SEATTLE – University of Nebraska at Kearney student Jessica Klingelhoefer was recently recognized as a Health Education Major of the Year by SHAPE America-Society of Health and Physical Educators.

She was honored March 30 during the organization’s 137th National Convention and Expo in Seattle, Washington. The award celebrates outstanding undergraduate students in the health, physical education, recreation and dance professions who are nominated by a faculty adviser or professor. Klingelhoefer also received the Ruth Abernathy Undergraduate Scholarship at the SHAPE America Convention.

“The outstanding achievements of future professionals like Jessica are integral to the future of SHAPE America and our profession,” said SHAPE America President Kymm Ballard, a professor at Campbell University.

A senior from Grant, Klingelhoefer serves as president of UNK’s Health and Physical Education Club and as a student representative on the SHAPE Nebraska Board. She was named the 2022 Health Education Major of the Year by SHAPE Nebraska last fall and has presented numerous times at the state conference.

Klingelhoefer is active in numerous campus activities and organizations, including the Alpha Phi sorority, Order of Omega honor society and undergraduate research. She’s volunteered with Nebraska Kids Fitness and Nutrition Day, Special Olympics, the UNK home-school program, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Loper Leaders.

“Educating students on being lifelong learners and movers is a passion of mine and I am beyond thankful for all the opportunities UNK and SHAPE have offered me throughout my undergraduate experience,” she said.

Klingelhoefer is student teaching this semester at Lincoln Public Schools. She’ll graduate in May with a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education with a math endorsement before beginning her teaching career this fall.

SHAPE America is the nation’s largest membership organization of health and physical education professionals. Since its founding in 1885, the organization has defined excellence in physical education. Its national standards for K-12 physical education serve as the foundation for well-designed physical education programs across the country.

By University of Kearney&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681325243572.jpeg" alt="UNK senior Jessica Klingelhoefer was honored as a Health Education Major of the Year during SHAPE America’s annual convention in Seattle, Washington. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>UNK senior Jessica Klingelhoefer was honored as a Health Education Major of the Year during SHAPE America’s annual convention in Seattle, Washington. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEATTLE – University of Nebraska at Kearney student Jessica Klingelhoefer was recently recognized as a Health Education Major of the Year by SHAPE America-Society of Health and Physical Educators.She was honored March 30 during the organization’s 137th National Convention and Expo in Seattle, Washington. The award celebrates outstanding undergraduate students in the health, physical education, recreation and dance professions who are nominated by a faculty adviser or professor. Klingelhoefer also received the Ruth Abernathy Undergraduate Scholarship at the SHAPE America Convention.“The outstanding achievements of future professionals like Jessica are integral to the future of SHAPE America and our profession,” said SHAPE America President Kymm Ballard, a professor at Campbell University.A senior from Grant, Klingelhoefer serves as president of UNK’s Health and Physical Education Club and as a student representative on the SHAPE Nebraska Board. She was named the 2022 Health Education Major of the Year by SHAPE Nebraska last fall and has presented numerous times at the state conference.Klingelhoefer is active in numerous campus activities and organizations, including the Alpha Phi sorority, Order of Omega honor society and undergraduate research. She’s volunteered with Nebraska Kids Fitness and Nutrition Day, Special Olympics, the UNK home-school program, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Loper Leaders.“Educating students on being lifelong learners and movers is a passion of mine and I am beyond thankful for all the opportunities UNK and SHAPE have offered me throughout my undergraduate experience,” she said.Klingelhoefer is student teaching this semester at Lincoln Public Schools. She’ll graduate in May with a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education with a math endorsement before beginning her teaching career this fall.SHAPE America is the nation’s largest membership organization of health and physical education professionals. Since its founding in 1885, the organization has defined excellence in physical education. Its national standards for K-12 physical education serve as the foundation for well-designed physical education programs across the country.

UNK senior recognized as national Health Education Major of the Year

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/wildfire-season-starting-early-with-three-major-fires-burning-across-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Dry, windy conditions are helping start fire season early in Nebraska in 2023.

Three wildfires, in Jefferson County in southeast Nebraska, Garfield County in the center part of the state, and Cherry County near the South Dakota border, were burning as of Wednesday evening.

“Critical” fire weather is expected for the next two days, according to&nbsp;Jodie Fawl of the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.

Fire season, she said, used to begin in July and extend into autumn, but now is considered to be year round.

In 2022, Fawl said, major wildfires were reported in each month of the year — a year that turned out to be the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/11/07/nebraska-on-pace-for-second-worst-wildfire-year-ever-2023-outlook-is-dim/#:~:text=LINCOLN%20%E2%80%94%20Worsening%20drought%2C%20coupled%20with,year%20for%20wildfires%20in%20Nebraska.">second worst for wildfires</a>&nbsp;in state history.

On Wednesday evening, the three fires reported were:

Wildfire conditions across the state are available by visiting:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.nema.nebraska.gov/">www.nema.nebraska.gov/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681393188955.png" alt="About 2,600 acres were burned near Rock Creek Station State Historical Park in Jefferson County on Tuesday and Wednesday. (Courtesy of Jefferson &amp; Saline County Emergency Management)" />
 <figcaption>About 2,600 acres were burned near Rock Creek Station State Historical Park in Jefferson County on Tuesday and Wednesday. (Courtesy of Jefferson &amp; Saline County Emergency Management)</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/wildfire-season-starting-early-with-three-major-fires-burning-across-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Dry, windy conditions are helping start fire season early in Nebraska in 2023.Three wildfires, in Jefferson County in southeast Nebraska, Garfield County in the center part of the state, and Cherry County near the South Dakota border, were burning as of Wednesday evening.“Critical” fire weather is expected for the next two days, according to&nbsp;Jodie Fawl of the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.Fire season, she said, used to begin in July and extend into autumn, but now is considered to be year round.In 2022, Fawl said, major wildfires were reported in each month of the year — a year that turned out to be the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/11/07/nebraska-on-pace-for-second-worst-wildfire-year-ever-2023-outlook-is-dim/#:~:text=LINCOLN%20%E2%80%94%20Worsening%20drought%2C%20coupled%20with,year%20for%20wildfires%20in%20Nebraska.">second worst for wildfires</a>&nbsp;in state history.On Wednesday evening, the three fires reported were:<ol>
 <li>The McCann Fire in Cherry County, which was reportedly 30% contained after burning 7,040 acres. The fire started southwest of Kilgore and required the evacuation of the village for a while Tuesday.&nbsp;NEMA liaison Chris Schroeder said local first responders stopped the blaze two miles south of town, and no structures were lost. The focus Wednesday, he said, was to hold that line and work hotspots in canyon areas.</li><li>The Rock Creek Fire in Jefferson County had consumed 2,600 acres by Wednesday evening and was said to be the largest fire in that area in recent years. Fifty volunteer firefighters were on scene. The fire was at 60% containment.&nbsp;John McKee, emergency manager for Saline and Jefferson Counties, told<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newschannelnebraska.com/story/48706954/crews-work-on-structure-protection-hot-spots-in-rock-creek-fire-wednesday">&nbsp;News Channel Nebraska</a>&nbsp;that firefighters did “an excellent job” protecting buildings at Rock Creek Station State Historical Park that had been rebuilt in recent years.&nbsp;A Nebraska National Guard hand crew was on the scene, along with a National Guard UH-60 helicopter.</li><li>The Lowry Fire in Garfield County burned 6,000 acres, 15 miles north of Burwell, but mop-up operations have begun.&nbsp;Two injuries were reported and four structures were destroyed, including a storage building at the Rowes Hydraulic Rake Manufacturing Plant, 22 miles north of Burwell, Fawl said.&nbsp;Eight homes and a church were threatened, she said. Local aviation dropped water on the fire.</li>
 </ol>Wildfire conditions across the state are available by visiting:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.nema.nebraska.gov/">www.nema.nebraska.gov/</a>

Wildfire season: Three major fires burn across Nebraska

&nbsp; The Administration lines at Chadron Police Department administrative lines are not working at our dispatch center. 

The 911 lines are still working, if you have an emergency please call that number.

