LINCOLN —
 Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from Seward 
County Sheriff’s Deputies, arrested a driver and located a missing 
juvenile following a pursuit on Interstate 80 Sunday
 evening. 

At
 approximately 8:40 p.m. Sunday, a trooper observed an eastbound Honda 
Civic speeding on I-80 near Bradshaw, at mile marker
 345. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to 
yield and accelerated to over 100 miles per hour. The trooper initiated a
 pursuit.


Another
 trooper was able to successfully deploy stop sticks to bring the 
vehicle to a stop near mile marker 383. The driver
 and front seat passenger then fled on foot, running across the 
westbound lanes of I-80. Both were quickly taken into custody by 
additional troopers and Seward County deputies. A second passenger 
remained in the vehicle and was taken into custody without incident.
 The vehicle was determined to be stolen.

The
 driver, Edwin Portillo Barrientos, 27, Lincoln, was arrested for 
driving with a revoked license, flight to avoid arrest,
 willful reckless driving, theft by receiving stolen property $5,000+, 
and multiple outstanding warrants. He was lodged in York County jail. 
The passenger who fled, a 17-year-old female, had been reported missing.
 She was lodged at the Lancaster County Youth
 Attention Center for an outstanding warrant. The second passenger was 
cited for possession of drug paraphernalia and released.

The entire pursuit lasted approximately 22 minutes.

NSPLINCOLN —
 Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from Seward 
County Sheriff’s Deputies, arrested a driver and located a missing 
juvenile following a pursuit on Interstate 80 Sunday
 evening. At
 approximately 8:40 p.m. Sunday, a trooper observed an eastbound Honda 
Civic speeding on I-80 near Bradshaw, at mile marker
 345. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to 
yield and accelerated to over 100 miles per hour. The trooper initiated a
 pursuit.
Another
 trooper was able to successfully deploy stop sticks to bring the 
vehicle to a stop near mile marker 383. The driver
 and front seat passenger then fled on foot, running across the 
westbound lanes of I-80. Both were quickly taken into custody by 
additional troopers and Seward County deputies. A second passenger 
remained in the vehicle and was taken into custody without incident.
 The vehicle was determined to be stolen.The
 driver, Edwin Portillo Barrientos, 27, Lincoln, was arrested for 
driving with a revoked license, flight to avoid arrest,
 willful reckless driving, theft by receiving stolen property $5,000+, 
and multiple outstanding warrants. He was lodged in York County jail. 
The passenger who fled, a 17-year-old female, had been reported missing.
 She was lodged at the Lancaster County Youth
 Attention Center for an outstanding warrant. The second passenger was 
cited for possession of drug paraphernalia and released.The entire pursuit lasted approximately 22 minutes.

Troopers arrest one, locate missing juvenile after I-80 pursuit

LINCOLN —
 The Nebraska State Patrol is alerting the public of a scam going around
 Nebraska this week. Over the last few days, NSP has received multiple 
reports of scammers spoofing Nebraska State
 Patrol phone numbers, attempting to scam victims. 

“Scammers
 will use any method they think may work to try to steal your money or 
personal information,” said Colonel John
 Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Scammers often 
attempt to pose as a trusted entity, such as law enforcement. In this 
case, they are posing as Nebraska State Patrol representatives.”

NSP
 has received reports from two different areas of the state regarding 
members of the public receiving phone calls that
 appeared to come from NSP offices in Grand Island or Lincoln. These 
phone calls are referred to as spoofing, an act of mimicking a phone 
number when in reality it is a scammer on the line. The scammer then 
tries to steal personal information by telling the
 victim they have active warrants or need to pay a fine. The call 
recipient has not fallen for the scam in any of the reported occurrences
 in the last few days.


“The Nebraska State Patrol never calls members of the public regarding payment of fines or active warrants,” Bolduc said. “We urge the public to be vigilant with any such phone call and never give out personal information in such cases.”

NSP
 provides the following guidance regarding suspicious or potentially 
scam phone calls: Do not provide personal or financial
 information unless you initiated the phone call or are absolutely sure 
you are talking to the intended group. Any reputable organization will 
allow you to hang up and call back so you can ensure you are speaking to
 the correct entity and aren’t being scammed.

NSPLINCOLN —
 The Nebraska State Patrol is alerting the public of a scam going around
 Nebraska this week. Over the last few days, NSP has received multiple 
reports of scammers spoofing Nebraska State
 Patrol phone numbers, attempting to scam victims. “Scammers
 will use any method they think may work to try to steal your money or 
personal information,” said Colonel John
 Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Scammers often 
attempt to pose as a trusted entity, such as law enforcement. In this 
case, they are posing as Nebraska State Patrol representatives.”NSP
 has received reports from two different areas of the state regarding 
members of the public receiving phone calls that
 appeared to come from NSP offices in Grand Island or Lincoln. These 
phone calls are referred to as spoofing, an act of mimicking a phone 
number when in reality it is a scammer on the line. The scammer then 
tries to steal personal information by telling the
 victim they have active warrants or need to pay a fine. The call 
recipient has not fallen for the scam in any of the reported occurrences
 in the last few days.
“The Nebraska State Patrol never calls members of the public regarding payment of fines or active warrants,” Bolduc said. “We urge the public to be vigilant with any such phone call and never give out personal information in such cases.”NSP
 provides the following guidance regarding suspicious or potentially 
scam phone calls: Do not provide personal or financial
 information unless you initiated the phone call or are absolutely sure 
you are talking to the intended group. Any reputable organization will 
allow you to hang up and call back so you can ensure you are speaking to
 the correct entity and aren’t being scammed.

Scammers spoofing Nebraska State Patrol phone numbers

LINCOLN - Nebraska Athletics is proud to officially unveil a modernized version of Herbie Husker, one of the most iconic logos and mascots in college athletics. Nebraska Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Trev Alberts and University leaders led the initiative to develop an updated and modernized version of the Herbie Husker logo and costume.&nbsp; The new logo is being unveiled today and the updated Herbie Husker mascot will make his first public appearance at Saturday's Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO.

The return to a Herbie Husker costume and logo that closely resembles the original version comes as Nebraska celebrates the 50th&nbsp;year of Herbie Husker. Alberts and University leadership have also placed a priority on embracing the Cornhusker tradition and the agricultural background of the state of Nebraska. "Herbie Husker has been one of the iconic symbols of Nebraska Athletics for nearly 50 years," Alberts said.&nbsp; "Our fans are passionate about all things related to the Huskers, and they have a particular fondness for Herbie.&nbsp; We are excited to present modernized Herbie Husker marks and logos and thrilled to unveil our new Herbie mascot at Saturday's spring game." Led by Director of Licensing Lonna Henrichs and Spirit Squad Head Coach Erynn Butzke, Nebraska Athletics began working with Torch Creative in January of 2022 to develop the new logos.&nbsp; Throughout the process, the focus remained on digitally updating the beloved Herbie mark that features blonde hair, overalls, and an ear of corn in his pocket. "Partnering with Trev, Lonna, and the University of Nebraska on modernizing Herbie has been a dream come true for Torch Creative," the company said. "We have the ultimate respect for their passion for Cornhusker Athletics and worked to match this enthusiasm in creating a more contemporary look for Herbie yet harkens back to the original 1974 version.&nbsp; Much like that iteration, we hope the modern Herbie continues to represent the heritage of the university and its passionate fanbase." In addition to the primary Herbie Husker logo, sport specific logos were created for 10 of Nebraska's varsity programs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Athletics has also updated its marks for Lil' Red and the Blackshirts. New merchandise is now available online at shop.huskers.com and fans can purchase new Herbie gear at Saturday's spring game. The Herbie Husker character evolved out of Nebraska's trip to the Cotton Bowl following the 1973 season. Artist Dirk West designed a Cornhusker cartoon for the Cotton Bowl press headquarters, and Nebraska Sports Information Director Don Bryant later contacted West for permission to use the cartoon. West refined his original cartoon and improved some of the character's features. The new Herbie Husker character first appeared on the cover of the 1974 Nebraska Football media guide and has been a favorite of Nebraska fans over the past five decades.&nbsp; The previous updated iteration of the Herbie Husker character occurred in 2003. That version of Herbie Husker had represented the Cornhuskers at athletic competitions over the past two decades.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681749946886.jpeg" alt="updated Herbie Husker for volleyball team, courtesty UNL" />
 <figcaption>updated Herbie Husker for volleyball team, courtesty UNL</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN - Nebraska Athletics is proud to officially unveil a modernized version of Herbie Husker, one of the most iconic logos and mascots in college athletics. Nebraska Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Trev Alberts and University leaders led the initiative to develop an updated and modernized version of the Herbie Husker logo and costume.&nbsp; The new logo is being unveiled today and the updated Herbie Husker mascot will make his first public appearance at Saturday's Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sometimes to move forward, you gotta look back. <a href="https://t.co/tqjPX5UdZl">pic.twitter.com/tqjPX5UdZl</a>&mdash; Nebraska Huskers (@Huskers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Huskers/status/1647978248226365445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> The return to a Herbie Husker costume and logo that closely resembles the original version comes as Nebraska celebrates the 50th&nbsp;year of Herbie Husker. Alberts and University leadership have also placed a priority on embracing the Cornhusker tradition and the agricultural background of the state of Nebraska. "Herbie Husker has been one of the iconic symbols of Nebraska Athletics for nearly 50 years," Alberts said.&nbsp; "Our fans are passionate about all things related to the Huskers, and they have a particular fondness for Herbie.&nbsp; We are excited to present modernized Herbie Husker marks and logos and thrilled to unveil our new Herbie mascot at Saturday's spring game." Led by Director of Licensing Lonna Henrichs and Spirit Squad Head Coach Erynn Butzke, Nebraska Athletics began working with Torch Creative in January of 2022 to develop the new logos.&nbsp; Throughout the process, the focus remained on digitally updating the beloved Herbie mark that features blonde hair, overalls, and an ear of corn in his pocket. "Partnering with Trev, Lonna, and the University of Nebraska on modernizing Herbie has been a dream come true for Torch Creative," the company said. "We have the ultimate respect for their passion for Cornhusker Athletics and worked to match this enthusiasm in creating a more contemporary look for Herbie yet harkens back to the original 1974 version.&nbsp; Much like that iteration, we hope the modern Herbie continues to represent the heritage of the university and its passionate fanbase." In addition to the primary Herbie Husker logo, sport specific logos were created for 10 of Nebraska's varsity programs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Athletics has also updated its marks for Lil' Red and the Blackshirts. New merchandise is now available online at shop.huskers.com and fans can purchase new Herbie gear at Saturday's spring game. The Herbie Husker character evolved out of Nebraska's trip to the Cotton Bowl following the 1973 season. Artist Dirk West designed a Cornhusker cartoon for the Cotton Bowl press headquarters, and Nebraska Sports Information Director Don Bryant later contacted West for permission to use the cartoon. West refined his original cartoon and improved some of the character's features. The new Herbie Husker character first appeared on the cover of the 1974 Nebraska Football media guide and has been a favorite of Nebraska fans over the past five decades.&nbsp; The previous updated iteration of the Herbie Husker character occurred in 2003. That version of Herbie Husker had represented the Cornhuskers at athletic competitions over the past two decades.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Athletics unveils updated Herbie Husker

