LINCOLN&nbsp;– Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Independence Day:

“This Independence Day marks 246 years since the birth of the United States.&nbsp; On the Fourth of July, we light the sky with fireworks to celebrate our nation’s founding.&nbsp; The United States endures as the greatest country on earth.&nbsp; We’re blessed to live in a Republic where we enjoy the benefits of liberty.”

“As we display the U.S. flag this holiday weekend, we’re reminded of the brave Americans who’ve sacrificed through the years to preserve our Republic.&nbsp; We also give thanks for the men and women actively serving in our military on missions around the world.”

“This Fourth of July, let’s remember that freedom isn’t something we passively receive.&nbsp; It’s something we achieve together by taking on the responsibilities of citizenship.&nbsp; In the words of Dwight D. Eisenhower, ‘The winning of freedom is not to be compared to the winning of a game—with the victory recorded forever in history. &nbsp;Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirits of men and so must be daily earned and refreshed.’”

“Over the Fourth of July weekend, let’s reflect on these words as we spend time with family and friends celebrating America.”

“Susanne, the kids, and I wish everyone an enjoyable Independence Day. &nbsp;If you’re traveling, be sure to buckle up, avoid driving if you’ve been drinking, and use caution around construction zones.”

By Gov. Pete Ricketts OfficeLINCOLN&nbsp;– Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Independence Day:“This Independence Day marks 246 years since the birth of the United States.&nbsp; On the Fourth of July, we light the sky with fireworks to celebrate our nation’s founding.&nbsp; The United States endures as the greatest country on earth.&nbsp; We’re blessed to live in a Republic where we enjoy the benefits of liberty.”“As we display the U.S. flag this holiday weekend, we’re reminded of the brave Americans who’ve sacrificed through the years to preserve our Republic.&nbsp; We also give thanks for the men and women actively serving in our military on missions around the world.”“This Fourth of July, let’s remember that freedom isn’t something we passively receive.&nbsp; It’s something we achieve together by taking on the responsibilities of citizenship.&nbsp; In the words of Dwight D. Eisenhower, ‘The winning of freedom is not to be compared to the winning of a game—with the victory recorded forever in history. &nbsp;Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirits of men and so must be daily earned and refreshed.’”“Over the Fourth of July weekend, let’s reflect on these words as we spend time with family and friends celebrating America.”“Susanne, the kids, and I wish everyone an enjoyable Independence Day. &nbsp;If you’re traveling, be sure to buckle up, avoid driving if you’ve been drinking, and use caution around construction zones.”

Gov. Ricketts’ Independence Day statement

Alliance, NE – The City of Alliance Facilities will be closed on Monday, July 4, 2022 in observance of Independence Day. This closure includes the Utility Office, Senior Center, Public Works, Sallows Military Museum and the Municipal Building.

The Alliance Municipal Landfill and Alliance Public Library will also be closed Saturday, July 2nd thru Monday, July 4th for the holiday weekend, reopening with normal hours on Tuesday, July 5th.

The Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center will be open on Monday, July 4th from 1-4pm.

The Alliance Public Transit will be running medical only on Monday, July 4th.

Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The City of Alliance Facilities will be closed on Monday, July 4, 2022 in observance of Independence Day. This closure includes the Utility Office, Senior Center, Public Works, Sallows Military Museum and the Municipal Building.The Alliance Municipal Landfill and Alliance Public Library will also be closed Saturday, July 2nd thru Monday, July 4th for the holiday weekend, reopening with normal hours on Tuesday, July 5th.The Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center will be open on Monday, July 4th from 1-4pm.The Alliance Public Transit will be running medical only on Monday, July 4th.Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

City of Alliance Fourth of July closures 

Alliance – Speaker Charlotte &amp; Kevin Endorf will present a program “A Story of WWII and The Holocaust” on July 7th at 6:30pm at The Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center.

This presentation is made possible by Humanities Nebraska, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and Knight Museum Partners as part of the HN Speakers Bureau.

For more information, contact Jodi Ringbauer at the Knight Museum at (308) 762-2384.

By City of AllianceAlliance – Speaker Charlotte &amp; Kevin Endorf will present a program “A Story of WWII and The Holocaust” on July 7th at 6:30pm at The Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center.This presentation is made possible by Humanities Nebraska, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and Knight Museum Partners as part of the HN Speakers Bureau.For more information, contact Jodi Ringbauer at the Knight Museum at (308) 762-2384.

'A Story of WWII and The Holocaust' program at Knight Museum in Alliance

Denver, CO&nbsp;JUNE 29, 2022&nbsp;—Independence Day is just ahead, and your plans might include fireworks displays, a backyard picnic, or perhaps fun at the reservoir. The American Red Cross of Wyoming offers these tips so you can enjoy a fun-packed, safe holiday.&nbsp;

“We’re all looking forward to the 4th&nbsp;of July holiday. It’s a time for fun with friends and family,” said Gino Greco,&nbsp;Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming. “We here at the Red Cross want everyone to enjoy their celebration and to be safe.”&nbsp;

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Many states outlaw most fireworks. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:&nbsp;

Watch the weather and get out of the water at the first sign of lightning or the rumble of thunder. Stay indoors and away from water for 30 minutes after the last lightning flashes or thunder roars.

By American Red CrossDenver, CO&nbsp;JUNE 29, 2022&nbsp;—Independence Day is just ahead, and your plans might include fireworks displays, a backyard picnic, or perhaps fun at the reservoir. The American Red Cross of Wyoming offers these tips so you can enjoy a fun-packed, safe holiday.&nbsp;“We’re all looking forward to the 4th&nbsp;of July holiday. It’s a time for fun with friends and family,” said Gino Greco,&nbsp;Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming. “We here at the Red Cross want everyone to enjoy their celebration and to be safe.”&nbsp;FIREWORKS SAFETYThe safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Many states outlaw most fireworks. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.</li><li>Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.</li><li>Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.</li><li>Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."</li><li>Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.</li>
 </ol>PICNIC SAFETY<ol>
 <li>Wash your hands before preparing the food.</li><li>Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs.</li><li>If you are going to cook on the grill, never grill indoors. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.</li><li>Always supervise the grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited. Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.</li><li>Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.</li>
 </ol>WATER SAFETYWatch the weather and get out of the water at the first sign of lightning or the rumble of thunder. Stay indoors and away from water for 30 minutes after the last lightning flashes or thunder roars.Plan ahead for aquatic activities:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Swim only at pool or lake with a lifeguard, within the designated swimming area. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and ask them about local conditions.</li><li>Always&nbsp;designate a&nbsp;“<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BefZIhTm1hsMlkISrfLeiULkzUaOmltVHgSzqDHIe7mQ-3D-3D9Qk4_c-2BOB8316sDaZ5paYyyKRh-2FC4v8rm7BY6VL-2BnXb9ELzfCH7RplZyesblRqEoV-2Bhl8XFPh1qn426wSzKfwlLR9gJWJpO-2FcFGOS2j6Z6aYO8l-2Bz-2FVS-2BDV-2F-2FiRxN4T1pPrXJTmSHyzFvskwAEuTx9oAvHM4j22l4ZqJFnOqIFiBmGsXoFAkhRC9qPWSZuRy0mhc0NGpnLBMa6734VPMr3CuPj4MSbb0UM-2FKZQkqYbGXLULAuv0yxqPPo4WYRh7cW-2FR0FjTJUX1jiawsXcboQ6WU8rsw063R19spWGLuwFVClffoK9pfg1XvYC47CpSvFwkX-2FLagaq8KSOACYM1xLnAOJyLiGze3d2gS6Rof7jifTswU-3D" target="_blank">water watcher</a>”&nbsp;whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water until the next water watcher takes over.</li><li>Children, inexperienced swimmers, and all boaters should wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.</li><li>Protect your neck – don’t dive in headfirst. Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life.</li><li>If you are caught in a rip current, stay calm and don’t fight it. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Then, turn and swim to shore.&nbsp;If you can't swim to shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore. Draw attention to yourself by waving and calling for help.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>

Red Cross offers tips for a safe holiday

Alliance – City of Alliance residential utility customers will receive two (2) landfill passes in the mail for use at the Alliance Municipal Landfill.

 The coupons were mailed on June 29th. Most household items are accepted, with the exception of tires, appliances, construction materials and demolition debris. Please present the coupon to the landfill attendant at the time of use. The coupons are not transferrable and will expire June 30th, 2023. The landfill is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

For more information, please contact the City of Alliance Landfill by calling (308) 762-2705.

