004.

Application for executive appointment can be made through the Governor’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req" target="_blank">https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req</a>, or in writing to: Office of the Governor, P.O. Box 94848, Lincoln NE 68509-4848

The deadline to apply is Friday, July 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Office of Gov. Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen announced he is accepting applications for a newly created at large position on the Tax Equalization and Review Commission. The new position is legislatively mandated through passage of LB 243 (2023). The six-year term will start July 1, 2023 and continue until January 1, 2028.The selected appointee may reside in any congressional district. Other members of the commission represent each of Nebraska’s three congressional districtsQualifications for this appointment can be found under Rev. Neb. Stat. §77-5004.Application for executive appointment can be made through the Governor’s website:&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req" target="_blank">https://governor.nebraska.gov/board-comm-req</a>, or in writing to: Office of the Governor, P.O. Box 94848, Lincoln NE 68509-4848The deadline to apply is Friday, July 7.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov Pillen taking applications for new tax commission at large position

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is inviting the public to participate in its annual summer turkey survey July 1-Aug. 31.

The survey provides useful estimates about annual production by wild turkey hens and how many poults, or young turkeys, survive the summer brood-rearing period. These records and observations inform management decisions regarding wild turkeys, their population size and habitat needs.

During July and August, survey participants are asked to record all turkeys they see. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.iMfILMXEVoCY940MYg7KbZw7hixRIMnXlX70VF6k9Ss/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and search for “turkey brood survey” for instructions and the survey link.&nbsp;The link can be bookmarked on a phone for easy use in the field.

“The results of this survey have been really important in helping us understand our turkey populations,” said Luke Meduna, Game and Parks’ big game program manager. “While we have seen declines in turkey numbers across the state, brood sizes, hen, poult and tom ratios in recent years have remained consistent with historic rates.”

View the 2022 survey results at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb25zZXJ2YXRpb24vd2lsZGxpZmUtbWFuYWdlbWVudC93aWxkbGlmZS1zdXJ2ZXlzLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjYuNzg3OTQzNTEifQ.RSa0Zkbf-D_A7l-xgKWx6cLCiDwME8cWWboPfBDNbFQ/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov</a>; search for “wildlife surveys.”

By Nebraska Game and ParksThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is inviting the public to participate in its annual summer turkey survey July 1-Aug. 31.The survey provides useful estimates about annual production by wild turkey hens and how many poults, or young turkeys, survive the summer brood-rearing period. These records and observations inform management decisions regarding wild turkeys, their population size and habitat needs.During July and August, survey participants are asked to record all turkeys they see. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ2NjMDIuc2FmZWxpbmtzLnByb3RlY3Rpb24ub3V0bG9vay5jb20vP3VybD1odHRwJTNBJTJGJTJGb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiUyRnR1cmtleWJyb29kc3VydmV5JTJGJmRhdGE9MDQlN0MwMSU3Q0plcnJ5LkthbmUlNDBuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YlN0MxYTQ1MDA3YzIyNTU0ZjBkMzcxZDA4ZDkzYTRmMDcyYSU3QzA0MzIwN2RmZTY4OTRiZjY5MDIwMDEwMzhmMTFmMGIxJTdDMCU3QzAlN0M2Mzc2MDQ5MzMzODYzMTgxNTIlN0NVbmtub3duJTdDVFdGcGJHWnNiM2Q4ZXlKV0lqb2lNQzR3TGpBd01EQWlMQ0pRSWpvaVYybHVNeklpTENKQlRpSTZJazFoYVd3aUxDSlhWQ0k2TW4wJTNEJTdDMTAwMCZzZGF0YT1QakpnVUIxRTZFUmtzclJvQjUwblRISmdhWEVsT0ZxY1k2Z0dITGNCYkFVJTNEJnJlc2VydmVkPTAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNjI2Ljc4Nzk0MzUxIn0.iMfILMXEVoCY940MYg7KbZw7hixRIMnXlX70VF6k9Ss/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and search for “turkey brood survey” for instructions and the survey link.&nbsp;The link can be bookmarked on a phone for easy use in the field.“The results of this survey have been really important in helping us understand our turkey populations,” said Luke Meduna, Game and Parks’ big game program manager. “While we have seen declines in turkey numbers across the state, brood sizes, hen, poult and tom ratios in recent years have remained consistent with historic rates.”View the 2022 survey results at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb25zZXJ2YXRpb24vd2lsZGxpZmUtbWFuYWdlbWVudC93aWxkbGlmZS1zdXJ2ZXlzLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjYuNzg3OTQzNTEifQ.RSa0Zkbf-D_A7l-xgKWx6cLCiDwME8cWWboPfBDNbFQ/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov</a>; search for “wildlife surveys.”