You may also call one of our spare lines at 308-432-0519 or 308-665-8213 until the regular lines are working again.&nbsp; &nbsp;

By Dawes County Communications Center&nbsp; The Administration lines at Chadron Police Department administrative lines are not working at our dispatch center. The 911 lines are still working, if you have an emergency please call that number. You may also call one of our spare lines at 308-432-0519 or 308-665-8213 until the regular lines are working again.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Chadron police dispatch center phone lines down

Alliance – Nebraska Public Transit Week is a celebration and promotion of public transit services across Nebraska organized by the Nebraska Department of Transportation, University of Nebraska at Kearney’s Nebraska Safety Center, and University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research in cooperation with Nebraska’s public transit providers.

Nebraska’s public transit proved its essential nature in 2022 with over 4 million passenger boardings as transit providers drove nearly 10 million miles to get Nebraskans to their destinations safely. Public transit options, in both rural and urban communities, are vital to those who do not own or cannot use a personal vehicle. For many in the Nebraska Panhandle region, public transit provides a connection to intercity bus and regional airports, medical care, education, jobs, and mobility in their day-to-day lives.

During Nebraska Public Transit Week, Open Plains Transit (OPT) is celebrating their commitment to rural transportation services. OPT will be hosting an Open House and Ribbon Cutting in celebration of their official rebranding to the new Open Plains Transit, formerly Panhandle Trails Intercity Public Transit. Jonnie Kusek, OPT Director of Transportation, states “it is important to be inclusive of all people and all communities in our service area. We have outgrown services provided just within the Nebraska Panhandle region.” OPT provides accessible intercity bus services to 15 western Nebraska counties, Pine Ridge, SD and demand response services in soon to be over fifty communities. There are plans to implement regularly scheduled bus services to Rapid City, SD by July 1st. OPT services extend to the most remote rural areas of Box Butte and Sheridan Counties, with plans to extend this type of county-wide service in Cherry County, also. Advanced paid reservations are required and a minimum of three days request is recommended, as availability fills up quite quickly. For more information and reservations, call 308-761-8747, Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The Open House celebration is April 13, 2023 from 3-6 p.m. at their operations base located at 323 Flack Ave., Alliance, NE. Presentations from the NDOT Mobility Management Team, Olsson &amp; Associates, regional transportation associates and healthcare representatives will begin at 4:00 p.m. with the ribbon cutting to follow. The community will have the opportunity to provide feedback via completed surveys, which will enter them into a prize drawing.

Nebraska Public Transit is working together to promote and support safe, affordable, and efficient public transit for the 5.1% of households in Nebraska with no access to a vehicle. 

In 2022 Nebraskans traveled nearly 10 million miles via public transit to access critical services like medical care, education, employment, and more. 

Governor Pillen has proclaimed April 9-15, 2023, as Nebraska Public Transit Week and agencies near you plan to celebrate the great service they provide. Visit nebraskatransit.com

To learn more about these celebrations and to find transit options near you. Brought to you by the Nebraska Public Transit Team and the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

News Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681317691444.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance – Nebraska Public Transit Week is a celebration and promotion of public transit services across Nebraska organized by the Nebraska Department of Transportation, University of Nebraska at Kearney’s Nebraska Safety Center, and University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Center for Public Affairs Research in cooperation with Nebraska’s public transit providers.Nebraska’s public transit proved its essential nature in 2022 with over 4 million passenger boardings as transit providers drove nearly 10 million miles to get Nebraskans to their destinations safely. Public transit options, in both rural and urban communities, are vital to those who do not own or cannot use a personal vehicle. For many in the Nebraska Panhandle region, public transit provides a connection to intercity bus and regional airports, medical care, education, jobs, and mobility in their day-to-day lives.During Nebraska Public Transit Week, Open Plains Transit (OPT) is celebrating their commitment to rural transportation services. OPT will be hosting an Open House and Ribbon Cutting in celebration of their official rebranding to the new Open Plains Transit, formerly Panhandle Trails Intercity Public Transit. Jonnie Kusek, OPT Director of Transportation, states “it is important to be inclusive of all people and all communities in our service area. We have outgrown services provided just within the Nebraska Panhandle region.” OPT provides accessible intercity bus services to 15 western Nebraska counties, Pine Ridge, SD and demand response services in soon to be over fifty communities. There are plans to implement regularly scheduled bus services to Rapid City, SD by July 1st. OPT services extend to the most remote rural areas of Box Butte and Sheridan Counties, with plans to extend this type of county-wide service in Cherry County, also. Advanced paid reservations are required and a minimum of three days request is recommended, as availability fills up quite quickly. For more information and reservations, call 308-761-8747, Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.The Open House celebration is April 13, 2023 from 3-6 p.m. at their operations base located at 323 Flack Ave., Alliance, NE. Presentations from the NDOT Mobility Management Team, Olsson &amp; Associates, regional transportation associates and healthcare representatives will begin at 4:00 p.m. with the ribbon cutting to follow. The community will have the opportunity to provide feedback via completed surveys, which will enter them into a prize drawing.............Nebraska Public Transit is working together to promote and support safe, affordable, and efficient public transit for the 5.1% of households in Nebraska with no access to a vehicle. In 2022 Nebraskans traveled nearly 10 million miles via public transit to access critical services like medical care, education, employment, and more. Governor Pillen has proclaimed April 9-15, 2023, as Nebraska Public Transit Week and agencies near you plan to celebrate the great service they provide. Visit nebraskatransit.comTo learn more about these celebrations and to find transit options near you. Brought to you by the Nebraska Public Transit Team and the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

Open Plains Transit in Alliance take part in Nebraska Public Transit Week

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/12/23

By&nbsp;Scottsbluff Police Department&nbsp;Operations Captain Lance L. Kite

We would like to notify the public that due to an accident late yesterday afternoon at the railroad crossing at West 20th St. and Railway, that the crossing arms were damaged. Because of this damage the crossing was closed. 

The crossing has been blocked by barricades and will remain so until BNSF can replace the damaged equipment. 

Please use alternate routes around this crossing.

By&nbsp;Scottsbluff Police Department&nbsp;Operations Captain Lance L. KiteWe would like to notify the public that due to an accident late yesterday afternoon at the railroad crossing at West 20th St. and Railway, that the crossing arms were damaged. Because of this damage the crossing was closed. The crossing has been blocked by barricades and will remain so until BNSF can replace the damaged equipment. Please use alternate routes around this crossing.

BNSF railroad crossing in Scotts Bluff Co. closed due to accident

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Last month Silicon Valley Bank collapsed, the second-largest bank failure in U.S. history, following Seattle's Washington Mutual in 2008. In one day, panicking depositors withdrew $42 billion from their accounts after social media posts questioned the bank's stability when it planned to sell stocks to raise cash. The bank held long-term Treasury bonds that were losing value as interest rates climbed, so it was difficult to sell them to get cash needed for day-to-day operations.

When a second bank failed a few days later, the federal government stepped in to guarantee all deposits in both banks. They wanted to prevent runs on other banks, which would create a nation-wide financial crisis. They also knew that these banks held payroll accounts for several businesses, and if they were closed, it would take some time for workers to receive their paychecks.

After our financial crisis in 2008, Congress passed the Dodd-Frank bill to regulate banks more closely. In 2018 Congress and President Trump loosened these restrictions. Many economists and politicians are calling for the regulations to be reinstated.

One term keeps popping up in all these discussions - FDIC. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC) was established during the Great Depression; bank runs were common in the 1930's. FDIC guarantees that your bank deposits are safe, even if the bank goes under. Premiums for this insurance are paid by banks, and they protect up to $250,000 in an individual's account, $250,000 for each person's share in a joint account.

FDIC insurance covers money in checking, savings, and money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs). FDIC also guarantees official items issued by a bank, such as cashier’s checks and money orders and specialized accounts like IRAs. It does not protect things like insurance policies or stocks, even if you bought those at a bank. All the banks in Box Butte County are FDIC insured.

Not all of us manage our money through banks. Box Butte County has four credit unions. Is our money safe in them? The deposits in these four credit unions are covered by NCUA, the National Credit Union Administration. Like FDIC, it protects up to $250,000 per credit union member via the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund. It also covers checking, savings and money market deposit accounts, certificates of deposit, cashier’s checks, and money orders.