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/17/23

Karen Benzel discusses the upcoming United Way Color Dash, as well as "Train The Trainer" seminar being held as part of the Bridge Out of Poverty project.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska" 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=6ps37-13e536d-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>Karen Benzel discusses the upcoming United Way Color Dash, as well as "Train The Trainer" seminar being held as part of the Bridge Out of Poverty project.

POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska

P202300240 11:47 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Officers responded to the 600 block of Missouri Avenue in reference to an attempted burglary. The back entrance door was damages. Open - Under Investigation

P202300241 12:30 THEFT : THEFT THEFT OF MONEY BY JUVENILE SPENDING THE NIGHT AT FRIEND'S HOUSE Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300242 13:56 FOUND : FOUND Female located a bike in the alley behind 300 Plate Avenue approximately a month ago. The bike was posted on social media but was never claimed. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300243 06:01 Officers responded to the F-row of Meadows in reference to a physical domestic disturbance. One female was taken into custody. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300243 06:01 Officers responded to the F-row of Meadows in reference to a physical domestic disturbance. One female was taken into custody. Closed - Resolved

P202300244 11:01 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to the Alliance Family Medicine in reference to an animal bite. A stray cat bit a female on Saturday and was seeking medical help. Attempting to capture cat. Open - Under Investigation

P202300247 19:47 WELFARE : WELFARE Officers were called about a juvenile run away by the custodial parents then a short time later the grandfather of the child called to report a child abuse. This case is still under investigation Open - Under Investigation

P202300246 19:51 WARRANT : ARREST Officer called to the PD in reference to an adult female turning themselves in for an active arrest warrant // Female was arrested and placed into custody for the warrant Closed - Resolved

P202300249 21:11 DUI : DUI officers responded to 700 block of Flack Avenue in reference to a reckless driver/ officers were able to make contact the vehicle in question/ investigation was conducted/ one male was arrested and transported to the Box Butte County Jail/ charges were recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300251 16:40 DISTURBANCE : Gathering Spot Bar and Grill/ Reported assault/&nbsp;Individual located and placed under arrest/ Individual resisted arrest before assaulting officer with bodily fluid/ Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300255 13:05 TRESPASS : TRESPASS 1200 Block of Sweetwater Avenue/ Home intruder removed from property by resident during previous night/ Delayed report to police/ Neighborhood Canvas conducted/ Case Inactivated and Suspended Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300253 00:29 WARRANT : ARREST Female located in the area of Rainbow Motel. Investigation of theft ensued. Female was arrested for a North Platte Arrest Warrant. Closed - Charges Recommended

By Alliance Police Department04/09/23P202300240 11:47 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Officers responded to the 600 block of Missouri Avenue in reference to an attempted burglary. The back entrance door was damages. Open - Under InvestigationP202300241 12:30 THEFT : THEFT THEFT OF MONEY BY JUVENILE SPENDING THE NIGHT AT FRIEND'S HOUSE Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300242 13:56 FOUND : FOUND Female located a bike in the alley behind 300 Plate Avenue approximately a month ago. The bike was posted on social media but was never claimed. Inactive - Case Suspended04/09/23 Total: 304/10/23P202300243 06:01 Officers responded to the F-row of Meadows in reference to a physical domestic disturbance. One female was taken into custody. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300243 06:01 Officers responded to the F-row of Meadows in reference to a physical domestic disturbance. One female was taken into custody. Closed - ResolvedP202300243 06:01 Officers responded to the F-row of Meadows in reference to a physical domestic disturbance. One female was taken into custody. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300244 11:01 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to the Alliance Family Medicine in reference to an animal bite. A stray cat bit a female on Saturday and was seeking medical help. Attempting to capture cat. Open - Under InvestigationP202300247 19:47 WELFARE : WELFARE Officers were called about a juvenile run away by the custodial parents then a short time later the grandfather of the child called to report a child abuse. This case is still under investigation Open - Under InvestigationP202300246 19:51 WARRANT : ARREST Officer called to the PD in reference to an adult female turning themselves in for an active arrest warrant // Female was arrested and placed into custody for the warrant Closed - Resolved04/10/23 Total: 604/11/23P202300249 21:11 DUI : DUI officers responded to 700 block of Flack Avenue in reference to a reckless driver/ officers were able to make contact the vehicle in question/ investigation was conducted/ one male was arrested and transported to the Box Butte County Jail/ charges were recommended Closed - Charges Recommended04/11/23 Total: 104/12/23P202300251 16:40 DISTURBANCE : Gathering Spot Bar and Grill/ Reported assault/&nbsp;Individual located and placed under arrest/ Individual resisted arrest before assaulting officer with bodily fluid/ Closed - Charges Recommended04/12/23 Total: 104/13/23P202300255 13:05 TRESPASS : TRESPASS 1200 Block of Sweetwater Avenue/ Home intruder removed from property by resident during previous night/ Delayed report to police/ Neighborhood Canvas conducted/ Case Inactivated and Suspended Inactive - Case Suspended04/13/23 Total: 104/14/23P202300253 00:29 WARRANT : ARREST Female located in the area of Rainbow Motel. Investigation of theft ensued. Female was arrested for a North Platte Arrest Warrant. Closed - Charges Recommended04/14/23 Total: 1Total Records: 13

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

Gering – National Park Week is a time to explore amazing places, discover stories of history and culture, help out, and find your park. Are you interested in giving back to our national parks? As part of this year’s celebration, Scotts Bluff National Monument will be hosting a volunteer cleanup event in the badlands area of the monument on Saturday, April 29th. The badlands are a seldom visited area of interesting geological formations located on the north side of the monument.

Participants will meet at the monument visitor center, located at 190276 Old Oregon Trail in Gering, at 9 a.m. After filling out some volunteer paperwork, the group will shuttle out to the badlands area where park rangers will provide a brief talk about the area and distribute instructions and supplies for safely cleaning trash from this area of the monument. Snacks will be provided.

Participants must be at least 13 years of age (participants 13 to 17 years of age will need an adult to join them) and should be able to lift and carry up to 20 pounds and hike up to 2 miles on steep, uneven terrain. Sturdy walking shoes and old clothing that may get dirty are recommended, along with sunscreen, bug spray and drinking water. Because of limited tools and space in the shuttle, registration is required. Register by calling the Scotts Bluff National Monument Visitor Center at 308-436-9700. In the event of inclement weather or muddy conditions, the event will be rescheduled.