Public encouraged to take part in summer turkey survey

The Hay Springs 4th of July Fly-In Breakfast will be held on July 4th at the Hay Springs Airport starting at 7 a.m. - 10 a.m.

The event is hosted by the Hay Springs FFA&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687891471750.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hay Springs 4th of July Fly-In Breakfast will be held on July 4th at the Hay Springs Airport starting at 7 a.m. - 10 a.m.The event is hosted by the Hay Springs FFA&nbsp;

Fly-In to be held at Hay Springs Airport 

Hunters may begin purchasing unlimited quota Nebraska deer and antelope permits July 10.

Residents, nonresidents and eligible landowners may purchase permits through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission starting at 1 p.m. Central time.

Unlimited quota deer permits are resident statewide archery, resident statewide muzzleloader, youth, youth whitetail, nonresident restricted youth, limited landowner and special landowner.

Unlimited quota antelope permits are resident statewide archery and youth archery.

July 11 – Residents may buy any limited quota deer permits.

July 12 – Residents may buy any limited antelope permits.

July 24 – Nonresidents may buy any limited deer permits.

July 25 – Nonresidents may buy any limited antelope permits.

Aug. 7 – Residents and nonresidents may buy any remaining draw unit deer permits.

Aug. 8 – Residents, nonresidents and eligible landowners may buy any remaining draw unit antelope permits.

Aug. 9 – Residents and eligible landowners may buy any remaining draw unit elk permits.

Permits will be available through the close of the hunting season or until the quota sells out.

Purchases may be made online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjYuNzg3OTQzNTEifQ.vsQjvW3CY9t6SircoFtHO-2EN5mIIX2pou06gpY1xQM/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>, in person at a Game and Parks office, or via mail: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, 2200 N. 33rd&nbsp;St., Lincoln, NE, 68503.

For more information on big game hunting and permits, see the 2023 Nebraska Big Game Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjYuNzg3OTQzNTEifQ.W6uZ23OwAns9xP9U8y1o-D1xx7QfL7qNcMyz35eNrak/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292L2d1aWRlcy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNjI2Ljc4Nzk0MzUxIn0.m7emFkyF2i8LnGI7I67TZCkzLVvAj_e0GfWd83pgcuc/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank"></a>.

By Nebraska Game and ParksHunters may begin purchasing unlimited quota Nebraska deer and antelope permits July 10.Residents, nonresidents and eligible landowners may purchase permits through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission starting at 1 p.m. Central time.Unlimited quota deer permits are resident statewide archery, resident statewide muzzleloader, youth, youth whitetail, nonresident restricted youth, limited landowner and special landowner.Unlimited quota antelope permits are resident statewide archery and youth archery.The remaining purchase periods are:July 11 – Residents may buy any limited quota deer permits.July 12 – Residents may buy any limited antelope permits.July 24 – Nonresidents may buy any limited deer permits.July 25 – Nonresidents may buy any limited antelope permits.Aug. 7 – Residents and nonresidents may buy any remaining draw unit deer permits.Aug. 8 – Residents, nonresidents and eligible landowners may buy any remaining draw unit antelope permits.Aug. 9 – Residents and eligible landowners may buy any remaining draw unit elk permits.Permits will be available through the close of the hunting season or until the quota sells out.Purchases may be made online at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjYuNzg3OTQzNTEifQ.vsQjvW3CY9t6SircoFtHO-2EN5mIIX2pou06gpY1xQM/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>, in person at a Game and Parks office, or via mail: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, 2200 N. 33rd&nbsp;St., Lincoln, NE, 68503.For more information on big game hunting and permits, see the 2023 Nebraska Big Game Guide at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MjYuNzg3OTQzNTEifQ.W6uZ23OwAns9xP9U8y1o-D1xx7QfL7qNcMyz35eNrak/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9vdXRkb29ybmVicmFza2EuZ292L2d1aWRlcy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNjI2Ljc4Nzk0MzUxIn0.m7emFkyF2i8LnGI7I67TZCkzLVvAj_e0GfWd83pgcuc/s/497221906/br/208052642962-l" target="_blank"></a>.

