OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — CSX has agreed to start paying some of its employees more in advance of raises the railroad expects to agree to as part of ongoing national contract talks. 

CSX said the payments of up to $600 a month are expected to start next month for members of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers, Transportation Division union. 

The Jacksonville, Florida based railroad plans to reach similar agreements with its other unions. 

The side deal that CSX announced late Tuesday may be an encouraging sign for the larger contract talks between the National Railway Labor Conference coalition of railroads that has been negotiating with unions since the fall of 2019. 

Those talks have been stalled in mediation.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — CSX has agreed to start paying some of its employees more in advance of raises the railroad expects to agree to as part of ongoing national contract talks. CSX said the payments of up to $600 a month are expected to start next month for members of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers, Transportation Division union. The Jacksonville, Florida based railroad plans to reach similar agreements with its other unions. The side deal that CSX announced late Tuesday may be an encouraging sign for the larger contract talks between the National Railway Labor Conference coalition of railroads that has been negotiating with unions since the fall of 2019. Those talks have been stalled in mediation.

CSX to pay workers more in advance of expected rail raises

Items on the agenda of the 4/20/22 Alliance City Council meeting are discussed.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=x3kbx-1206a11-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Items on the agenda of the 4/20/22 Alliance City Council meeting are discussed.

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

In 1967, linguist Martin Joos identified five registers of language or styles of English usage, and these continue to be recognized today. They exist in every world language. The five registers are frozen, formal, consultative, casual, and intimate. Joos found that using the wrong register of language can be socially offensive.

The Bridges Out of Poverty materials focus a great deal of time on the barriers created by language and the problems created for those who live in poverty.

Frozen register is language that is always the same. Examples would be the Lord’s Prayer or the Pledge of Allegiance.

Formal register is the standard sentence syntax and word choice of work and school. Formal structure uses complete sentences and a large, nuanced vocabulary. This is generally recognized as the language of both wealth and middle class.

Consultative register is the formal register when used in conversation. It would be used by professionals in law, medicine, government, and education when they meet with others. People in poverty would encounter consultative register at parent-teacher conferences and in working with agencies.

Casual register is used between friends and family members. The vocabulary is shorter and less complex. Sentences are often incomplete and rely on expressions and gestures for about 80% of their meaning.

Intimate register is used between lovers and twins. When others use it, it is usually construed as sexual harassment.

We all probably use each of the five registers of language based on the situation we are in at the time. However, the situations we encounter and where we are comfortable are based on our backgrounds.

In talking about the problems created by language for people in poverty, we are going to group formal and consultative registers together, as they are primarily used by middle and upper class; then compare them to casual register. Frozen and intimate are self-explanatory, and the problems they create aren’t based on social or economic class.

How does language register impact individuals struggling with poverty? Remember that casual register relies on nonverbal assists more than word choice. This is true in both speaking and writing. Writing includes emojis and nonstandard spellings, like the ones often used in text messages. Filling out forms – job applications, insurance claims, requests for assistance – can be overwhelming.

Students in poverty households and immigrant families have complicated language barriers. In a future article we will look at the problems created in schools because so many students have only communicated in the casual register at home, yet schools operate in the formal register.

The ability to use formal register is a hidden rule of the middle class. Well-paying jobs are accessed via formal register and would use formal register throughout the work being done. Using casual register in an application letter, resume, or job interview will disqualify many job applicants immediately. Regardless of intelligence or ability, the applicant would be relegated to a lower-paying position.

Alliance is hosting Bridges Out of Poverty: Community Lens on Thursday, June 9, 9:00-3:00 at the Alliance High School Commons. Register at www.panhandlepartnership.com. The cost is $45, and scholarships are available by contacting connor.wilburn@panhandlepartnership.com. Please join us!

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceIn 1967, linguist Martin Joos identified five registers of language or styles of English usage, and these continue to be recognized today. They exist in every world language. The five registers are frozen, formal, consultative, casual, and intimate. Joos found that using the wrong register of language can be socially offensive.The Bridges Out of Poverty materials focus a great deal of time on the barriers created by language and the problems created for those who live in poverty.Frozen register is language that is always the same. Examples would be the Lord’s Prayer or the Pledge of Allegiance.Formal register is the standard sentence syntax and word choice of work and school. Formal structure uses complete sentences and a large, nuanced vocabulary. This is generally recognized as the language of both wealth and middle class.Consultative register is the formal register when used in conversation. It would be used by professionals in law, medicine, government, and education when they meet with others. People in poverty would encounter consultative register at parent-teacher conferences and in working with agencies.Casual register is used between friends and family members. The vocabulary is shorter and less complex. Sentences are often incomplete and rely on expressions and gestures for about 80% of their meaning.Intimate register is used between lovers and twins. When others use it, it is usually construed as sexual harassment.We all probably use each of the five registers of language based on the situation we are in at the time. However, the situations we encounter and where we are comfortable are based on our backgrounds.In talking about the problems created by language for people in poverty, we are going to group formal and consultative registers together, as they are primarily used by middle and upper class; then compare them to casual register. Frozen and intimate are self-explanatory, and the problems they create aren’t based on social or economic class.How does language register impact individuals struggling with poverty? Remember that casual register relies on nonverbal assists more than word choice. This is true in both speaking and writing. Writing includes emojis and nonstandard spellings, like the ones often used in text messages. Filling out forms – job applications, insurance claims, requests for assistance – can be overwhelming.Students in poverty households and immigrant families have complicated language barriers. In a future article we will look at the problems created in schools because so many students have only communicated in the casual register at home, yet schools operate in the formal register.The ability to use formal register is a hidden rule of the middle class. Well-paying jobs are accessed via formal register and would use formal register throughout the work being done. Using casual register in an application letter, resume, or job interview will disqualify many job applicants immediately. Regardless of intelligence or ability, the applicant would be relegated to a lower-paying position.Alliance is hosting Bridges Out of Poverty: Community Lens on Thursday, June 9, 9:00-3:00 at the Alliance High School Commons. Register at www.panhandlepartnership.com. The cost is $45, and scholarships are available by contacting connor.wilburn@panhandlepartnership.com. Please join us!