If your financial institution fails, how do you get your money back? You don't have to do anything. FDIC or NCUA will contact you with information about how your funds will be returned. Historically, the FDIC and NCUA insurance programs cover losses within a few days after a bank or credit union closing. FDIC's website says they usually pay the next business day,

by either 1) providing each depositor with a new account at another insured bank in an amount equal to the insured balance of their account at the failed bank, or 2) issuing a check to each depositor for the insured balance of their account at the failed bank.

Should you keep your money in a bank or credit union? Absolutely! Keeping cash in your home puts you at risk of theft, fire, flood, loss, or damage. Opening an account at an FDIC-insured bank or NCUA credit union anywhere ensures that your money is protected in the event of disaster. You do not need to apply for this insurance; coverage is automatic.

One of the issues we have today is that people are too willing to believe what they read on social media. Silicon Valley Bank collapsed because of a post on Twitter. With FDIC and NCUA insurance, in the unlikely event that the financial institution fails, your money is safe.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityLast month Silicon Valley Bank collapsed, the second-largest bank failure in U.S. history, following Seattle's Washington Mutual in 2008. In one day, panicking depositors withdrew $42 billion from their accounts after social media posts questioned the bank's stability when it planned to sell stocks to raise cash. The bank held long-term Treasury bonds that were losing value as interest rates climbed, so it was difficult to sell them to get cash needed for day-to-day operations.When a second bank failed a few days later, the federal government stepped in to guarantee all deposits in both banks. They wanted to prevent runs on other banks, which would create a nation-wide financial crisis. They also knew that these banks held payroll accounts for several businesses, and if they were closed, it would take some time for workers to receive their paychecks.After our financial crisis in 2008, Congress passed the Dodd-Frank bill to regulate banks more closely. In 2018 Congress and President Trump loosened these restrictions. Many economists and politicians are calling for the regulations to be reinstated.One term keeps popping up in all these discussions - FDIC. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC) was established during the Great Depression; bank runs were common in the 1930's. FDIC guarantees that your bank deposits are safe, even if the bank goes under. Premiums for this insurance are paid by banks, and they protect up to $250,000 in an individual's account, $250,000 for each person's share in a joint account.FDIC insurance covers money in checking, savings, and money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs). FDIC also guarantees official items issued by a bank, such as cashier’s checks and money orders and specialized accounts like IRAs. It does not protect things like insurance policies or stocks, even if you bought those at a bank. All the banks in Box Butte County are FDIC insured.Not all of us manage our money through banks. Box Butte County has four credit unions. Is our money safe in them? The deposits in these four credit unions are covered by NCUA, the National Credit Union Administration. Like FDIC, it protects up to $250,000 per credit union member via the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund. It also covers checking, savings and money market deposit accounts, certificates of deposit, cashier’s checks, and money orders.If your financial institution fails, how do you get your money back? You don't have to do anything. FDIC or NCUA will contact you with information about how your funds will be returned. Historically, the FDIC and NCUA insurance programs cover losses within a few days after a bank or credit union closing. FDIC's website says they usually pay the next business day,by either 1) providing each depositor with a new account at another insured bank in an amount equal to the insured balance of their account at the failed bank, or 2) issuing a check to each depositor for the insured balance of their account at the failed bank.Should you keep your money in a bank or credit union? Absolutely! Keeping cash in your home puts you at risk of theft, fire, flood, loss, or damage. Opening an account at an FDIC-insured bank or NCUA credit union anywhere ensures that your money is protected in the event of disaster. You do not need to apply for this insurance; coverage is automatic.One of the issues we have today is that people are too willing to believe what they read on social media. Silicon Valley Bank collapsed because of a post on Twitter. With FDIC and NCUA insurance, in the unlikely event that the financial institution fails, your money is safe.

Getting Ahead: FDIC - your bank account insurance

Last week, I spoke on the Senate floor to fight a blatant power grab by the federal government. The Senate considered a resolution attempting to block the “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule from President Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This rule would change the definition of navigable waters to include things like roadside ditches, puddles on construction sites, and farm ponds.

Think about that – President Biden’s EPA and his Army Corps of Engineers apparently believe that drainage ditches, construction site puddles, and farm ponds are “navigable waters.”  If allowed to stand, this rule would increase costs and uncertainty for farmers and ranchers, property owners, and small businesses. To say this rule defies all common sense is an understatement.

I know that Nebraska is a land-locked state, but it doesn’t take a PH.D to understand that the word “navigable” means you can put a boat in the water and go someplace. The Merriam Webster definition of “navigable” is “deep enough and wide enough to afford the passage of ships”. If you put a boat in a roadside ditch, you aren’t going anywhere. If you put a boat on the construction site puddle, you aren’t going anywhere. If you put a boat on a pond, you’re not leaving the pond. Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers know that what the EPA is proposing just isn’t right. 

Beyond that, the Biden administration is trying to change the meaning of a law without coming to Congress. The 1972 Clean Water Act says “navigable waters” 50 times. Congress’ intent was very clear. The EPA had authority over streams, rivers, and oceans, not temporary water sources. The Biden administration is trying to subvert our laws and the correct response from Congress is to stop it.

President Biden and liberal bureaucrats have absolutely no business regulating this, and I think the President knows it. Why? Because President Biden’s EPA and Army Corps of Engineers quietly finalized this new rule on the last working day of the year. It appears that the regulators hoped no one would notice this power grab. Well, we noticed. Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers noticed. My colleagues and I noticed and we pushed back hard. Our resolution passed with bipartisan support, sending a message to President Biden that our farmers and ranchers need relief, not regulation. We provided needed oversight and accountability in response to executive overreach. We defended Article I of our U.S. Constitution which says that Congress makes laws, not D.C. bureaucrats.

I recently participated in a telephone townhall with my colleague Senator Deb Fischer where we heard directly from Nebraskans about this issue. One woman told us that she was “tired of fighting” EPA bureaucrats. For years, she had rallied her friends and neighbors to write letters and comments opposing a similar rule proposed by President Obama’s EPA in 2015. She was angry that President Biden’s EPA refused to listen, forcing her to raise grassroots opposition once again. I fought the Obama rule in 2015 as Governor, and I am fighting the Biden EPA now as Senator.

It is clear that Washington bureaucrats are in desperate need of some Nebraska common sense. I was proud to join a bipartisan group of colleagues in opposing this rule.

Along with Senator Fischer and the rest of my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation, my team and I are here to serve you. Contact my team and I anytime by phone at 202-224-4224, on my website www.ricketts.senate.gov, or via email contactricke@ricketts.senate.gov. I am honored to serve our great state and will continue to work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

By Sen. Pete RickettsLast week, I spoke on the Senate floor to fight a blatant power grab by the federal government. The Senate considered a resolution attempting to block the “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule from President Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This rule would change the definition of navigable waters to include things like roadside ditches, puddles on construction sites, and farm ponds.Think about that – President Biden’s EPA and his Army Corps of Engineers apparently believe that drainage ditches, construction site puddles, and farm ponds are “navigable waters.” If allowed to stand, this rule would increase costs and uncertainty for farmers and ranchers, property owners, and small businesses. To say this rule defies all common sense is an understatement.I know that Nebraska is a land-locked state, but it doesn’t take a PH.D to understand that the word “navigable” means you can put a boat in the water and go someplace. The Merriam Webster definition of “navigable” is “deep enough and wide enough to afford the passage of ships”. If you put a boat in a roadside ditch, you aren’t going anywhere. If you put a boat on the construction site puddle, you aren’t going anywhere. If you put a boat on a pond, you’re not leaving the pond. Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers know that what the EPA is proposing just isn’t right. Beyond that, the Biden administration is trying to change the meaning of a law without coming to Congress. The 1972 Clean Water Act says “navigable waters” 50 times. Congress’ intent was very clear. The EPA had authority over streams, rivers, and oceans, not temporary water sources. The Biden administration is trying to subvert our laws and the correct response from Congress is to stop it.President Biden and liberal bureaucrats have absolutely no business regulating this, and I think the President knows it. Why? Because President Biden’s EPA and Army Corps of Engineers quietly finalized this new rule on the last working day of the year. It appears that the regulators hoped no one would notice this power grab. Well, we noticed. Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers noticed. My colleagues and I noticed and we pushed back hard. Our resolution passed with bipartisan support, sending a message to President Biden that our farmers and ranchers need relief, not regulation. We provided needed oversight and accountability in response to executive overreach. We defended Article I of our U.S. Constitution which says that Congress makes laws, not D.C. bureaucrats.I recently participated in a telephone townhall with my colleague Senator Deb Fischer where we heard directly from Nebraskans about this issue. One woman told us that she was “tired of fighting” EPA bureaucrats. For years, she had rallied her friends and neighbors to write letters and comments opposing a similar rule proposed by President Obama’s EPA in 2015. She was angry that President Biden’s EPA refused to listen, forcing her to raise grassroots opposition once again. I fought the Obama rule in 2015 as Governor, and I am fighting the Biden EPA now as Senator.It is clear that Washington bureaucrats are in desperate need of some Nebraska common sense. I was proud to join a bipartisan group of colleagues in opposing this rule.Along with Senator Fischer and the rest of my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation, my team and I are here to serve you. Contact my team and I anytime by phone at 202-224-4224, on my website www.ricketts.senate.gov, or via email contactricke@ricketts.senate.gov. I am honored to serve our great state and will continue to work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