By City of Alliance&nbsp;Alliance – City of Alliance residential utility customers will receive two (2) landfill passes in the mail for use at the Alliance Municipal Landfill. The coupons were mailed on June 29th. Most household items are accepted, with the exception of tires, appliances, construction materials and demolition debris. Please present the coupon to the landfill attendant at the time of use. The coupons are not transferrable and will expire June 30th, 2023. The landfill is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.For more information, please contact the City of Alliance Landfill by calling (308) 762-2705.

Alliance residents to receive landfill coupons 

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol has been honored by Stop Stick Ltd. for the 2021 “Hit of the Year”. The award is presented annually for an exceptional stop stick deployment that results in the safe conclusion of a pursuit.

On Thursday, Stop Stick representatives presented the award to Trooper John Lewis for his successful deployment of stop sticks during a pursuit with a man suspected of shooting Omaha Police Officer Jeffrey Wittstruck on March 21, 2021. Trooper Lewis’ deployment was chosen out of more than 4,000 stop stick deployments in 2021.

“The apprehension of this suspect was imperative, and it took exceptional teamwork from many troopers, officers, and deputies,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Part of that team effort was an unbelievable stop stick deployment by Trooper Lewis. If the suspect hadn’t hit the spikes, he could very well have entered Lincoln and put even more members of the public in danger.”

The pursuit began when a trooper observed the suspect vehicle at the Gretna interchange of I-80, at mile marker 432. When the suspect fled westbound on I-80, the trooper initiated a pursuit. During the pursuit, many divisions within NSP and other law enforcement agencies responded.

As the suspect vehicle approached the Waverly interchange, with speeds exceeding 130 miles per hour, Trooper Lewis was able to deploy the stop sticks and contacted the driver’s side tires of the vehicle, all while his view was completely blocked by a passing semi. The suspect vehicle then exited I-80 at the Waverly interchange and the suspect was then taken into custody minutes later without further incident.

“I don’t know how Trooper Lewis did it,” said Adam Freeman, National Sales Director for Stop Stick Ltd. “He had a tractor-trailer traveling parallel with the suspect vehicle and remarkably did not flatten any of the non-target vehicles.”

Earlier this year, NSP presented the actual stop stick used in the pursuit to Officer Wittstruck as he returned to work for the Omaha Police Department.

By Nebraska State PatrolLINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol has been honored by Stop Stick Ltd. for the 2021 “Hit of the Year”. The award is presented annually for an exceptional stop stick deployment that results in the safe conclusion of a pursuit.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656692531174.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Thursday, Stop Stick representatives presented the award to Trooper John Lewis for his successful deployment of stop sticks during a pursuit with a man suspected of shooting Omaha Police Officer Jeffrey Wittstruck on March 21, 2021. Trooper Lewis’ deployment was chosen out of more than 4,000 stop stick deployments in 2021.“The apprehension of this suspect was imperative, and it took exceptional teamwork from many troopers, officers, and deputies,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Part of that team effort was an unbelievable stop stick deployment by Trooper Lewis. If the suspect hadn’t hit the spikes, he could very well have entered Lincoln and put even more members of the public in danger.”The pursuit began when a trooper observed the suspect vehicle at the Gretna interchange of I-80, at mile marker 432. When the suspect fled westbound on I-80, the trooper initiated a pursuit. During the pursuit, many divisions within NSP and other law enforcement agencies responded.As the suspect vehicle approached the Waverly interchange, with speeds exceeding 130 miles per hour, Trooper Lewis was able to deploy the stop sticks and contacted the driver’s side tires of the vehicle, all while his view was completely blocked by a passing semi. The suspect vehicle then exited I-80 at the Waverly interchange and the suspect was then taken into custody minutes later without further incident.“I don’t know how Trooper Lewis did it,” said Adam Freeman, National Sales Director for Stop Stick Ltd. “He had a tractor-trailer traveling parallel with the suspect vehicle and remarkably did not flatten any of the non-target vehicles.”Earlier this year, NSP presented the actual stop stick used in the pursuit to Officer Wittstruck as he returned to work for the Omaha Police Department.

NSP Trooper honored for Stop Stick 'Hit of the Year'

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Fireworks will fill the sky and vehicles will fill the roads during this busy Independence Day weekend. Nebraska State Troopers will be on patrol across the state to help maintain safe roadways and assist motorists in need of help.

“As we celebrate our great country this weekend, we encourage all people to be safe,” said Colonel Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Make safe decisions on the road and with any Fourth of July celebrations. If any part of your weekend involves alcohol, make sure to have a sober driver lined-up.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that from 2016-2020, nearly 1,400 motorists were killed in crashes in the days surrounding the Fourth of July. 41% of those crashes involved a drunk driver.

NSP reminds all motorists to plan ahead, ensuring that you have a sober driver. There are many options to find a sober ride, including ridesharing apps, cab companies, designated drivers, or programs like AAA’s Tow to Go program, which is available all weekend by calling 855-2-TOW-2-GO.

“This weekend will be filled with parties, fireworks, and fun,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Let’s all work together to make sure that’s how we remember this Fourth of July, rather than for a tragedy on the roads.”

Troopers will be working overtime this weekend across the entire state thanks in part to a grant for $17,700 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. The effort runs from today through Tuesday, July 5.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;LINCOLN&nbsp; — Fireworks will fill the sky and vehicles will fill the roads during this busy Independence Day weekend. Nebraska State Troopers will be on patrol across the state to help maintain safe roadways and assist motorists in need of help.“As we celebrate our great country this weekend, we encourage all people to be safe,” said Colonel Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Make safe decisions on the road and with any Fourth of July celebrations. If any part of your weekend involves alcohol, make sure to have a sober driver lined-up.”The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that from 2016-2020, nearly 1,400 motorists were killed in crashes in the days surrounding the Fourth of July. 41% of those crashes involved a drunk driver.NSP reminds all motorists to plan ahead, ensuring that you have a sober driver. There are many options to find a sober ride, including ridesharing apps, cab companies, designated drivers, or programs like AAA’s Tow to Go program, which is available all weekend by calling 855-2-TOW-2-GO.“This weekend will be filled with parties, fireworks, and fun,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Let’s all work together to make sure that’s how we remember this Fourth of July, rather than for a tragedy on the roads.”Troopers will be working overtime this weekend across the entire state thanks in part to a grant for $17,700 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. The effort runs from today through Tuesday, July 5.

NSP encourages safe travel this Independence Day weekend

MILLS, Wyo.—&nbsp;The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has been notified of a breach of the Interstate Canal located west of the town of Lingle, in southeast Wyoming, which occurred on the evening of June 30 and the morning of July 1, 2022. At the time of breach, the canal was diverting approximately 1800 cubic-feet-per-second. No injuries occurred as a result of this breach. &nbsp;

“The Pathfinder Irrigation District and Reclamation, are assessing the situation,” said Lyle D. Myler, Wyoming Area Office Manager. “We are responding as quickly and as safely as possible to return the canal to service.”&nbsp;

More than 90,000 irrigated acres will experience a temporary discontinuation of water service. Preliminary inspections estimated the canal can be returned to service in a matter of days. Meanwhile, Pathfinder Irrigation District&nbsp;is on site working to place rip-rap in the breach to minimize flooding and retain as much water in the canal as possible.&nbsp;

The canal is over 100 years old and was constructed during 1905-1915. It follows the contour of the land for 95 miles from Whalen Diversion Dam to Lake Alice and Lake Minatare Reservoirs northeast of Scotts Bluff, Nebraska. The Canal serves Lingle, Hill, and Pathfinder Irrigation Districts. &nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne issued a flood advisory for Highway 26 in Goshen County. According to the NWS release, flows are heading toward Highway 26 and may follow the railroad tracks into Lingle. Minor flooding is expected in the area. The public is advised not to drive through flooded areas or standing water.&nbsp;