For more information about Scotts Bluff National Monument, please call 308-436-9700, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.

News Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140447752.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.com" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.com</figcaption>
 </figure>Gering – National Park Week is a time to explore amazing places, discover stories of history and culture, help out, and find your park. Are you interested in giving back to our national parks? As part of this year’s celebration, Scotts Bluff National Monument will be hosting a volunteer cleanup event in the badlands area of the monument on Saturday, April 29th. The badlands are a seldom visited area of interesting geological formations located on the north side of the monument.Participants will meet at the monument visitor center, located at 190276 Old Oregon Trail in Gering, at 9 a.m. After filling out some volunteer paperwork, the group will shuttle out to the badlands area where park rangers will provide a brief talk about the area and distribute instructions and supplies for safely cleaning trash from this area of the monument. Snacks will be provided.Participants must be at least 13 years of age (participants 13 to 17 years of age will need an adult to join them) and should be able to lift and carry up to 20 pounds and hike up to 2 miles on steep, uneven terrain. Sturdy walking shoes and old clothing that may get dirty are recommended, along with sunscreen, bug spray and drinking water. Because of limited tools and space in the shuttle, registration is required. Register by calling the Scotts Bluff National Monument Visitor Center at 308-436-9700. In the event of inclement weather or muddy conditions, the event will be rescheduled.For more information about Scotts Bluff National Monument, please call 308-436-9700, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.

Scotts Bluff NM to host volunteer cleanup opportunity

Volunteers are needed for the annual Chadron Community Litter Cleanup. Join Keep Chadron Beautiful, Saturday, April 22, from 9:00 to 12:00 at the Dawes County Courthouse. Trash bags and gloves will be supplied.

If you are unable to participate the day of the Cleanup, contact Keep Chadron Beautiful and ask for a “raincheck”. We will deliver supplies to you personally so you can complete your cleanup at your convenience.

For more information contact Keep Chadron Beautiful at 432-5959.

By Keep Chadron BeautifulVolunteers are needed for the annual Chadron Community Litter Cleanup. Join Keep Chadron Beautiful, Saturday, April 22, from 9:00 to 12:00 at the Dawes County Courthouse. Trash bags and gloves will be supplied.If you are unable to participate the day of the Cleanup, contact Keep Chadron Beautiful and ask for a “raincheck”. We will deliver supplies to you personally so you can complete your cleanup at your convenience.For more information contact Keep Chadron Beautiful at 432-5959.

Keep Chadron Beautiful host annual 'Community Litter Cleanup' 

Eisenhower Elementary School student Dominick got a big surprise Friday morning when his mother, Shawna Hennings, who had been deployed for 10 months as part of the Army National Guard's 1057 Military Police Company, showed up at school.

Click <a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAFgGccBsT0/QUBqZHcIFvmqky7I3FXSag/watch?utm_content=DAFgGccBsT0&amp;utm_campaign=designshare&amp;utm_medium=link&amp;utm_source=publishsharelink">HERE</a> to watch the reunion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681505436163.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Public SchoolsEisenhower Elementary School student Dominick got a big surprise Friday morning when his mother, Shawna Hennings, who had been deployed for 10 months as part of the Army National Guard's 1057 Military Police Company, showed up at school.Click <a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAFgGccBsT0/QUBqZHcIFvmqky7I3FXSag/watch?utm_content=DAFgGccBsT0&amp;utm_campaign=designshare&amp;utm_medium=link&amp;utm_source=publishsharelink">HERE</a> to watch the reunion.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681505486262.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥 Joyful reunion at North Platte elementary school on Friday

DENVER (AP) — Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis is scheduled to sign a set of health care bills Friday afternoon to enshrine access to abortion and gender-affirming procedures and medications, as the Democrat-led state tries to make itself a safe haven for its neighbors, whose Republican leaders are restricting care.

The goal of the legislation is to ensure people in surrounding states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-lifestyle-health-travel-texas-fbc505c3db4a08af51ba409a91ea161c">and beyond</a>&nbsp;can go to Colorado to have an abortion, begin puberty blockers or receive gender-affirming surgery. Bordering states of Wyoming and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-texas-oklahoma-ad37e8db8a0f3fd9f4fcd215f8a3ed0a">Oklahoma</a>&nbsp;have passed abortion bans and Utah has prohibited transgender care for minors.

With the new laws, Colorado joins Illinois as a progressive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-bans-illinois-clinic-south-travel-demand-a30afcbd022cdeeb92b9aa5788421687">bastion for reproductive rights</a>&nbsp;surrounded mostly by conservatives states. Illinois abortion clinics now serve people living in a 1800-mile (2900-kilometer) stretch of 11 Southern states that have largely banned abortion.

California and New York are considering similar bills after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">U.S. Supreme Court knocked down Roe. v. Wade</a>, putting abortion laws in the hands of state legislatures.

Colorado's southern neighbor, New Mexico, is also controlled by Democrats, and signed a similar abortion bill earlier this year. It legally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-transgender-rights-new-mexico-195c27ab1a60a8d7c07a71f157c07384">shields those who seek abortions</a>&nbsp;or transgender care, and those who provide the treatments, from interstate investigations. The Colorado bill blocks court summons, subpoenas and search warrants from states that decide to prosecute someone for having an abortion.

Gov. Polis added the first layer of abortion protection a year ago, signing an executive order that bars state agencies from cooperating with out-of-state investigations regarding reproductive healthcare. One of the bills he's signing Friday codifies that order into law.

It similarly shields patients who travel to Colorado for gender-affirming health care from prosecution in other states. While gender-affirming health care has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-mental-ce8f5a9ee53768af03c3c65d5331045b">available for decades</a>&nbsp;and is legal for adults in the U.S., some states have barred minors from accessing it, even with parental consent.

Conservative states are pushing back.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/idaho-abortion-minors-criminalization-b8fb4b6feb9b520d63f75432a1219588">Idaho passed a bill that outlaws</a>&nbsp;providing a minor with abortion pills or helping them leave the state to terminate a pregnancy without their parents’ consent.

Also on Friday, Polis is expected to sign a law that outlaws “deceptive practices” by anti-abortion centers, which are known to market themselves as abortion clinics, but don't actually offer the procedure. Instead, they attempt to convince patients to not terminate their pregnancies.

A third bill requires large employers to offer coverage for the total cost of an abortion. The rule allows a carveout for employers who object on religious grounds and does not include public employees because Colorado's constitution forbids the use of public funds for abortions.

By Associated PressDENVER (AP) — Democratic Colorado Gov. Jared Polis is scheduled to sign a set of health care bills Friday afternoon to enshrine access to abortion and gender-affirming procedures and medications, as the Democrat-led state tries to make itself a safe haven for its neighbors, whose Republican leaders are restricting care.The goal of the legislation is to ensure people in surrounding states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-lifestyle-health-travel-texas-fbc505c3db4a08af51ba409a91ea161c">and beyond</a>&nbsp;can go to Colorado to have an abortion, begin puberty blockers or receive gender-affirming surgery. Bordering states of Wyoming and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-texas-oklahoma-ad37e8db8a0f3fd9f4fcd215f8a3ed0a">Oklahoma</a>&nbsp;have passed abortion bans and Utah has prohibited transgender care for minors.With the new laws, Colorado joins Illinois as a progressive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-bans-illinois-clinic-south-travel-demand-a30afcbd022cdeeb92b9aa5788421687">bastion for reproductive rights</a>&nbsp;surrounded mostly by conservatives states. Illinois abortion clinics now serve people living in a 1800-mile (2900-kilometer) stretch of 11 Southern states that have largely banned abortion.California and New York are considering similar bills after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">U.S. Supreme Court knocked down Roe. v. Wade</a>, putting abortion laws in the hands of state legislatures.Colorado's southern neighbor, New Mexico, is also controlled by Democrats, and signed a similar abortion bill earlier this year. It legally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-transgender-rights-new-mexico-195c27ab1a60a8d7c07a71f157c07384">shields those who seek abortions</a>&nbsp;or transgender care, and those who provide the treatments, from interstate investigations. The Colorado bill blocks court summons, subpoenas and search warrants from states that decide to prosecute someone for having an abortion.Gov. Polis added the first layer of abortion protection a year ago, signing an executive order that bars state agencies from cooperating with out-of-state investigations regarding reproductive healthcare. One of the bills he's signing Friday codifies that order into law.It similarly shields patients who travel to Colorado for gender-affirming health care from prosecution in other states. While gender-affirming health care has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-mental-ce8f5a9ee53768af03c3c65d5331045b">available for decades</a>&nbsp;and is legal for adults in the U.S., some states have barred minors from accessing it, even with parental consent.Conservative states are pushing back.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/idaho-abortion-minors-criminalization-b8fb4b6feb9b520d63f75432a1219588">Idaho passed a bill that outlaws</a>&nbsp;providing a minor with abortion pills or helping them leave the state to terminate a pregnancy without their parents’ consent.Also on Friday, Polis is expected to sign a law that outlaws “deceptive practices” by anti-abortion centers, which are known to market themselves as abortion clinics, but don't actually offer the procedure. Instead, they attempt to convince patients to not terminate their pregnancies.A third bill requires large employers to offer coverage for the total cost of an abortion. The rule allows a carveout for employers who object on religious grounds and does not include public employees because Colorado's constitution forbids the use of public funds for abortions.