Poverty In Our Area: Registers of language

Governor Pete Ricketts announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff on Saturday, April 23, 2022 in honor of Congressman Brad Ashford, of Omaha, who passed away earlier this week.

Yesterday, Gov. Ricketts issued a statement about the Congressman’s passing:

“Susanne and I are saddened to receive news of Brad Ashford’s passing,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“Brad was a dedicated public servant, who cared deeply for the state of Nebraska. &nbsp;Please join us in praying for Brad’s wife, Ann, and the rest of the Ashford family.&nbsp; We send them our sincerest condolences.”

Ashford served Nebraska’s Second Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives from January 2015 to January 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashford also served a total of 16 years in the Unicameral. &nbsp;He was a State Senator from 1987 to 1995 and from 2007 to 2015.

Flags will be flown at half-staff beginning at sunrise on Saturday, April 23, 2022 until sunset on the same day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650465709195.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>News Release Governor RickettsGovernor Pete Ricketts announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff on Saturday, April 23, 2022 in honor of Congressman Brad Ashford, of Omaha, who passed away earlier this week.Yesterday, Gov. Ricketts issued a statement about the Congressman’s passing:“Susanne and I are saddened to receive news of Brad Ashford’s passing,” said Gov. Ricketts. &nbsp;“Brad was a dedicated public servant, who cared deeply for the state of Nebraska. &nbsp;Please join us in praying for Brad’s wife, Ann, and the rest of the Ashford family.&nbsp; We send them our sincerest condolences.”Ashford served Nebraska’s Second Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives from January 2015 to January 2017.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashford also served a total of 16 years in the Unicameral. &nbsp;He was a State Senator from 1987 to 1995 and from 2007 to 2015.Flags will be flown at half-staff beginning at sunrise on Saturday, April 23, 2022 until sunset on the same day.

Flags in Neb. to be lowered Saturday in honor of Rep. Brad Ashford

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

When not on a shoreline or the water pursuing fish this spring, anglers can use the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website as a resource to prepare for the next outing.

Many anglers already buy their Nebraska fishing permits online. But by spending some time on the website, anglers of all experience levels may discover something new about fishing in the state.

Among the fishing-related topics to browse are:

Aside from the Fishing Guide, which include regulations, and the Fishing Forecast, which highlights the best places to catch the biggest and most fish of several species, Game and Parks offers even more resources through its website. Discover videos, fish sampling reports, and area-specific publications on fishing in the Omaha metro area, the Sandhills, along the Interstate 80 corridor, and Nebraska’s trout streams.

Mobile fishing permits may be purchased from and displayed on a smartphone or tablet. Like a paper permit, the angler must display the mobile permit upon request by a conservation officer. Save the image of the permit on the device by taking a screenshot.

For more information on fishing in Nebraska, explore&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MTkuNTY2NjkyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9maXNoaW5nIn0.Wxi3BzqGGjcUHInAxLvYcwCHCp7qqQjMYOt8Etd3Y6w/s/497221906/br/130053273975-l" target="_blank">Outdoornebraska.gov/fishing</a>.

By Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionWhen not on a shoreline or the water pursuing fish this spring, anglers can use the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s website as a resource to prepare for the next outing.Many anglers already buy their Nebraska fishing permits online. But by spending some time on the website, anglers of all experience levels may discover something new about fishing in the state.Among the fishing-related topics to browse are:<ul>
 <li>Interactive maps – Click on Maps at the top of&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MTkuNTY2NjkyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk91dGRvb3JOZWJyYXNrYS5vcmcifQ.cLgUFHqw-yNFcraOk-0EXFSARkkXWa3vzNSOWOi1euk/s/497221906/br/130053273975-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;to find lake depths in the lake contour map (as well as maps you can download and print), discover where boat ramps are located along the Missouri River, locate public fishing areas, and browse public access sites in the Open Fields and Waters Program.</li><li>Fish identification – If you want to learn more about Nebraska’s fish species, download the Fish Key: A Guide to the Most Commonly Caught Fish in Nebraska.</li><li>Fishing events – Find a list of Community Fishing Nights, fishing tournaments and any upcoming public informational meetings.</li><li>Fish stocking – Each year, millions of fish are stocked in Nebraska to enhance fishing opportunities. Explore the stocking database to see the many species stocked in hundreds of waters.</li><li>Beginner fishing – Read Going Fishing, a basic guide that covers everything you need to know to get started fishing. Topics include equipment, tackle, casting, knot tying, tips for targeting species you can catch from shore and much more.</li>
 </ul>Aside from the Fishing Guide, which include regulations, and the Fishing Forecast, which highlights the best places to catch the biggest and most fish of several species, Game and Parks offers even more resources through its website. Discover videos, fish sampling reports, and area-specific publications on fishing in the Omaha metro area, the Sandhills, along the Interstate 80 corridor, and Nebraska’s trout streams.Mobile fishing permits may be purchased from and displayed on a smartphone or tablet. Like a paper permit, the angler must display the mobile permit upon request by a conservation officer. Save the image of the permit on the device by taking a screenshot.For more information on fishing in Nebraska, explore&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MTkuNTY2NjkyNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9maXNoaW5nIn0.Wxi3BzqGGjcUHInAxLvYcwCHCp7qqQjMYOt8Etd3Y6w/s/497221906/br/130053273975-l" target="_blank">Outdoornebraska.gov/fishing</a>.