Details and updates on facilities and operations managed by Reclamation’s Wyoming Area Office will continue to be posted on our website at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUT-2FeL9w-2Fd6oT9W2bKNaHZl9pWw6NaEzP-2BkCkka9BXAm83zqi_c-2BOB8316sDaZ5paYyyKRh-2FC4v8rm7BY6VL-2BnXb9ELzfCH7RplZyesblRqEoV-2Bhl8XFPh1qn426wSzKfwlLR9gJWJpO-2FcFGOS2j6Z6aYO8l-2BtIIkUnu3w648r3gTtLUCETVp3xC2sou9knuu8QSp-2FNn9I2-2BcPYepA6JdWBBqs5hlYWiAhNxjhoEMXA36qQKpd82QUBEyNVb45vy-2FFFVxZilIR9v0KZuyPU41IWm6CegEjjhrx-2FFEnyjDBCyZYpr-2BSBwUwZRkdiZ6BdS-2FTGEWIE0hfGNxiVK1-2BuPpoasFjDxRvaQM0uF0KfFco07JSLoo2t7ngpc50gauYuANjZ3q2vi6qgLZjxmyxyRMw-2FpZ5eAo-3D" target="_blank">https://www.usbr.gov/gp/wyao/</a>.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Bureau of ReclamationMILLS, Wyo.—&nbsp;The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has been notified of a breach of the Interstate Canal located west of the town of Lingle, in southeast Wyoming, which occurred on the evening of June 30 and the morning of July 1, 2022. At the time of breach, the canal was diverting approximately 1800 cubic-feet-per-second. No injuries occurred as a result of this breach. &nbsp;“The Pathfinder Irrigation District and Reclamation, are assessing the situation,” said Lyle D. Myler, Wyoming Area Office Manager. “We are responding as quickly and as safely as possible to return the canal to service.”&nbsp;More than 90,000 irrigated acres will experience a temporary discontinuation of water service. Preliminary inspections estimated the canal can be returned to service in a matter of days. Meanwhile, Pathfinder Irrigation District&nbsp;is on site working to place rip-rap in the breach to minimize flooding and retain as much water in the canal as possible.&nbsp;The canal is over 100 years old and was constructed during 1905-1915. It follows the contour of the land for 95 miles from Whalen Diversion Dam to Lake Alice and Lake Minatare Reservoirs northeast of Scotts Bluff, Nebraska. The Canal serves Lingle, Hill, and Pathfinder Irrigation Districts. &nbsp;The National Weather Service in Cheyenne issued a flood advisory for Highway 26 in Goshen County. According to the NWS release, flows are heading toward Highway 26 and may follow the railroad tracks into Lingle. Minor flooding is expected in the area. The public is advised not to drive through flooded areas or standing water.&nbsp;Details and updates on facilities and operations managed by Reclamation’s Wyoming Area Office will continue to be posted on our website at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUT-2FeL9w-2Fd6oT9W2bKNaHZl9pWw6NaEzP-2BkCkka9BXAm83zqi_c-2BOB8316sDaZ5paYyyKRh-2FC4v8rm7BY6VL-2BnXb9ELzfCH7RplZyesblRqEoV-2Bhl8XFPh1qn426wSzKfwlLR9gJWJpO-2FcFGOS2j6Z6aYO8l-2BtIIkUnu3w648r3gTtLUCETVp3xC2sou9knuu8QSp-2FNn9I2-2BcPYepA6JdWBBqs5hlYWiAhNxjhoEMXA36qQKpd82QUBEyNVb45vy-2FFFVxZilIR9v0KZuyPU41IWm6CegEjjhrx-2FFEnyjDBCyZYpr-2BSBwUwZRkdiZ6BdS-2FTGEWIE0hfGNxiVK1-2BuPpoasFjDxRvaQM0uF0KfFco07JSLoo2t7ngpc50gauYuANjZ3q2vi6qgLZjxmyxyRMw-2FpZ5eAo-3D" target="_blank">https://www.usbr.gov/gp/wyao/</a>.&nbsp;

Breach of Interstate Canal west of Lingle, WY

Acting United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Tess Kleinknecht, 31, of Doniphan, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 77 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute by United States District Judge John M. Gerrard. Following her release from prison, Kleinknecht will serve four years on supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

On July 30, 2020, law enforcement officers went to a Grand Island residence to arrest a person federally indicted on methamphetamine conspiracy charges. While there, investigators found Kleinknecht inside the residence, and obtained a search warrant for the residence. Investigators found three bags of methamphetamine along with cutting agent and distribution paraphernalia in Kleinknecht’s belongings. A lab analyst found there to be more than 5 grams of actual or pure methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol and the Central Nebraska Drug and Safe Streets Task Force, which is made up of officers from the Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff, Hastings Police Department, Adams County Sheriff, Kearney Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff, Nebraska State Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559617270221.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release US Attorney-OmahaActing United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Tess Kleinknecht, 31, of Doniphan, Nebraska, was sentenced today to 77 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute by United States District Judge John M. Gerrard. Following her release from prison, Kleinknecht will serve four years on supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.On July 30, 2020, law enforcement officers went to a Grand Island residence to arrest a person federally indicted on methamphetamine conspiracy charges. While there, investigators found Kleinknecht inside the residence, and obtained a search warrant for the residence. Investigators found three bags of methamphetamine along with cutting agent and distribution paraphernalia in Kleinknecht’s belongings. A lab analyst found there to be more than 5 grams of actual or pure methamphetamine.This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol and the Central Nebraska Drug and Safe Streets Task Force, which is made up of officers from the Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff, Hastings Police Department, Adams County Sheriff, Kearney Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff, Nebraska State Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Doniphan woman sentenced to prison on meth charges

Today we spoke with Fire Management Officer of the Nebraks National Forests Byran Daunt about the Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in the Pine Ridge District, how the forest service makes these discussions, drought conditions and more.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Bryan Daunt of Nebraska National Forests" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=zwuq4-1263b9f-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" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Today we spoke with Fire Management Officer of the Nebraks National Forests Byran Daunt about the Stage 1 Fire Restrictions in the Pine Ridge District, how the forest service makes these discussions, drought conditions and more.&nbsp;

Post Podcast: Bryan Daunt of Nebraska National Forests 

The Village of Hemingford will continue their annual tradition and display the Avenue of Flags on Independence Day, July 4. The Flags will be displayed on Box Butte Ave. running North/South and along Highway 2,&nbsp; East/West.&nbsp; The flags will be put up starting around 7 am Monday. Anyone wishing to help should meet at the Hemingford American Legion between 6:30 and 7 am..weather permitting. Help is also needed to take down the flags around 4 pm.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656700329237.jpeg" alt="Photo by Mike Glesinger" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Mike Glesinger</figcaption>
 </figure>BY: MIKE GLESINGER&nbsp;PANHANDLE POSTThe Village of Hemingford will continue their annual tradition and display the Avenue of Flags on Independence Day, July 4. The Flags will be displayed on Box Butte Ave. running North/South and along Highway 2,&nbsp; East/West.&nbsp; The flags will be put up starting around 7 am Monday. Anyone wishing to help should meet at the Hemingford American Legion between 6:30 and 7 am..weather permitting. Help is also needed to take down the flags around 4 pm.&nbsp;

Avenue of Flags will be displayed in Hemingford July 4

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 7/1/22

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

NORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Police said a man died in a motorcycle versus car accident in North Platte on Friday morning.

Police said at 8:18 a.m. the North Platte Police Department and North Platte Fire
Department responded to the report of an injury accident at the intersection of
Walker Rd. and Jeffers St.&nbsp; The accident
involved a motorcycle and a vehicle.&nbsp; 

The
motorcycle operator had extensive injuries and was determined to be deceased at
the scene.&nbsp; 

The intersection was shut
down while an investigation was conducted by members of the North Platte Police
Department, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.

Preliminary
evidence indicates that the 2011 Harley Davison motorcycle was southbound on
Jeffers being operated by Justin V. Trussell, 58, of Kendall, Kansas.&nbsp; A 1995 Ford Bronco was northbound on Jeffers
being operated by Donald L. Hazen, 85, of North Platte.&nbsp; 

Police said Hazen turned west on
Walker Rd and was struck by the southbound motorcyclist.&nbsp; 

Accident
reconstruction experts were called to the scene and the investigation is still
active.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559744286393.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE, Neb.-Police said a man died in a motorcycle versus car accident in North Platte on Friday morning.Police said at 8:18 a.m. the North Platte Police Department and North Platte Fire
Department responded to the report of an injury accident at the intersection of
Walker Rd. and Jeffers St.&nbsp; The accident
involved a motorcycle and a vehicle.&nbsp; The
motorcycle operator had extensive injuries and was determined to be deceased at
the scene.&nbsp; The intersection was shut
down while an investigation was conducted by members of the North Platte Police
Department, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.Preliminary
evidence indicates that the 2011 Harley Davison motorcycle was southbound on
Jeffers being operated by Justin V. Trussell, 58, of Kendall, Kansas.&nbsp; A 1995 Ford Bronco was northbound on Jeffers
being operated by Donald L. Hazen, 85, of North Platte.&nbsp; Police said Hazen turned west on
Walker Rd and was struck by the southbound motorcyclist.&nbsp; Accident
reconstruction experts were called to the scene and the investigation is still
active.&nbsp;

Kansas man dies in North Platte motorcycle, car accident

The Nebraska National Guard 43rd Army Band will open their 2022 Annual Training Concert Tour with stops in Western Nebraska and Southwest South Dakota through the Independence Day weekend and the following week.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The tour will begin on Friday July 1 in Hay Springs,&nbsp; with a concert in Sunset Park at 7 pm MT.

