By JOHN E. WEARE Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp;

U-turn back to Highway 2 and southeast to Alliance or take a right and go through downtown? Finding a snack and Mountain Dew won over, so I headed toward Raben’s Market and pulled into a parking spot on Box Butte Avenue. Glancing up, there was the Hemingford Library. On this occasion, years ago, I had a few minutes to spare and ventured inside for the first time. From a friendly welcome as I opened the door and conversation during my brief stay to the number of books and resources contained in the former post office/bank building the library made an impression. There’d be other occasions to walk among the stacks.

Not long after joining the afternoon shift at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center, I helped a lady carry in boxes of used paperbacks. She said they were from the Hemingford Library and asked if we accepted hardcover books. I replied that we did though the covers must be removed and baled with the paperboard. That effort is only a small part of the library’s environmentally responsible attitude as I learned on a recent visit.

“Happy Statehood Day,” Director Colleen Gardner said as I sat down next to the front desk. Sue Hennings, library board president, sorted puzzle pieces at the table to my left while board member Mary Ann Gordon worked on a project across the room. Sue explained how puzzles missing pieces can be cut into shapes for 3-D decorations such as a wreath. Colleen showed me other crafts made from recyclable materials there such as “smash books,” a type of journal that featured used wallpaper, and book safes, where pages are glued and a cavity cut out.

The crafts were evidence of an active place where the community likes to gather. “We’re not a typical library here,” Colleen said. “People can come in and have lunch and watch TV.” Which was what a man happened to be doing that day as I took notes over the noon hour. There is space to work on a puzzle and a discovery shelf featuring a Rubik’s cube, viewfinder and kaleidoscope among nostalgic items (they’d like to add an Etch-a-Sketch). On Fridays the library hosts activities that change weekly. She said youth stop in to play bingo, take part in Lego challenges, learn about saving with “money monsters” and how to find books and other library skills among the topics. The offerings are most popular among sixth- to 12th-grade students, Colleen explained, though younger children come with their parents. “People don’t use us as much as a babysitter,” Sue said.

Among downtown storefronts, the Hemingford library seems cozy yet still offers just under 1,000 books. It reminds me of the atmosphere when we’d come to town as kids and fill our drawstring bags at the Slagle Library. Echoing those memories, Colleen described shows put on with a collection of 30 donated puppets and summer reading programs.

The puppet stage is made from an old refrigerator box. “We did a short class on puppetry,” she said, including why people began using puppets to tell a story, puppet etiquette, how to hold them and look at each other.

A row of conch shells on a display case near the stage was a sign of what the children learned after school let out through “Ocean of Possibilities” in 2022. Sue and Colleen discussed how much trash is in the ocean, talking about groups of young people in California and on the East Coast who scuba dive and see how much garbage they can gather in a friendly competition. “Even our lakes and streams are like that too,” Colleen said. “Those baby calves will eat

anything.” Sue said, “When we lived out in the country we’d fill up a big black bag” with trash on walks down the road.

Colleen mentioned a summer reading program on where trash goes and how it’s never gone, noting archaeological digs that still uncover trash from the Romans, for example, compared to the lack of trash at a Native American site. Even “a book is compact and doesn’t break down,” she said.

The library continues to recycle books that are really old or have water damage while accepting donations to consider for the current collection. People can take magazines from stacks of recent issues with leftover copies going to the Mission Store in Alliance. Staff sorts other materials, mainly aluminum cans and plastic, that end up at KAB striving to recycle whatever they can while upcycling for craft classes and projects. The reuse/sharing practice also extends beyond books. Patrons can check out things they may need, yet are not practical to own, from a large coffee urn to a favorite pick of the library’s extensive collection of novelty cake pans.

January began the 100th year for the Hemingford Library, which started in the home of a local woman. Thousands of dollars and countless hours have been spent improving the current location, where the library has been since the 1960s. Continued investment in the facility promotes energy efficiency. A new thermostat complements an updated HVAC system. The front door has been replaced with a handicap-accessible opening upgrade and the back entrance will soon have a new security door. Smaller computers, using less electricity, arrived in December and LED overhead lights were put in during 2022.

By JOHN E. WEARE Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp;U-turn back to Highway 2 and southeast to Alliance or take a right and go through downtown? Finding a snack and Mountain Dew won over, so I headed toward Raben’s Market and pulled into a parking spot on Box Butte Avenue. Glancing up, there was the Hemingford Library. On this occasion, years ago, I had a few minutes to spare and ventured inside for the first time. From a friendly welcome as I opened the door and conversation during my brief stay to the number of books and resources contained in the former post office/bank building the library made an impression. There’d be other occasions to walk among the stacks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679668129837.jpeg" alt="Hemingford public library patrons upcycled common materials to make these crafts. " />
 <figcaption>Hemingford public library patrons upcycled common materials to make these crafts. </figcaption>
 </figure>Not long after joining the afternoon shift at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center, I helped a lady carry in boxes of used paperbacks. She said they were from the Hemingford Library and asked if we accepted hardcover books. I replied that we did though the covers must be removed and baled with the paperboard. That effort is only a small part of the library’s environmentally responsible attitude as I learned on a recent visit.“Happy Statehood Day,” Director Colleen Gardner said as I sat down next to the front desk. Sue Hennings, library board president, sorted puzzle pieces at the table to my left while board member Mary Ann Gordon worked on a project across the room. Sue explained how puzzles missing pieces can be cut into shapes for 3-D decorations such as a wreath. Colleen showed me other crafts made from recyclable materials there such as “smash books,” a type of journal that featured used wallpaper, and book safes, where pages are glued and a cavity cut out.The crafts were evidence of an active place where the community likes to gather. “We’re not a typical library here,” Colleen said. “People can come in and have lunch and watch TV.” Which was what a man happened to be doing that day as I took notes over the noon hour. There is space to work on a puzzle and a discovery shelf featuring a Rubik’s cube, viewfinder and kaleidoscope among nostalgic items (they’d like to add an Etch-a-Sketch). On Fridays the library hosts activities that change weekly. She said youth stop in to play bingo, take part in Lego challenges, learn about saving with “money monsters” and how to find books and other library skills among the topics. The offerings are most popular among sixth- to 12th-grade students, Colleen explained, though younger children come with their parents. “People don’t use us as much as a babysitter,” Sue said.Among downtown storefronts, the Hemingford library seems cozy yet still offers just under 1,000 books. It reminds me of the atmosphere when we’d come to town as kids and fill our drawstring bags at the Slagle Library. Echoing those memories, Colleen described shows put on with a collection of 30 donated puppets and summer reading programs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679668164945.jpeg" alt="Novelty cake pans are available for checkout at the Hemingford Library." />
 <figcaption>Novelty cake pans are available for checkout at the Hemingford Library.</figcaption>
 </figure>The puppet stage is made from an old refrigerator box. “We did a short class on puppetry,” she said, including why people began using puppets to tell a story, puppet etiquette, how to hold them and look at each other.A row of conch shells on a display case near the stage was a sign of what the children learned after school let out through “Ocean of Possibilities” in 2022. Sue and Colleen discussed how much trash is in the ocean, talking about groups of young people in California and on the East Coast who scuba dive and see how much garbage they can gather in a friendly competition. “Even our lakes and streams are like that too,” Colleen said. “Those baby calves will eatanything.” Sue said, “When we lived out in the country we’d fill up a big black bag” with trash on walks down the road.Colleen mentioned a summer reading program on where trash goes and how it’s never gone, noting archaeological digs that still uncover trash from the Romans, for example, compared to the lack of trash at a Native American site. Even “a book is compact and doesn’t break down,” she said.The library continues to recycle books that are really old or have water damage while accepting donations to consider for the current collection. People can take magazines from stacks of recent issues with leftover copies going to the Mission Store in Alliance. Staff sorts other materials, mainly aluminum cans and plastic, that end up at KAB striving to recycle whatever they can while upcycling for craft classes and projects. The reuse/sharing practice also extends beyond books. Patrons can check out things they may need, yet are not practical to own, from a large coffee urn to a favorite pick of the library’s extensive collection of novelty cake pans.January began the 100th year for the Hemingford Library, which started in the home of a local woman. Thousands of dollars and countless hours have been spent improving the current location, where the library has been since the 1960s. Continued investment in the facility promotes energy efficiency. A new thermostat complements an updated HVAC system. The front door has been replaced with a handicap-accessible opening upgrade and the back entrance will soon have a new security door. Smaller computers, using less electricity, arrived in December and LED overhead lights were put in during 2022.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679668243511.jpeg" alt="Librarian Colleen Garner holds a book with information on local history in the Hemingford Library's research room." />
 <figcaption>Librarian Colleen Garner holds a book with information on local history in the Hemingford Library's research room.</figcaption>
 </figure>

KAB: Take a page from Hemingford library’s book

Our Road trip this week led us to Grandma Jo's. We originally started off to go somewhere else, to find them closed.