Colorado governor to sign abortion, transgender care bills

Sandhills Crisis Intervention Program golf tourney scheduled

29th annual Train Show set for Saturday, Sunday in North Platte

NORTH PLATTE, NEB. — Both directions of travel on Interstate 80 between North Platte and Brady are now open after a lengthy closure following a crash and hazardous&nbsp;materials spill Thursday.

The crash occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. Thursday near mile marker 187 on eastbound I-80. The crash involved two semis, one of which was hauling large barrels of the chemical&nbsp;ITCS-TRY4, 1-10% Hydroxylamine. Many of the barrels fell into the median, causing a few to leak.

The scene was immediately secured, and traffic was diverted off I-80 to Highway 30 in expectation of a long-term closure. The crash resulted in only minor injuries for one of the drivers. The other driver was not injured.

The North Platte Fire Department, Maxwell Fire Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and Nebraska Department of Transportation responded to help secure the scene. The Nebraska Hazardous Incident Team (NHIT) also responded, which includes State Troopers and representatives from the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office and other agencies.

Responders determined there was no danger to any nearby populations, the closest of which was Maxwell, approximately two miles away. The NHIT responders were able to successfully contain any leaks to the barrels. The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy was also contacted for assistance.

A specialized cleanup crew from EnviroServe responded from Colorado to safely handle removal of the hazardous materials. That process began Friday morning and concluded early Friday afternoon, at which time it was safe for tow operators and NDOT crews to clear the roadway for traffic. Westbound I-80 reopened to traffic at approximately 2:30 p.m. Friday. Eastbound lanes opened at approximately 6:00 p.m. Friday.

By NSPNORTH PLATTE, NEB. — Both directions of travel on Interstate 80 between North Platte and Brady are now open after a lengthy closure following a crash and hazardous&nbsp;materials spill Thursday.The crash occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. Thursday near mile marker 187 on eastbound I-80. The crash involved two semis, one of which was hauling large barrels of the chemical&nbsp;ITCS-TRY4, 1-10% Hydroxylamine. Many of the barrels fell into the median, causing a few to leak.The scene was immediately secured, and traffic was diverted off I-80 to Highway 30 in expectation of a long-term closure. The crash resulted in only minor injuries for one of the drivers. The other driver was not injured.The North Platte Fire Department, Maxwell Fire Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and Nebraska Department of Transportation responded to help secure the scene. The Nebraska Hazardous Incident Team (NHIT) also responded, which includes State Troopers and representatives from the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office and other agencies.Responders determined there was no danger to any nearby populations, the closest of which was Maxwell, approximately two miles away. The NHIT responders were able to successfully contain any leaks to the barrels. The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy was also contacted for assistance.A specialized cleanup crew from EnviroServe responded from Colorado to safely handle removal of the hazardous materials. That process began Friday morning and concluded early Friday afternoon, at which time it was safe for tow operators and NDOT crews to clear the roadway for traffic. Westbound I-80 reopened to traffic at approximately 2:30 p.m. Friday. Eastbound lanes opened at approximately 6:00 p.m. Friday.

I-80 reopened after long-term haz-mat closure

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Billionaire Warren Buffett assured investors Wednesday that Berkshire Hathaway will be fine when he's no longer around to lead the conglomerate.

Buffett said that after Vice Chairman Greg Abel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-d2f5c2d7ddf636c26c4c7db7e27a3a56">takes over,</a>&nbsp;Berkshire will still follow the same model of allowing its subsidiaries to largely run themselves while looking for other companies to buy with the substantial cash reserves it keeps on hand at all times.

“The problem for our board of directors is the day I’m not around and Greg’s running it, I am not giving him some envelope that tells him what to do next,” Buffett said.

Buffett said Berkshire is “so damn lucky” to have Abel ready to take over as CEO. The 92-year-old says he has no plans to retire, but Abel has been designated as the successor ever since Buffett's partner Charlie Munger let it slip at the 2021 annual meeting. Abel already oversees all of Berkshire's non-insurance businesses.

Buffett and Abel appeared together Wednesday on CNBC from Tokyo where they are checking on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffett-berkshire-hathaway-japanese-trading-houses-investments-8ec8de0717ca80845e1db354528a441e">several companies</a>&nbsp;Berkshire has invested in, and to promote the conglomerate Buffett leads.

Wednesday’s appearance was the first extended television interview Buffett has done since before the pandemic. He used to regularly appear on the cable business news network to answer questions for three hours at a time, several times a year. Buffett and Abel fielded a variety of questions Wednesday, including regarding the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bank-failure-federal-reserve-silicon-valley-deposits-d6d3c18793f669fa05c05a0159363026">recent bank failures</a>&nbsp;and whether railroads, including Berkshire's BNSF railroad, need to improve safety in the wake of several recent high-profile derailments.

Buffett said more banks will fail over time because some managers will continue to do “dumb things” to boost short-term profits, but most people shouldn't worry because their money is protected by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., which is paid for by the banks — not the federal government.

“We’re not over bank failures, but depositors haven’t had a crisis,” Buffett said. “Banks go bust, but depositors aren’t going to be hurt.”

Berkshire sold off most of its bank investments in recent years — except for a major Bank of America stake — because of Buffett's concerns.

“I don’t like it when people get too focused on the earnings number and forget what in my view is basic banking principles,” he said.

There has been an intense focus on improving&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-tank-car-ohio-minnesota-c60f33b64e9c7dc05768a78ae20f3ce5">railroad safety</a>&nbsp;in the wake of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-ohio-evacuations-fires-5d399dc745f51ef746e22828083d8591">fiery Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;outside East Palestine, Ohio, that prompted evacuations and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-contamination-fears-brockovich-fc68b402096a4f5f8598a657f7e399f8">lingering health concerns</a>&nbsp;after hazardous chemicals were released.

Buffett said Norfolk Southern “handled it terribly” and was “tone deaf” in their initial response to that derailment. He pointed out that after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-train-derailment-evacuation-ethanol-fire-73cc3e80f616070806f8f8b35191a616">a recent BNSF derailment</a>, CEO Katie Farmer was on a plane right away to respond to the crash. Norfolk Southern's CEO Alan Shaw has repeatedly promised to make things right in East Palestine, but he was slow to meet with residents after the derailment and the railroad missed one of the initial community meetings to answer residents' questions.

Norfolk Southern didn't respond directly to Buffett's comments, but a spokesman noted that Shaw was in East Palestine in the days right after the derailment when officials decided to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-updates-bf5a60de2243cd6f7f730096aa33294c">release chemicals</a>&nbsp;from several tank cars and burn them to prevent an explosion.

Buffett and Abel said it's impossible to ensure there will be no derailments because of everything that's involved in running a railroad in all sorts of conditions, but the industry is generally getting safer over time, and it will get better now.

“There’s no question there’s lessons to be learned for the industry as a whole and there’s room for improvement,” Abel said.

Addressing the broader economy, Buffett said inflation remains a concern and that the reports he sees from Berkshire's businesses point to a economic slowdown.

But he reiterated his longstanding philosophy that Berkshire doesn't make investing decisions based on macroeconomic factors.

“We haven’t changed our course in 58 years," Buffett said. "We want to buy good businesses that are run by people we like and trust at a decent price, and we’ll keep doing that. And we’ll keep buying treasury bills every Monday.”

Buffett did reconsider a $4 billion investment he made last year in chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor after he said he re-evaluated the geopolitical risk that China could intervene in that country and disrupt the company's operations.

But Buffett remains one of Apple's biggest backers even though that company relies heavily on Chinese suppliers because he believes that most iPhone users would refuse to give up their Apple devices even if someone offered them $10,000. That customer loyalty makes Apple, which is Berkshire's biggest investment, attractive.

The famously tech-averse Buffett said thanks to his longtime friendship with Bill Gates, he did have a chance to play around with one of the latest artificial intelligence tools, ChatGPT, a few months ago. He came away impressed after asking ChatGPT to rewrite the song “My Way” in Spanish, but unsure about the implications of the technology.

“I think this is extraordinary, but I don’t know if it is beneficial,” he said.