Saturday July 2 at FortRobinson at 7 pm MT

Sunday July 3 in Alliance,&nbsp; just west of the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center near the Sunken Gardens at 7 pm MT.&nbsp; &nbsp;In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved to the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center at the same time.

Monday July 4 in Hot Springs SD,&nbsp; at the Mueller Civic Center at 6:30 pm MT

Wednesday July 6,&nbsp; at Mount Rushmore National Monument at 6 pm MT

Thursday July 7&nbsp; in Scottsbluff.."Bands on Broadway"-18th Street Downtown Plaza at 7 pm MT

Finishing at Chadron "Fur Trade Days",&nbsp; Friday July 8,&nbsp; at the Dawes County Courthouse-451 Main Street at 7 pm MT

The Concerts are free and open to the public. No tickets required.

As the only musical unit of the Nebraska National Guard, the 43rd Army Band represents the National Guard at a variety of civilian and official military functions throughout the State of Nebraska. The band performs at parades, concerts, dances and receptions for military dignitaries. Musical variety shows are often on its schedule.

The band is comprised of "citizen-soldier" musicians from Lincoln and the surrounding area. Many of the members are students, music teachers, or otherwise associated with the music field in their civilian pursuits. The 43rd Army Band replaces an Active Duty Army Band during its two weeks of annual training at least every three years. During alternate annual training periods, they perform concert tours throughout the State for the civilian communities or provide entertainment to the Nebraska Army National Guard units during their annual training.

<figure>
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 </figure>The Nebraska National Guard 43rd Army Band will open their 2022 Annual Training Concert Tour with stops in Western Nebraska and Southwest South Dakota through the Independence Day weekend and the following week.&nbsp; &nbsp;The tour will begin on Friday July 1 in Hay Springs,&nbsp; with a concert in Sunset Park at 7 pm MT.Saturday July 2 at FortRobinson at 7 pm MTSunday July 3 in Alliance,&nbsp; just west of the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center near the Sunken Gardens at 7 pm MT.&nbsp; &nbsp;In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved to the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center at the same time.Monday July 4 in Hot Springs SD,&nbsp; at the Mueller Civic Center at 6:30 pm MTWednesday July 6,&nbsp; at Mount Rushmore National Monument at 6 pm MTThursday July 7&nbsp; in Scottsbluff.."Bands on Broadway"-18th Street Downtown Plaza at 7 pm MTFinishing at Chadron "Fur Trade Days",&nbsp; Friday July 8,&nbsp; at the Dawes County Courthouse-451 Main Street at 7 pm MTThe Concerts are free and open to the public. No tickets required.As the only musical unit of the Nebraska National Guard, the 43rd Army Band represents the National Guard at a variety of civilian and official military functions throughout the State of Nebraska. The band performs at parades, concerts, dances and receptions for military dignitaries. Musical variety shows are often on its schedule.The band is comprised of "citizen-soldier" musicians from Lincoln and the surrounding area. Many of the members are students, music teachers, or otherwise associated with the music field in their civilian pursuits. The 43rd Army Band replaces an Active Duty Army Band during its two weeks of annual training at least every three years. During alternate annual training periods, they perform concert tours throughout the State for the civilian communities or provide entertainment to the Nebraska Army National Guard units during their annual training.

Nebraska National Guard 43rd Army Band to perform

By Wally A. Seiler and Newblom Foundation

Wally A. Seiler has announced the recent awarding of grants and scholarships totaling $9,150 by the Darold A. Newblom Foundation to four organizations and eight 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 ($3,000 to fund an internship for the position of Musical Director); Carnegie Arts Center, Alliance, Nebraska ($1,000 to assist with arts education program expenses); Chadron State College, Chadron, Nebraska ($1,000 to help create an Artist-in-Residence program); and Chadron Public Schools, Chadron, Nebraska ($400 to purchase Retro Pop Handsets for the kindergarten classroom).

Individuals receiving scholarships, each in the amount of $500, are Alliance residents Chloe Blumanthal, Shelbee Burke, Wade Sanders, and Isaac Weems; Chadron resident Maralee Rischling; and Hemingford residents Destiny Hanson and Ethan Specht. In addition, Aubrie Lawrence, of Alliance, will receive a scholarship in the amount of $250.

This marks the thirty-second 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-two years, the Newblom Foundation has provided funding of $399,751.19 in support of its goals.

Grants and scholarships from the Newblom Foundation are awarded once a year. Applications for the 2023 grants and scholarships will be available from Seiler after January 1, 2023, at his home at 1208 Laramie Avenue, Alliance, Nebraska 69301.

By Wally A. Seiler and Newblom FoundationWally A. Seiler has announced the recent awarding of grants and scholarships totaling $9,150 by the Darold A. Newblom Foundation to four organizations and eight 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 ($3,000 to fund an internship for the position of Musical Director); Carnegie Arts Center, Alliance, Nebraska ($1,000 to assist with arts education program expenses); Chadron State College, Chadron, Nebraska ($1,000 to help create an Artist-in-Residence program); and Chadron Public Schools, Chadron, Nebraska ($400 to purchase Retro Pop Handsets for the kindergarten classroom).Individuals receiving scholarships, each in the amount of $500, are Alliance residents Chloe Blumanthal, Shelbee Burke, Wade Sanders, and Isaac Weems; Chadron resident Maralee Rischling; and Hemingford residents Destiny Hanson and Ethan Specht. In addition, Aubrie Lawrence, of Alliance, will receive a scholarship in the amount of $250.This marks the thirty-second 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-two years, the Newblom Foundation has provided funding of $399,751.19 in support of its goals.Grants and scholarships from the Newblom Foundation are awarded once a year. Applications for the 2023 grants and scholarships will be available from Seiler after January 1, 2023, at his home at 1208 Laramie Avenue, Alliance, Nebraska 69301.

Newblom Foundation announces Panhandle grant, scholarship recipients

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

A Flood Warning has been issued for Lingle and Highway 26 west of Lingle due to a breach of the Interstate Canal. This replaces the Flood Advisory. 

Refer to Goshen County EM for any evacuation details. 

Per WYDOT, portions of US26 are closed between Lingle and Fort Laramie and a detour has been established as of 9AM 7/1.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYA Flood Warning has been issued for Lingle and Highway 26 west of Lingle due to a breach of the Interstate Canal. This replaces the Flood Advisory. Refer to Goshen County EM for any evacuation details. Per WYDOT, portions of US26 are closed between Lingle and Fort Laramie and a detour has been established as of 9AM 7/1.<figure>
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Flood Warning issued for Lingle, WY

By&nbsp;Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

Chadron- Fire Managers on the Pine Ridge Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest announce Stage 1 Fire Restrictions for the Pine Ridge Ranger District.

The following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Pine Ridge Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forests &amp; Grasslands in the State of Nebraska (the “Restricted Area”) and on all roads and trails located within the Restricted Area (the “Restricted Roads and Trails”), as shown on the attached map incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A.

The purpose of this Order is to protect public health, safety, and natural resources by preventing wildfires.

PROHIBITIONS: The following acts are prohibited in the Restricted Area and on the Restricted Roads and Trails:

1) Igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes) outside of a permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas). 36 CFR § 261.52(a).

2) Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. 36 CFR § 261.52(d).

3) Operating a chainsaw without an effective and properly installed USDA- or Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)- approved spark arrestor, a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (with a minimum 8 oz. capacity and rating of 2A) kept with the operator, and a round point shovel with an overall length of at least 35 inches readily available for use. 36 CFR § 261.52(j).

4) Blasting, welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame without being in a cleared area of at least 10 feet in diameter and keeping a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (with a minimum 8 oz. capacity and rating of 2A) with the operator. 36 CFR § 261.52(i).

5) Using an explosive. This includes but is not limited to fuses, blasting caps, fireworks, rockets, exploding targets, tracers, and incendiary ammunition. 36 CFR § 261.52(b).

Pine Ridge Stage 1 Fire Restrictions July 02, 2022

Pursuant to 36 CFR § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from the prohibitions specified below:

1) Persons with the following authorizations are exempt from Prohibitions #1, #3, #4, and #5: (i) a valid Forest Service permit or contract specifically authorizing Prohibitions #1, #3, #4, and #5 in the Restricted Area or on the Restricted Roads and Trails in their physical possession and (ii) a written exemption with an appropriate mitigation plan authorized in writing by the appropriate Forest Service official.

2) Persons using either of the following devices are exempt from Prohibition #1: (i) a stove or grill solely fueled by liquid petroleum fuels; or (ii) a fully enclosed metal stove, grill, or sheep herder type stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of ¼ inch or less.