Unlimited quota deer, antelope permits available starting in July

By Gabby Michna of Chadron Chamber of Commerce, Art Alley Crew

It is that time and Fur Trade Days is right around the corner. In lieu&nbsp;of our recent commissioned&nbsp;project through&nbsp;art alley supported and funded by The City of Chadron, we would like to invite you to join us of the official unveiling of the Fur Trade Mural compliments of "The Gov".&nbsp;

We will be hosting this on Friday, July 7th at 4 p.m. up at the water tower south of town and past the job corps on your left. Please be aware that parking is scarce and limited, we will only be there for about 30-40 min,&nbsp;if that. Please be prepared for our wonderful changing weather, it may be extremely windy, or it may be just right!&nbsp;

Everyone is welcome so help us celebrate by spreading the word the invite is attached below. Or you can access the Facebook Event by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/594608209479545/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22extra_data%22%3A%22%22%2C%22mechanism%22%3A%22unknown%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22user_timeline%22%7D%2C%7B%22extra_data%22%3A%22%22%2C%22mechanism%22%3A%22left_rail%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D%2C%7B%22extra_data%22%3A%22%22%2C%22mechanism%22%3A%22surface%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22create_dialog%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

A big thanks to everyone who has assisted and played a role in getting our "art alley" initiatives so far and wide! This is truly a dream come true.

By Gabby Michna of Chadron Chamber of Commerce, Art Alley CrewIt is that time and Fur Trade Days is right around the corner. In lieu&nbsp;of our recent commissioned&nbsp;project through&nbsp;art alley supported and funded by The City of Chadron, we would like to invite you to join us of the official unveiling of the Fur Trade Mural compliments of "The Gov".&nbsp;We will be hosting this on Friday, July 7th at 4 p.m. up at the water tower south of town and past the job corps on your left. Please be aware that parking is scarce and limited, we will only be there for about 30-40 min,&nbsp;if that. Please be prepared for our wonderful changing weather, it may be extremely windy, or it may be just right!&nbsp;Everyone is welcome so help us celebrate by spreading the word the invite is attached below. Or you can access the Facebook Event by clicking&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/594608209479545/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22extra_data%22%3A%22%22%2C%22mechanism%22%3A%22unknown%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22user_timeline%22%7D%2C%7B%22extra_data%22%3A%22%22%2C%22mechanism%22%3A%22left_rail%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D%2C%7B%22extra_data%22%3A%22%22%2C%22mechanism%22%3A%22surface%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22create_dialog%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D" target="_blank">HERE</a>.A big thanks to everyone who has assisted and played a role in getting our "art alley" initiatives so far and wide! This is truly a dream come true.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687746275403.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Chadron Chamber invite public to unveiling of 'Fur Trade Mural' 

P202300436 09:29 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Female reported her daughter was in the attic cleaning it while she was down the stairs. The adult daughter threw multiple books at female, causing injuries to the face, arm and chest. Female is considering charges. Open - Under Investigation

P202300438 16:03 TRESPASS : TRESPASS TWO MALES WERE OBSERVED SLEEPING ON A RAIL CAR IN THE SOUTH YARD OF BNSF RAILWAY / BOTH MALES WERE ARRESTED FOR CRIMINAL TRESPASS Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300437 16:03 TRESPASS : TRESPASS TWO MALES WERE OBSERVED SLEEPING ON A RAIL CAR IN THE SOUTH YARD OF BNSF RAILWAY / BOTH MALES WERE ARRESTED FOR CRIMINAL TRESPASS Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300439 16:29 INTAKE : INTAKE Received a Does not meet Definition intake/ nursing home was contacted and advised they have handle the situation internally/ no concerns Closed - Resolved

P202300439 16:29 INTAKE : INTAKE Received a Does not meet Definition intake/ nursing home was contacted and advised they have handle the situation internally/ no concerns Closed - Unfounded

P202300440 20:04 AOA : ASSIST OTHER Officer Gomez and I were requested to assist Sheriffs Office on a one vehicle roll over with an ejection where the male was injured badly Closed - Resolved

P202300441 15:18 DISTURBANCE : Location Circle C. Issues surrounding disturbing the peace. Case taken. Under Prosecutor Review

P202300444 18:16 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Investigation into a female who physically assaulted a male near Kloch's Liquor. Charges are recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300442 18:16 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Investigation made into a male who physically assaulted a female while at the Alliance Police Department. The male fled on foot and was later caught and arrested. Charges have been recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300443 19:29 AOA : ASSIST OTHER Assist of a Sidney Police Department case Closed - Resolved

P202300446 12:19 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYMVA / 3rd and black hills / no injuries / stat accident report filed Closed - Resolved

P202300448 15:11 DEATH : UNATTENDED EMS / 100 block Sweetwater / 10-65 male upon arrival / Investigation found no foul play / case closed Closed - Resolved

P202300451 21:00 INTAKE : INTAKE Investigation into an intake which alleges domestic violence inside a household near 25th and Box Butte Ave. Investigation is ongoing Closed - Resolved