Anglers may find Game and Parks’ website a beneficial fishing resource

In Nebraska, we know the importance of good stewardship.&nbsp; Our farmers and ranchers responsibly cultivate the land so future generations of Nebraskans can continue enjoying the Good Life for years to come. &nbsp;It’s why, nearly one hundred years before Earth Day even began, J. Sterling Morton founded Arbor Day right here in Nebraska City.&nbsp; Our farmers and ranchers are the original conservationists.

Ag producers play a major role in our responsible stewardship of land and water.&nbsp; They use innovative planting and grazing techniques to reduce erosion and improve soil health.&nbsp; And inventions like the center pivot, the development of drought-resistant hybrid crops, and the use of precision irrigation have optimized our use of water resources.&nbsp; They’ve enabled Nebraska to maintain our portion of the Ogallala Aquifer within one foot of where it was in the 1950s – a sharp contrast to other states that have drained down the aquifer.&nbsp; In Colorado, it’s down 15 feet.

Our innovative stewardship practices don’t cost us in terms of production, either. &nbsp;While managing land and water resources, Nebraska has increased its strong role in nationwide beef production.&nbsp; Since the 1960s, our ranchers have contributed to a 66% increase in national beef production, while helping the U.S. beef industry reduce its carbon footprint by 40%.&nbsp; America now produces 18% of the world’s beef with just 6% of the world’s cattle.

Nebraska does all of this while being 97% privately owned.&nbsp; We conserve without the heavy hand of government. &nbsp;And our voluntary conservation of private property has had obvious success.&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. News&nbsp;ranks Nebraska as the sixth-best state in the nation for the quality of our natural environment.&nbsp; In contrast, President Biden’s home state of Delaware ranks the sixth&nbsp;worst, and it has the fourth-worst pollution in the country.&nbsp;

Nebraskans don’t need the Biden-Harris Administration lecturing us on the environment.&nbsp; Our farmers, ranchers, businesses, and homeowners have proven their ability to responsibly use the natural resources we’ve been blessed with here in Nebraska.

Nevertheless, the Biden-Harris Administration continues to push a radical environmental agenda. &nbsp;The President is funneling funds to the EPA to extend federal control over land and water.&nbsp; His first month in office, President Biden issued an executive order calling for 30% of the nation’s lands and waters to be conserved by 2030.&nbsp; The 30 x 30 policy calls for 440 million acres to be put in conservation by 2030.&nbsp; That’s nine times the size of Nebraska.&nbsp;

Lands considered “conserved” under 30 x 30 include wetlands, wildlife reserves, state and national parks, and national monuments.&nbsp; The Biden Administration has expanded borders of existing conserved lands to reach their goal.&nbsp; This includes growing the Bears Ears National Monument by 85% and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument by 45%. &nbsp;Together, these monuments now give more than three million acres of land to federal control. &nbsp;But the Biden Administration is still hundreds of millions of acres short of 30%. &nbsp;There is no way for the Biden Administration to reach its goal by 2030 through these expansions alone. &nbsp;And they know it.

That’s why federal agencies—and their environmentalist allies—are trying to convince landowners to voluntarily give up their property rights through conservation easements.&nbsp; These agreements pay landowners in exchange for putting their land into conservation.&nbsp; President Biden’s proposed budget includes over $300 million for conservation easements.

Here's how conservation easements work:&nbsp; federal government agencies, or radical environmental groups, make enticing offers to farmers and ranchers to sign a contract to put land into conservation.&nbsp; Once signed, there’s no going back.&nbsp; Unless the contract specifies a term limit, the easement is perpetual.&nbsp; Future generations of Nebraskans have no way to go back and revisit whether the land should remain in the easement. &nbsp;It is permanent.

I signed an executive order last year to better equip Nebraskans to resist 30 x 30.&nbsp; Among other actions, it prohibits using State agency discretionary resources to support projects involving perpetual conservation easements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I also led a group of 15 governors to send a letter to President Biden, calling for transparency on the veiled 30 x 30 program.&nbsp; Since issuing his climate executive order over a year ago, the President has given no indication as to how he plans to achieve his goals.&nbsp; And our letter calling for answers remains unanswered.

In the face of soaring inflation, President Biden has proposed massive spending increases to support the goals of environmental extremists.&nbsp; His federal budget recommendation would balloon the size of the EPA, boosting its budget by 29% or about $2.6 billion. &nbsp;This shows just how out of touch the Biden-Harris Administration is with normal Americans.&nbsp; At a time when families are struggling to make ends meet, the President wants to use their hard-earned tax dollars to finance the projects of radical environmentalists and erode our private property rights.

President Biden should leave conservation to the pros – our farmers and ranchers.&nbsp; Instead, he should focus on reining in rampant federal spending that’s led to record inflation and support policies that provide relief to American families.&nbsp;

As we celebrate the 150th&nbsp;anniversary of Arbor Day and the 52nd&nbsp;anniversary of Earth Day, remember the decades upon decades of conservation Nebraskans have practiced on our land.&nbsp; We can continue to feed the world and steward our land for future generations without the heavy hand of government.

I’ll be celebrating this Earth Day by hosting the nation’s first 30 x 30 summit in Lincoln.&nbsp; Here, national, state, and local leaders will come together to discuss voluntary conservation practices and how we can fight the Biden Administration’s overreach to protect our private property rights for future generations.&nbsp; You can learn more about the summit at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstop30x30.americanstewards.us%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Ca197d71a72284a1c5b7f08da2258961d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637860061177973903%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=pdBRbsi5%2BVIslk%2FnifbFYHsHbhNZqHaZxmR6HXjEJgc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">stop30x30.americanstewards.us</a>.