Well if traveling that far, I should have been smart enough to see what there hours and days open were before heading out.  But their loss, is our gain. 

We ended up in Sidney, Nebraska at Grandma Jo's. 

 My side kick had the chicken fried steak, saying it was wonderful. And I had the lunch special of fried chicken.  In all the times I had gone to Sidney I can't believe I never saw this place. It's right on the corner 1144 Illinois St.

They are reminiscent of the typical American Cafe. The red tables and chairs reminds you of the 50's. The whole place is decorated perfectly. Makes you kind of feel like you're coming home. Our waitress was very efficient and friendly. Quite a few folks were having breakfasts and lunch. It was a cozy feeling, I even ran into a classmate of mine there! 

 So, if you get down that way, be sure and stop in and enjoy a great sit down meal. See you there!

By Tami Cox Swearingen<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679598237762.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Our Road trip this week led us to Grandma Jo's. We originally started off to go somewhere else, to find them closed.Well if traveling that far, I should have been smart enough to see what there hours and days open were before heading out. But their loss, is our gain. We ended up in Sidney, Nebraska at Grandma Jo's. My side kick had the chicken fried steak, saying it was wonderful. And I had the lunch special of fried chicken. In all the times I had gone to Sidney I can't believe I never saw this place. It's right on the corner 1144 Illinois St.They are reminiscent of the typical American Cafe. The red tables and chairs reminds you of the 50's. The whole place is decorated perfectly. Makes you kind of feel like you're coming home. Our waitress was very efficient and friendly. Quite a few folks were having breakfasts and lunch. It was a cozy feeling, I even ran into a classmate of mine there! So, if you get down that way, be sure and stop in and enjoy a great sit down meal. See you there!

Road Trip: Grandma Jo's in Sidney 

Today we spoke with Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District's Conservation Programs Coordinator Kylen Armstrong about the NRD's involvement in tree's.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Upper Niobrara White NRD talks tree’s" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=6npt6-13c4e2f-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Today we spoke with Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District's Conservation Programs Coordinator Kylen Armstrong about the NRD's involvement in tree's.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679598029904.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Post Podcast: Upper Niobrara White NRD talks tree's

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in April. Here are some opportunities:

Little Saplings program presents&nbsp;Terrific Trout&nbsp;

Adults looking to explore the outdoors with their young children are invited to Little Saplings, a monthly early childhood nature discovery program at Schramm Education Center near Gretna.

The 2023 series continues April 5 with the theme Terrific Trout at 9 a.m. It is designed for children ages 2-5 and their adult caregiver. The cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult per program and includes admission to the Education Center after the program.

See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2ODAxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.4BVWGs5AL4A76If1wNZfYClHzW6-3JN1eU6oMzd5CH4/s/2971285407/br/156450921913-l">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Wildcat Tales preschool program is April 11&nbsp;

Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area will host the monthly Wildcat Tales preschool program April 11.

The program Rowdy Reptiles will meet at the Nature Center at 10 a.m. Mountain time. There will be a lesson plan, story and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6.

The program is free, but a vehicle park entry permit is required.&nbsp;For more information, contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Homeschool Hike set for April 19-20 at Schramm Park SRA&nbsp;

Homeschool families are invited to join an outdoor educator on a guided hike to learn about bird language at Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Gretna during the Homeschool Hikes program at 9 a.m. April 19 and 2 p.m. April 20.

Homeschool Hikes is a monthly nature exploration program hosted by the Schramm Education Center geared toward homeschool families.

Participants are encouraged to RSVP in advance through the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2ODAxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.2E3kkrvuiNswQQdcTRkQg03IT60f7qz3ZmCD83bZ3x8/s/2971285407/br/156450921913-l">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>. Cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult per program. This includes admission to the Schramm Education Center after the program. Schramm Family Pass members participate free.

This program is recommended for ages 5 and up.

Participants should dress in season-appropriate layers and wear closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Hats and water bottles are recommended.

Connecting Communities to Urban Biodiversity is topic of webinar&nbsp;

Join the free virtual webinar Connecting Communities to Urban Biodiversity: The What, the Why, and the How at 12:30 p.m. Central time April 12.

Learn why urban biodiversity is so important and how we connect our communities to it to inspire stewardship.

This webinar is part of the Conservation Education Lunch and Learn Series, which dives into the science behind educational efforts and practices by learning from experts on a variety of science and educational topics. Direct questions to<a href="mailto:amber.schiltz@nebraska.gov">amber.schiltz@nebraska.gov</a>.

Visit the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2ODAxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.ajxTDJf59dktuvl6A-BCmj1vSntJ4d5vDWcnhHEI_sA/s/2971285407/br/156450921913-l">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to register and get more information.

Enjoy Frog Fun at Schramm Education Center&nbsp;

Celebrate national frog month in April by making a foldable frog lifecycle booklet from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the maker space at the Schramm Education Center near Gretna.

While you’re there, discover some fun facts and information about these awesome amphibians.&nbsp;

The center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and ages 4-12, and ages 3 and under are free.

Wildcat Hills to host&nbsp;Fishy Friends&nbsp;homeschool program

Participants will learn about different types of fish, fish anatomy and take part in an art project during the Wildcat Hills Homeschool program Fishy Friends on April 13.

This program meets at 10 a.m. Mountain time at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center.

The program is free, but a vehicle park entry permit is required. For more information contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Serenity Garden open house is April 22 at Schramm&nbsp;

Join an open house for the new Serenity Garden, located between Schramm Education Center and Schramm Park State Recreation Area from 10 a.m. to noon April 22.

The garden includes signage encouraging activities supporting serenity in the outdoors, an art feature including the work of local artisans, and stone benches. Master Naturalist Jeff Lacey will share his knowledge about nature journaling before an 11 a.m. guided hike to experience nature journaling.

The program is free, but a park entry permit is required.

It is mating season for frogs and the right time of year to hear their calls after dusk. So, why not go on a frog hike this spring? Nebraska state parks are wonderful places to keep an ear out.

Male frogs use their calls to attract a mate and can also use alarm calls to signal a predator. Listen to their chorus and try to identify a few of the 11 types of frogs and toads in Nebraska.