One thing Buffett is pretty sure is a bad idea is Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. He said people are essentially gambling on cryptocurrencies that he doesn't believe have much value, but he can't predict when the speculation driving those prices up will end.

“I’ve seen people do stupid things all my life,” he said.

Berkshire owns dozens of businesses besides BNSF, including Geico insurance, a number of large utilities and an assortment of manufacturing and retail businesses. It also holds more than $300 billion of investments, including major stakes in Occidental Petroleum and Coca-Cola.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681495703181.jpeg" alt="Warren Buffett, Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, speaks during a game of bridge following the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting on May 5, 2019, in Omaha, Neb. Buffett assured investors Wednesday, April 12, 2023, that Berkshire Hathaway will be fine when he's no longer around to lead the conglomerate because Vice Chairman Greg Abel will do a great job and the conglomerate's basic model won't change. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik, File)" />
 <figcaption>Warren Buffett, Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, speaks during a game of bridge following the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting on May 5, 2019, in Omaha, Neb. Buffett assured investors Wednesday, April 12, 2023, that Berkshire Hathaway will be fine when he's no longer around to lead the conglomerate because Vice Chairman Greg Abel will do a great job and the conglomerate's basic model won't change. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Billionaire Warren Buffett assured investors Wednesday that Berkshire Hathaway will be fine when he's no longer around to lead the conglomerate.Buffett said that after Vice Chairman Greg Abel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-d2f5c2d7ddf636c26c4c7db7e27a3a56">takes over,</a>&nbsp;Berkshire will still follow the same model of allowing its subsidiaries to largely run themselves while looking for other companies to buy with the substantial cash reserves it keeps on hand at all times.“The problem for our board of directors is the day I’m not around and Greg’s running it, I am not giving him some envelope that tells him what to do next,” Buffett said.Buffett said Berkshire is “so damn lucky” to have Abel ready to take over as CEO. The 92-year-old says he has no plans to retire, but Abel has been designated as the successor ever since Buffett's partner Charlie Munger let it slip at the 2021 annual meeting. Abel already oversees all of Berkshire's non-insurance businesses.Buffett and Abel appeared together Wednesday on CNBC from Tokyo where they are checking on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buffett-berkshire-hathaway-japanese-trading-houses-investments-8ec8de0717ca80845e1db354528a441e">several companies</a>&nbsp;Berkshire has invested in, and to promote the conglomerate Buffett leads.Wednesday’s appearance was the first extended television interview Buffett has done since before the pandemic. He used to regularly appear on the cable business news network to answer questions for three hours at a time, several times a year. Buffett and Abel fielded a variety of questions Wednesday, including regarding the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bank-failure-federal-reserve-silicon-valley-deposits-d6d3c18793f669fa05c05a0159363026">recent bank failures</a>&nbsp;and whether railroads, including Berkshire's BNSF railroad, need to improve safety in the wake of several recent high-profile derailments.Buffett said more banks will fail over time because some managers will continue to do “dumb things” to boost short-term profits, but most people shouldn't worry because their money is protected by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., which is paid for by the banks — not the federal government.“We’re not over bank failures, but depositors haven’t had a crisis,” Buffett said. “Banks go bust, but depositors aren’t going to be hurt.”Berkshire sold off most of its bank investments in recent years — except for a major Bank of America stake — because of Buffett's concerns.“I don’t like it when people get too focused on the earnings number and forget what in my view is basic banking principles,” he said.There has been an intense focus on improving&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-tank-car-ohio-minnesota-c60f33b64e9c7dc05768a78ae20f3ce5">railroad safety</a>&nbsp;in the wake of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-ohio-evacuations-fires-5d399dc745f51ef746e22828083d8591">fiery Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;outside East Palestine, Ohio, that prompted evacuations and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-contamination-fears-brockovich-fc68b402096a4f5f8598a657f7e399f8">lingering health concerns</a>&nbsp;after hazardous chemicals were released.Buffett said Norfolk Southern “handled it terribly” and was “tone deaf” in their initial response to that derailment. He pointed out that after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-train-derailment-evacuation-ethanol-fire-73cc3e80f616070806f8f8b35191a616">a recent BNSF derailment</a>, CEO Katie Farmer was on a plane right away to respond to the crash. Norfolk Southern's CEO Alan Shaw has repeatedly promised to make things right in East Palestine, but he was slow to meet with residents after the derailment and the railroad missed one of the initial community meetings to answer residents' questions.Norfolk Southern didn't respond directly to Buffett's comments, but a spokesman noted that Shaw was in East Palestine in the days right after the derailment when officials decided to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-updates-bf5a60de2243cd6f7f730096aa33294c">release chemicals</a>&nbsp;from several tank cars and burn them to prevent an explosion.Buffett and Abel said it's impossible to ensure there will be no derailments because of everything that's involved in running a railroad in all sorts of conditions, but the industry is generally getting safer over time, and it will get better now.“There’s no question there’s lessons to be learned for the industry as a whole and there’s room for improvement,” Abel said.Addressing the broader economy, Buffett said inflation remains a concern and that the reports he sees from Berkshire's businesses point to a economic slowdown.But he reiterated his longstanding philosophy that Berkshire doesn't make investing decisions based on macroeconomic factors.“We haven’t changed our course in 58 years," Buffett said. "We want to buy good businesses that are run by people we like and trust at a decent price, and we’ll keep doing that. And we’ll keep buying treasury bills every Monday.”Buffett did reconsider a $4 billion investment he made last year in chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor after he said he re-evaluated the geopolitical risk that China could intervene in that country and disrupt the company's operations.But Buffett remains one of Apple's biggest backers even though that company relies heavily on Chinese suppliers because he believes that most iPhone users would refuse to give up their Apple devices even if someone offered them $10,000. That customer loyalty makes Apple, which is Berkshire's biggest investment, attractive.The famously tech-averse Buffett said thanks to his longtime friendship with Bill Gates, he did have a chance to play around with one of the latest artificial intelligence tools, ChatGPT, a few months ago. He came away impressed after asking ChatGPT to rewrite the song “My Way” in Spanish, but unsure about the implications of the technology.“I think this is extraordinary, but I don’t know if it is beneficial,” he said.One thing Buffett is pretty sure is a bad idea is Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. He said people are essentially gambling on cryptocurrencies that he doesn't believe have much value, but he can't predict when the speculation driving those prices up will end.“I’ve seen people do stupid things all my life,” he said.Berkshire owns dozens of businesses besides BNSF, including Geico insurance, a number of large utilities and an assortment of manufacturing and retail businesses. It also holds more than $300 billion of investments, including major stakes in Occidental Petroleum and Coca-Cola.

Buffett says people shouldn't worry about Berkshire, banks

CHADRON – Chadron State College’s annual All-Student Juried Art Show&nbsp;is now open in Memorial Hall’s Main Gallery through April 28. The colorful exhibit includes 50 works by Art majors, Art minors, and non-Art majors enrolled in studio art courses during&nbsp;Fall 2022 and Spring 2023, according to Art Professor Mary Donahue.

Formats include painting, printmaking, drawing, illustration, graphic design, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media, and video.

The following artists received awards: Abigail Tidball for an Untitled linocut; Carissa Hill’s ceramic piece named Painter’s Cupcake Stand; Maya Goss for a mixed media Comic Cover Concept; and Levi O’Dell for a ceramic piece titled Stolen. Honorable mention went to Hill for an acrylic on windmill blades, It’s Not for Everyone, and Angelyze Perez for a mixed media, Relentless.

An overflow show of additional work by CSC art majors, minors, and non-art majors will be in Gallery 232 on the second floor of Memorial Hall until April 28. Hours for both shows are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by appointment by calling 308-432-6317

CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681487370384.jpeg" alt="Relentless, mixed media, by Angelyse Perez of Newcastle, Wyo., won honorable mention in The All Student Juried Art Show, in the Memorial Hall Main Gallery at Chadron State College April 7 to 28, 2023. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Relentless, mixed media, by Angelyse Perez of Newcastle, Wyo., won honorable mention in The All Student Juried Art Show, in the Memorial Hall Main Gallery at Chadron State College April 7 to 28, 2023. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Chadron State College’s annual All-Student Juried Art Show&nbsp;is now open in Memorial Hall’s Main Gallery through April 28. The colorful exhibit includes 50 works by Art majors, Art minors, and non-Art majors enrolled in studio art courses during&nbsp;Fall 2022 and Spring 2023, according to Art Professor Mary Donahue.Formats include painting, printmaking, drawing, illustration, graphic design, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media, and video.The following artists received awards: Abigail Tidball for an Untitled linocut; Carissa Hill’s ceramic piece named Painter’s Cupcake Stand; Maya Goss for a mixed media Comic Cover Concept; and Levi O’Dell for a ceramic piece titled Stolen. Honorable mention went to Hill for an acrylic on windmill blades, It’s Not for Everyone, and Angelyze Perez for a mixed media, Relentless.An overflow show of additional work by CSC art majors, minors, and non-art majors will be in Gallery 232 on the second floor of Memorial Hall until April 28. Hours for both shows are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by appointment by calling 308-432-6317

All Student Art Show open until April 28 in Chadron 

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider staff recommendations for 2023 deer, antelope and elk hunting seasons when it meets April 19 in Fremont.