If you have questions about Nebraska’s strong conservation practices or the President’s 30 x 30 plan, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

By Gov. Pete RickettsIn Nebraska, we know the importance of good stewardship.&nbsp; Our farmers and ranchers responsibly cultivate the land so future generations of Nebraskans can continue enjoying the Good Life for years to come. &nbsp;It’s why, nearly one hundred years before Earth Day even began, J. Sterling Morton founded Arbor Day right here in Nebraska City.&nbsp; Our farmers and ranchers are the original conservationists.Ag producers play a major role in our responsible stewardship of land and water.&nbsp; They use innovative planting and grazing techniques to reduce erosion and improve soil health.&nbsp; And inventions like the center pivot, the development of drought-resistant hybrid crops, and the use of precision irrigation have optimized our use of water resources.&nbsp; They’ve enabled Nebraska to maintain our portion of the Ogallala Aquifer within one foot of where it was in the 1950s – a sharp contrast to other states that have drained down the aquifer.&nbsp; In Colorado, it’s down 15 feet.Our innovative stewardship practices don’t cost us in terms of production, either. &nbsp;While managing land and water resources, Nebraska has increased its strong role in nationwide beef production.&nbsp; Since the 1960s, our ranchers have contributed to a 66% increase in national beef production, while helping the U.S. beef industry reduce its carbon footprint by 40%.&nbsp; America now produces 18% of the world’s beef with just 6% of the world’s cattle.Nebraska does all of this while being 97% privately owned.&nbsp; We conserve without the heavy hand of government. &nbsp;And our voluntary conservation of private property has had obvious success.&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S. News&nbsp;ranks Nebraska as the sixth-best state in the nation for the quality of our natural environment.&nbsp; In contrast, President Biden’s home state of Delaware ranks the sixth&nbsp;worst, and it has the fourth-worst pollution in the country.&nbsp;Nebraskans don’t need the Biden-Harris Administration lecturing us on the environment.&nbsp; Our farmers, ranchers, businesses, and homeowners have proven their ability to responsibly use the natural resources we’ve been blessed with here in Nebraska.Nevertheless, the Biden-Harris Administration continues to push a radical environmental agenda. &nbsp;The President is funneling funds to the EPA to extend federal control over land and water.&nbsp; His first month in office, President Biden issued an executive order calling for 30% of the nation’s lands and waters to be conserved by 2030.&nbsp; The 30 x 30 policy calls for 440 million acres to be put in conservation by 2030.&nbsp; That’s nine times the size of Nebraska.&nbsp;Lands considered “conserved” under 30 x 30 include wetlands, wildlife reserves, state and national parks, and national monuments.&nbsp; The Biden Administration has expanded borders of existing conserved lands to reach their goal.&nbsp; This includes growing the Bears Ears National Monument by 85% and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument by 45%. &nbsp;Together, these monuments now give more than three million acres of land to federal control. &nbsp;But the Biden Administration is still hundreds of millions of acres short of 30%. &nbsp;There is no way for the Biden Administration to reach its goal by 2030 through these expansions alone. &nbsp;And they know it.That’s why federal agencies—and their environmentalist allies—are trying to convince landowners to voluntarily give up their property rights through conservation easements.&nbsp; These agreements pay landowners in exchange for putting their land into conservation.&nbsp; President Biden’s proposed budget includes over $300 million for conservation easements.Here's how conservation easements work:&nbsp; federal government agencies, or radical environmental groups, make enticing offers to farmers and ranchers to sign a contract to put land into conservation.&nbsp; Once signed, there’s no going back.&nbsp; Unless the contract specifies a term limit, the easement is perpetual.&nbsp; Future generations of Nebraskans have no way to go back and revisit whether the land should remain in the easement. &nbsp;It is permanent.I signed an executive order last year to better equip Nebraskans to resist 30 x 30.&nbsp; Among other actions, it prohibits using State agency discretionary resources to support projects involving perpetual conservation easements.&nbsp;&nbsp;I also led a group of 15 governors to send a letter to President Biden, calling for transparency on the veiled 30 x 30 program.&nbsp; Since issuing his climate executive order over a year ago, the President has given no indication as to how he plans to achieve his goals.&nbsp; And our letter calling for answers remains unanswered.In the face of soaring inflation, President Biden has proposed massive spending increases to support the goals of environmental extremists.&nbsp; His federal budget recommendation would balloon the size of the EPA, boosting its budget by 29% or about $2.6 billion. &nbsp;This shows just how out of touch the Biden-Harris Administration is with normal Americans.&nbsp; At a time when families are struggling to make ends meet, the President wants to use their hard-earned tax dollars to finance the projects of radical environmentalists and erode our private property rights.President Biden should leave conservation to the pros – our farmers and ranchers.&nbsp; Instead, he should focus on reining in rampant federal spending that’s led to record inflation and support policies that provide relief to American families.&nbsp;As we celebrate the 150th&nbsp;anniversary of Arbor Day and the 52nd&nbsp;anniversary of Earth Day, remember the decades upon decades of conservation Nebraskans have practiced on our land.&nbsp; We can continue to feed the world and steward our land for future generations without the heavy hand of government.I’ll be celebrating this Earth Day by hosting the nation’s first 30 x 30 summit in Lincoln.&nbsp; Here, national, state, and local leaders will come together to discuss voluntary conservation practices and how we can fight the Biden Administration’s overreach to protect our private property rights for future generations.&nbsp; You can learn more about the summit at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstop30x30.americanstewards.us%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7Ca197d71a72284a1c5b7f08da2258961d%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637860061177973903%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=pdBRbsi5%2BVIslk%2FnifbFYHsHbhNZqHaZxmR6HXjEJgc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">stop30x30.americanstewards.us</a>.If you have questions about Nebraska’s strong conservation practices or the President’s 30 x 30 plan, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

Ricketts: Conserving our land without the heavy hand of Federal Government

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

Red Flag Warnings are in effect from Noon until 7 PM this evening for the Nebraska Panhandle and portions of southeast Wyoming.