P202300450 02:47 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYofficers responded to the 2600 block of Big Horn in regards to a vehicle striking another vehicle and leaving the scene/ investigation was conducted/ charges recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300452 10:57 INTAKE : INTAKE Received a Does Not Meet intake for a female who fell while visiting her daughter in Alliance. Unfounded for any neglect or abuse. Closed - Unfounded

P202300454 18:13 10-45 : MVA INJURY Vehicle accident near E 8th Street and Missouri Ave which resulted in multiple minor injuries. Narcotics were located and seized. Driver at fault was charged Closed - Charges

P202300455 08:43 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : BROKEN WINDOW REPORTED ON THE REAR OF WEBB ORTHODONTICS BUILDING / Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300456 13:47 FOUND : FOUND HOME OWNER REPORTED A TENT HAD BLOWN INTO HER YARD AND SHE WAS UNSURE OF WHO IT BELONGS TOO Inactive - Case Suspended

By Alliance Police Department06/19/23P202300436 09:29 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Female reported her daughter was in the attic cleaning it while she was down the stairs. The adult daughter threw multiple books at female, causing injuries to the face, arm and chest. Female is considering charges. Open - Under InvestigationP202300438 16:03 TRESPASS : TRESPASS TWO MALES WERE OBSERVED SLEEPING ON A RAIL CAR IN THE SOUTH YARD OF BNSF RAILWAY / BOTH MALES WERE ARRESTED FOR CRIMINAL TRESPASS Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300437 16:03 TRESPASS : TRESPASS TWO MALES WERE OBSERVED SLEEPING ON A RAIL CAR IN THE SOUTH YARD OF BNSF RAILWAY / BOTH MALES WERE ARRESTED FOR CRIMINAL TRESPASS Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300439 16:29 INTAKE : INTAKE Received a Does not meet Definition intake/ nursing home was contacted and advised they have handle the situation internally/ no concerns Closed - ResolvedP202300439 16:29 INTAKE : INTAKE Received a Does not meet Definition intake/ nursing home was contacted and advised they have handle the situation internally/ no concerns Closed - UnfoundedP202300440 20:04 AOA : ASSIST OTHER Officer Gomez and I were requested to assist Sheriffs Office on a one vehicle roll over with an ejection where the male was injured badly Closed - Resolved06/19/23 Total: 606/20/23P202300441 15:18 DISTURBANCE : Location Circle C. Issues surrounding disturbing the peace. Case taken. Under Prosecutor ReviewP202300444 18:16 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Investigation into a female who physically assaulted a male near Kloch's Liquor. Charges are recommended Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300442 18:16 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Investigation made into a male who physically assaulted a female while at the Alliance Police Department. The male fled on foot and was later caught and arrested. Charges have been recommended Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300443 19:29 AOA : ASSIST OTHER Assist of a Sidney Police Department case Closed - Resolved06/20/23 Total: 406/21/23P202300446 12:19 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYMVA / 3rd and black hills / no injuries / stat accident report filed Closed - ResolvedP202300448 15:11 DEATH : UNATTENDED EMS / 100 block Sweetwater / 10-65 male upon arrival / Investigation found no foul play / case closed Closed - Resolved06/21/23 Total: 206/22/23P202300451 21:00 INTAKE : INTAKE Investigation into an intake which alleges domestic violence inside a household near 25th and Box Butte Ave. Investigation is ongoing Closed - Resolved06/22/23 Total: 106/23/23P202300450 02:47 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYofficers responded to the 2600 block of Big Horn in regards to a vehicle striking another vehicle and leaving the scene/ investigation was conducted/ charges recommended Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300452 10:57 INTAKE : INTAKE Received a Does Not Meet intake for a female who fell while visiting her daughter in Alliance. Unfounded for any neglect or abuse. Closed - UnfoundedP202300454 18:13 10-45 : MVA INJURY Vehicle accident near E 8th Street and Missouri Ave which resulted in multiple minor injuries. Narcotics were located and seized. Driver at fault was charged Closed - ChargesRecommended06/23/23 Total: 306/24/23P202300455 08:43 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : BROKEN WINDOW REPORTED ON THE REAR OF WEBB ORTHODONTICS BUILDING / Inactive - Case SuspendedP202300456 13:47 FOUND : FOUND HOME OWNER REPORTED A TENT HAD BLOWN INTO HER YARD AND SHE WAS UNSURE OF WHO IT BELONGS TOO Inactive - Case Suspended06/24/23 Total: 2Total Records: 18

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 915 PM MDT FOR SOUTHWESTERN CHEYENNE AND SOUTHEASTERN KIMBALL COUNTIES...