Sen. Ricketts: Navigable means navigable

CHADRON – Anyone interested in expanding recycling options for the Chadron area is encouraged to attend a public meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, in the Platte Valley Bank community room at 141 West Third Street in Chadron.

Susan Hucke, Keep Chadron Beautiful director; Kathy Worley, Keep Alliance Beautiful director; and Joe Talley, a student at Chadron State College are hosting the event.

Hucke explained that the purpose of the meeting is to gather ideas on how to make recycling work in Chadron through a community effort. Keep Chadron Beautiful currently collects corrugated cardboard and white office paper and will continue that successful program.

“My hope is people will come to this meeting with open minds,” Worley said. “All ideas will be welcome.”

Hucke, Worley and Talley recently met in Alliance to discuss how materials could be gathered in Chadron then regularly hauled to the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center for processing. Northern Panhandle residents have continued to express a desire for local access after the service became unavailable a few years ago, with some traveling to Alliance to recycle. There is also significant interest at CSC where students could introduce and maintain their own program in conjunction with the larger community.

In addition to looking for volunteers to facilitate the gathering and transport aspects, the organizers will cover what Keep Alliance Beautiful accepts, such as No. 1-7 plastic, newspaper, office paper, cardboard, milk jugs, steel/tin cans, aluminum cans, paperboard, magazines/books, ink cartridges, electronics, batteries, glass and Hefty energy bag materials, and what is not recyclable.

For information, call Hucke at (308) 432-5959 or 308-207-5889.

By Keep Chadron Beautiful&nbsp;CHADRON – Anyone interested in expanding recycling options for the Chadron area is encouraged to attend a public meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, in the Platte Valley Bank community room at 141 West Third Street in Chadron.Susan Hucke, Keep Chadron Beautiful director; Kathy Worley, Keep Alliance Beautiful director; and Joe Talley, a student at Chadron State College are hosting the event.Hucke explained that the purpose of the meeting is to gather ideas on how to make recycling work in Chadron through a community effort. Keep Chadron Beautiful currently collects corrugated cardboard and white office paper and will continue that successful program.“My hope is people will come to this meeting with open minds,” Worley said. “All ideas will be welcome.”Hucke, Worley and Talley recently met in Alliance to discuss how materials could be gathered in Chadron then regularly hauled to the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center for processing. Northern Panhandle residents have continued to express a desire for local access after the service became unavailable a few years ago, with some traveling to Alliance to recycle. There is also significant interest at CSC where students could introduce and maintain their own program in conjunction with the larger community.In addition to looking for volunteers to facilitate the gathering and transport aspects, the organizers will cover what Keep Alliance Beautiful accepts, such as No. 1-7 plastic, newspaper, office paper, cardboard, milk jugs, steel/tin cans, aluminum cans, paperboard, magazines/books, ink cartridges, electronics, batteries, glass and Hefty energy bag materials, and what is not recyclable.For information, call Hucke at (308) 432-5959 or 308-207-5889.

Meeting to gather input on expanding Chadron recycling

LINCOLN — The Nebraska State Patrol has completed a week-long campaign focused on distracted driving. Last week, troopers issued seven citations for using a handheld wireless communication device while driving.&nbsp;

“Distracted driving crashes claim an average of more than 3,000 lives across the country every year,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We’re asking all drivers to commit to safe driving with a simple two-step process: buckle up and put your phone down every time you get behind the wheel.”

During the&nbsp;U Drive. U Text. U Pay.&nbsp;campaign, troopers also arrested 25 drivers for impaired driving. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (489), no seat belt (14), improper child restraint (3), driving under suspension (37), open alcohol container (13), and minor in possession (7). Troopers also assisted 215 motorists on Nebraska roadways.

The effort was made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. The campaign ran from April 3 through April 9.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The Nebraska Department of Transportation has a number of resources available to educate young drivers on the dangers of distracted driving. To learn more, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://dot.nebraska.gov/buckle-up-phone-down/">Buckle Up Phone Down</a>&nbsp;page on the NDOT website.

NSPLINCOLN — The Nebraska State Patrol has completed a week-long campaign focused on distracted driving. Last week, troopers issued seven citations for using a handheld wireless communication device while driving.&nbsp;“Distracted driving crashes claim an average of more than 3,000 lives across the country every year,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We’re asking all drivers to commit to safe driving with a simple two-step process: buckle up and put your phone down every time you get behind the wheel.”During the&nbsp;U Drive. U Text. U Pay.&nbsp;campaign, troopers also arrested 25 drivers for impaired driving. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (489), no seat belt (14), improper child restraint (3), driving under suspension (37), open alcohol container (13), and minor in possession (7). Troopers also assisted 215 motorists on Nebraska roadways.The effort was made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office. The campaign ran from April 3 through April 9.April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The Nebraska Department of Transportation has a number of resources available to educate young drivers on the dangers of distracted driving. To learn more, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://dot.nebraska.gov/buckle-up-phone-down/">Buckle Up Phone Down</a>&nbsp;page on the NDOT website.

NSP releases results of distracted driving campaign

By Hyannis Area Schools Principal/Superintendent&nbsp;Travis Hawk

By Hyannis Area Schools Principal/Superintendent&nbsp;Travis Hawk<figure>
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Hyannis Area Schools announce hiring of Varsity Volleyball Coach 

The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) is hosting the fourth annual amateur photo contest, in search of natural resources related photos from residents within the District encompassing Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan and Sioux counties.

The NRD Photo Contest is intended to get the residents of the District outside to enjoy the beauty in our natural resources close to home. “The photos that our District residents have been able to capture have been nothing short of amazing,” noted Mike Strasburger, UNWNRD Director, “the winning photos are difficult to choose each year.”

The 2022 winner was Lynn Kreitman of Gordon with her winning photo of hay bales painted as an American flag at sunset titled “Baling in the USA” taken in Sheridan County. This patriotic photo is currently displayed in the UNWNRD Office until the 2023 winning photo is awarded, after that it will be Ms. Kreitman’s print to keep.

The deadline for the 2023 contest is June 1st. Please see the list below for requirements to enter your photos.

· The photo must be taken within the District (Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan, Sioux counties).

· The photographer must be a resident of the District.

· The subject of the photo must be natural resources related. Ex: agriculture, nature, wildlife, recreation, etc.

· The photographer must be an amateur. No professional photographers. · The photo must be submitted electronically to: Kylen Armstrong (armstrong@unwnrd.org) and include the photographer’s name, address and phone number.

· Please include a title for your photo as well as the location it was taken.

· Cash prizes will be awarded to the top 3 photographers and the winning photo will be made into a canvas print to be displayed in the UNWNRD office for the next year.

For more information, please contact Kylen Armstrong (armstrong@unwnrd.org or 308-432-6190), see the NRD website www.unwnrd.org or stop by the office at 430 East 2nd Street to see the 2022 winning photo.