3) Any federal, state or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty is exempt from Prohibitions #1, #3, #4, and #5.

Notice regarding Exemptions: The persons exempted above are on notice that they are responsible for conducting activities subject to these exemptions in a safe and prudent manner using extra precautions and are electing to proceed at their own risk. An exemption does not absolve an individual or organization from liability or responsibility for damage, injury or loss to the United States for any fire started while undertaking the exempted activity.

This Order becomes effective at 12:01 am on July 02, 2022 and remains in effect until December 31, 2022 or until rescinded, whichever event occurs first.

A violation of the prohibitions in this Order is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual, $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for more than six month, or both.

By&nbsp;Nebraska National Forests and GrasslandsChadron- Fire Managers on the Pine Ridge Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest announce Stage 1 Fire Restrictions for the Pine Ridge Ranger District.The following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands within the Pine Ridge Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forests &amp; Grasslands in the State of Nebraska (the “Restricted Area”) and on all roads and trails located within the Restricted Area (the “Restricted Roads and Trails”), as shown on the attached map incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656687394604.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The purpose of this Order is to protect public health, safety, and natural resources by preventing wildfires.PROHIBITIONS: The following acts are prohibited in the Restricted Area and on the Restricted Roads and Trails:1) Igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes) outside of a permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas). 36 CFR § 261.52(a).2) Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. 36 CFR § 261.52(d).3) Operating a chainsaw without an effective and properly installed USDA- or Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)- approved spark arrestor, a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (with a minimum 8 oz. capacity and rating of 2A) kept with the operator, and a round point shovel with an overall length of at least 35 inches readily available for use. 36 CFR § 261.52(j).4) Blasting, welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame without being in a cleared area of at least 10 feet in diameter and keeping a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (with a minimum 8 oz. capacity and rating of 2A) with the operator. 36 CFR § 261.52(i).5) Using an explosive. This includes but is not limited to fuses, blasting caps, fireworks, rockets, exploding targets, tracers, and incendiary ammunition. 36 CFR § 261.52(b).Pine Ridge Stage 1 Fire Restrictions July 02, 2022EXEMPTIONS:Pursuant to 36 CFR § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from the prohibitions specified below:1) Persons with the following authorizations are exempt from Prohibitions #1, #3, #4, and #5: (i) a valid Forest Service permit or contract specifically authorizing Prohibitions #1, #3, #4, and #5 in the Restricted Area or on the Restricted Roads and Trails in their physical possession and (ii) a written exemption with an appropriate mitigation plan authorized in writing by the appropriate Forest Service official.2) Persons using either of the following devices are exempt from Prohibition #1: (i) a stove or grill solely fueled by liquid petroleum fuels; or (ii) a fully enclosed metal stove, grill, or sheep herder type stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of ¼ inch or less.3) Any federal, state or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty is exempt from Prohibitions #1, #3, #4, and #5.Notice regarding Exemptions: The persons exempted above are on notice that they are responsible for conducting activities subject to these exemptions in a safe and prudent manner using extra precautions and are electing to proceed at their own risk. An exemption does not absolve an individual or organization from liability or responsibility for damage, injury or loss to the United States for any fire started while undertaking the exempted activity.This Order becomes effective at 12:01 am on July 02, 2022 and remains in effect until December 31, 2022 or until rescinded, whichever event occurs first.A violation of the prohibitions in this Order is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual, $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for more than six month, or both.

Pine Ridge Ranger District enacts Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, July 2

Alliance – The Construction and Demo area and the Loose Fill area (top of the hill) of the Alliance Landfill is temporarily closed today due to muddy conditions. 

Staff will reevaluate conditions and reopen at 12:00 p.m.

The Loose Fill area&nbsp; will remain closed for the remainder of the day.

For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Construction and Demo area and the Loose Fill area (top of the hill) of the Alliance Landfill is temporarily closed today due to muddy conditions. Staff will reevaluate conditions and reopen at 12:00 p.m.The Loose Fill area&nbsp; will remain closed for the remainder of the day.For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

UPDATE: Alliance landfill temporarily closed 

The University of Nebraska Medical Center has announced its spring 2022 dean’s list for students enrolled in programs of nursing, dentistry, pharmacy and the allied health professions. To qualify for the dean’s list, nursing and the allied health students must be enrolled for 12 or more hours during the semester and have a grade point average of 3.75 or above. To qualify for the pharmacy dean’s list, students must place in the top 20 percent of their class and maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or above. Dental students must be in the top 10 percent of their class for the semester. The following is a list of students, their hometowns and the colleges in which they are enrolled.&nbsp; Some students chose not to be listed due to privacy reasons and are protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Mandy-Amberg, McKenzie Brown, Jordan Brozek, Paige Griffin, Logan Johnson&nbsp;

Blair -- Vance Janssen, Stephen Novak, Morgan Schenck&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Austin Johnson, Sonoor Majid, Megan Mckay&nbsp;

Omaha -- Gabriel Codling, Kimberly Gollhofer, Lindsey Tjards&nbsp;

Buon Ma Thuot City, Vietnam -- Thuan Luong&nbsp;

College of Nursing Kearney Division&nbsp;

Cairo -- Emily Krolikowski, Madison Myers&nbsp;

Kearney -- Morgan Guernsey, Jordan Witte&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Julia Carsten, Hoai Nguyen&nbsp;

College of Nursing Lincoln Division&nbsp;

Bellevue -- Asia Buddhacharya, Katherine Gullett&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Natalie Alexander, Kara Birner, Kaitlyn Cagle, Regan Clark, Sierra Conway, Ireland Currey, Megan Danley, Madison DeBolt, Collin Dunn, Rinda Elmore, Mia Garrett, Cesen Hailesellassie, Alexia Harre, Nicole Hollander, Nora Husein, Melina Ilic, MaKenzie Johnson, Mary Kaup, Peyton Mickells, Anthony Nguyen, Maggie O'Brien, Ruth Sanders, Haley Seip, Mihria Sultani, Catherine Vu, Jessica Wieskamp&nbsp;&nbsp;

Omaha -- Lillian Bruner, Jessie Ripley, Marissa Salazar, Sara Smith&nbsp;

York -- Katherine Erwin, Adrienne Gocke, Marissa Harcrow&nbsp;