At 854 PM MDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 9 miles south of Potter, or 18 miles southeast of Kimball, moving east at 20 mph.

IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without&nbsp;         shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage&nbsp;         to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur.  Tree damage is&nbsp;         likely.

This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of southwestern Cheyenne and southeastern Kimball Counties.

A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 845 PM MDT FOR WESTERN CHEYENNE AND SOUTHEASTERN KIMBALL COUNTIES...

At 828 PM MDT, a confirmed tornado was located approximately 1 mile south of Kimball, moving southeast at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Damaging tornado and three inch hail.

SOURCE...Off-duty NWS employee confirmed tornado.

This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of western Cheyenne and southeastern Kimball Counties.

This includes Interstate 80 in Nebraska between mile markers 23 andn 24.

To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

By National Weather ServiceUPDATE at 8:54pm&nbsp;A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 915 PM MDT FOR SOUTHWESTERN CHEYENNE AND SOUTHEASTERN KIMBALL COUNTIES...At 854 PM MDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 9 miles south of Potter, or 18 miles southeast of Kimball, moving east at 20 mph.HAZARD...Tornado and baseball size hail.SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without&nbsp; shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage&nbsp; to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is&nbsp; likely.This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of southwestern Cheyenne and southeastern Kimball Counties.---------------A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 845 PM MDT FOR WESTERN CHEYENNE AND SOUTHEASTERN KIMBALL COUNTIES...At 828 PM MDT, a confirmed tornado was located approximately 1 mile south of Kimball, moving southeast at 20 mph.HAZARD...Damaging tornado and three inch hail.SOURCE...Off-duty NWS employee confirmed tornado.IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without&nbsp; shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage&nbsp; to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is&nbsp; likely.This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of western Cheyenne and southeastern Kimball Counties.This includes Interstate 80 in Nebraska between mile markers 23 andn 24.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.

Tornado Warning issued for Kimball, Cheyenne Co., confirmed tornado

By ALEX HELMBRECHT, Director of CSC College Relations

CHADRON – Austen Stephens has been named the Dean of Student Affairs at Chadron State College incoming President Ron K. Patterson announced Monday.

“As the Interim Dean of Student Affairs and before that as the Director of Housing, Austen continually demonstrated his leadership. He works with students well and does all he can to advance priorities for them. He is also a capable leader with a wealth of experience from working across campus with various departments. He is a great fit for our institution at this time,” Patterson said.

Stephens, who earned both his bachelor’s and master’s at Chadron State College, has worked at CSC since 2014. He began his career in Housing and Residence Life as the Assistant Director in Work Hall and Wing. In 2015, he was named the Director of Housing and Residence Life and served in that capacity until he was named Interim Dean of Student Affairs in Feb. 2023.

“Chadron State College is a great place to work and in Student Affairs we get to collaborate across campus in a variety of ways,” Stephens said. “We will do all we can in Student Affairs to ensure students have access to the services they need in order to be successful.”

A search for Stephens’ previous role, Director of Housing, will open soon.

By ALEX HELMBRECHT, Director of CSC College Relations<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687807394061.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Austen Stephens has been named the Dean of Student Affairs at Chadron State College incoming President Ron K. Patterson announced Monday.“As the Interim Dean of Student Affairs and before that as the Director of Housing, Austen continually demonstrated his leadership. He works with students well and does all he can to advance priorities for them. He is also a capable leader with a wealth of experience from working across campus with various departments. He is a great fit for our institution at this time,” Patterson said.Stephens, who earned both his bachelor’s and master’s at Chadron State College, has worked at CSC since 2014. He began his career in Housing and Residence Life as the Assistant Director in Work Hall and Wing. In 2015, he was named the Director of Housing and Residence Life and served in that capacity until he was named Interim Dean of Student Affairs in Feb. 2023.“Chadron State College is a great place to work and in Student Affairs we get to collaborate across campus in a variety of ways,” Stephens said. “We will do all we can in Student Affairs to ensure students have access to the services they need in order to be successful.”A search for Stephens’ previous role, Director of Housing, will open soon.

Stephens named Dean of Student Affairs at Chadron State College

The Alliance Arts Council announced today that it has been awarded a grant of $7546.00 by the Nebraska Arts Council. This grant will support their 2023-2024 season of events beginning in November of 2023.

Nebraska Arts Council Executive Director Mike Markey commented, “The Alliance Arts Council contributes a great deal to advancement of the arts in Box Butte County. We commend the work being done by organizations such as the Alliance Arts Council because the arts are important to the education and quality of life for all Nebraskans.”