By UNWNRDThe Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) is hosting the fourth annual amateur photo contest, in search of natural resources related photos from residents within the District encompassing Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan and Sioux counties.The NRD Photo Contest is intended to get the residents of the District outside to enjoy the beauty in our natural resources close to home. “The photos that our District residents have been able to capture have been nothing short of amazing,” noted Mike Strasburger, UNWNRD Director, “the winning photos are difficult to choose each year.”The 2022 winner was Lynn Kreitman of Gordon with her winning photo of hay bales painted as an American flag at sunset titled “Baling in the USA” taken in Sheridan County. This patriotic photo is currently displayed in the UNWNRD Office until the 2023 winning photo is awarded, after that it will be Ms. Kreitman’s print to keep.The deadline for the 2023 contest is June 1st. Please see the list below for requirements to enter your photos.· The photo must be taken within the District (Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan, Sioux counties).· The photographer must be a resident of the District.· The subject of the photo must be natural resources related. Ex: agriculture, nature, wildlife, recreation, etc.· The photographer must be an amateur. No professional photographers. · The photo must be submitted electronically to: Kylen Armstrong (armstrong@unwnrd.org) and include the photographer’s name, address and phone number.· Please include a title for your photo as well as the location it was taken.· Cash prizes will be awarded to the top 3 photographers and the winning photo will be made into a canvas print to be displayed in the UNWNRD office for the next year.For more information, please contact Kylen Armstrong (armstrong@unwnrd.org or 308-432-6190), see the NRD website www.unwnrd.org or stop by the office at 430 East 2nd Street to see the 2022 winning photo.

Upper Niobrara White NRD to host annual amateur photo contest

P202300223 10:38 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to BBGH in reference to three individuals being attacked by a cat. Cat was located and placed in the shelter for observation. Individuals&nbsp; treated by BBGH. Open - Under Investigation

P202300224 10:38 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to BBGH in reference to an animal attacking multiple people in a household. Cat was located and quarantined.Open - Under Investigation

P202300225 10:38 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to BBGH in reference to an animal attacking multiple people in a household. Cat was located and quarantined. Open - Under Investigation

P202300227 18:03 TRESPASS : TRESPASS 1400 block of Big Horn Ave // Report of a verbal disturbance // 1 adult male arrested for trespassing Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300228 05:45 WARRANT : ARREST 300 block of E 14th // Adult male called the PD stating he has an active arrest warrant // Officers met with the male and confirmed the warrant is active // Male was arrested for an out of county warrant Closed - Resolved

P202300229 21:20 DRUGS : DRUGS Officers responded to a call about a reckless driver. Officers were able to locate this vehicle and a drug investigation was initiated due to the order of marijuana emitting from the vehicle. Drugs were seized and charges were recommended.Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300230 13:49 THEFT : THEFT Citizen reported theft of a package from his porch. The citizen has not proved a package was ordered or delivered as of yet. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300231 15:07 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYOfficers responded to the 1100 Block of Sheridan Ave for a report of a non-injury motor vehicle collision. Report taken. Closed - Resolved

P202300232 17:57 JUV : JUVENILE 14 year old juvenile with nicotine and vape oil. Items seized.


P202300233 20:06 THEFT : THEFT officers responded to a theft on the 500 block of E 3rd Street/ investigation was conducted/ case is open and active pending further leads Open - Under Investigation

P202300236 09:47 CAMERA : Camera Trailer Case issued in Error. Issued In Error

P202300234 21:51 DUI : DUI officers responded to the 1400 block of West 3rdstreet in reference to a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles/ one male individual was transported to the hospital due to minor injuries/ investigation was conducted/ one male was arrested due to driving under the influence of alcohol Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300235 22:20 JUV : JUVENILE Report of a juvenile who had run away from home. Juvenile was located multiple hours later and returned home. Closed - Resolved

P202300237 10:42 FOUND : FOUND A Razor scooter was located at the skate park at Laing Lake and it was turned in to the Alliance Police Department. Waiting to locate owner. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300237 10:42 FOUND : FOUND A Razor scooter was located at the skate park at Laing Lake and it was turned in to the Alliance Police Department. Waiting to locate owner. Open - Under Investigation

P202300238 22:59 JUV : JUVENILE dispatched to a residence on Burnham Drive, reference a possible child abuse. The child was placed in a safe environment while the investigation continues. Open - Under Investigation

P202300239 23:28 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL 100 block of Burnham Dr // Report of an intoxicated suicidal female // Female was placed into Emergency Protective Custody // Closed - Resolved

By Alliance Police Department04/02/23P202300223 10:38 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to BBGH in reference to three individuals being attacked by a cat. Cat was located and placed in the shelter for observation. Individuals&nbsp; treated by BBGH. Open - Under InvestigationP202300224 10:38 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to BBGH in reference to an animal attacking multiple people in a household. Cat was located and quarantined.Open - Under InvestigationP202300225 10:38 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to BBGH in reference to an animal attacking multiple people in a household. Cat was located and quarantined. Open - Under Investigation04/02/23 Total: 304/04/23P202300227 18:03 TRESPASS : TRESPASS 1400 block of Big Horn Ave // Report of a verbal disturbance // 1 adult male arrested for trespassing Closed - Charges Recommended04/04/23 Total: 104/05/23P202300228 05:45 WARRANT : ARREST 300 block of E 14th // Adult male called the PD stating he has an active arrest warrant // Officers met with the male and confirmed the warrant is active // Male was arrested for an out of county warrant Closed - ResolvedP202300229 21:20 DRUGS : DRUGS Officers responded to a call about a reckless driver. Officers were able to locate this vehicle and a drug investigation was initiated due to the order of marijuana emitting from the vehicle. Drugs were seized and charges were recommended.Closed - Charges Recommended04/05/23 Total: 204/06/23P202300230 13:49 THEFT : THEFT Citizen reported theft of a package from his porch. The citizen has not proved a package was ordered or delivered as of yet. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202300231 15:07 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYOfficers responded to the 1100 Block of Sheridan Ave for a report of a non-injury motor vehicle collision. Report taken. Closed - ResolvedP202300232 17:57 JUV : JUVENILE 14 year old juvenile with nicotine and vape oil. Items seized.
P202300233 20:06 THEFT : THEFT officers responded to a theft on the 500 block of E 3rd Street/ investigation was conducted/ case is open and active pending further leads Open - Under Investigation04/06/23 Total: 404/07/23P202300236 09:47 CAMERA : Camera Trailer Case issued in Error. Issued In ErrorP202300234 21:51 DUI : DUI officers responded to the 1400 block of West 3rdstreet in reference to a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles/ one male individual was transported to the hospital due to minor injuries/ investigation was conducted/ one male was arrested due to driving under the influence of alcohol Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300235 22:20 JUV : JUVENILE Report of a juvenile who had run away from home. Juvenile was located multiple hours later and returned home. Closed - Resolved04/07/23 Total: 304/08/23P202300237 10:42 FOUND : FOUND A Razor scooter was located at the skate park at Laing Lake and it was turned in to the Alliance Police Department. Waiting to locate owner. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202300237 10:42 FOUND : FOUND A Razor scooter was located at the skate park at Laing Lake and it was turned in to the Alliance Police Department. Waiting to locate owner. Open - Under InvestigationP202300238 22:59 JUV : JUVENILE dispatched to a residence on Burnham Drive, reference a possible child abuse. The child was placed in a safe environment while the investigation continues. Open - Under InvestigationP202300239 23:28 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL 100 block of Burnham Dr // Report of an intoxicated suicidal female // Female was placed into Emergency Protective Custody // Closed - Resolved04/08/23 Total: 4Total Records: 17

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp;

Ever think about keeping a favorite snack bag to use later? Alliance Middle School student Bayje Neal, daughter of Destiny and Jason Neal, has found a creative way to upcycle the pliable plastic into zippered bags as a fundraiser for Keep Alliance Beautiful.

“First, we found the idea and thought it’d be cool to recycle more. I thought it’d be good to give back to the community,” she said.

Bayje starts with an empty bag of chips, candy or another snack keeping smaller bags the same size and dividing larger ones. She lines the bags with fabric, sews in a zipper and adds a layer of clear vinyl to the outside for durability. Each one takes from 20 minutes to an hour. “They’re water-resistant and you can pull out the liner to dry and clean,” Bayje noted.

This project draws on sewing skills Bayje began learning three years ago as the Covid Pandemic began (eventually she wants to make and alter clothes). She had not tried bags previously though spent time making scrunchies, chapstick holders, travel-sized pillow cases and grocery bag holders. Leftover fabric has been available to line the new bags, the majority of the zippers were donated leaving the vinyl as the only purchased material.