By UNMCThe University of Nebraska Medical Center has announced its spring 2022 dean’s list for students enrolled in programs of nursing, dentistry, pharmacy and the allied health professions. To qualify for the dean’s list, nursing and the allied health students must be enrolled for 12 or more hours during the semester and have a grade point average of 3.75 or above. To qualify for the pharmacy dean’s list, students must place in the top 20 percent of their class and maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or above. Dental students must be in the top 10 percent of their class for the semester. The following is a list of students, their hometowns and the colleges in which they are enrolled.&nbsp; Some students chose not to be listed due to privacy reasons and are protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. &nbsp;&nbsp;College of Dentistry&nbsp;Dentistry&nbsp;Alma -- Nicole Steinhauser&nbsp;Columbus&nbsp;-- Lucas Jarecke&nbsp;Gering -- Christine Scanlan&nbsp;Ogallala -- Brittan Hoppens&nbsp;Lincoln -- Mandy-Amberg, McKenzie Brown, Jordan Brozek, Paige Griffin, Logan Johnson&nbsp;Omaha -- Laura Shaw, Elias-Witte&nbsp;Pleasant Dale -- Nathan Canarsky&nbsp;Topeka, KS&nbsp;-- Makena Sundine&nbsp;Mantorville, MN -- Wade Starkey&nbsp;Cando, ND -- Peyton Halverson&nbsp;Aberdeen, SD -- Jonathan Mitzel&nbsp;Watertown, SD -- Brent-Schulte&nbsp;Sioux Falls, SD -- Kirstan Hyser&nbsp;Tianjin, China -- Yiwen Chen&nbsp;Dental hygiene&nbsp;Omaha -- Alexa Fenn&nbsp;Falls City -- Savannah Kobza&nbsp;Grand Island -- Haleigh Hoos&nbsp;Ponca&nbsp;-- Shelby Rickett&nbsp;College of Pharmacy&nbsp;Anselmo -- Jesica Spanel&nbsp;Blair -- Vance Janssen, Stephen Novak, Morgan Schenck&nbsp;Bridgeport -- Quentin Baxter&nbsp;Cambridge -- Bria Tomlin&nbsp;Columbus -- Morgan Thorson&nbsp;Fairbury -- Macy Ohlde&nbsp;Holdrege -- Jared Hunke&nbsp;Lincoln -- Austin Johnson, Sonoor Majid, Megan Mckay&nbsp;McCook -- Megan Edwards&nbsp;Nebraska City -- Noah Kasbohm&nbsp;Newman Grove -- Steven Arreguin&nbsp;Norfolk -- Madison&nbsp;Suckstorf&nbsp;Omaha -- Gabriel Codling, Kimberly Gollhofer, Lindsey Tjards&nbsp;Ord -- Jordan Kuck, Cora Svoboda&nbsp;Randolph -- Caitlin Lemmons&nbsp;Scotia -- Noah Jensen&nbsp;Sidney -- Emma Alexander&nbsp;St. Edward -- Tara Buettner&nbsp;Sutton -- Nicholas Hohensee&nbsp;Wahoo -- Theodore Blum&nbsp;West Point -- Sarah Arduser&nbsp;Wichita, KS -- Anna Capps&nbsp;Quincy, IL -- Chad Schulz&nbsp;Canton, SD -- Adam Roskam&nbsp;Yankton, SD -- Taylor Ruter&nbsp;Buon Ma Thuot City, Vietnam -- Thuan Luong&nbsp;Fujian, China -- Shushan Wu&nbsp;College of Nursing&nbsp;College of Nursing Kearney Division&nbsp;Bridgeport -- Natalie Ramirez&nbsp;Cairo -- Emily Krolikowski, Madison Myers&nbsp;Columbus -- Kayla Hall&nbsp;Gibbon -- Hope VanMatre&nbsp;Gothenburg Natalie Kennicutt&nbsp;Grand Island Colton Voss&nbsp;Hastings -- Brittani Wiseman&nbsp;Holdrege -- McKenzie Ironshell&nbsp;Imperial -- Sarah Allen&nbsp;Kearney -- Morgan Guernsey, Jordan Witte&nbsp;Lincoln -- Julia Carsten, Hoai Nguyen&nbsp;Pleasanton -- Corryn Falk&nbsp;Saint Paul -- Nickolas Schultz&nbsp;Sargent -- Corrine Slagle&nbsp;Wood River -- Kassandra Wetovick&nbsp;College of Nursing Lincoln Division&nbsp;Bellevue -- Asia Buddhacharya, Katherine Gullett&nbsp;&nbsp;Bennet -- Wesley Steward&nbsp;Bennington -- Delaney Rush&nbsp;Champion -- Kadyn Milner&nbsp;Crete -- Cynthia Lopez&nbsp;Eagle -- Kyra Palm&nbsp;Elwood -- Manon Martin&nbsp;Gretna -- Skylar Conrad&nbsp;Hastings -- Savannah Harper&nbsp;Hay Springs -- Madilyn Hagge&nbsp;Hickman -- Tara Benes&nbsp;Kearney -- Tracy Tran&nbsp;Laurel -- Jasmine Galvin&nbsp;Lincoln -- Natalie Alexander, Kara Birner, Kaitlyn Cagle, Regan Clark, Sierra Conway, Ireland Currey, Megan Danley, Madison DeBolt, Collin Dunn, Rinda Elmore, Mia Garrett, Cesen Hailesellassie, Alexia Harre, Nicole Hollander, Nora Husein, Melina Ilic, MaKenzie Johnson, Mary Kaup, Peyton Mickells, Anthony Nguyen, Maggie O'Brien, Ruth Sanders, Haley Seip, Mihria Sultani, Catherine Vu, Jessica Wieskamp&nbsp;&nbsp;Minden -- Andrea Jackson,&nbsp;&nbsp;Newman Grove -- Rebecca Stone&nbsp;North Platte Karsyn Buttler&nbsp;Omaha -- Lillian Bruner, Jessie Ripley, Marissa Salazar, Sara Smith&nbsp;Papillion -- Josie Kraus&nbsp;Spalding -- Elizabeth Bauer&nbsp;Tilden -- Amber Miller&nbsp;York -- Katherine Erwin, Adrienne Gocke, Marissa Harcrow&nbsp;Chandler, AZ -- Caroline Kniskern&nbsp;Vallejo, CA -- Kyle Elmore&nbsp;Geneva, IL -- Emma Lane&nbsp;Carmel, IN -- Camille Coulter&nbsp;Leawood, KS -- Celia Cox&nbsp;Overland Park, KS -- Hanna Jones&nbsp;Louisville, KY -- Elyssa Kay&nbsp;&nbsp;Hamilton, MI -- Erika Freyhof&nbsp;Mound, MN -- Makenzie Anderson&nbsp;Fargo, ND -- Caira Berg&nbsp;Sioux Falls, SD -- Haden Cotter&nbsp;Hudson, WI -- Emma Newman&nbsp;Wheatland, WY -- Avery Hanks&nbsp;College of Nursing Northern Division (Norfolk)&nbsp;Ainsworth -- Payton Allen&nbsp;Bellevue -- Gregory Parkins&nbsp;Clarkson -- Kara Kudera&nbsp;Fairbury -- Bladen Ahl&nbsp;Genoa -- Calista Shanle&nbsp;Hartington -- Sydney Steffen&nbsp;Herman -- Kristen Bitter&nbsp;Howells -- Katelyn Steffensmeier&nbsp;Newport -- Brook Doke&nbsp;Norfolk -- Karen Gil, Kassidy Steffen, Abby Stewart, Chloe Volk&nbsp;Silver Creek -- Madelyn Rinkol&nbsp;Camas, WA -- Sophia Sanzobrin&nbsp;College of Nursing Omaha Division&nbsp;Ashland -- Jordyn Dvorak&nbsp;Bellevue -- Midnite Coster, Emily Eitzen, Christine Holt, Rassel Kabigting, Ellie McManigal, Laila Singleton&nbsp;Benkelman -- Madison Lambley&nbsp;Bennington -- Clare Vacek&nbsp;Columbus -- Haile Buggi&nbsp;Elkhorn -- Madison Walker&nbsp;Fremont -- Carey Kyes, Sadie Nichols&nbsp;Friend -- Raeleigh Menke&nbsp;Gretna -- Emily Hintz&nbsp;Henderson -- Isabelle Vanderneck&nbsp;Kearney -- Merissa Roth&nbsp;La Vista -- Jenna Bies, Josie Jones&nbsp;Lincoln -- Taylor Augustyn, Hannah Wooge&nbsp;Lyons -- Kassandra Garcia&nbsp;Mead -- Taylor Hannan&nbsp;Omaha -- Kathryn Belfiore, LeShelle Berry, Sara Christiansen, Miriam Diaz, Kai Didier, Grace Finn, Allison Foster, Naeleah Hadford, Collin Healy, John Heffron, Jamie Jackson, Sarah Koch, Alexus Lodes, Jordyn Marino, Andria Meyer, Kirsten Meyer, Jessica Metcalf, Winsodano Napon, Jayda Paul, Jeffrey Petry, Grace Rynaski, Katelynn Santee, Lauryn Sommerer, Brandon Thelen, Weston Walz&nbsp;Papillion -- Julia Middleton&nbsp;Plattsmouth -- Hannah Ewing&nbsp;Springfield -- Emily Dahlgren, Meredith Haubensak, Sara Shaw&nbsp;Milton, DE -- Shamiya Morgan&nbsp;&nbsp;Council Bluffs, IA -- Taylor Hunter, Kaitlyn Pearce&nbsp;Hillsboro, OR -- Sara Metzsch&nbsp;North Charleston, SC -- Audrey Ishee&nbsp;Green River, WY -- Cole White&nbsp;College of Nursing West Nebraska Division (Scottsbluff)&nbsp;Alliance -- Brittany Dietrich&nbsp;Gering -- Madison Bibb&nbsp;Grant -- Hailey Snyder&nbsp;Hay Springs -- Jessica Badje&nbsp;Hebron -- Ashley Grassia&nbsp;Hemingford -- Daniel Starke&nbsp;Kimball -- Madison Wynne&nbsp;Minden -- Lindsay Scanlan&nbsp;Mitchell -- Danielle Couse&nbsp;Scottsbluff -- Skylar Johnston, Allison Leever&nbsp;Spencer -- Samantha Hipke&nbsp;Colstrip, MT -- Brina Hull&nbsp;Edmonds, WA -- Angela Overland&nbsp;Torrington, WY -- Kaylea Rising&nbsp;College of Allied Health Professions&nbsp;Diagnostic Medical Sonography&nbsp;Albany, OR -- Bailey Kachel&nbsp;Eugene, OR -- Lindsey Bates&nbsp;Springfield, OR -- Jaidyn Zong&nbsp;Magnetic Resonance Imaging&nbsp;Scottsbluff -- Lawrence Boahen&nbsp;Lynnwood, WA -- Saba Solomon&nbsp;Medical Laboratory Science&nbsp;Atkinson -- Devon Dohrman&nbsp;Kearney -- Blaise Methe&nbsp;Ho Chi Minh Vietnam Tu Nguyen&nbsp;Radiography&nbsp;Bellevue -- Elizabeth Ronayne&nbsp;Broken Bow -- Ellie Wells, Kesha DeGroff&nbsp;Clarkson -- Holly Kuhr&nbsp;Columbus -- Mia Janssen&nbsp;Cozad -- Aaliyah Wilkins&nbsp;Creighton -- Brienne Fanta&nbsp;Crete -- Kayla Fitzgerald&nbsp;Elkhorn -- Kate Gusse&nbsp;Elwood&nbsp;&nbsp;Lindsay Schutz&nbsp;Falls City -- Ryan Keithley&nbsp;Farwell -- Hannah Koperski&nbsp;Grand Island -- Lydia Koubek&nbsp;Gretna -- Mallory Schrad&nbsp;Hastings -- Sydney Kerr&nbsp;Henderson -- Brooklyn Epp&nbsp;Holdrege -- Caitlin Dahl, Jenna Karn, Katelyn Keffeler&nbsp;Kearney -- Kaylee Camblin,&nbsp;Ava Weiner&nbsp;LaVista -- Tess Hart&nbsp;Nebraska City -- Bree Bauer&nbsp;North Platte -- Isabel Roberg&nbsp;&nbsp;Omaha – Yukihiro Agnabo, Shireen Fadul, Mary Grace, Ethan Kratina, Jessica Jacobs, Emilee Masters, Mai Nguyen, Dulce Ramirez-Ramirez, Amy Zavala-Voss, Yanmin Xue&nbsp;Papillion -- Ryan Reil&nbsp;Saint Paul -- Alexis Sack&nbsp;South Sioux City -- Christopher Lantz&nbsp;Trenton -- Kyleigh Scott&nbsp;Wahoo -- Maximus Hohn&nbsp;Wood River -- Madison Thesenvitz&nbsp;York -- Kimberly Hallisey&nbsp;Cheyenne Wells, CO -- Kendra Noe&nbsp;Missouri Valley, IA -- Sydney Austin&nbsp;Underwood IA -- Lauren Shapcott&nbsp;Radiation Therapy&nbsp;Windsor, CO -- Randall Bennett&nbsp;Kennewick, WA -- Julie Andersen&nbsp;