The Alliance Arts Councils opening event will be on November 3, 2023. They are very pleased to be able to present a performance by CATAPULT, The Amazing Magic of Dancing Shadows! Catapult is the premiere Shadow Illusion company in the world and was a finalist on Season 8 of America’s Got Talent. The season will continue with 3 more performing events, an in-school residency and a visual art exhibit.

For more information about the Alliance Arts Council contact Executive Director Cindy Randall at allianceartscouncil@hotmail.com or visit their website, allianceartscouncil.com.

Nebraska Arts Council (NAC), a state agency, provides numerous grants, services and special initiatives that help sustain and promote the arts throughout Nebraska. NAC is supported by the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, Nebraska Legislature and National Endowment for the Arts. To learn more visit www.artscouncil.nebraska.gov.

By Alliance Arts CouncilThe Alliance Arts Council announced today that it has been awarded a grant of $7546.00 by the Nebraska Arts Council. This grant will support their 2023-2024 season of events beginning in November of 2023.Nebraska Arts Council Executive Director Mike Markey commented, “The Alliance Arts Council contributes a great deal to advancement of the arts in Box Butte County. We commend the work being done by organizations such as the Alliance Arts Council because the arts are important to the education and quality of life for all Nebraskans.”The Alliance Arts Councils opening event will be on November 3, 2023. They are very pleased to be able to present a performance by CATAPULT, The Amazing Magic of Dancing Shadows! Catapult is the premiere Shadow Illusion company in the world and was a finalist on Season 8 of America’s Got Talent. The season will continue with 3 more performing events, an in-school residency and a visual art exhibit.For more information about the Alliance Arts Council contact Executive Director Cindy Randall at allianceartscouncil@hotmail.com or visit their website, allianceartscouncil.com.Nebraska Arts Council (NAC), a state agency, provides numerous grants, services and special initiatives that help sustain and promote the arts throughout Nebraska. NAC is supported by the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, Nebraska Legislature and National Endowment for the Arts. To learn more visit www.artscouncil.nebraska.gov.

Alliance Arts Council receives grant from Nebraska Arts Council

Gering –&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to heavy rains that have washed out sections of the canal road used to access the Scotts Bluff backcountry, the Backcountry Tour that had been scheduled for Tuesday, June 27th&nbsp;at 6:30 has been cancelled. In its place park ranger Matt Salomon will lead an after hours tour up to the summit of Scotts Bluff. &nbsp;

This tour will showcase the work done by the Civil Works Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps in the monument, as well as explore the geology and paleontology of this important landmark on the Emigrant Trails. The tour will start promptly at the Scotts Bluff National Monument visitor center, located at 190276 Old Oregon Trail in Gering, NE, at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27th and end at around 8:00 p.m. This tour is FREE, but reservations are required. Please call the Scotts Bluff National Monument visitor center at 308-436-9700 to reserve your spot on this unique tour. &nbsp;

Further information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules are available at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.&nbsp;

By Scottsbluff National Monument&nbsp;Gering –&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to heavy rains that have washed out sections of the canal road used to access the Scotts Bluff backcountry, the Backcountry Tour that had been scheduled for Tuesday, June 27th&nbsp;at 6:30 has been cancelled. In its place park ranger Matt Salomon will lead an after hours tour up to the summit of Scotts Bluff. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140447752.jpeg" alt="Photo by Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.org" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.org</figcaption>
 </figure>This tour will showcase the work done by the Civil Works Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps in the monument, as well as explore the geology and paleontology of this important landmark on the Emigrant Trails. The tour will start promptly at the Scotts Bluff National Monument visitor center, located at 190276 Old Oregon Trail in Gering, NE, at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27th and end at around 8:00 p.m. This tour is FREE, but reservations are required. Please call the Scotts Bluff National Monument visitor center at 308-436-9700 to reserve your spot on this unique tour. &nbsp;Further information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules are available at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.&nbsp;

Ranger Saloman to lead after hours summit tour at Scotts Bluff National Monument

CAMPBELL COUNTY, Wyo. (AP) — A tornado that ripped through the country's largest coal mining site in northeast Wyoming left eight people injured and halted operations as first responders searched the massive open-pit site for employees and continued to assess the damage, officials said Saturday.

The tornado hit the North Antelope Rochelle Mine in Campbell County around 6 p.m. Friday during a shift change, initially complicating search and rescue efforts. But Peabody Energy, the operator of the mine with headquarters in St. Louis and South Brisbane, Australia, confirmed before midnight that all employees had been accounted for.

Six employees were still being treated in hospitals as of 11 p.m. Friday, the company said. No deaths were reported.