The meeting will begin at 8 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Express, 2415 N. Lincoln Ave.

A public hearing is scheduled for proposed amendments to Commission orders pertaining to season dates, bag limits, permit quantities and areas open for deer, antelope and elk hunting. The changes will help the agency manage big game populations at socially acceptable levels.

The commissioners also will consider approving a Board Resolution to apply for Transportation Alternatives Program grant funding through the Nebraska Department of Transportation to surface 24.6 miles of Cowboy Trail from Rushville west to mile marker 400.

In other business, commissioners will consider:

There also will be a review of the 2022-2023 river otter season and an overview of the Northeast Region by regional staff.

To view a complete agenda, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNDEyLjc1MDY5OTMxIn0.yGCJH4tsic09I1gp7Ie4_ohN1rlObRsaEnmNKvoaaDY/s/497221906/br/157945087624-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and search for Public Notices.

By Nebraska Game and ParksThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider staff recommendations for 2023 deer, antelope and elk hunting seasons when it meets April 19 in Fremont.The meeting will begin at 8 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Express, 2415 N. Lincoln Ave.A public hearing is scheduled for proposed amendments to Commission orders pertaining to season dates, bag limits, permit quantities and areas open for deer, antelope and elk hunting. The changes will help the agency manage big game populations at socially acceptable levels.Staff will recommend:<ul>
 <li>removing 40 general either-sex and 155 general doe/fawn antelope permits,</li><li>including archery season on all Mule Deer Conservation Area permits, making them valid for all open seasons,</li><li>prohibiting antlerless mule deer harvest statewide on all lands open to public hunting, except land in the Open Fields and Water Program,</li><li>reducing the nonresident either-sex and buck only deer permit quota to 10,000, excluding landowner and youth permits,</li><li>reducing the nonresident archery deer permit quota to 3,000 and make it not valid for mule deer in the MDCA,</li><li>reducing the nonresident muzzleloader deer permit quota to 1,000,</li><li>creating a new Plains Whitetail firearm deer permit,</li><li>reducing available November Firearm permits by 5.2% and Antlerless Only Season Choice permits by 7.4%,</li><li>restructuring elk management units,</li><li>adding 36 bull elk permits and 214 antlerless elk permits,</li><li>minor adjustments on other deer, elk and antelope permits to meet management objectives.</li>
 </ul>The commissioners also will consider approving a Board Resolution to apply for Transportation Alternatives Program grant funding through the Nebraska Department of Transportation to surface 24.6 miles of Cowboy Trail from Rushville west to mile marker 400.In other business, commissioners will consider:<ul>
 <li>permanent and temporary easement requests from NDOT for work on Nebraska Highway 7 in Ainsworth and the temporary diversion of the Cowboy Trail there, and</li><li>a staff recommendation to designate Phillips Canyon and Midway Lake, both located near Johnson Lake State Recreation Area in Dawson County, as state recreation areas. Both are located on the Supply Canal and operated by Central Public Power and Irrigation District.</li>
 </ul>There also will be a review of the 2022-2023 river otter season and an overview of the Northeast Region by regional staff.To view a complete agenda, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNDEyLjc1MDY5OTMxIn0.yGCJH4tsic09I1gp7Ie4_ohN1rlObRsaEnmNKvoaaDY/s/497221906/br/157945087624-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and search for Public Notices.

Commission will consider big game hunting recommendations

By TENA L. COOK, CSC MARKETING COORDINATOR

CHADRON – Nine Chadron State College students, Associate Professor Dr. Mary Keithly, and adjunct faculty member Kinsley Mason traveled to Universal Studios Florida during midterm break to enhance their scientific understanding. The members of the Physics 152 class included Samuel Aden, Cobie Bila, Jordan Economou, Emily Evans, Carrie Drake, Alexis Kramer, Brady McDaniel, Emma Stewart, and Aubree Quast. The group raised funds for the trip by waiting tables at a local restaurant in advance.

Quast, a pre-Medicine student of&nbsp;Clarks, Nebraska, will graduate in 2025.

“It was a different way to experience physics in real life. I guess I didn't realize how much physics played into the rides. The entire theme park is planned out according to physics. They know exactly how big the rides need to be to get the speeds they want. All the planning that goes into it from structural engineers was amazing. There's a lot of fun career options if you're super into physics,” she said.

Quast enjoyed the group’s trip to the beach because Keithly had just reviewed waves in class.

“There were some pretty big waves. You can see them and feel them. There were transverse and longitudinal waves. You see the wave on top and also feel the water underneath. It's very neat because, as someone who had never been to the beach before, I could actually see how it works,” Quast said.

The students took small sensors on the rides that measured force and heart rate.

“In class, we go over problems like this and you can look at the pictures, but when you're there on the rides, you feel&nbsp;multiple forces because you're held down and back at the same time.&nbsp;I think it was a really good experience. We actually got to see things in action that we've been learning all year, which made a big difference,” Quast said.

The trip to the ocean was a first-time experience for Drake, a geoscience major who will graduate in 2024.

“The day I got to see geology in action was the day at the ocean. Getting to go into the ocean and feeling how the rotation speed of the wave was faster closer to the sand and slower at the surface was fascinating. Experiencing something in person that you’ve learned in a classroom is always the best part of being a science major. I also got to see how they use engineering to attempt to control coastal erosion and maintain the tourist beaches,” Drake said.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC MARKETING COORDINATOR<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681433270756.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College Physics 152 class trip to Universal in Florida during midterm break March 6-10, 2023. Back row, from left, Jordan Economou, Brady McDaniel, Kinsley Mason (teaches lab section), Samuel Aden, and Cobie Bila. Front row, Emma Stewart, Emily Evans, Dr. Mary Keithly (Professor), Aubree Quast, Alexis Kramer, and Carolyn Drake. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College Physics 152 class trip to Universal in Florida during midterm break March 6-10, 2023. Back row, from left, Jordan Economou, Brady McDaniel, Kinsley Mason (teaches lab section), Samuel Aden, and Cobie Bila. Front row, Emma Stewart, Emily Evans, Dr. Mary Keithly (Professor), Aubree Quast, Alexis Kramer, and Carolyn Drake. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Nine Chadron State College students, Associate Professor Dr. Mary Keithly, and adjunct faculty member Kinsley Mason traveled to Universal Studios Florida during midterm break to enhance their scientific understanding. The members of the Physics 152 class included Samuel Aden, Cobie Bila, Jordan Economou, Emily Evans, Carrie Drake, Alexis Kramer, Brady McDaniel, Emma Stewart, and Aubree Quast. The group raised funds for the trip by waiting tables at a local restaurant in advance.Quast, a pre-Medicine student of&nbsp;Clarks, Nebraska, will graduate in 2025.“It was a different way to experience physics in real life. I guess I didn't realize how much physics played into the rides. The entire theme park is planned out according to physics. They know exactly how big the rides need to be to get the speeds they want. All the planning that goes into it from structural engineers was amazing. There's a lot of fun career options if you're super into physics,” she said.Quast enjoyed the group’s trip to the beach because Keithly had just reviewed waves in class.“There were some pretty big waves. You can see them and feel them. There were transverse and longitudinal waves. You see the wave on top and also feel the water underneath. It's very neat because, as someone who had never been to the beach before, I could actually see how it works,” Quast said.The students took small sensors on the rides that measured force and heart rate.“In class, we go over problems like this and you can look at the pictures, but when you're there on the rides, you feel&nbsp;multiple forces because you're held down and back at the same time.&nbsp;I think it was a really good experience. We actually got to see things in action that we've been learning all year, which made a big difference,” Quast said.The trip to the ocean was a first-time experience for Drake, a geoscience major who will graduate in 2024.“The day I got to see geology in action was the day at the ocean. Getting to go into the ocean and feeling how the rotation speed of the wave was faster closer to the sand and slower at the surface was fascinating. Experiencing something in person that you’ve learned in a classroom is always the best part of being a science major. I also got to see how they use engineering to attempt to control coastal erosion and maintain the tourist beaches,” Drake said.

Chadron students study physics at theme park

LINCOLN — During the month of March, 19 people were killed in traffic crashes
on Nebraska roadways, according to data collected by the Nebraska Department of Transportation.