Panhandle students named to UNMC Spring Dean’s List 

We spoke with Westco CEO David Briggs about their devastating Tire Center fire on June 28, their plans to more forward with operations, where customers can access business services and more.&nbsp;

Briggs also thanks local authorities and the community.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Westco CEO discusses plans following fire" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=6ec92-1262a37-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" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>We spoke with Westco CEO David Briggs about their devastating Tire Center fire on June 28, their plans to more forward with operations, where customers can access business services and more.&nbsp;Briggs also thanks local authorities and the community.&nbsp;<figure>
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Post Podcast: Westco CEO discusses plans following fire 

By&nbsp;Molly Jeffres&nbsp;-&nbsp;Keith County Area Development and Elite Casino Resorts

Ogallala, NE – Local non-profit LMRC, Inc. chose casino and racetrack partners Elite Casino Resorts, Kehl Management and Fonner Park to provide presentations to the Ogallala City Council and Keith County Board of Commissioners regarding a proposed racetrack and casino facility to be built in the Ogallala area. The partner entities would construct and operate the proposed destination casino resort and racetrack. The Ogallala City Council and Keith County Board of Commissioners provided their exclusive support for the project Tuesday night and Wednesday morning with favorable votes at their respective meetings.

The project will be a $100 Million resort complex, with:

· Casino Floor with 650 slot machines, 20 table games, 6 poker tables, sportsbook, and show lounge with local and regional entertainment on the weekend

· Grandstand and Racetrack with a 5/8 Mile Oval Track with barns, paddock and jockey’s quarters

· Convention and Event Center with 10,000 sq. feet of banquet space

· Restaurants to include fine dining, family dining, sports bar, and grab-and-go deli

· High End Truck Stop with Parking for 100 Semi-Trucks

The project allows for local ownership of up to 20 percent, with priority investment from Ogallala and Keith County residents.

“We are excited about this partnership. This project will be a catalyst to help additional economic development in our community. We feel we have the full package with our location, the quality of the project to be developed, and the experience in gaming and racetracks with our partners,” stated Jeremy Smith, President of LMRC.

Nebraska currently has six racetracks eligible for gaming facilities and many expect at least one additional license will be issued to a location in western Nebraska. The Legislature has directed the Nebraska State Racing and Gaming Commission to conduct economic and social impact studies to determine eligible sites for new racetracks, which must be completed no later than January 1, 2025.

Significant existing tourism in Keith County from Lake McConaughy and Ogallala’s location near the intersection of I-80/I-76 make Ogallala an ideal place for a new racetrack.

The project partners are experienced and dedicated to building a high-end resort in collaboration with local interests. The proposal is a result of significant research, development studies, and discussions amongst community leaders and Kehl Management. If selected for licensing, the facility will be a considerable investment that provides quality job opportunities, tax revenue, and visitor amenities to help Ogallala and Keith County continue to grow.

If the Nebraska State Racing and Gaming Commission elects to issue a license for Ogallala, the resort will be named Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack. Project renderings are available at lakemacresort.com.

About Elite Casino Resorts Elite Casino Resorts owns and operates three premier destination casino resorts in Iowa including Riverside Casino &amp; Golf Resort®, located just south of Iowa City, IA; Rhythm City Casino Resort® located in the Quad Cities Davenport, IA area; and Grand Falls Casino &amp; Golf Resort® located in Larchwood, IA just minutes from Sioux Falls, SD. Elite is developing two new resort projects: Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in Carterville, Illinois and Grand Island Casino Resort in Grand Island, Nebraska. In addition to casinos, Elite operates ELITE Sportsbook with retail and online operations in Iowa and Colorado. Elite Casino Resorts, LLC is a leading regional gaming operator in the Midwest and a privately-owned company focused on providing first class casino resorts.

Kehl Management focuses on providing the highest possible level of guest satisfaction, in high quality facilities with multiple amenities, utilizing a conservative management style all aimed at increasing revenues which insure maximum returns for the not for profit license holders, the county and cities in which they reside, and profits for the local investors. They operate Riverside Casino &amp; Golf Resort®, Rhythm City Casino Resort®, Grand Falls Casino &amp; Golf Resort®. Kehl Management will also manage two new resort projects: Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in Carterville, Illinois and Grand Island Casino Resort in Grand Island, Nebraska.

"Racing became and still remains the means that enables everything to grow into the Fonner Park Complex as we know it today." - Chris Kotulak.

The timeline of Fonner Park begins in the 1950’s, back to a time when the farmland property set on the outskirts of Grand Island was owned and operated by Gus and Emma Fonner.

A group of civic-minded businessmen met in 1953 to organize the Hall County Livestock Improvement Association for the purpose of locating a permanent home for the Hall County Fair, complete with buildings which consisted of barns, a grandstand and also a race track. Gus Fonner was a charter member of the Association. He and Emma sold their land that became known as Fonner Park to the Association for a very generous low cost. Fonner Park remains the permanent home for the Hall County Fair to this day.