Melissa Smith, a meteorologist and hydrologist with the National Weather Service in Rapid City, South Dakota, said a storm system scattered tornadoes throughout Campbell, Natrona and Johnson counties.

“The tornadoes would form, come down, stay on the ground and come back up,” Smith said.

At the mining site, empty train cars and buses there to transport workers were blown over, according to Leslie Perkins, spokesperson for Campbell County. First responders also had to contain “various hazardous materials” that leaked after the tornado touched down, the Campbell County Fire Department said in a statement, although the agency did not provide more details about the leaks.

Each year, Wyoming sees an average of 10 to 12 tornadoes that “tend to be quick spin-ups that are not that big," unlike Friday night's twister at the mining site, said Aaron Dye, another National Weather Service meteorologist.

“Seeing that size of a tornado is pretty different,” he said, adding that meteorologists were on the ground Saturday morning in Campbell County taking measurements. Dye said the weather agency will release more information later Saturday.

Meanwhile, operations at the mining operation about 64 miles (103 kilometers) south of Gillette will remain suspended until damage assessments at the facility are completed, Peabody said in a statement.

The mining site is the largest in the country, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. It produced nearly the same amount of coal in 2021 as Illinois and Montana combined, the fourth and fifth largest coal-producing states.

By Associated PressCAMPBELL COUNTY, Wyo. (AP) — A tornado that ripped through the country's largest coal mining site in northeast Wyoming left eight people injured and halted operations as first responders searched the massive open-pit site for employees and continued to assess the damage, officials said Saturday.The tornado hit the North Antelope Rochelle Mine in Campbell County around 6 p.m. Friday during a shift change, initially complicating search and rescue efforts. But Peabody Energy, the operator of the mine with headquarters in St. Louis and South Brisbane, Australia, confirmed before midnight that all employees had been accounted for.Six employees were still being treated in hospitals as of 11 p.m. Friday, the company said. No deaths were reported.Melissa Smith, a meteorologist and hydrologist with the National Weather Service in Rapid City, South Dakota, said a storm system scattered tornadoes throughout Campbell, Natrona and Johnson counties.“The tornadoes would form, come down, stay on the ground and come back up,” Smith said.At the mining site, empty train cars and buses there to transport workers were blown over, according to Leslie Perkins, spokesperson for Campbell County. First responders also had to contain “various hazardous materials” that leaked after the tornado touched down, the Campbell County Fire Department said in a statement, although the agency did not provide more details about the leaks.Each year, Wyoming sees an average of 10 to 12 tornadoes that “tend to be quick spin-ups that are not that big," unlike Friday night's twister at the mining site, said Aaron Dye, another National Weather Service meteorologist.“Seeing that size of a tornado is pretty different,” he said, adding that meteorologists were on the ground Saturday morning in Campbell County taking measurements. Dye said the weather agency will release more information later Saturday.Meanwhile, operations at the mining operation about 64 miles (103 kilometers) south of Gillette will remain suspended until damage assessments at the facility are completed, Peabody said in a statement.The mining site is the largest in the country, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. It produced nearly the same amount of coal in 2021 as Illinois and Montana combined, the fourth and fifth largest coal-producing states.

Tornado rips through massive Wyoming coal mining site, injures 8 people

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Abortion pills will remain legal in Wyoming for now, after a judge ruled Thursday that the state’s first-in-the-nation law to ban them won’t take effect July 1 as planned while a lawsuit proceeds.

Attorneys for Wyoming failed to show that the ban wouldn’t harm the plaintiffs before their lawsuit is resolved, Teton County Judge Melissa Owens ruled after hearing arguments from both sides. Meanwhile, those plaintiffs “have clearly showed probable success on the merits,” Owens said.

While other states have instituted de facto bans on the medication by broadly prohibiting abortion, only Wyoming has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wyoming-medication-abortion-ban-gordon-8120493afa25f7a2d4233192dc612cb3">specifically banned abortion pills.</a>&nbsp;The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in April that access to one of the two pills, mifepristone, may continue while litigants seek to overturn the Food and Drug Administration’s approval of it.

Wyoming's pill ban is being challenged by four women, including two obstetricians, and two nonprofit organizations. One of the groups, Wellspring Health Access, opened as the state's first full-service abortion clinic in years in April following an arson attack in 2022.

They're are also suing to stop a near-total ban on abortion enacted in Wyoming in March. Owens has suspended that law, too, and combined the two lawsuits.

Because abortion remains legal in Wyoming, banning abortion pills would require women to get more invasive surgical abortions instead, Marci Bramlet, an attorney for the ban opponents told Owens in Thursday’s hearing.

“It effectively tells people you must have open-heart surgery when a stent would do,” Bramlet said.