Frogs are most active at night and prefer areas with emerging vegetation and stagnant water. Your likelihood of hearing frogs is greater with warmer temperatures, low wind and with little-to-no precipitation.&nbsp;

Boreal chorus frogs are about the size of a quarter. Their call is a series of rapid short notes that sound like running your fingers down the length of a comb. Northern leopard frogs have a long, deep croaking call. Blanchard’s cricket frogs have a loud clicking sound, like tapping marbles together. Cope’s gray tree frogs make a fast, angry sounding “blaaaapt!” or yell, “blah! blah!” Bullfrogs are the bass section of the chorus, with a deep sounding “jug-o-rum” call.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625487168585.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NGPCNebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in April. Here are some opportunities:Little Saplings program presents&nbsp;Terrific Trout&nbsp;Adults looking to explore the outdoors with their young children are invited to Little Saplings, a monthly early childhood nature discovery program at Schramm Education Center near Gretna.The 2023 series continues April 5 with the theme Terrific Trout at 9 a.m. It is designed for children ages 2-5 and their adult caregiver. The cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult per program and includes admission to the Education Center after the program.See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2ODAxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.4BVWGs5AL4A76If1wNZfYClHzW6-3JN1eU6oMzd5CH4/s/2971285407/br/156450921913-l">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for more information.Wildcat Tales preschool program is April 11&nbsp;Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area will host the monthly Wildcat Tales preschool program April 11.The program Rowdy Reptiles will meet at the Nature Center at 10 a.m. Mountain time. There will be a lesson plan, story and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6.The program is free, but a vehicle park entry permit is required.&nbsp;For more information, contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.Homeschool Hike set for April 19-20 at Schramm Park SRA&nbsp;Homeschool families are invited to join an outdoor educator on a guided hike to learn about bird language at Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Gretna during the Homeschool Hikes program at 9 a.m. April 19 and 2 p.m. April 20.Homeschool Hikes is a monthly nature exploration program hosted by the Schramm Education Center geared toward homeschool families.Participants are encouraged to RSVP in advance through the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2ODAxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NhbGVuZGFyLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.2E3kkrvuiNswQQdcTRkQg03IT60f7qz3ZmCD83bZ3x8/s/2971285407/br/156450921913-l">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>. Cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult per program. This includes admission to the Schramm Education Center after the program. Schramm Family Pass members participate free.This program is recommended for ages 5 and up.Participants should dress in season-appropriate layers and wear closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Hats and water bottles are recommended.Connecting Communities to Urban Biodiversity is topic of webinar&nbsp;Join the free virtual webinar Connecting Communities to Urban Biodiversity: The What, the Why, and the How at 12:30 p.m. Central time April 12.Learn why urban biodiversity is so important and how we connect our communities to it to inspire stewardship.This webinar is part of the Conservation Education Lunch and Learn Series, which dives into the science behind educational efforts and practices by learning from experts on a variety of science and educational topics. Direct questions to<a href="mailto:amber.schiltz@nebraska.gov">amber.schiltz@nebraska.gov</a>.Visit the event listing at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMjAuNzM2ODAxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiJ9.ajxTDJf59dktuvl6A-BCmj1vSntJ4d5vDWcnhHEI_sA/s/2971285407/br/156450921913-l">Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;to register and get more information.Enjoy Frog Fun at Schramm Education Center&nbsp;Celebrate national frog month in April by making a foldable frog lifecycle booklet from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the maker space at the Schramm Education Center near Gretna.While you’re there, discover some fun facts and information about these awesome amphibians.&nbsp;The center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and ages 4-12, and ages 3 and under are free.Wildcat Hills to host&nbsp;Fishy Friends&nbsp;homeschool programParticipants will learn about different types of fish, fish anatomy and take part in an art project during the Wildcat Hills Homeschool program Fishy Friends on April 13.This program meets at 10 a.m. Mountain time at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center.The program is free, but a vehicle park entry permit is required. For more information contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.Serenity Garden open house is April 22 at Schramm&nbsp;Join an open house for the new Serenity Garden, located between Schramm Education Center and Schramm Park State Recreation Area from 10 a.m. to noon April 22.The garden includes signage encouraging activities supporting serenity in the outdoors, an art feature including the work of local artisans, and stone benches. Master Naturalist Jeff Lacey will share his knowledge about nature journaling before an 11 a.m. guided hike to experience nature journaling.The program is free, but a park entry permit is required.Go on a frog hike this springIt is mating season for frogs and the right time of year to hear their calls after dusk. So, why not go on a frog hike this spring? Nebraska state parks are wonderful places to keep an ear out.Male frogs use their calls to attract a mate and can also use alarm calls to signal a predator. Listen to their chorus and try to identify a few of the 11 types of frogs and toads in Nebraska.Frogs are most active at night and prefer areas with emerging vegetation and stagnant water. Your likelihood of hearing frogs is greater with warmer temperatures, low wind and with little-to-no precipitation.&nbsp;Boreal chorus frogs are about the size of a quarter. Their call is a series of rapid short notes that sound like running your fingers down the length of a comb. Northern leopard frogs have a long, deep croaking call. Blanchard’s cricket frogs have a loud clicking sound, like tapping marbles together. Cope’s gray tree frogs make a fast, angry sounding “blaaaapt!” or yell, “blah! blah!” Bullfrogs are the bass section of the chorus, with a deep sounding “jug-o-rum” call.

Catch these Game and Parks education events in April

A couple nights ago, Trooper Dusatko and Trooper Sporer performed a traffic stop in Scottsbluff and discovered that the driver had a revoked license. They also discovered that the driver was in the process of delivering a couple meals to folks in Gering. 

So, while Trooper Sporer handled the processing of the driver, Trooper Dusatko finished the two deliveries. 

All in a day's service to the people of Nebraska. 

By Nebraska State Patrol - Facebook postA couple nights ago, Trooper Dusatko and Trooper Sporer performed a traffic stop in Scottsbluff and discovered that the driver had a revoked license. They also discovered that the driver was in the process of delivering a couple meals to folks in Gering. So, while Trooper Sporer handled the processing of the driver, Trooper Dusatko finished the two deliveries. All in a day's service to the people of Nebraska. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679593355887.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Western Nebraska Trooper performs traffic stop; delivers take-out meals

NORTH PLATTE, NEB.&nbsp; — A CODE Task Force operation led to the arrest of several people on drug charges Wednesday morning in Nebraska and Kansas.

The CODE Task Force, which includes officers from several law enforcement agencies in west-central and southwest Nebraska, obtained arrest warrants for several individuals in connection with narcotics investigations in Dawson County. Those arrested Wednesday were:

Brianna Pena, 35, was arrested in Lexington for distribution of methamphetamine and conspiracy to commit unlawful distribution of a controlled substance.

Shelby Irish, 31, was arrested in Oberlin, Kansas for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and conspiracy to commit unlawful distribution of methamphetamine.

Christopher Twohig, 44, was arrested in Cozad for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and habitual criminal. During the arrest, Twohig was found to be in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and a firearm, which led to additional charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana – less than one ounce, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm during a drug violation.

Luis Valdez, 26, was arrested in Broken Bow for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Eric Valtierra, 29, who is currently incarcerated with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Luis Lazo-Escobar, 31, who is currently incarcerated with the NDCS has been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

The CODE Task Force was assisted by the Nebraska State Patrol, Lexington Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Department, Decatur County (Kansas) Sheriff’s Office, and FBI.

NSPNORTH PLATTE, NEB.&nbsp; — A CODE Task Force operation led to the arrest of several people on drug charges Wednesday morning in Nebraska and Kansas.The CODE Task Force, which includes officers from several law enforcement agencies in west-central and southwest Nebraska, obtained arrest warrants for several individuals in connection with narcotics investigations in Dawson County. Those arrested Wednesday were:Brianna Pena, 35, was arrested in Lexington for distribution of methamphetamine and conspiracy to commit unlawful distribution of a controlled substance.Shelby Irish, 31, was arrested in Oberlin, Kansas for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and conspiracy to commit unlawful distribution of methamphetamine.Christopher Twohig, 44, was arrested in Cozad for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and habitual criminal. During the arrest, Twohig was found to be in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and a firearm, which led to additional charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana – less than one ounce, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm during a drug violation.Luis Valdez, 26, was arrested in Broken Bow for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.Eric Valtierra, 29, who is currently incarcerated with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) has been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.Luis Lazo-Escobar, 31, who is currently incarcerated with the NDCS has been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.The CODE Task Force was assisted by the Nebraska State Patrol, Lexington Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Department, Decatur County (Kansas) Sheriff’s Office, and FBI.

NSP: Several arrested in CODE Task Force Operation

NORTH PLATTE — A CODE Drug Task Force operation led to the arrest of several people on drug charges Wednesday morning in Nebraska and Kansas.