 Warm temperatures, low humidities, and west to southwest winds gusting up to 40 mph are expected. 

These conditions will lead to rapid fire growth, so burning of any kind is discouraged.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYRed Flag Warnings are in effect from Noon until 7 PM this evening for the Nebraska Panhandle and portions of southeast Wyoming. Warm temperatures, low humidities, and west to southwest winds gusting up to 40 mph are expected. These conditions will lead to rapid fire growth, so burning of any kind is discouraged.<figure>
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Red Flag Warnings continue for Panhandle 

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

GREENWOOD, Neb.-The 45th President of the United States Donald Trump be returning to Nebraska for a GOP rally later this month.

Former President Trump will be hosting a rally in Greenwood, northeast of Lincoln, on April 29, at 8:00 p.m., at the I-80 Speedway.

Nebraska gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster will be the featured guest speaker at the rally.

Herbster made a three-city stop last week with the former President's son, Donald Trump, Jr.

Herbster also was in the news after eight women, including Nebraska state senator Julie Slama, accused Herbster of sexual misconduct.

Herbster has since said the accusations were both "libelous" and "100 percent false."

April 29, 2022, Greenwood, NE I-80 Speedway

3:00 PM – Doors Open and Entertainment Begins

5:00 PM – Pre-program Speakers Deliver Remarks

8:00 PM – 45th President of the United States Donald J. Trump Delivers Remarks

<a href="https://events.donaldjtrump.com/events/save-america-rally-in-greenwood-ne">REGISTER HERE</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625675671373.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostGREENWOOD, Neb.-The 45th President of the United States Donald Trump be returning to Nebraska for a GOP rally later this month.Former President Trump will be hosting a rally in Greenwood, northeast of Lincoln, on April 29, at 8:00 p.m., at the I-80 Speedway.Nebraska gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster will be the featured guest speaker at the rally.Herbster made a three-city stop last week with the former President's son, Donald Trump, Jr.Herbster also was in the news after eight women, including Nebraska state senator Julie Slama, accused Herbster of sexual misconduct.Herbster has since said the accusations were both "libelous" and "100 percent false."Timeline of Events:April 29, 2022, Greenwood, NE I-80 Speedway8:00 AM – Parking and Line Opens3:00 PM – Doors Open and Entertainment Begins5:00 PM – Pre-program Speakers Deliver Remarks8:00 PM – 45th President of the United States Donald J. Trump Delivers RemarksGeneral Admission Tickets:<a href="https://events.donaldjtrump.com/events/save-america-rally-in-greenwood-ne">REGISTER HERE</a>

Former President Donald Trump coming to Nebraska for GOP rally

A Kansas man charged with two felonies in the traffic death of an Alliance woman made his first court appearance Tuesday morning.

36-year-old Ryan McElroy of Salina, Kansas had the charges against him read out loud by Box Butte County Court Judge Paul Wess.&nbsp;&nbsp;

McElroy is charged with felony counts of Manslaughter and Motor Vehicle Homicide and misdemeanor counts of Third Offense Drunk Driving as well as Willful Reckless Driving.

22-year-old Blythe Boness was killed when McElroy’s vehicle struck Boness’ vehicle east of Alliance on Highway 2 on April 10.

Boness died at the scene while McElroy was flown to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.&nbsp; &nbsp;

At the hospital, McElroy refused to consent to a blood alcohol test.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Nebraska State Patrol was granted a warrant by Judge Jamie Worden to conduct the test. Test results were not yet available Tuesday morning.

During Tuesday’s proceeding, McElroy told the court that he could not afford to hire an attorney.&nbsp; 

Judge Wess then appointed Stacy Bach of Scottsbluff to represent McElroy.

McElroy is scheduled to appear in court again on Thursday, April 21 at 8:45 a.m. with Bach. At that time, a date and time for a Preliminary Hearing will be set.

McElroy is currently incarcerated in the Box Butte County Jail in Alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

By Panhandle PostA Kansas man charged with two felonies in the traffic death of an Alliance woman made his first court appearance Tuesday morning.36-year-old Ryan McElroy of Salina, Kansas had the charges against him read out loud by Box Butte County Court Judge Paul Wess.&nbsp;&nbsp;McElroy is charged with felony counts of Manslaughter and Motor Vehicle Homicide and misdemeanor counts of Third Offense Drunk Driving as well as Willful Reckless Driving.22-year-old Blythe Boness was killed when McElroy’s vehicle struck Boness’ vehicle east of Alliance on Highway 2 on April 10.Boness died at the scene while McElroy was flown to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.&nbsp; &nbsp;At the hospital, McElroy refused to consent to a blood alcohol test.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Nebraska State Patrol was granted a warrant by Judge Jamie Worden to conduct the test. Test results were not yet available Tuesday morning.During Tuesday’s proceeding, McElroy told the court that he could not afford to hire an attorney.&nbsp; Judge Wess then appointed Stacy Bach of Scottsbluff to represent McElroy.McElroy is scheduled to appear in court again on Thursday, April 21 at 8:45 a.m. with Bach. At that time, a date and time for a Preliminary Hearing will be set.McElroy is currently incarcerated in the Box Butte County Jail in Alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; His bond continues at 10% of $100,000.

McElroy makes first court appearance in Alliance

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/19/22

Lincoln, NE&nbsp; – Powerball is celebrating its 30th birthday with a $370 million jackpot for the Wednesday drawing. Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery reminds customers to play responsibly.