A state constitutional amendment enacted in 2012 also came into play in court arguments. The amendment passed in response to the Affordable Care Act, former President Barack Obama’s health care law, says Wyoming residents have the right to make their own health care decisions.

Wyoming’s new abortion laws allow exceptions to save life and for cases of rape or incest that are reported to police. But abortion for other reasons isn’t health care under the amendment, Jay Jerde, an attorney for the state, argued.

“It’s not restoring a woman’s body from pain, injury or physical sickness,” Jerde said. “Medical services are involved, but getting an abortion for reasons other than health care, it can’t be a medical decision.”

Pregnancy involves pain and sickness, Owens pointed out. But women don’t get abortions for that reason, countered Jerde.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs later questioned how the state could know the motives of women getting abortions.

Wyoming’s new laws were enacted after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade last year. Since then, some 25 million women and teenagers have been subjected to either stricter controls on ending their pregnancies or almost total bans on the procedure.

By Associated PressCHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Abortion pills will remain legal in Wyoming for now, after a judge ruled Thursday that the state’s first-in-the-nation law to ban them won’t take effect July 1 as planned while a lawsuit proceeds.Attorneys for Wyoming failed to show that the ban wouldn’t harm the plaintiffs before their lawsuit is resolved, Teton County Judge Melissa Owens ruled after hearing arguments from both sides. Meanwhile, those plaintiffs “have clearly showed probable success on the merits,” Owens said.While other states have instituted de facto bans on the medication by broadly prohibiting abortion, only Wyoming has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wyoming-medication-abortion-ban-gordon-8120493afa25f7a2d4233192dc612cb3">specifically banned abortion pills.</a>&nbsp;The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in April that access to one of the two pills, mifepristone, may continue while litigants seek to overturn the Food and Drug Administration’s approval of it.Wyoming's pill ban is being challenged by four women, including two obstetricians, and two nonprofit organizations. One of the groups, Wellspring Health Access, opened as the state's first full-service abortion clinic in years in April following an arson attack in 2022.They're are also suing to stop a near-total ban on abortion enacted in Wyoming in March. Owens has suspended that law, too, and combined the two lawsuits.Because abortion remains legal in Wyoming, banning abortion pills would require women to get more invasive surgical abortions instead, Marci Bramlet, an attorney for the ban opponents told Owens in Thursday’s hearing.“It effectively tells people you must have open-heart surgery when a stent would do,” Bramlet said.A state constitutional amendment enacted in 2012 also came into play in court arguments. The amendment passed in response to the Affordable Care Act, former President Barack Obama’s health care law, says Wyoming residents have the right to make their own health care decisions.Wyoming’s new abortion laws allow exceptions to save life and for cases of rape or incest that are reported to police. But abortion for other reasons isn’t health care under the amendment, Jay Jerde, an attorney for the state, argued.“It’s not restoring a woman’s body from pain, injury or physical sickness,” Jerde said. “Medical services are involved, but getting an abortion for reasons other than health care, it can’t be a medical decision.”Pregnancy involves pain and sickness, Owens pointed out. But women don’t get abortions for that reason, countered Jerde.Attorneys for the plaintiffs later questioned how the state could know the motives of women getting abortions.Wyoming’s new laws were enacted after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade last year. Since then, some 25 million women and teenagers have been subjected to either stricter controls on ending their pregnancies or almost total bans on the procedure.In central Wyoming, services at Wellspring Health Access include pill abortions — a method for ending pregnancy that is used in more than half of all U.S. abortions, said Julie Burkhart, Wellspring’s president, in a statement.“Medication abortion is safe, effective, and has been approved by the FDA for more than two decades," Burkhart said.Previously only one other clinic in Wyoming — a women’s health center in Jackson, some 250 miles (400 kilometers) away — offered pill abortions.Wyoming officials didn’t immediately return a request for comment but previously have promised to vigorously defend the legality of the new laws.In recent years, abortions using two kinds of pills, usually taken days apart, have become the preferred method for ending pregnancy in the U.S., in part because the process offers a less invasive alternative to surgical abortions. Until Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signed the legislation outlawing medication abortions, no state had passed a law specifically prohibiting abortion pills, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights.However, 13 states enacted blanket abortion bans that included&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">medical abortions</a>&nbsp;and 15 states already had limited access to the pills.Starting with an abortion ban that was set to take effect last summer, Owens has now blocked three abortion bans signed into law by Gordon, the Republican governor who appointed her.She serves GOP-dominated Sublette and Fremont counties as well as Teton County, an ultra-wealthy and not-so-Republican area many Wyomingites don’t see as representative of their state.

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