Shelby Irish, 31, was arrested in Oberlin, Kansas, for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and conspiracy to commit unlawful distribution of methamphetamine.&nbsp;

Eric Valtierra, 29, who is currently incarcerated with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services has been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.&nbsp;

NSPNORTH PLATTE — A CODE Drug Task Force operation led to the arrest of several people on drug charges Wednesday morning in Nebraska and Kansas.The CODE Task Force, which includes officers from several law enforcement agencies in west-central and southwest Nebraska, obtained arrest warrants for several individuals in connection with narcotics investigations in Dawson County. Those arrested Wednesday were:Brianna Pena, 35, was arrested in Lexington for distribution of methamphetamine and conspiracy to commit unlawful distribution of a controlled substance.Shelby Irish, 31, was arrested in Oberlin, Kansas, for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and conspiracy to commit unlawful distribution of methamphetamine.&nbsp;Christopher Twohig, 44, was arrested in Cozad for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and habitual criminal. During the arrest, Twohig was found to be in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and a firearm, which led to additional charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana – less than one ounce, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm during a drug violation.Luis Valdez, 26, was arrested in Broken Bow for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.Eric Valtierra, 29, who is currently incarcerated with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services has been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.&nbsp;Luis Lazo-Escobar, 31, who is currently incarcerated with the NDCS has been charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.The CODE Task Force was assisted by the Nebraska State Patrol, Lexington Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Department, Decatur County (Kansas) Sheriff’s Office, and FBI.

Several arrested in drug task force operation in Neb., Kan.

Join us this Saturday, March 25 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. We will be hosting some local crafters from around the area during our Spring Fling craft show.

Lots of handmade crafts, gift ideas and food. 

Alliance High School Band Parents group will be setup, so please come out and show your support.

By VFW Post 1517Join us this Saturday, March 25 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. We will be hosting some local crafters from around the area during our Spring Fling craft show.Lots of handmade crafts, gift ideas and food. The kitchen will also be open.Alliance High School Band Parents group will be setup, so please come out and show your support.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679581985348.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Alliance VFW to host 'Spring Fling Craft Show' 

By JACOB FISCHLER <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/03/22/priorities-for-rail-safety-bill-debated-in-u-s-senate-hearing-with-norfolk-southern-ceo/">States Newsroom</a>

Members of a U.S. Senate committee on
 Wednesday previewed what they would push for in bipartisan rail safety 
legislation likely to progress through Congress in the aftermath of the 
East Palestine, Ohio, derailment.

Democrats and Republicans on the U.S.
 Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee hinted they 
wanted to strengthen requirements about reporting hazardous cargo, 
communicating in real time with train operators about potential problems
 and allowing more time for safety inspections.

A few Democrats on the panel also 
criticized railroads for an overemphasis on profits and stock buybacks, 
saying money should instead be spent on workers who could improve 
safety.&nbsp;

Though there is no evidence anyone broke existing regulations to cause the <a target="_blank" href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2023/02/20/for-them-its-just-one-train-a-view-from-east-palestine-and-an-update-on-response-efforts/">Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern derailment</a>
 that led to a chemical fire and release of hazardous materials in 
eastern Ohio, the wreck could have been avoided if certain safeguards 
had been in place, several senators and experts said Wednesday.

Voluntary standards, like Norfolk 
Southern’s use of an app to internally communicate possible rail faults,
 have proven insufficient, U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, an Ohio Republican, 
said.&nbsp;

“If the app was good enough, then why
 did it fail in East Palestine?” Vance said. “If the app provided proper
 notification, then why did firefighters in my state seven weeks ago go 
fight a chemical fire without knowing what was on it?”

Misti Allison, a resident of East 
Palestine, told the panel about the lasting effects the wreck has had on
 the village of 4,700. The derailment left lingering questions about the
 level of toxic chemicals still in the area, tanking home values and 
damage to residents’ mental health, she said.

“My 7-year-old has asked me if he is going to die from living in his own home,” she said. “What do I tell him?”

Allison implored the committee “to support commonsense safety regulation, so this doesn’t happen again.”

‘Bipartisan interest’ in rail safety overhaul

Vance and Ohio’s senior U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, authored a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.brown.senate.gov/download/railway-safety-act-of-2023-text">bill</a> to update rail safety standards that could be the template for a bipartisan overhaul this year.

Ranking Republican Ted Cruz of Texas 
said he supported several elements of the bill, but objected to parts 
that he said gave too much authority to the U.S. Transportation 
Department.&nbsp;

Cruz, who sought the Republican 
nomination for president in 2016, spent part of the hearing again 
criticizing the response to the derailment by Transportation Secretary 
Pete Buttigieg, who ran for the Democratic nomination in 2020.

Still, Cruz was optimistic about a rail safety bill advancing.

“I think there is bipartisan interest
 in moving rail safety legislation,” he said. “I think we’re going to be
 successful in doing that.”

Agreement on communication, monitoring, inspections

Senators voiced agreement on certain problems in rail safety.

Officials in East Palestine should 
have been notified in advance that a train carrying hazardous material 
was headed toward them, senators and hearing witnesses said Wednesday. 
And first responders should have known they were battling a chemical 
fire and been better prepared for the task with improved training and 
equipment, they said.

“People deserve to know what 
chemicals are moving through their communities and how to stay safe in 
an emergency,” National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer 
Homendy said. “That includes responders, who risk their lives for each 
of us every single day. They deserve to be prepared.”

That means they should have access to real-time information and proper communications and planning tools, she said.

Brown said he was working to create a
 fund to provide training for firefighters on how to manage hazardous 
material fires. Firefighters who responded to the East Palestine blaze 
were almost entirely volunteers, he said.

That fund would be paid for by the railroads and chemical companies, he said.

Cruz also highlighted problems with the way railroads monitor train temperatures.

The Norfolk Southern equipment caught
 a more than 60-degree temperature increase over 10 miles in the minutes
 before the train reached East Palestine, Cruz said, asking Norfolk 
Southern CEO Alan Shaw why the jump in temperature “did not trigger 
action.”

The higher temperature was still 
lower than “the alarm threshold,” Shaw said. Norfolk Southern practice 
was to stop trains when they reach 200 degrees above ambient 
temperature, regardless of the trend, he said.&nbsp;

The train, while it had gone from 38 
degrees above ambient temperature to 103 degrees above, did not reach 
that threshold, Shaw said.

Clyde Whitaker, the Ohio legislative 
director of the union Sheet Metal Air Rail Transportation – 
Transportation Division, said more attention should be paid to how fast a
 train is heating.

“Once it starts trending, we need to go and check that out,” Whitaker told the panel.

Committee Chair Maria Cantwell, a 
Washington Democrat, and Vance criticized a Norfolk Southern policy — 
listed in a Norfolk Southern document Cantwell said was provided to the 
committee – to spend about 30 seconds on a safety inspection for each 
side of a train car.

Shaw said there was no such time limit, but Cantwell said the document showed otherwise.

That was not enough time to conduct an adequate investigation, Whitaker said.

As he had <a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/norfolk-southern-ceo-apologizes-ohio-crash-wont-back-bipartisan-rail-safety-bill-1">at another Senate hearing</a>
 this month, Shaw again apologized to the East Palestine area and 
pledged “to make this right.” The railroad was continuing cleanup 
efforts and was providing hotel rooms and supplies to area residents, he
 said.&nbsp;

Norfolk Southern has spent $24 
million since the derailment to support the community, he said. And the 
railroad is in the planning stages of developing a long-term medical 
compensation fund, property value assurance program and water testing 
program, he said.

But he declined to fully endorse the Brown-Vance rail safety bill, saying he supported parts, but not all, of it.

Pressed by Minnesota Democratic Sen. 
Amy Klobuchar to say which parts he did not support, Shaw began to say 
what he did agree with. Klobuchar said she would seek a more complete 
answer in writing.

Appearing remotely from the East 
Palestine High School library, Republican Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine thanked 
the bill sponsors and called for swift congressional action.&nbsp;

He also demanded Norfolk Southern make the community whole.