• These 19 fatalities occurred in 18 fatal crashes. • Eight of the fourteen vehicle occupants killed were not using seatbelts, one was using a seatbelt, and
five had seatbelt usage marked as unknown. • Nine of the fatalities were in rural locations*. • There were zero fatalities on the interstate, twelve on other highways, and seven on local roads. • Icy roads were a contributing factor in one of the fatality crashes. • Two of the fatalities were motorcyclists • Three of the fatalities were pedestrians.

• There were 29 fatalities in March 2022. • Only four of the 37 vehicle occupants killed during 2023 were using seatbelts.

* The Federal Highway Administration definition for urban is an area with a population of 5,000 or more.


This report includes information available through April 13, 2023 from the Highway Safety Section, Traffic Engineering
Division, Nebraska Department of Transportation. For additional information, contact NDOT Communication and
Public Policy Division at (402) 479-4512.


NDOTLINCOLN — During the month of March, 19 people were killed in traffic crashes
on Nebraska roadways, according to data collected by the Nebraska Department of Transportation.
• These 19 fatalities occurred in 18 fatal crashes. • Eight of the fourteen vehicle occupants killed were not using seatbelts, one was using a seatbelt, and
five had seatbelt usage marked as unknown. • Nine of the fatalities were in rural locations*. • There were zero fatalities on the interstate, twelve on other highways, and seven on local roads. • Icy roads were a contributing factor in one of the fatality crashes. • Two of the fatalities were motorcyclists • Three of the fatalities were pedestrians.
<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681506006413.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>• There were 29 fatalities in March 2022. • Only four of the 37 vehicle occupants killed during 2023 were using seatbelts.
* The Federal Highway Administration definition for urban is an area with a population of 5,000 or more.
This report includes information available through April 13, 2023 from the Highway Safety Section, Traffic Engineering
Division, Nebraska Department of Transportation. For additional information, contact NDOT Communication and
Public Policy Division at (402) 479-4512.

NDOT releases March traffic fatalities report

Come join us for Mean Girls: The Musical on April 13-15 at 7pm.💋 at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center.

Adults are $7, students are $5. Tickets will be sold at the door&nbsp;&nbsp;

News Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681435114513.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Photo.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Come join us for Mean Girls: The Musical on April 13-15 at 7pm.💋 at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center.Ticket prices are below.&nbsp;Adults are $7, students are $5. Tickets will be sold at the door&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alliance High School presents 'Mean Girls: The Musical'

Mayor Mike Dafney, on Monday April 10th, stepped down from the Alliance City Council after serving almost 23 years.

Mike was first elected to the Alliance City Council in 1988 and served until 2006; serving as Mayor for 10 years. During that time, he was also a member of the Nebraska League of Municipalities. While working with the League, Mike was appointed to the League Legislative Committee and the League Executive Board. In 1994, he hosted the Panhandle Mayor’s Conference, and he was a member of the Governor’s Roundtable Conference in 1993. From 1998 to 2000, Mike was an advisor on the Nebraska Highway Rail Crossing Advisory Committee.

On the national level, Mike was a member of The National League of Cities from 1990 to 2006 and served on the Energy, Environmental and Natural Resources Committee, the Community and Economic Policy Committee, and the Transportation and Communications Steering Committee. While on the Transportation Committee, Mike was a member of The National Academy of Science, and the United States GAO Conference for Hazardous Material Movement by Rail. He was also a member of United States Department of Energy Transportation Task Force for Rail Routing and Security. (Yucca Mountain) While having a seat at the national level Mike was able to advocate for Essential Air Service which serves the community and give testimony concerning train crew size.

Mike retired in 2011 from the Burlington Northern, Santa Fe Railway after serving 41 years as a locomotive engineer. In addition, he oversaw his family’s real estate business; Dafney’s Inc. from 1993 to 2020.

Mike was encouraged by local citizens to return to public office and was again elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. Mike again was a member of the National League of Cities’ Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and a Board of Director of the Heartland Expressway Association.

Mike Dafney is a lifelong resident of Alliance, Nebraska. He graduated from Alliance High in 1969 and attended Chadron State College. He is married to his wife, Helen (Percival), and they have three grown children.

News Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681432979203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mayor Mike Dafney, on Monday April 10th, stepped down from the Alliance City Council after serving almost 23 years.Mike was first elected to the Alliance City Council in 1988 and served until 2006; serving as Mayor for 10 years. During that time, he was also a member of the Nebraska League of Municipalities. While working with the League, Mike was appointed to the League Legislative Committee and the League Executive Board. In 1994, he hosted the Panhandle Mayor’s Conference, and he was a member of the Governor’s Roundtable Conference in 1993. From 1998 to 2000, Mike was an advisor on the Nebraska Highway Rail Crossing Advisory Committee.On the national level, Mike was a member of The National League of Cities from 1990 to 2006 and served on the Energy, Environmental and Natural Resources Committee, the Community and Economic Policy Committee, and the Transportation and Communications Steering Committee. While on the Transportation Committee, Mike was a member of The National Academy of Science, and the United States GAO Conference for Hazardous Material Movement by Rail. He was also a member of United States Department of Energy Transportation Task Force for Rail Routing and Security. (Yucca Mountain) While having a seat at the national level Mike was able to advocate for Essential Air Service which serves the community and give testimony concerning train crew size.Mike retired in 2011 from the Burlington Northern, Santa Fe Railway after serving 41 years as a locomotive engineer. In addition, he oversaw his family’s real estate business; Dafney’s Inc. from 1993 to 2020.Mike was encouraged by local citizens to return to public office and was again elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. Mike again was a member of the National League of Cities’ Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and a Board of Director of the Heartland Expressway Association.Mike Dafney is a lifelong resident of Alliance, Nebraska. He graduated from Alliance High in 1969 and attended Chadron State College. He is married to his wife, Helen (Percival), and they have three grown children.

Alliance Mayor Dafney resigns

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined 40 of his colleagues in re-introducing a bill to permanently repeal the federal estate tax, commonly known as the death tax.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.capito.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/03-30-2023%20Death%20Tax%20Repeal%20Act.pdf" target="_blank">The&nbsp;Death Tax Repeal Act</a>&nbsp;would repeal the estate and generation-skipping transfer taxes that harm multi-generational farms, ranches, and businesses in the wake of the owner’s death. U.S. Senator John Thune (R-SD) is the original sponsor of this legislation.

“The death tax is an unfair and unnecessary tax that&nbsp;can devastate family-owned farms, ranches, and small businesses,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts. “This tax penalizes&nbsp;grit and success, and&nbsp;undermines the lifelong efforts of Nebraskans to leave a legacy for their kids and grandkids. It’s time for the death tax to die.”&nbsp;

Other co-sponsors of the legislation include U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsay Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Ron Johnson (R-WI), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).

News ReleaseWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) joined 40 of his colleagues in re-introducing a bill to permanently repeal the federal estate tax, commonly known as the death tax.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.capito.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/03-30-2023%20Death%20Tax%20Repeal%20Act.pdf" target="_blank">The&nbsp;Death Tax Repeal Act</a>&nbsp;would repeal the estate and generation-skipping transfer taxes that harm multi-generational farms, ranches, and businesses in the wake of the owner’s death. U.S. Senator John Thune (R-SD) is the original sponsor of this legislation.“The death tax is an unfair and unnecessary tax that&nbsp;can devastate family-owned farms, ranches, and small businesses,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts. “This tax penalizes&nbsp;grit and success, and&nbsp;undermines the lifelong efforts of Nebraskans to leave a legacy for their kids and grandkids. It’s time for the death tax to die.”&nbsp;Other co-sponsors of the legislation include U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AR), Mike Braun (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Lindsay Graham (R-SC), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Ron Johnson (R-WI), John Kennedy (R-LA), James Lankford (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Roger Wicker (R-MS).

Ricketts, colleagues re-introduce bill to permanently repeal death tax

By ABIGAIL SWANSON, COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON – Five Chadron State College Students attended the 2023 Sigma Tau Delta International Convention in Denver earlier this spring. Sigma Tau Delta is an international English Honors society that strives to confer distinction for and promote interest in English language and literature that hosts an annual convention where selected student works are presented in panel style presentations.

Two CSC students presented at the convention. Erin Hayhurst of Scottsbluff, Neb., presented Funeral Songs, a creative nonfiction piece, and Abigail Swanson of Grand Island, Neb., read Another Calls You Beautiful, a collection of poetry. Hannah Pfeifly of Stromsburg, Neb., Rebeka Scheiderer of Hotchkiss, Colo., Vernon Plenty Bull of Allen, S.D., and adviser Dr. Mary Clai Jones also attended the convention.

“The conference&nbsp;gave me an opportunity to find my voice and embrace it to explore different writing methods. I am a Criminal Justice major, but Creative Writing is my chosen minor,” Plenty Bull said.

Along with paper presentations, the conference also included round tables and presentations exploring careers in English.