The Powerball jackpot starts at $20 million and continues to grows each drawing until it is won. There have been 27 consecutive Powerball drawings since February 16, without a jackpot winner. This run has grown the estimated jackpot for the Wednesday, April 20 drawing to $370 million or $222.8 million with the cash option selected.

This jackpot run has produced some large Nebraska winners. A $50,000 Powerball winning ticket for the March 9 drawing was sold at Nick's Gas &amp; Liquor, 224 E 3rd St in Alliance. Another $50,000 Powerball ticket was sold at Cornhusker Quick Stop, 10209 S 25th St in Bellevue for the March 12 drawing. A third $50,000 Powerball winning ticket was sold at Casey's General Store #2977, 4715 W Adams St in Lincoln for the April 9 drawing.

Ten jackpots ranging from $2.5 million to $365 million have been won in Nebraska since the Nebraska Lottery began offering Powerball in July of 1994. The largest Powerball jackpot won in Nebraska occurred in February 2006 when a group of eight coworkers at the ConAgra Foods ham and corned beef plant in Lincoln split a $365 million jackpot.

Powerball jackpot winners have two options for collecting their payment: 30 annuity payments or one cash payment at present value. The annuity option provides annual payments that increase each year. The present cash value is less than the advertised jackpot, which is based on the 29-year annuity option. Winning Powerball numbers are announced every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 9:59 p.m. Central Time.

Powerball ticket sales began on April 19, 1992, for the game’s first drawing held on April 22, 1992. To celebrate 30 years of Powerball, Nebraska Lottery players have the chance to win free Powerball tickets with the Powerball 30th Anniversary Ticket Promotion. Through April 20, free Powerball Power Play tickets will randomly print with Powerball purchases across Nebraska. See nelottery.com for details.

Because of the high Powerball jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at problemgambling.nebraska.gov.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $868 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

By Nebraska Lottery&nbsp;Lincoln, NE&nbsp; – Powerball is celebrating its 30th birthday with a $370 million jackpot for the Wednesday drawing. Because of the high jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery reminds customers to play responsibly.The Powerball jackpot starts at $20 million and continues to grows each drawing until it is won. There have been 27 consecutive Powerball drawings since February 16, without a jackpot winner. This run has grown the estimated jackpot for the Wednesday, April 20 drawing to $370 million or $222.8 million with the cash option selected.This jackpot run has produced some large Nebraska winners. A $50,000 Powerball winning ticket for the March 9 drawing was sold at Nick's Gas &amp; Liquor, 224 E 3rd St in Alliance. Another $50,000 Powerball ticket was sold at Cornhusker Quick Stop, 10209 S 25th St in Bellevue for the March 12 drawing. A third $50,000 Powerball winning ticket was sold at Casey's General Store #2977, 4715 W Adams St in Lincoln for the April 9 drawing.Ten jackpots ranging from $2.5 million to $365 million have been won in Nebraska since the Nebraska Lottery began offering Powerball in July of 1994. The largest Powerball jackpot won in Nebraska occurred in February 2006 when a group of eight coworkers at the ConAgra Foods ham and corned beef plant in Lincoln split a $365 million jackpot.Powerball jackpot winners have two options for collecting their payment: 30 annuity payments or one cash payment at present value. The annuity option provides annual payments that increase each year. The present cash value is less than the advertised jackpot, which is based on the 29-year annuity option. Winning Powerball numbers are announced every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 9:59 p.m. Central Time.Powerball ticket sales began on April 19, 1992, for the game’s first drawing held on April 22, 1992. To celebrate 30 years of Powerball, Nebraska Lottery players have the chance to win free Powerball tickets with the Powerball 30th Anniversary Ticket Promotion. Through April 20, free Powerball Power Play tickets will randomly print with Powerball purchases across Nebraska. See nelottery.com for details.Play ResponsiblyBecause of the high Powerball jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at problemgambling.nebraska.gov.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $868 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Powerball celebrates with $370 million jackpot, $50K ticket sold in Alliance

Karen Benzel discusses the process by which new United Way partner agencies are selected.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=7czej-1205159-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Karen Benzel discusses the process by which new United Way partner agencies are selected.

POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska

GILROY, Calif. (AP) — A victim of the serial murderer dubbed the Happy Face Killer has been identified nearly 30 years after her body was left near a California highway. 

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office says genetic genealogy was used to match DNA to Patricia Skiple of Colton, Oregon. 

She was found dead in 1993 on the side of California State Route 152 in the Gilroy area. 

Keith Hunter Jesperson is serving several life sentences in Oregon for the 1990s murder of eight women in California, Washington, Oregon, Florida, Nebraska, and Wyoming. 

He was dubbed the Happy Face Killer because of smiley faces on letters he wrote to police and the media.

By Associated PressGILROY, Calif. (AP) — A victim of the serial murderer dubbed the Happy Face Killer has been identified nearly 30 years after her body was left near a California highway. The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office says genetic genealogy was used to match DNA to Patricia Skiple of Colton, Oregon. She was found dead in 1993 on the side of California State Route 152 in the Gilroy area. Keith Hunter Jesperson is serving several life sentences in Oregon for the 1990s murder of eight women in California, Washington, Oregon, Florida, Nebraska, and Wyoming. He was dubbed the Happy Face Killer because of smiley faces on letters he wrote to police and the media.

California 'Happy Face Killer' victim ID'd after 29 years

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford, a Democrat who served one term representing Nebraska's Omaha-centered district, has died. He was 72.

 Ashford's family says he died Tuesday, two months after he revealed he was undergoing treatment for brain cancer. 

Ashford was a state senator from Omaha when he unseated longtime Republican incumbent Lee Terry to represent Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District.