“Norfolk Southern has an obligation 
to restore this community,” DeWine said. “It was their training, their 
tracks, their accident. They’re responsible for this tragedy. … Norfolk 
Southern must do everything in its power to put everything back as it 
was in East Palestine.”&nbsp;

The Brown-Vance bill would require 
two-worker crews on certain trains, which would force railroads to hire 
workers after deep labor cuts in recent years. The industry cut its 
workforce by 22% between 2017 and 2021, Cantwell said.&nbsp;

The industry has also cut its 
training program, Whitaker said. When he started as a railroad worker in
 2000, he had 26 weeks of training. Now, the standard is six weeks, he 
said.

“We’re hauling 200-plus-car trains of
 hazardous materials,” he said. “That’s not right. You’re putting too 
much pressure on employees right now with inadequate training.”

Whitaker also said he supported a 
rule to mandate at least two workers were on each train. That rule has 
been opposed by the rail industry.

A few Democrats on the panel criticized the rail industry for offering stock buybacks instead of investing in safety.&nbsp;

Sen. Peter Welch of Vermont pressed 
Shaw to suspend stock buybacks until the railroads finished their 
cleanup work in East Palestine.

Shaw declined, saying “stock buybacks
 never come at the expense of safety.” The railroad spends about $1 
billion per year on safety programs, he said.

In a floor speech Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer renewed <a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-leader-calls-safety-audit-all-major-railroads-after-ohio-derailment">his request for an NTSB investigation</a>
 into the safety culture of all major U.S. railroads and said he hoped 
Homendy would commit to such an investigation during the hearing.

No senator directly asked Homendy about that possibility, and she did not commit to an industry-wide investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679578767128.png" alt="Train derailment near East Palestine, Ohio, taken Feb. 7, 2023, by the Environmental Protection Agency’s ASPECT (Airborne Spectral Photometric Environmental Collection Technology) system. (Courtesy of EPA)" />
 <figcaption>Train derailment near East Palestine, Ohio, taken Feb. 7, 2023, by the Environmental Protection Agency’s ASPECT (Airborne Spectral Photometric Environmental Collection Technology) system. (Courtesy of EPA)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACOB FISCHLER <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/03/22/priorities-for-rail-safety-bill-debated-in-u-s-senate-hearing-with-norfolk-southern-ceo/">States Newsroom</a>Members of a U.S. Senate committee on
 Wednesday previewed what they would push for in bipartisan rail safety 
legislation likely to progress through Congress in the aftermath of the 
East Palestine, Ohio, derailment.Democrats and Republicans on the U.S.
 Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee hinted they 
wanted to strengthen requirements about reporting hazardous cargo, 
communicating in real time with train operators about potential problems
 and allowing more time for safety inspections.A few Democrats on the panel also 
criticized railroads for an overemphasis on profits and stock buybacks, 
saying money should instead be spent on workers who could improve 
safety.&nbsp;Though there is no evidence anyone broke existing regulations to cause the <a target="_blank" href="https://ohiocapitaljournal.com/2023/02/20/for-them-its-just-one-train-a-view-from-east-palestine-and-an-update-on-response-efforts/">Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern derailment</a>
 that led to a chemical fire and release of hazardous materials in 
eastern Ohio, the wreck could have been avoided if certain safeguards 
had been in place, several senators and experts said Wednesday.Voluntary standards, like Norfolk 
Southern’s use of an app to internally communicate possible rail faults,
 have proven insufficient, U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, an Ohio Republican, 
said.&nbsp;“If the app was good enough, then why
 did it fail in East Palestine?” Vance said. “If the app provided proper
 notification, then why did firefighters in my state seven weeks ago go 
fight a chemical fire without knowing what was on it?”Misti Allison, a resident of East 
Palestine, told the panel about the lasting effects the wreck has had on
 the village of 4,700. The derailment left lingering questions about the
 level of toxic chemicals still in the area, tanking home values and 
damage to residents’ mental health, she said.“My 7-year-old has asked me if he is going to die from living in his own home,” she said. “What do I tell him?”Allison implored the committee “to support commonsense safety regulation, so this doesn’t happen again.”<h2>‘Bipartisan interest’ in rail safety overhaul</h2>Vance and Ohio’s senior U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, authored a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.brown.senate.gov/download/railway-safety-act-of-2023-text">bill</a> to update rail safety standards that could be the template for a bipartisan overhaul this year.Ranking Republican Ted Cruz of Texas 
said he supported several elements of the bill, but objected to parts 
that he said gave too much authority to the U.S. Transportation 
Department.&nbsp;Cruz, who sought the Republican 
nomination for president in 2016, spent part of the hearing again 
criticizing the response to the derailment by Transportation Secretary 
Pete Buttigieg, who ran for the Democratic nomination in 2020.Still, Cruz was optimistic about a rail safety bill advancing.“I think there is bipartisan interest
 in moving rail safety legislation,” he said. “I think we’re going to be
 successful in doing that.”<h2>Agreement on communication, monitoring, inspections</h2>Senators voiced agreement on certain problems in rail safety.Officials in East Palestine should 
have been notified in advance that a train carrying hazardous material 
was headed toward them, senators and hearing witnesses said Wednesday. 
And first responders should have known they were battling a chemical 
fire and been better prepared for the task with improved training and 
equipment, they said.“People deserve to know what 
chemicals are moving through their communities and how to stay safe in 
an emergency,” National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer 
Homendy said. “That includes responders, who risk their lives for each 
of us every single day. They deserve to be prepared.”That means they should have access to real-time information and proper communications and planning tools, she said.Brown said he was working to create a
 fund to provide training for firefighters on how to manage hazardous 
material fires. Firefighters who responded to the East Palestine blaze 
were almost entirely volunteers, he said.That fund would be paid for by the railroads and chemical companies, he said.Cruz also highlighted problems with the way railroads monitor train temperatures.The Norfolk Southern equipment caught
 a more than 60-degree temperature increase over 10 miles in the minutes
 before the train reached East Palestine, Cruz said, asking Norfolk 
Southern CEO Alan Shaw why the jump in temperature “did not trigger 
action.”The higher temperature was still 
lower than “the alarm threshold,” Shaw said. Norfolk Southern practice 
was to stop trains when they reach 200 degrees above ambient 
temperature, regardless of the trend, he said.&nbsp;The train, while it had gone from 38 
degrees above ambient temperature to 103 degrees above, did not reach 
that threshold, Shaw said.Clyde Whitaker, the Ohio legislative 
director of the union Sheet Metal Air Rail Transportation – 
Transportation Division, said more attention should be paid to how fast a
 train is heating.“Once it starts trending, we need to go and check that out,” Whitaker told the panel.Committee Chair Maria Cantwell, a 
Washington Democrat, and Vance criticized a Norfolk Southern policy — 
listed in a Norfolk Southern document Cantwell said was provided to the 
committee – to spend about 30 seconds on a safety inspection for each 
side of a train car.Shaw said there was no such time limit, but Cantwell said the document showed otherwise.That was not enough time to conduct an adequate investigation, Whitaker said.<h2>Railroad chief offers another apology</h2>As he had <a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/norfolk-southern-ceo-apologizes-ohio-crash-wont-back-bipartisan-rail-safety-bill-1">at another Senate hearing</a>
 this month, Shaw again apologized to the East Palestine area and 
pledged “to make this right.” The railroad was continuing cleanup 
efforts and was providing hotel rooms and supplies to area residents, he
 said.&nbsp;Norfolk Southern has spent $24 
million since the derailment to support the community, he said. And the 
railroad is in the planning stages of developing a long-term medical 
compensation fund, property value assurance program and water testing 
program, he said.But he declined to fully endorse the Brown-Vance rail safety bill, saying he supported parts, but not all, of it.Pressed by Minnesota Democratic Sen. 
Amy Klobuchar to say which parts he did not support, Shaw began to say 
what he did agree with. Klobuchar said she would seek a more complete 
answer in writing.Appearing remotely from the East 
Palestine High School library, Republican Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine thanked 
the bill sponsors and called for swift congressional action.&nbsp;He also demanded Norfolk Southern make the community whole.“Norfolk Southern has an obligation 
to restore this community,” DeWine said. “It was their training, their 
tracks, their accident. They’re responsible for this tragedy. … Norfolk 
Southern must do everything in its power to put everything back as it 
was in East Palestine.”&nbsp;<h2>Workforce and profits</h2>The Brown-Vance bill would require 
two-worker crews on certain trains, which would force railroads to hire 
workers after deep labor cuts in recent years. The industry cut its 
workforce by 22% between 2017 and 2021, Cantwell said.&nbsp;The industry has also cut its 
training program, Whitaker said. When he started as a railroad worker in
 2000, he had 26 weeks of training. Now, the standard is six weeks, he 
said.“We’re hauling 200-plus-car trains of
 hazardous materials,” he said. “That’s not right. You’re putting too 
much pressure on employees right now with inadequate training.”Whitaker also said he supported a 
rule to mandate at least two workers were on each train. That rule has 
been opposed by the rail industry.A few Democrats on the panel criticized the rail industry for offering stock buybacks instead of investing in safety.&nbsp;Sen. Peter Welch of Vermont pressed 
Shaw to suspend stock buybacks until the railroads finished their 
cleanup work in East Palestine.Shaw declined, saying “stock buybacks
 never come at the expense of safety.” The railroad spends about $1 
billion per year on safety programs, he said.<h2>Schumer renews call for NTSB probe</h2>In a floor speech Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer renewed <a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-leader-calls-safety-audit-all-major-railroads-after-ohio-derailment">his request for an NTSB investigation</a>
 into the safety culture of all major U.S. railroads and said he hoped 
Homendy would commit to such an investigation during the hearing.No senator directly asked Homendy about that possibility, and she did not commit to an industry-wide investigation.