“My favorite has probably just been reusing, making something new,” Bayje said. “(The most challenging) has been the zipper – making sure it’s functional. I have to pair (bag) designs to the (lining) cloth.”

Assembling bags at the sewing machine has been an opportunity to spend time with her mom. Destiny explained, “It is really her – I keep her company, sit and talk. She had done the majority of it by herself.” Her dad and brother, Jett, have also been supportive.

Bayje sold her bags at the VFW craft fair recently with plans to set up at similar venues, as well as open a business page online.

The effort to support KAB’s mission fits into a busy schedule that includes AMS track, Quiz Bowl, Math Counts and being a distinction honor roll student. Bayje also helped local Girl Scouts with their Silver Award project – procuring a special needs Caroline Cart at Safeway.

Bayje's parents are matching any sales through their landscaping business.

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681222968182.jpeg" alt="Bayje Neal stands behind upcycled snack bags she has been selling to benefit Keep Alliance Beautiful." />
 <figcaption>Bayje Neal stands behind upcycled snack bags she has been selling to benefit Keep Alliance Beautiful.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ever think about keeping a favorite snack bag to use later? Alliance Middle School student Bayje Neal, daughter of Destiny and Jason Neal, has found a creative way to upcycle the pliable plastic into zippered bags as a fundraiser for Keep Alliance Beautiful.“First, we found the idea and thought it’d be cool to recycle more. I thought it’d be good to give back to the community,” she said.Bayje starts with an empty bag of chips, candy or another snack keeping smaller bags the same size and dividing larger ones. She lines the bags with fabric, sews in a zipper and adds a layer of clear vinyl to the outside for durability. Each one takes from 20 minutes to an hour. “They’re water-resistant and you can pull out the liner to dry and clean,” Bayje noted.This project draws on sewing skills Bayje began learning three years ago as the Covid Pandemic began (eventually she wants to make and alter clothes). She had not tried bags previously though spent time making scrunchies, chapstick holders, travel-sized pillow cases and grocery bag holders. Leftover fabric has been available to line the new bags, the majority of the zippers were donated leaving the vinyl as the only purchased material.“My favorite has probably just been reusing, making something new,” Bayje said. “(The most challenging) has been the zipper – making sure it’s functional. I have to pair (bag) designs to the (lining) cloth.”Assembling bags at the sewing machine has been an opportunity to spend time with her mom. Destiny explained, “It is really her – I keep her company, sit and talk. She had done the majority of it by herself.” Her dad and brother, Jett, have also been supportive.Bayje sold her bags at the VFW craft fair recently with plans to set up at similar venues, as well as open a business page online.The effort to support KAB’s mission fits into a busy schedule that includes AMS track, Quiz Bowl, Math Counts and being a distinction honor roll student. Bayje also helped local Girl Scouts with their Silver Award project – procuring a special needs Caroline Cart at Safeway.Bayje's parents are matching any sales through their landscaping business.

KAB: Alliance Middle School student creates bags to benefit KAB

On April 13 and 14, the Eagle Radio Spring Auction will be LIVE on all Eagle Radio stations (KCOW 92.5FM/1400AM, Double Q Country 105.9FM/97.5FM, B94.7FM) beginning at 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thursday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday — powered by Chadron Community Hospital.&nbsp;

Ten percent of our auction sales will go to support Chadron Community Hospital Circle of Light.

Bids will be accepted by calling (308) 762-1400. We will NOT be taking ANY bids on our Facebook pages.&nbsp;

Once an hour has opened, you can bid on ANYTHING in that hour even if we haven't announced it yet on the air.

Most items will close in the same hour they are open to keep the auction running smoothly, with the exception of our "big ticket" items. Those items will be open and on the auction block for an extended period of time for our bidders convenience. ALL ITEMS MUST GO!

Provide us a phone number we can reach you back at. Our team will call each bidder back the same day, giving you an opportunity to increase your bid or to let you know you have won the item.

Provide a credit card to complete your purchase. All items can be picked up beginning the following week on Tuesday, April 18, at the KCOW studios in Alliance.

Our offices in both Alliance and Chadron will be closed to the public on April 13 and 14.

Click below to view the complete Auction Sale Bill:

<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bb5e8ad4-ad14-4bad-8d19-ba348b3b1007">https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bb5e8ad4-ad14-4bad-8d19-ba348b3b1007</a>

Check out the auction items and businesses below:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680799398532.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>On April 13 and 14, the Eagle Radio Spring Auction will be LIVE on all Eagle Radio stations (KCOW 92.5FM/1400AM, Double Q Country 105.9FM/97.5FM, B94.7FM) beginning at 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thursday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday — powered by Chadron Community Hospital.&nbsp;Ten percent of our auction sales will go to support Chadron Community Hospital Circle of Light.Bids will be accepted by calling (308) 762-1400. We will NOT be taking ANY bids on our Facebook pages.&nbsp;Once an hour has opened, you can bid on ANYTHING in that hour even if we haven't announced it yet on the air.Most items will close in the same hour they are open to keep the auction running smoothly, with the exception of our "big ticket" items. Those items will be open and on the auction block for an extended period of time for our bidders convenience. ALL ITEMS MUST GO!Provide us a phone number we can reach you back at. Our team will call each bidder back the same day, giving you an opportunity to increase your bid or to let you know you have won the item.Provide a credit card to complete your purchase. All items can be picked up beginning the following week on Tuesday, April 18, at the KCOW studios in Alliance.Our offices in both Alliance and Chadron will be closed to the public on April 13 and 14.Click below to view the complete Auction Sale Bill:<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bb5e8ad4-ad14-4bad-8d19-ba348b3b1007">https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bb5e8ad4-ad14-4bad-8d19-ba348b3b1007</a>Check out the auction items and businesses below:<figure>
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Eagle Radio Spring Auction Sale Bill 

Union, Nebraska —Gov. Jim Pillen&nbsp;and&nbsp;Maj Gen. Daryl Bohac&nbsp;toured the Waconda-Beaver Lake Complex Fire,&nbsp;Monday to survey the fires that burned approximately 697 acres in Cass County on Saturday and Sunday in Cass County.

About 40 firefighters continued mop up operations on the fires Monday.

Gov. Pillen thanked volunteer firefighters for their hard work on the response. He reported 90 percent containment on the Beaver Lake Fire and 85 percent containment on the Waconda Lake Fire. Rain from Sunday Night to Monday morning raised the humidity and reduced wind speed helping to stop the spread of the fire.

No structures burned or injuries were reported on the fire. More than 75 firefighters from more than 30 departments worked the fire which started in Iowa over the weekend.

State resources will demobilize Monday evening including the Incident Management Assistance Team, the Wildland Incident Assessment Response Team and both the Nebraska National Guard UH 60 crew and hand crew. In addition to state resources local emergency managers in the southeast region of the state will also demobilize. Local crews will continue to monitor and respond to any issues.

Cass County Emergency Management and the incident commanders for the fire expressed appreciation for the many volunteer fire departments that responded to the fires including: Ashland; Avoca; Bennett; Boone; Buffalo County Strike; Dunbar; Elmwood; Fairbury; Gering 1; Gibbon 41; Gretna; Hall-Howard; Ithica; Louisville; Little Sioux, Iowa; Malcolm; Manely; Mead; Mondamin, Iowa; Murdock; Murry; Nebraska National Guard Hand Crew; Nebraska City; Nehawka; Offutt; Peru; Plattsmouth; Raymond; Sutton; Southwest Fire District from Lancaster County; Rural Talamage; Tecumseh; Unadilla; Waverly and Weeping Water.

In addition, the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army assisted in the response.

Community members donated plenty of supplies including water and food to the first responders. No further donations of water or food are needed. Anyone wanting to make further donations can make financial donations to the local volunteer fire departments.