 Ashford lost the seat two years later to GOP Rep. Don Bacon. Ashford, an attorney and lifelong Omaha resident, sought the seat again in 2018, but lost the primary to Kara Eastman. 

In 2020, he shook up the congressional race by endorsing Bacon over Eastman.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Brad Ashford, a Democrat who served one term representing Nebraska's Omaha-centered district, has died. He was 72. Ashford's family says he died Tuesday, two months after he revealed he was undergoing treatment for brain cancer. Ashford was a state senator from Omaha when he unseated longtime Republican incumbent Lee Terry to represent Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District. Ashford lost the seat two years later to GOP Rep. Don Bacon. Ashford, an attorney and lifelong Omaha resident, sought the seat again in 2018, but lost the primary to Kara Eastman. In 2020, he shook up the congressional race by endorsing Bacon over Eastman.

Former US Rep. Brad Ashford of Nebraska dead at 72

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts signed a law Monday that will allow the state to move forward with plans to build a canal in Colorado to divert water out of the South Platte River because of fears about growing water consumption in Colorado. 

Ricketts proposed the canal project to help protect Nebraska's water rights, although Colorado officials have questioned the need for it. 

The law will allow Nebraska to begin work on the roughly $500 million canal, but the measure includes only $53.5 million to start on the project.

 Officials estimate that it will take eight to 10 years to complete the project.

By Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts signed a law Monday that will allow the state to move forward with plans to build a canal in Colorado to divert water out of the South Platte River because of fears about growing water consumption in Colorado. Ricketts proposed the canal project to help protect Nebraska's water rights, although Colorado officials have questioned the need for it. The law will allow Nebraska to begin work on the roughly $500 million canal, but the measure includes only $53.5 million to start on the project. Officials estimate that it will take eight to 10 years to complete the project.

Nebraska law will advance proposed Colorado canal project

SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.&nbsp; — Multiple bystanders are believed to have saved the life of a Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Deputy this morning when his patrol vehicle was involved in a crash on the Heartland Expressway in Scottsbluff.

The incident occurred this morning at approximately 7:20 a.m. MT, when the deputy was involved in a single-vehicle crash. The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating the crash. Preliminary investigation shows that the deputy suffered a medical incident while driving his marked patrol vehicle on Highway 71, south of the Highway 26 junction. The vehicle then left the roadway and struck an embankment. The collision caused the vehicle to catch fire.

Multiple witnesses saw the incident occur and rushed to assist the deputy. The deputy was unconscious when the witnesses arrived at the scene. They were able to extract the deputy from the vehicle and pull him to safety, away from the vehicle and fire. Emergency personnel arrived on scene shortly thereafter and began care for the deputy. He was transported to Regional West Medical Center, where he is alert and in good condition.

The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office has identified the deputy as Josh Ruzicka, 39, of Gering.

“Our entire department is very grateful for the quick actions taken by the witnesses to remove Deputy Ruzicka from the vehicle,” said Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman. “We would also like to thank the Scottsbluff Police Department, Scottsbluff Fire Department, Scotts Bluff Rural Fire Department, and Valley Ambulance for their assistance.”

By Nebraska State PatrolSCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.&nbsp; — Multiple bystanders are believed to have saved the life of a Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Deputy this morning when his patrol vehicle was involved in a crash on the Heartland Expressway in Scottsbluff.The incident occurred this morning at approximately 7:20 a.m. MT, when the deputy was involved in a single-vehicle crash. The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating the crash. Preliminary investigation shows that the deputy suffered a medical incident while driving his marked patrol vehicle on Highway 71, south of the Highway 26 junction. The vehicle then left the roadway and struck an embankment. The collision caused the vehicle to catch fire.Multiple witnesses saw the incident occur and rushed to assist the deputy. The deputy was unconscious when the witnesses arrived at the scene. They were able to extract the deputy from the vehicle and pull him to safety, away from the vehicle and fire. Emergency personnel arrived on scene shortly thereafter and began care for the deputy. He was transported to Regional West Medical Center, where he is alert and in good condition.The Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office has identified the deputy as Josh Ruzicka, 39, of Gering.“Our entire department is very grateful for the quick actions taken by the witnesses to remove Deputy Ruzicka from the vehicle,” said Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman. “We would also like to thank the Scottsbluff Police Department, Scottsbluff Fire Department, Scotts Bluff Rural Fire Department, and Valley Ambulance for their assistance.”

Witnesses credited with saving Deputy after Panhandle crash

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is joining law enforcement agencies across the country this week to raise awareness on the dangers of drunk or drug-impaired driving. The effort will include troopers working throughout the entire state.

Troopers and dispatchers will be working overtime across Nebraska this week as part of the initiative. Troopers will be performing high-visibility patrols as part of the effort. The initiative will focus on priority counties identified by the Nebraska Department of Transportation. The effort will include focus on both passenger vehicles and commercial motor vehicles.

“Impaired driving increases risk to everyone on the road, not just the impaired driver,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Whether that impairment comes from use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or even some prescription medication, it’s critical to never get behind the wheel impaired.”

NSP’s portion of this effort is made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

By Nebraska State PatrolLINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is joining law enforcement agencies across the country this week to raise awareness on the dangers of drunk or drug-impaired driving. The effort will include troopers working throughout the entire state.Troopers and dispatchers will be working overtime across Nebraska this week as part of the initiative. Troopers will be performing high-visibility patrols as part of the effort. The initiative will focus on priority counties identified by the Nebraska Department of Transportation. The effort will include focus on both passenger vehicles and commercial motor vehicles.“Impaired driving increases risk to everyone on the road, not just the impaired driver,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Whether that impairment comes from use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or even some prescription medication, it’s critical to never get behind the wheel impaired.”NSP’s portion of this effort is made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Troopers on patrol for drunk, drug-impaired driving

NORTH PLATTE, NEB. — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol were busy throughout the state on Sunday, with multiple incidents leading to arrests.