Priorities for rail safety bill debated in U.S. Senate hearing

CHAPMAN, Neb. (AP) — Whooping cranes are beginning to join around 450,000 migrating sandhill cranes that have flocked to central Nebraska.

Brice Krohn, president of the Crane Trust, said the arrival of the endangered whooping cranes is a big moment for researchers and fans from around the world who come to Nebraska for their annual migration, the Omaha World Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/whooping-cranes-are-joining-the-migration-show-in-central-nebraska/article_dbdbb2c2-c744-11ed-83a0-efd341b66be6.html#tncms-source=login">reports</a>.

There are only 543 in the wild migratory flock, of which fewer than 10 have been spotted so far this season in Nebraska.

“They are just now entering the southern plains and Platte River area,” Krohn said.

Those birds stay only two days to a week before heading to their primary breeding grounds at Wood Buffalo National Park of Canada.

The sandhill cranes, which are nesting in an 80-mile (128.75 kilometer) stretch from Chapman to Overton, stay about three weeks to feed in wet meadows and crop fields as the juveniles find a mate. Then they’ll head as far north as eastern Siberia.

New arrivals will replace the cranes as they leave the state, with their numbers diminishing throughout next month.

By Associated PressCHAPMAN, Neb. (AP) — Whooping cranes are beginning to join around 450,000 migrating sandhill cranes that have flocked to central Nebraska.Brice Krohn, president of the Crane Trust, said the arrival of the endangered whooping cranes is a big moment for researchers and fans from around the world who come to Nebraska for their annual migration, the Omaha World Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/whooping-cranes-are-joining-the-migration-show-in-central-nebraska/article_dbdbb2c2-c744-11ed-83a0-efd341b66be6.html#tncms-source=login">reports</a>.There are only 543 in the wild migratory flock, of which fewer than 10 have been spotted so far this season in Nebraska.“They are just now entering the southern plains and Platte River area,” Krohn said.Those birds stay only two days to a week before heading to their primary breeding grounds at Wood Buffalo National Park of Canada.The sandhill cranes, which are nesting in an 80-mile (128.75 kilometer) stretch from Chapman to Overton, stay about three weeks to feed in wet meadows and crop fields as the juveniles find a mate. Then they’ll head as far north as eastern Siberia.New arrivals will replace the cranes as they leave the state, with their numbers diminishing throughout next month.

Migratory crane flocks draw birders from around the world

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

When a person dies, their assets could be subject to estate tax at the federal level and inheritance tax in Nebraska. Both of these were designed to limit the transfer of wealth to people who were not involved in earning it, and they are controversial.

Federal estate taxes were created in 1916, taxing estates valued at over $5 million. This amount changed to $50 million in 1932. In 1940 it dropped to $10 million, then $5, then $3. In 2002-2007 estates worth more than $2 million paid the tax. The exemption amount has increased annually since then.

In 2023, the federal estate tax applies only to estates worth more than $12.92 million. For a married couple, that is a combined exemption of $25.84 million. Only the amount over that threshold is taxed, and the rates are progressive. The first $1 million (over the $12.92 million) is taxed at lower rates – from 18% to 39%. Everything above that is taxed at 40%. This tax applies to about one tenth of one percent of Americans.

One of the reasons people argue that federal estate tax should be eliminated is the fact that there are ways to avoid paying anything at all. Every year, married couples can give away a certain amount in tax-free gifts to other people, including family members. The annual gift tax limit is currently $16,000 per person. So, a husband and wife could each give away $16,000 every year for a combined $32,000 in annual tax-free gifts. Through annual gifts, married couples can reduce the value of their taxable estate while benefiting their intended beneficiaries.

Estate taxes can often be avoided by setting up a trust. Most trusts give the surviving spouse rights to the assets, with no estate tax on the assets put into this trust. For example, the surviving spouse can draw income from the trust, live in the house, etc. When the surviving spouse dies the trust assets are distributed to the intended beneficiaries.

A charitable trust names a charitable organization as the beneficiary of the trust assets. Assets in the charitable trust can include cash, stocks, real estate, and other property. There is a reason why the super-wealthy have foundations in their names.

A family limited partnership (FLP) is beneficial because it allows family members to pool their assets and then shift them to other members in the family, and it is common in agriculture. The assets you put into an FLP and transfer to others are taken out of your estate, with significant estate tax savings. FLPs offer a strategy for family farms to transition the farm on to the next generation. The older generation manages the operation at first, and the younger generation can, over time, take over the operation.

Nebraska is one of six states that collects an inheritance tax, and counties collect and use this tax. Inheritance tax is not calculated on the total of the estate; it is collected on the amount paid to each person who receives something from the estate.

The tax is levied on Nebraska property inherited from parents, siblings, extended family, and non-relatives. Spouses are exempt and inherit tax-free. Other beneficiaries inherit a certain amount tax-free, but then pay based on their relationship to the deceased. When property is inherited from immediate family members, the value worth more than $100,000 is taxed at 1%. Property inherited from near relatives is taxed at 11% for the part that is worth more than $40,000, and property inherited from distant relatives and non-relatives worth more than $25,000 is taxed at 15%.

The Revenue Committee of the Nebraska Legislature is considering advancing a constitutional amendment, LR23CA, to end inheritance tax. If approved, this would be on the ballot in the next general election for voters to decide.