News ReleaseUnion, Nebraska —Gov. Jim Pillen&nbsp;and&nbsp;Maj Gen. Daryl Bohac&nbsp;toured the Waconda-Beaver Lake Complex Fire,&nbsp;Monday to survey the fires that burned approximately 697 acres in Cass County on Saturday and Sunday in Cass County.About 40 firefighters continued mop up operations on the fires Monday.Gov. Pillen thanked volunteer firefighters for their hard work on the response. He reported 90 percent containment on the Beaver Lake Fire and 85 percent containment on the Waconda Lake Fire. Rain from Sunday Night to Monday morning raised the humidity and reduced wind speed helping to stop the spread of the fire.No structures burned or injuries were reported on the fire. More than 75 firefighters from more than 30 departments worked the fire which started in Iowa over the weekend.State resources will demobilize Monday evening including the Incident Management Assistance Team, the Wildland Incident Assessment Response Team and both the Nebraska National Guard UH 60 crew and hand crew. In addition to state resources local emergency managers in the southeast region of the state will also demobilize. Local crews will continue to monitor and respond to any issues.Cass County Emergency Management and the incident commanders for the fire expressed appreciation for the many volunteer fire departments that responded to the fires including: Ashland; Avoca; Bennett; Boone; Buffalo County Strike; Dunbar; Elmwood; Fairbury; Gering 1; Gibbon 41; Gretna; Hall-Howard; Ithica; Louisville; Little Sioux, Iowa; Malcolm; Manely; Mead; Mondamin, Iowa; Murdock; Murry; Nebraska National Guard Hand Crew; Nebraska City; Nehawka; Offutt; Peru; Plattsmouth; Raymond; Sutton; Southwest Fire District from Lancaster County; Rural Talamage; Tecumseh; Unadilla; Waverly and Weeping Water.In addition, the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army assisted in the response.Community members donated plenty of supplies including water and food to the first responders. No further donations of water or food are needed. Anyone wanting to make further donations can make financial donations to the local volunteer fire departments.

Waconda-Beaver Lake Complex fire update

The City of Alliance and the Alliance City Council are celebrating Public Transit Week this week, April 10 -14.&nbsp;

Lineman Appreciation Day will be coming up on April 18.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostThe City of Alliance and the Alliance City Council are celebrating Public Transit Week this week, April 10 -14.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681144606023.jpeg" alt="Councilwoman Mara Anderson reads a proclamation for Public Transit Week during the April 4 Alliance City Council meeting." />
 <figcaption>Councilwoman Mara Anderson reads a proclamation for Public Transit Week during the April 4 Alliance City Council meeting.</figcaption>
 </figure>Lineman Appreciation Day will be coming up on April 18.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681144499270.jpeg" alt="Vice-Mayor and councilman Brian&nbsp;Mischnick delivers a proclamation during the Alliance City Council meeting on April 4 for Lineman Appreciation Day to be held on April 18.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Vice-Mayor and councilman Brian&nbsp;Mischnick delivers a proclamation during the Alliance City Council meeting on April 4 for Lineman Appreciation Day to be held on April 18.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

Alliance celebrates Public Transit Week, Lineman Appreciation Day 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/10/23

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.

  Anyone with knowledge of a missing female from Lincoln County or Cheyenne area is asked to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at (308) 535-9599. 

This is an ongoing death investigation, and additional updates will follow.

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. Anyone with knowledge of a missing female from Lincoln County or Cheyenne area is asked to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at (308) 535-9599. This is an ongoing death investigation, and additional updates will follow.

Sheriff: Unidentified woman found dead on train in North Platte

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Federal regulators said Friday that railroads need to re-examine how they assemble their trains after a string of derailments in recent years that were at least partly caused by the way empty and loaded cars were mixed together with locomotives.

Heavy cars at the back of a train can push and pull against empty cars in the middle of a train as it goes over hills and around corners. Those forces have become more of a problem as the industry increasingly relies on longer trains with a wide variety of freight aboard.

Another factor complicating the issue is the industry's practice of placing locomotives throughout trains. The locomotives can amplify the forces if they're not used correctly.

The Federal Railroad Administration's advisory cites six derailments since 2021 where those forces were a factor. They include a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norfolk-southern-springfield-train-derailment-1b08c84e0788082dd24a4f4ca447f459">Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;near Springfield, Ohio, last month and a 2021 Union Pacific derailment that forced the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-evacuations-d47aa1754a78a22cbccb552ea9348228">evacuation of Sibley, Iowa,</a>&nbsp;for three days. Regulators say these kind of derailments are happening with increasing frequency.

But regulators didn't mention the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-ohio-evacuations-fires-5d399dc745f51ef746e22828083d8591">fiery February derailment</a>&nbsp;near East Palestine, Ohio, that prompted much of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-tank-car-ohio-minnesota-c60f33b64e9c7dc05768a78ae20f3ce5">recent concern nationwide</a>&nbsp;about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-territories-ohio-canada-business-accidents-d57651e17b2f9e0163c50298106950a3">railroad safety</a>&nbsp;as an example of this problem. The National Transportation Safety Board has said that an overheated bearing that caused an axle to fail on one of the railcars likely caused that derailment.

But it is still early in the East Palestine investigation so it's not clear if the makeup of the train was also a factor.

“Railroads must prioritize proper train makeup to maintain safety, prevent accidents, and optimize train performance," the railroad administration said in the advisory. "Further, all operating employees must be properly trained in these technologies and the handling of complex trains to ensure safe operation and minimize human error.”

All of the derailments the FRA mentioned involved trains with at least 125 cars. In every case an empty car was the first to come off the tracks. The order doesn't specifically single out long trains, but the kind of forces regulators are concerned about are amplified in longer trains, especially if large blocks of empty cars are placed in the middle or front of a train. In three of the six derailments, hazardous chemicals were released, highlighting the potential dangers of these accidents.

The major freight railroads have all overhauled their operations in recent years to rely more on longer trains so they don't need as many crews or locomotives. Now trains routinely stretch longer than two or even three miles (three to five kilometers) long.

As a train moves across uneven territory, its front half might be getting pulled up a hill while the back half is coming down and pushing forward against the rest of the cars. Those dynamics make it difficult for the engineer to manage.

“Think about going thru undulating territory sort of like a Slinky. You’re either trying to keep it stretched out or you’re trying to keep it all bunched together to control the forces from going in and out because that’s what causes derailments. And it causes train separations,” said Mark Wallace, who is second-highest ranking officer with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union. “The way to prevent this stuff from happening is to control the train lengths.”

A spokeswoman for the Association of American Railroads trade group said the major freight railroads already use sophisticated computer software to help them build trains and properly distribute the weight. Not only is it important to consider where to put the loaded cars, but railroads also have to factor in that some goods are heavier than others and that the weight of the liquid inside a tank car will shift as the train moves. AAR spokeswoman Jessica Kahanek said the railroads will consider regulators’ recommendations.

“The industry is committed to productive conversations about how we continue to advance our shared goal of ensuring the safety of the trains that serve customers and communities across the nation,” Kahanek said.

A spokeswoman for Union Pacific, which handled three of the trains highlighted in the advisory, said the railroad is using high-tech tools to monitor train forces and makes adjustments as needed. Kristen South said UP has seen derailments decline along its network last year and this year, even as maximum train length reached 9,329 feet (2.8 kilometers).

“We constantly evaluate our processes and continue to work with government agencies and industry partners to further improve safety,” South said.

Norfolk Southern officials declined to comment on the advisory. That railroad was responsible for two of the derailments in the advisory, as well as the one in East Palestine.