“Hearing from experienced editors gave me clarity and will help me decide on my career path after graduation,” Scheiderer said.

Students had opportunities to network with peers, share ideas, and explore ways to improve campus involvement in their chapters.

“My favorite part of the trip was getting to meet people with similar interests from all over. I loved being able to represent a smaller community at this large event,” Hayhurst said. “During the panel, the other writers and I received many thoughtful and interesting questions. That really inspired me, seeing people interested in something I'd worked on.”

Pfeifly said the conference had a lot of value for her as a student and looking into the future beyond graduation.

“It was an eye-opener to what I could do career-wise, academically, and creatively,” she said. “I listened to fantastic writers and they encouraged me that I am better than I thought.&nbsp;If I could go again, I 100-percent would.”&nbsp;

By ABIGAIL SWANSON, COLLEGE RELATIONS<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681399713915.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College students and faculty adviser attend the Sigma Tau Delta International Convention in Denver, Colo., March 29, 2023. From left: Abigail Swanson of Grand Island, Neb., Dr. Mary Clai Jones, Hannah Pfeifly of Stromsburg, Neb., Rebeka Scheiderer or Hotchkiss, Colo., Neb., Erin Hayhurst of Scottsbluff, Neb., and Vernon Plenty Bull of Allen, S.D. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College students and faculty adviser attend the Sigma Tau Delta International Convention in Denver, Colo., March 29, 2023. From left: Abigail Swanson of Grand Island, Neb., Dr. Mary Clai Jones, Hannah Pfeifly of Stromsburg, Neb., Rebeka Scheiderer or Hotchkiss, Colo., Neb., Erin Hayhurst of Scottsbluff, Neb., and Vernon Plenty Bull of Allen, S.D. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Five Chadron State College Students attended the 2023 Sigma Tau Delta International Convention in Denver earlier this spring. Sigma Tau Delta is an international English Honors society that strives to confer distinction for and promote interest in English language and literature that hosts an annual convention where selected student works are presented in panel style presentations.Two CSC students presented at the convention. Erin Hayhurst of Scottsbluff, Neb., presented Funeral Songs, a creative nonfiction piece, and Abigail Swanson of Grand Island, Neb., read Another Calls You Beautiful, a collection of poetry. Hannah Pfeifly of Stromsburg, Neb., Rebeka Scheiderer of Hotchkiss, Colo., Vernon Plenty Bull of Allen, S.D., and adviser Dr. Mary Clai Jones also attended the convention.“The conference&nbsp;gave me an opportunity to find my voice and embrace it to explore different writing methods. I am a Criminal Justice major, but Creative Writing is my chosen minor,” Plenty Bull said.Along with paper presentations, the conference also included round tables and presentations exploring careers in English.“Hearing from experienced editors gave me clarity and will help me decide on my career path after graduation,” Scheiderer said.Students had opportunities to network with peers, share ideas, and explore ways to improve campus involvement in their chapters.“My favorite part of the trip was getting to meet people with similar interests from all over. I loved being able to represent a smaller community at this large event,” Hayhurst said. “During the panel, the other writers and I received many thoughtful and interesting questions. That really inspired me, seeing people interested in something I'd worked on.”Pfeifly said the conference had a lot of value for her as a student and looking into the future beyond graduation.“It was an eye-opener to what I could do career-wise, academically, and creatively,” she said. “I listened to fantastic writers and they encouraged me that I am better than I thought.&nbsp;If I could go again, I 100-percent would.”&nbsp;

Chadron students present at international English convention

Red flag warnings remain in effect across the North Platte area until 9 p.m. Thursday as hot, dry and windy conditions continue.

The high Thursday was expected to reach the low-90s, the National Weather Service reported. North Platte set a record-high temperature for April 12 at 93 —breaking a mark that had stood since 1899. Imperial, Broken Bow and Valentine also all recorded record highs for the date.

Some relief could be possible in the form of precipitation. There is a 20 percent chance of rain Thursday night into Saturday. Winds will shift and bring cooler air, as well. The daytime high Friday and Saturday is only expected to reach the low- to mid-50s.

Skies will clear by Sunday, when the high is expected to be in the mid-60s. By early next week, the mercury will begin to tick back to the 80s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681408424582.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Red flag warnings remain in effect across the North Platte area until 9 p.m. Thursday as hot, dry and windy conditions continue.The high Thursday was expected to reach the low-90s, the National Weather Service reported. North Platte set a record-high temperature for April 12 at 93 —breaking a mark that had stood since 1899. Imperial, Broken Bow and Valentine also all recorded record highs for the date.Some relief could be possible in the form of precipitation. There is a 20 percent chance of rain Thursday night into Saturday. Winds will shift and bring cooler air, as well. The daytime high Friday and Saturday is only expected to reach the low- to mid-50s.Skies will clear by Sunday, when the high is expected to be in the mid-60s. By early next week, the mercury will begin to tick back to the 80s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A Red Flag Warning is in effect again today. One more day of strong southerly winds and low relative humidity can be expected. A cold front will cross the area late tonight with cooler weather expected Friday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/s0ffbfKsSu">pic.twitter.com/s0ffbfKsSu</a>&mdash; NWS North Platte (@NWSNorthPlatte) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSNorthPlatte/status/1646435060999159809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Red flag warnings and a new record high temperature

UPDATED 11:45 a.m. April 13:&nbsp;The deceased female found on April 9 has been identified as Bernadette Lopez, 42, of Cheyenne, Wyo. Preliminary results of the autopsy showed Lopez died from hypothermia seven to ten days prior to finding her.

The locomotive was towed into Bailey yard from Cheyenne on April 8 which means Lopez died in Cheyenne, Wyo. The investigation into this matter by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has been closed and turned over to the Cheyenne Police Department.

At 9:25 a.m. Sunday, the Lincoln County 911 Center received a call from Union Pacific Railroad reporting they had found a deceased female on a locomotive.

The locomotive was inside Bailey Yards but had recently been towed in for repairs from Cheyenne, Wyo.

Deputies and Investigators from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene. Investigators discovered the female wedged in a small generator room located just behind the cab of the locomotive. It appeared the female had recently passed away and she had no identification.

An autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday to determine the cause of death and help identify the female. Investigators are working with the Cheyenne Police Department on this case.

UPDATED 11:45 a.m. April 13:&nbsp;The deceased female found on April 9 has been identified as Bernadette Lopez, 42, of Cheyenne, Wyo. Preliminary results of the autopsy showed Lopez died from hypothermia seven to ten days prior to finding her. The locomotive was towed into Bailey yard from Cheyenne on April 8 which means Lopez died in Cheyenne, Wyo. The investigation into this matter by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has been closed and turned over to the Cheyenne Police Department.Lincoln County Sheriff's OfficeAt 9:25 a.m. Sunday, the Lincoln County 911 Center received a call from Union Pacific Railroad reporting they had found a deceased female on a locomotive.The locomotive was inside Bailey Yards but had recently been towed in for repairs from Cheyenne, Wyo.Deputies and Investigators from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene. Investigators discovered the female wedged in a small generator room located just behind the cab of the locomotive. It appeared the female had recently passed away and she had no identification.An autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday to determine the cause of death and help identify the female. Investigators are working with the Cheyenne Police Department on this case.

Authorities identify woman found dead on train North Platte

My side kick Betty Jo and I decided it was salad day. Well, where do you go for the best salad, Pizza Hut in Alliance. They have a great one. 

We also shared some chicken wings and a personal pizza. Which automatically means we took a box of food with us. Those salads are so big, and so yummy.&nbsp; I'm a bone-in chickie lover too...and their's is to die for.&nbsp;&nbsp;

They have a great birthday, meeting room available. It was being used while we were there. The Lions club folks got to enjoy a great lunch and some privacy.

Our waitress was Jasmine, and she was a blast. And she kept us taken care of, drinks refilled. And checking often to see if we need anything. She was great.&nbsp;

So, you don't always have to go a long way from home for some good vittles. 

The new Pizza Hut at 3rd and Cody has some great stuff going on. See you there!&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Tami Cox SwearingenMy side kick Betty Jo and I decided it was salad day. Well, where do you go for the best salad, Pizza Hut in Alliance. They have a great one. We also shared some chicken wings and a personal pizza. Which automatically means we took a box of food with us. Those salads are so big, and so yummy.&nbsp; I'm a bone-in chickie lover too...and their's is to die for.&nbsp;&nbsp; They have a great birthday, meeting room available. It was being used while we were there. The Lions club folks got to enjoy a great lunch and some privacy. Our waitress was Jasmine, and she was a blast. And she kept us taken care of, drinks refilled. And checking often to see if we need anything. She was great.&nbsp; So, you don't always have to go a long way from home for some good vittles. The new Pizza Hut at 3rd and Cody has some great stuff going on. See you there!&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681397795432.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

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