If these two "death taxes" are ended, we must remember that the dollars collected from them must be made up with other taxes. This would be one more example of transferring tax obligations from the wealthy to those with no assets, again raising taxes on low-income households.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityWhen a person dies, their assets could be subject to estate tax at the federal level and inheritance tax in Nebraska. Both of these were designed to limit the transfer of wealth to people who were not involved in earning it, and they are controversial.Federal estate taxes were created in 1916, taxing estates valued at over $5 million. This amount changed to $50 million in 1932. In 1940 it dropped to $10 million, then $5, then $3. In 2002-2007 estates worth more than $2 million paid the tax. The exemption amount has increased annually since then.In 2023, the federal estate tax applies only to estates worth more than $12.92 million. For a married couple, that is a combined exemption of $25.84 million. Only the amount over that threshold is taxed, and the rates are progressive. The first $1 million (over the $12.92 million) is taxed at lower rates – from 18% to 39%. Everything above that is taxed at 40%. This tax applies to about one tenth of one percent of Americans.One of the reasons people argue that federal estate tax should be eliminated is the fact that there are ways to avoid paying anything at all. Every year, married couples can give away a certain amount in tax-free gifts to other people, including family members. The annual gift tax limit is currently $16,000 per person. So, a husband and wife could each give away $16,000 every year for a combined $32,000 in annual tax-free gifts. Through annual gifts, married couples can reduce the value of their taxable estate while benefiting their intended beneficiaries.Estate taxes can often be avoided by setting up a trust. Most trusts give the surviving spouse rights to the assets, with no estate tax on the assets put into this trust. For example, the surviving spouse can draw income from the trust, live in the house, etc. When the surviving spouse dies the trust assets are distributed to the intended beneficiaries.A charitable trust names a charitable organization as the beneficiary of the trust assets. Assets in the charitable trust can include cash, stocks, real estate, and other property. There is a reason why the super-wealthy have foundations in their names.A family limited partnership (FLP) is beneficial because it allows family members to pool their assets and then shift them to other members in the family, and it is common in agriculture. The assets you put into an FLP and transfer to others are taken out of your estate, with significant estate tax savings. FLPs offer a strategy for family farms to transition the farm on to the next generation. The older generation manages the operation at first, and the younger generation can, over time, take over the operation.Nebraska is one of six states that collects an inheritance tax, and counties collect and use this tax. Inheritance tax is not calculated on the total of the estate; it is collected on the amount paid to each person who receives something from the estate.The tax is levied on Nebraska property inherited from parents, siblings, extended family, and non-relatives. Spouses are exempt and inherit tax-free. Other beneficiaries inherit a certain amount tax-free, but then pay based on their relationship to the deceased. When property is inherited from immediate family members, the value worth more than $100,000 is taxed at 1%. Property inherited from near relatives is taxed at 11% for the part that is worth more than $40,000, and property inherited from distant relatives and non-relatives worth more than $25,000 is taxed at 15%.The Revenue Committee of the Nebraska Legislature is considering advancing a constitutional amendment, LR23CA, to end inheritance tax. If approved, this would be on the ballot in the next general election for voters to decide.If these two "death taxes" are ended, we must remember that the dollars collected from them must be made up with other taxes. This would be one more example of transferring tax obligations from the wealthy to those with no assets, again raising taxes on low-income households.

Getting Ahead: Estate, inheritance taxes 

Laramie County (Wyo.) Community College

GILLETTE, Wyo. — The Laramie County Community College rodeo team hit 
the ground running on the men's side in their first competition of the 
spring, erupting for 680 team points on their way to their first team 
title of the 2022-23 season. The win is also the first win for the 
Golden Eagle men since Head Rodeo Coach Seth Glause has been involved 
with the program.

"Everything fell our way and we really capitalized on Sunday which is
 always good and helps on the team points some," Glause praised. "I was 
proud of our students. They all competed well and competed with a 
purpose and did a really great job."

The effort was led by senior <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/girard_bernard_oh5d">Bernard Girard</a>&nbsp;— of Alliance — who took home the All-Around title along with a championship in Tie-Down roping.

Girard was also able to garner a third-place finish in Steer 
Wrestling on the way to tallying 255 points for the Golden Eagles team 
effort. He said the team has been using a variety of ways to get ready 
for the opening rodeo and it kept them all on their toes.

"The last three weeks, everyone has been getting ready to go," he 
said. "We had a steer wrestling jackpot Thursday night before we left to
 go to Gillette and got everybody in the zone to go. I went to a jackpot
 the weekend before and just having that good of a start was awesome and
 made me want to keep the ball rolling."

Girard was joined by a pair of other Golden Eagles who took home titles in their first goes of the spring.

Freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/tattrie_dixon_ij70">Dixon Tattrie</a>
 brought home the top spot in bull riding for his third rodeo win of the
 year going back to the fall and he continues to lead the Central Rocky 
Mountain Region (CRMR) standings with 360 points.

"I've started to ride really good this spring at practice and I feel 
more confident in what I was doing and how I was riding," Tattrie said 
about getting a good lead. "You try not to watch the standings as much 
as you can. The more you watch it the more pressure you put on yourself.
 If you take an eye off it and just go and ride bulls every weekend, 
it's a lot easier to do that than say 'I have to ride this bull so I 
stay here in the standings.'"

Tattrie also added a runner up in the first go of Saddle Bronc riding
 and finished fifth in the average to bring 80 more points for the team 
total there.

Fellow freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/pokorny_dane_zmt2">Dane Pokorny</a>&nbsp;of Thedford was another standout for LCCC, bringing home a tie for the title in 
Steer Wrestling after winning the first go with a time of 4.4 and adding
 a 4.7 in the short go to bring 140 more points to the team tally.

"We've got nine guys that can win any weekend (in steer wrestling) 
and they back into the box and they know they have an opportunity. We 
just missed having seven guys (in the short go)," Glause said. "I think 
they were 11th, 12th, and 14th so they bulldogged very well."

The win also moved Pokorny into a tie for second in the CRMR with 
Girard and putting both into position to qualify for the College 
National Finals Rodeo in June.

Other quality performances for the Golden Eagles included <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/derner_chance_x0qt">Chance Derner</a> taking the top spot in the first go in Tie-Down, although the South Dakota junior failed to record a time on his second head.

Freshman Bull Rider Griffin Koester picked up a round win on his 
second ride with a score of 67 to add to his CRMR total and move into 
second place behind Tattrie.

"Dixon is in a good spot, he kind of separated himself from the field
 this weekend," Glause said. "They both just need to continue to ride 
with confidence and continue to give themselves opportunities to win and
 they both have the opportunity to go to Casper."

The Golden Eagles packed in a few more individuals in Steer Wrestling with freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/ravenscroft_tucker_26c5">Tucker Ravenscroft</a>&nbsp;oif Nenzel and senior <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/pokorny_cauy_zssw">Cauy Pokorny</a>&nbsp;of Thedford both making the short go, and both put down times to finish fifth and sixth respectively in the average.

On the women's side, it wasn't a flashy rodeo for Laramie County. The
 team only had one make it to the short go in Wheatland freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/grant_rayne_fgpk">Rayne Grant</a>
 who picked up a sixth-place tie in the first go in breakaway and was 
able to make the top ten in barrels. Unfortunately, her rides in the 
short go were not enough to bring any points in to the team.&nbsp;

The Golden Eagle men remained in third place in the team standings, 
but picked up almost 300 points on region leading University of Wyoming 
and 465 points on second place Casper College. The team now sits just 
275 points out of second place with four rodeos' remaining.

"We need to keep the pressure on and continue to perform at a high 
level so that we have a opportunity come Laramie to go and compete in 
Casper as a team," Glause said.

The LCCC women remain in third place also, trailing the University of
 Wyoming by 580 points for the second spot in the team standings while 
Gillette College continues to dominate the region with wins in four of 
the six rodeos' so far.&nbsp;

Next week, the teams will be closer to home for action when they 
travel to Torrington, Wyoming for the EWC Lancer Rodeo at the Goshen 
County Fairgrounds March 24th through the 26th.