Since the East Palestine derailment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-accidents-transportation-pete-buttigieg-ohio-pennsylvania-f1cd9d79cdd66b1f45d1dcdf1e53ff58">regulators</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">members of Congress</a>&nbsp;have urged the railroads to take additional steps to prevent derailments. Two different federal agencies have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-norfolk-southern-safety-investigation-2c819f2c469102332d4b1abf4c6e8923">also announced</a>&nbsp;investigations of Norfolk Southern's safety record, and that railroad's CEO has had to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-ceo-norfolk-southern-railroad-e709db3c9945a35c8b92b99e2ba82b2e">testify</a>&nbsp;twice at congressional hearings.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681087167886.jpeg" alt="Smoke rises from a pile of rail cars as first responders and railroad crews work at the scene of a Union Pacific train derailment, Monday, May 17, 2021, on the southwest edge of Sibley, Iowa. Federal regulators said Friday, April 7, 2023, that railroads need to re-examine how they assemble their trains after a concerning string of derailments in recent years where the way empty and loaded cars were mixed together with locomotives contributed to the crashes. (Tim Hynds/Sioux City Journal via AP, File" />
 <figcaption>Smoke rises from a pile of rail cars as first responders and railroad crews work at the scene of a Union Pacific train derailment, Monday, May 17, 2021, on the southwest edge of Sibley, Iowa. Federal regulators said Friday, April 7, 2023, that railroads need to re-examine how they assemble their trains after a concerning string of derailments in recent years where the way empty and loaded cars were mixed together with locomotives contributed to the crashes. (Tim Hynds/Sioux City Journal via AP, File</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Federal regulators said Friday that railroads need to re-examine how they assemble their trains after a string of derailments in recent years that were at least partly caused by the way empty and loaded cars were mixed together with locomotives.Heavy cars at the back of a train can push and pull against empty cars in the middle of a train as it goes over hills and around corners. Those forces have become more of a problem as the industry increasingly relies on longer trains with a wide variety of freight aboard.Another factor complicating the issue is the industry's practice of placing locomotives throughout trains. The locomotives can amplify the forces if they're not used correctly.The Federal Railroad Administration's advisory cites six derailments since 2021 where those forces were a factor. They include a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norfolk-southern-springfield-train-derailment-1b08c84e0788082dd24a4f4ca447f459">Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;near Springfield, Ohio, last month and a 2021 Union Pacific derailment that forced the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-evacuations-d47aa1754a78a22cbccb552ea9348228">evacuation of Sibley, Iowa,</a>&nbsp;for three days. Regulators say these kind of derailments are happening with increasing frequency.But regulators didn't mention the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-ohio-evacuations-fires-5d399dc745f51ef746e22828083d8591">fiery February derailment</a>&nbsp;near East Palestine, Ohio, that prompted much of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-tank-car-ohio-minnesota-c60f33b64e9c7dc05768a78ae20f3ce5">recent concern nationwide</a>&nbsp;about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-territories-ohio-canada-business-accidents-d57651e17b2f9e0163c50298106950a3">railroad safety</a>&nbsp;as an example of this problem. The National Transportation Safety Board has said that an overheated bearing that caused an axle to fail on one of the railcars likely caused that derailment.But it is still early in the East Palestine investigation so it's not clear if the makeup of the train was also a factor.“Railroads must prioritize proper train makeup to maintain safety, prevent accidents, and optimize train performance," the railroad administration said in the advisory. "Further, all operating employees must be properly trained in these technologies and the handling of complex trains to ensure safe operation and minimize human error.”All of the derailments the FRA mentioned involved trains with at least 125 cars. In every case an empty car was the first to come off the tracks. The order doesn't specifically single out long trains, but the kind of forces regulators are concerned about are amplified in longer trains, especially if large blocks of empty cars are placed in the middle or front of a train. In three of the six derailments, hazardous chemicals were released, highlighting the potential dangers of these accidents.The major freight railroads have all overhauled their operations in recent years to rely more on longer trains so they don't need as many crews or locomotives. Now trains routinely stretch longer than two or even three miles (three to five kilometers) long.As a train moves across uneven territory, its front half might be getting pulled up a hill while the back half is coming down and pushing forward against the rest of the cars. Those dynamics make it difficult for the engineer to manage.“Think about going thru undulating territory sort of like a Slinky. You’re either trying to keep it stretched out or you’re trying to keep it all bunched together to control the forces from going in and out because that’s what causes derailments. And it causes train separations,” said Mark Wallace, who is second-highest ranking officer with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union. “The way to prevent this stuff from happening is to control the train lengths.”A spokeswoman for the Association of American Railroads trade group said the major freight railroads already use sophisticated computer software to help them build trains and properly distribute the weight. Not only is it important to consider where to put the loaded cars, but railroads also have to factor in that some goods are heavier than others and that the weight of the liquid inside a tank car will shift as the train moves. AAR spokeswoman Jessica Kahanek said the railroads will consider regulators’ recommendations.“The industry is committed to productive conversations about how we continue to advance our shared goal of ensuring the safety of the trains that serve customers and communities across the nation,” Kahanek said.A spokeswoman for Union Pacific, which handled three of the trains highlighted in the advisory, said the railroad is using high-tech tools to monitor train forces and makes adjustments as needed. Kristen South said UP has seen derailments decline along its network last year and this year, even as maximum train length reached 9,329 feet (2.8 kilometers).“We constantly evaluate our processes and continue to work with government agencies and industry partners to further improve safety,” South said.Norfolk Southern officials declined to comment on the advisory. That railroad was responsible for two of the derailments in the advisory, as well as the one in East Palestine.Since the East Palestine derailment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-accidents-transportation-pete-buttigieg-ohio-pennsylvania-f1cd9d79cdd66b1f45d1dcdf1e53ff58">regulators</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">members of Congress</a>&nbsp;have urged the railroads to take additional steps to prevent derailments. Two different federal agencies have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-norfolk-southern-safety-investigation-2c819f2c469102332d4b1abf4c6e8923">also announced</a>&nbsp;investigations of Norfolk Southern's safety record, and that railroad's CEO has had to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-ceo-norfolk-southern-railroad-e709db3c9945a35c8b92b99e2ba82b2e">testify</a>&nbsp;twice at congressional hearings.

Regulators say railroads must examine how they build trains

Alliance – Red Cross swim lessons will once again be conducted at Big Blue Bay this summer. The 2023 schedule was developed with the expectation that staffing levels will be adequate to offer all sessions.

Lesson registrations are still being accepted at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center until May 24th. Openings are still available in every level. Sign up forms are available at the Knight Museum or can be found on the City of Alliance webpage, under the Parks and Recreation tab. Click on the Big Blue Bay tab and you will find the form under swim lessons. A schedule with dates and times is also available on the web site. For questions or additional information, please call the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center at 308-762-2384.

The following dates have been assigned for each level:

Level One – June 5 through June 9 July 10 through July 14

Level Two – June 12 through June 17 July 17 through July 22

Level Three – June 5 through June 9 July 24 through July 29

Level Four – June 19 through June 30 Level Five – July 3 through July 14

By City of AllianceAlliance – Red Cross swim lessons will once again be conducted at Big Blue Bay this summer. The 2023 schedule was developed with the expectation that staffing levels will be adequate to offer all sessions.Lesson registrations are still being accepted at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center until May 24th. Openings are still available in every level. Sign up forms are available at the Knight Museum or can be found on the City of Alliance webpage, under the Parks and Recreation tab. Click on the Big Blue Bay tab and you will find the form under swim lessons. A schedule with dates and times is also available on the web site. For questions or additional information, please call the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center at 308-762-2384.The following dates have been assigned for each level:5 year olds – June 26 through June 30Level One – June 5 through June 9 July 10 through July 14Level Two – June 12 through June 17 July 17 through July 22Level Three – June 5 through June 9 July 24 through July 29Level Four – June 19 through June 30 Level Five – July 3 through July 14

Red Cross swim lessons coming to Big Blue Bay in Alliance 

By Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman

At approximately 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 9 Scotts Bluff County deputies responded to a report of an intoxicated male firing a firearm near a residence SE of Gering, and driving away.&nbsp; 

Deputies located the suspect driving a vehicle a few miles away.&nbsp;

 &nbsp;The driver and lone occupant of the vehicle threw a pistol out of the window as a Deputy stopped him.&nbsp; He was cooperative following the stop.&nbsp;

Interviews revealed that threats were made and shots were fired, but not towards anyone and there were no injuries.

Timothy Burnett, age 62, of Gering was arrested and charged with making terroristic threats, use of a firearm to commit a felony, and driving under the influence. The Gering Police Department also assisted.

By Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark OvermanAt approximately 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 9 Scotts Bluff County deputies responded to a report of an intoxicated male firing a firearm near a residence SE of Gering, and driving away.&nbsp; Deputies located the suspect driving a vehicle a few miles away.&nbsp; &nbsp;The driver and lone occupant of the vehicle threw a pistol out of the window as a Deputy stopped him.&nbsp; He was cooperative following the stop.&nbsp;Interviews revealed that threats were made and shots were fired, but not towards anyone and there were no injuries.Timothy Burnett, age 62, of Gering was arrested and charged with making terroristic threats, use of a firearm to commit a felony, and driving under the influence. The Gering Police Department also assisted.