By&nbsp;Molly Jeffres&nbsp;-&nbsp;Keith County Area Development and Elite Casino ResortsOgallala, NE – Local non-profit LMRC, Inc. chose casino and racetrack partners Elite Casino Resorts, Kehl Management and Fonner Park to provide presentations to the Ogallala City Council and Keith County Board of Commissioners regarding a proposed racetrack and casino facility to be built in the Ogallala area. The partner entities would construct and operate the proposed destination casino resort and racetrack. The Ogallala City Council and Keith County Board of Commissioners provided their exclusive support for the project Tuesday night and Wednesday morning with favorable votes at their respective meetings.The project will be a $100 Million resort complex, with:· Casino Floor with 650 slot machines, 20 table games, 6 poker tables, sportsbook, and show lounge with local and regional entertainment on the weekend· Grandstand and Racetrack with a 5/8 Mile Oval Track with barns, paddock and jockey’s quarters· RV Parking for 120· 120 Hotel Rooms with outdoor pool· Convention and Event Center with 10,000 sq. feet of banquet space· Restaurants to include fine dining, family dining, sports bar, and grab-and-go deli· Full Service Spa &amp; Salon· High End Truck Stop with Parking for 100 Semi-TrucksThe project allows for local ownership of up to 20 percent, with priority investment from Ogallala and Keith County residents.“We are excited about this partnership. This project will be a catalyst to help additional economic development in our community. We feel we have the full package with our location, the quality of the project to be developed, and the experience in gaming and racetracks with our partners,” stated Jeremy Smith, President of LMRC.Nebraska currently has six racetracks eligible for gaming facilities and many expect at least one additional license will be issued to a location in western Nebraska. The Legislature has directed the Nebraska State Racing and Gaming Commission to conduct economic and social impact studies to determine eligible sites for new racetracks, which must be completed no later than January 1, 2025.Significant existing tourism in Keith County from Lake McConaughy and Ogallala’s location near the intersection of I-80/I-76 make Ogallala an ideal place for a new racetrack.The project partners are experienced and dedicated to building a high-end resort in collaboration with local interests. The proposal is a result of significant research, development studies, and discussions amongst community leaders and Kehl Management. If selected for licensing, the facility will be a considerable investment that provides quality job opportunities, tax revenue, and visitor amenities to help Ogallala and Keith County continue to grow.If the Nebraska State Racing and Gaming Commission elects to issue a license for Ogallala, the resort will be named Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack. Project renderings are available at lakemacresort.com.About Elite Casino Resorts Elite Casino Resorts owns and operates three premier destination casino resorts in Iowa including Riverside Casino &amp; Golf Resort®, located just south of Iowa City, IA; Rhythm City Casino Resort® located in the Quad Cities Davenport, IA area; and Grand Falls Casino &amp; Golf Resort® located in Larchwood, IA just minutes from Sioux Falls, SD. Elite is developing two new resort projects: Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in Carterville, Illinois and Grand Island Casino Resort in Grand Island, Nebraska. In addition to casinos, Elite operates ELITE Sportsbook with retail and online operations in Iowa and Colorado. Elite Casino Resorts, LLC is a leading regional gaming operator in the Midwest and a privately-owned company focused on providing first class casino resorts.About Kehl ManagementKehl Management focuses on providing the highest possible level of guest satisfaction, in high quality facilities with multiple amenities, utilizing a conservative management style all aimed at increasing revenues which insure maximum returns for the not for profit license holders, the county and cities in which they reside, and profits for the local investors. They operate Riverside Casino &amp; Golf Resort®, Rhythm City Casino Resort®, Grand Falls Casino &amp; Golf Resort®. Kehl Management will also manage two new resort projects: Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort in Carterville, Illinois and Grand Island Casino Resort in Grand Island, Nebraska.About Fonner Park"Racing became and still remains the means that enables everything to grow into the Fonner Park Complex as we know it today." - Chris Kotulak.The timeline of Fonner Park begins in the 1950’s, back to a time when the farmland property set on the outskirts of Grand Island was owned and operated by Gus and Emma Fonner.A group of civic-minded businessmen met in 1953 to organize the Hall County Livestock Improvement Association for the purpose of locating a permanent home for the Hall County Fair, complete with buildings which consisted of barns, a grandstand and also a race track. Gus Fonner was a charter member of the Association. He and Emma sold their land that became known as Fonner Park to the Association for a very generous low cost. Fonner Park remains the permanent home for the Hall County Fair to this day.

Ogallala Council, Keith Co. Commissioners approve casino, racetrack partners

Access to land included in the Special Elk Depredation Season area is extremely limited at this time, as landowners in contact with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission have indicated they are at capacity for the number of hunters they can safely allow.

Because the season is for private land only, permits, while unlimited, are restricted by one’s ability to gain access to the 873-square-mile area included in the season.

After last week’s announcement by the Game and Parks about the July season, landowners received an overwhelming number of calls. For that reason, hunters are reminded to gain landowner’s permission for access prior to purchasing a permit for the July season.

Permits are only available for purchase at the Game and Parks office in North Platte. The office will be closed for the July 4 holiday; those who have permission and are w­anting to hunt the holiday weekend should get their permit prior to July 1.

Applications are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MjguNjAwMjYxNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZGVwcmVkYXRpb24vIn0.BTKwxxKwXLutWbCKiLLvi9wA9dZKZlMQec_DXE0yGWE/s/497221906/br/134340500241-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/depredation</a>&nbsp;or in the office. They can be mailed to Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, 301 E. State Farm Road, North Platte NE 69101-0430.

“We want to thank all the landowners who are allowing permission and all the hunters who have shown their interest in helping with this season,” said Dusty Schelbitzki, depredation program manager. “This is a great collaboration to assist our agency in addressing depredation issues we are challenged with in the identified region.”

Hunters who have gained access for the special season should keep safety a top priority and heed the following tips:

By Nebraska Game and ParksAccess to land included in the Special Elk Depredation Season area is extremely limited at this time, as landowners in contact with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission have indicated they are at capacity for the number of hunters they can safely allow.Because the season is for private land only, permits, while unlimited, are restricted by one’s ability to gain access to the 873-square-mile area included in the season.After last week’s announcement by the Game and Parks about the July season, landowners received an overwhelming number of calls. For that reason, hunters are reminded to gain landowner’s permission for access prior to purchasing a permit for the July season.Permits are only available for purchase at the Game and Parks office in North Platte. The office will be closed for the July 4 holiday; those who have permission and are w­anting to hunt the holiday weekend should get their permit prior to July 1.Applications are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA2MjguNjAwMjYxNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZGVwcmVkYXRpb24vIn0.BTKwxxKwXLutWbCKiLLvi9wA9dZKZlMQec_DXE0yGWE/s/497221906/br/134340500241-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/depredation</a>&nbsp;or in the office. They can be mailed to Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, 301 E. State Farm Road, North Platte NE 69101-0430.“We want to thank all the landowners who are allowing permission and all the hunters who have shown their interest in helping with this season,” said Dusty Schelbitzki, depredation program manager. “This is a great collaboration to assist our agency in addressing depredation issues we are challenged with in the identified region.”Hunters who have gained access for the special season should keep safety a top priority and heed the following tips:<ul>
 <li>Remain in contact with the landowner about where and when you plan to hunt, and respect their wishes.</li><li>The special elk depredation season unit is in moderate to extreme drought. Avoid parking vehicles in tall vegetation or dry grassy areas and practice other fire safety, such as extinguishing smoking materials.</li><li>Be aware of your surroundings, including those using the same property as you, such as landowners or other hunters.</li><li>Keep your firearm’s muzzle pointed in a safe direction, with the safety on and finger off the trigger until ready to fire.</li><li>Properly identify the target and what lies beyond it before pulling the trigger.</li><li>Never shoot at sounds or movement.</li><li>Wear blaze orange. Firearm and muzzleloader elk hunters are required to wear 400 square inches of visible blaze orange on their head, chest and back during the July 1-31 special depredation season. Archery hunters are not required to wear hunter orange, but it is highly recommended.</li><li>Completely unload firearms before travelling in a vehicle and before crossing obstacles such as barbed-wire fences, creeks or steep embankments.</li><li>It is unlawful to hunt with a rifle within a 200-yard radius of an inhabited dwelling or livestock feedlot, unless permission is granted by the owner or tenant.</li><li>Report violations to the Wildlife Crimestopper hotline: 1-800-742-7627.</li>
 </ul>

Special elk season at capacity; hunters reminded to follow safety tips

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 6/30/22

Bands on Bordeaux has announced their 2022 concert series line-up.&nbsp;

The concerts start at 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Railroad park.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656601138694.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Panhandle PostBands on Bordeaux has announced their 2022 concert series line-up.&nbsp;The concerts start at 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at Railroad park.&nbsp;July 7 - The Devon Worley BandJuly 14- The Bar FliesJuly 21 - Abbey RoadJuly 28 - Soca JukeboxAug. 18 - Nathan Dean and The Damn Band

Bands on Bordeaux announce 2022 concert line-up in Chadron 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska has begun the process of filing an appeal, one day after he was sentenced to two years of probation for lying to FBI agents about an illegal campaign contribution from a Nigerian billionaire.

 Fortenberry, a Republican, made clear after he was found guilty in March that he intended to challenge his federal conviction. 

His new attorney, Glen E. Summers, says in a statement that the federal law used to convict Fortenberry is “far too susceptible to abuse.”

 Fortenberry was charged federally after two meetings with FBI agents where he denied knowing that a $30,000 campaign contribution had come to him from a foreign national, which is illegal.

By Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska has begun the process of filing an appeal, one day after he was sentenced to two years of probation for lying to FBI agents about an illegal campaign contribution from a Nigerian billionaire. Fortenberry, a Republican, made clear after he was found guilty in March that he intended to challenge his federal conviction. His new attorney, Glen E. Summers, says in a statement that the federal law used to convict Fortenberry is “far too susceptible to abuse.” Fortenberry was charged federally after two meetings with FBI agents where he denied knowing that a $30,000 campaign contribution had come to him from a foreign national, which is illegal.