Details on the next rodeo can be found at <a href="http://www.golccc.com">www.golccc.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679433004600.jpeg" alt="Girard" />
 <figcaption>Girard</figcaption>
 </figure>Laramie County (Wyo.) Community CollegeGILLETTE, Wyo. — The Laramie County Community College rodeo team hit 
the ground running on the men's side in their first competition of the 
spring, erupting for 680 team points on their way to their first team 
title of the 2022-23 season. The win is also the first win for the 
Golden Eagle men since Head Rodeo Coach Seth Glause has been involved 
with the program."Everything fell our way and we really capitalized on Sunday which is
 always good and helps on the team points some," Glause praised. "I was 
proud of our students. They all competed well and competed with a 
purpose and did a really great job."The effort was led by senior <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/girard_bernard_oh5d">Bernard Girard</a>&nbsp;— of Alliance — who took home the All-Around title along with a championship in Tie-Down roping.Girard was also able to garner a third-place finish in Steer 
Wrestling on the way to tallying 255 points for the Golden Eagles team 
effort. He said the team has been using a variety of ways to get ready 
for the opening rodeo and it kept them all on their toes."The last three weeks, everyone has been getting ready to go," he 
said. "We had a steer wrestling jackpot Thursday night before we left to
 go to Gillette and got everybody in the zone to go. I went to a jackpot
 the weekend before and just having that good of a start was awesome and
 made me want to keep the ball rolling."Girard was joined by a pair of other Golden Eagles who took home titles in their first goes of the spring.Freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/tattrie_dixon_ij70">Dixon Tattrie</a>
 brought home the top spot in bull riding for his third rodeo win of the
 year going back to the fall and he continues to lead the Central Rocky 
Mountain Region (CRMR) standings with 360 points."I've started to ride really good this spring at practice and I feel 
more confident in what I was doing and how I was riding," Tattrie said 
about getting a good lead. "You try not to watch the standings as much 
as you can. The more you watch it the more pressure you put on yourself.
 If you take an eye off it and just go and ride bulls every weekend, 
it's a lot easier to do that than say 'I have to ride this bull so I 
stay here in the standings.'"Tattrie also added a runner up in the first go of Saddle Bronc riding
 and finished fifth in the average to bring 80 more points for the team 
total there.Fellow freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/pokorny_dane_zmt2">Dane Pokorny</a>&nbsp;of Thedford was another standout for LCCC, bringing home a tie for the title in 
Steer Wrestling after winning the first go with a time of 4.4 and adding
 a 4.7 in the short go to bring 140 more points to the team tally."We've got nine guys that can win any weekend (in steer wrestling) 
and they back into the box and they know they have an opportunity. We 
just missed having seven guys (in the short go)," Glause said. "I think 
they were 11th, 12th, and 14th so they bulldogged very well."The win also moved Pokorny into a tie for second in the CRMR with 
Girard and putting both into position to qualify for the College 
National Finals Rodeo in June.Other quality performances for the Golden Eagles included <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/derner_chance_x0qt">Chance Derner</a> taking the top spot in the first go in Tie-Down, although the South Dakota junior failed to record a time on his second head.Freshman Bull Rider Griffin Koester picked up a round win on his 
second ride with a score of 67 to add to his CRMR total and move into 
second place behind Tattrie."Dixon is in a good spot, he kind of separated himself from the field
 this weekend," Glause said. "They both just need to continue to ride 
with confidence and continue to give themselves opportunities to win and
 they both have the opportunity to go to Casper."The Golden Eagles packed in a few more individuals in Steer Wrestling with freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/ravenscroft_tucker_26c5">Tucker Ravenscroft</a>&nbsp;oif Nenzel and senior <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/pokorny_cauy_zssw">Cauy Pokorny</a>&nbsp;of Thedford both making the short go, and both put down times to finish fifth and sixth respectively in the average.On the women's side, it wasn't a flashy rodeo for Laramie County. The
 team only had one make it to the short go in Wheatland freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/grant_rayne_fgpk">Rayne Grant</a>
 who picked up a sixth-place tie in the first go in breakaway and was 
able to make the top ten in barrels. Unfortunately, her rides in the 
short go were not enough to bring any points in to the team.&nbsp;The Golden Eagle men remained in third place in the team standings, 
but picked up almost 300 points on region leading University of Wyoming 
and 465 points on second place Casper College. The team now sits just 
275 points out of second place with four rodeos' remaining."We need to keep the pressure on and continue to perform at a high 
level so that we have a opportunity come Laramie to go and compete in 
Casper as a team," Glause said.The LCCC women remain in third place also, trailing the University of
 Wyoming by 580 points for the second spot in the team standings while 
Gillette College continues to dominate the region with wins in four of 
the six rodeos' so far.&nbsp;Next week, the teams will be closer to home for action when they 
travel to Torrington, Wyoming for the EWC Lancer Rodeo at the Goshen 
County Fairgrounds March 24th through the 26th.Details on the next rodeo can be found at <a href="http://www.golccc.com">www.golccc.com</a>.

Western Nebraskans get Wyo. CC rodeo team off to a clean start

Department of Justice news release

United States Attorney Steven Russell announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 16 unsealed indictments charging 16 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

*&nbsp; Angelica Agena,&nbsp;age 40, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about June 29, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than four years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;Victor Hugo Cansino Monzon, age 29, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Cansino Monzon with illegal reentry after deportation on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Cansino Monzon with resisting, opposing, impeding and interfering with an officer on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 1 year imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

* Estefan Bernardino Chavez, age 29, of Norfolk, Nebraska, is charged with production of child pornography beginning on or about January 31, 2023 and continuing to on or about February 28, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and not more than 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $55,100 in special assessments.&nbsp;

* Luis Duran, a/k/a Luis Duran-Salcedo, age 20, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged with assault of a dating partner by strangulation or suffocation on the Winnebago Indian Reservation on or about March 16, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

* Matthew McCann, age 35, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges McCann with distribution of child pornography with a prior conviction on or about January 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and not more than 40 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $40,100 in special assessments.&nbsp; Count II charges McCann with possession of child pornography with a prior conviction on or about January 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $22,100 in special assessments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp; Fernando Montoya-Amezcua,&nbsp;age 46, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 14, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency and property seized on or about March 14, 2023.

*&nbsp;Carmen Perez Catu a/k/a Jess Manuel Calvillo, age 39, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 9, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

* Edgar Ignacio Salas Zarate,&nbsp;age 30, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about December 7, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;Tobin R. Schaneman, age 45, is charged as a felon in possession of a firearm on or about March 25, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

* Adan Silva-Valencia, age 43, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony conviction beginning on or about September 11, 2022 and continuing to on or about March 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

* Juan Carlos Tapia-Torres,&nbsp;age 43, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 14, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Department of Justice news releaseUnited States Attorney Steven Russell announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 16 unsealed indictments charging 16 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.*&nbsp; Angelica Agena,&nbsp;age 40, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about June 29, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than four years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;Victor Hugo Cansino Monzon, age 29, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Cansino Monzon with illegal reentry after deportation on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Cansino Monzon with resisting, opposing, impeding and interfering with an officer on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 1 year imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.* Estefan Bernardino Chavez, age 29, of Norfolk, Nebraska, is charged with production of child pornography beginning on or about January 31, 2023 and continuing to on or about February 28, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and not more than 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $55,100 in special assessments.&nbsp;* Luis Duran, a/k/a Luis Duran-Salcedo, age 20, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged with assault of a dating partner by strangulation or suffocation on the Winnebago Indian Reservation on or about March 16, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;* Matthew McCann, age 35, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges McCann with distribution of child pornography with a prior conviction on or about January 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and not more than 40 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $40,100 in special assessments.&nbsp; Count II charges McCann with possession of child pornography with a prior conviction on or about January 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $22,100 in special assessments.&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp; Fernando Montoya-Amezcua,&nbsp;age 46, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 14, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency and property seized on or about March 14, 2023.*&nbsp;Carmen Perez Catu a/k/a Jess Manuel Calvillo, age 39, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 9, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;* Edgar Ignacio Salas Zarate,&nbsp;age 30, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about December 7, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;Tobin R. Schaneman, age 45, is charged as a felon in possession of a firearm on or about March 25, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.* Adan Silva-Valencia, age 43, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony conviction beginning on or about September 11, 2022 and continuing to on or about March 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;* Juan Carlos Tapia-Torres,&nbsp;age 43, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 14, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;David Valdez Ramirez, age 35, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Valdez Ramirez with illegal reentry after a felony conviction on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Valdez Ramirez with resisting, opposing, impeding and interfering with an officer on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 1 year imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.*&nbsp;Nicolas Vicente Lares, age 25, is charged with illegal reentry after being removed as an alien on or about March 1, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;* Steven Owen Watson,&nbsp;age 46, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (mix) on or about September 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than four years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;* Cameron Woods,&nbsp;age 44, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) with prior drug felony on or about April 16, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, not less than ten years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;* Domingo Zetino Hernandez, age 20, of Norfolk, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Zetino Hernandez with false representation of a social security number with intent to deceive on or about December 5, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is a 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Zetino Hernandez with use of false immigration documents not lawfully issued on or December 5, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is a 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

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