Early Sunday, NSP dispatchers received a call about a reckless Nissan Altima traveling on Interstate 80. At approximately 12:40 a.m., a trooper located the vehicle as it was stopped on the exit ramp at mile marker 231. The trooper contacted the driver and detected impairment.

During the traffic stop, troopers located methamphetamine in the vehicle. There were also two young children in the backseat of the vehicle. The driver, Dezjia Davis, 33, and passenger, Taylor Davis, 27, both of Fernley, Nevada, were arrested for possession of a controlled substance, child abuse – no injury, and possession of drug paraphernalia, Dezjia Davis was also arrested for driving under the influence of drugs and improper child restraint. Both were lodged in Dawson County Jail. The children were placed in protective care.

At approximately 3:30 p.m., NSP was alerted to a shoplifting incident that had occurred at Walmart in Lexington. A short time later, at the I-80 rest area near Brady, a trooper located a Toyota Prius that was believed to be involved in the incident. The trooper contacted the driver at the rest area. A search of the vehicle revealed numerous stolen items, as well as methamphetamine. The driver, Brett Avila, 41, of Glendale, Colorado, was lodged in Lincoln County Jail for possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute, and theft by receiving stolen property.

Late Sunday evening, NSP was notified that the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office was attempting to locate a stolen vehicle that had been involved in an attempted burglary at a convenience store near Gibbon. At approximately 11:10 p.m., troopers located the stolen vehicle traveling southbound on&nbsp;Highway 10, near Kilgore Road, in&nbsp;Buffalo County. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

After a few minutes, the vehicle came to a stop and the driver fled into a field. Troopers were able to locate the driver a short time later and take him into custody without further incident. The driver, Joshua Lester, 33, of Kearney, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, theft, obstruction of a peace officer, and driving under suspension. He was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

By Nebraska State PatrolNORTH PLATTE, NEB. — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol were busy throughout the state on Sunday, with multiple incidents leading to arrests.Early Sunday, NSP dispatchers received a call about a reckless Nissan Altima traveling on Interstate 80. At approximately 12:40 a.m., a trooper located the vehicle as it was stopped on the exit ramp at mile marker 231. The trooper contacted the driver and detected impairment.During the traffic stop, troopers located methamphetamine in the vehicle. There were also two young children in the backseat of the vehicle. The driver, Dezjia Davis, 33, and passenger, Taylor Davis, 27, both of Fernley, Nevada, were arrested for possession of a controlled substance, child abuse – no injury, and possession of drug paraphernalia, Dezjia Davis was also arrested for driving under the influence of drugs and improper child restraint. Both were lodged in Dawson County Jail. The children were placed in protective care.At approximately 3:30 p.m., NSP was alerted to a shoplifting incident that had occurred at Walmart in Lexington. A short time later, at the I-80 rest area near Brady, a trooper located a Toyota Prius that was believed to be involved in the incident. The trooper contacted the driver at the rest area. A search of the vehicle revealed numerous stolen items, as well as methamphetamine. The driver, Brett Avila, 41, of Glendale, Colorado, was lodged in Lincoln County Jail for possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute, and theft by receiving stolen property.Late Sunday evening, NSP was notified that the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office was attempting to locate a stolen vehicle that had been involved in an attempted burglary at a convenience store near Gibbon. At approximately 11:10 p.m., troopers located the stolen vehicle traveling southbound on&nbsp;Highway 10, near Kilgore Road, in&nbsp;Buffalo County. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit.After a few minutes, the vehicle came to a stop and the driver fled into a field. Troopers were able to locate the driver a short time later and take him into custody without further incident. The driver, Joshua Lester, 33, of Kearney, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, theft, obstruction of a peace officer, and driving under suspension. He was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

Troopers stay busy across Nebraska on Sunday

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/18/22

By DARYL BAUER Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

There is no doubt the fish species that can send the largest number of anglers to the banks during the spring outbreak of fishing fever is crappies.

Everyone loves to sit on a shoreline on a warm afternoon and experience a good crappie bite. On the other hand, with schizophrenic weather changes, no other species of fish can be more frustrating than spring crappies.&nbsp;Consistently successful anglers always are adapting. What can an angler do to maximize the number of spring days catching crappies?

Given some warming weather, crappies may move shallow right after ice-out.&nbsp;Those early movements are not spawning-related, but rather, driven by feeding. The relationship between the predator – crappies – and their prey, determines fish location much of the year. Understanding those relationships is crucial for successful angling.

Crappies love warm areas; they also love bays, coves, corners and similar areas that are protected from the wind, especially cold north and northwest winds. Find cover in those warming areas — emergent vegetation, stalks of last summer’s submerged vegetation, brush piles, fallen trees or beaver lodges — and you likely will find some early spring crappies.&nbsp;Rocks and rocky habitats also hold fish, but, on many Nebraska reservoirs, those hold more crappies later in the spring after the water has warmed more.

Fish for crappies on a beautiful spring afternoon and everything can be grand. Go back the next day when the wind is blowing and it is spitting snowflakes, and you will be lucky to dry off&nbsp;one crappie. In some cases, those crappies may be in the same location, just tucked deeper into cover. It is more likely they drifted back toward deeper water.

Depending on where they started, how shallow they were, and the severity of the weather change, crappie may not have moved far. Or they may have moved hundreds of yards back to the relative stability of deeper water.

If those&nbsp;crappies moved out of the shallows with the weather change, they likely will not be as active or&nbsp;as easy to catch. Vertical presentations probably&nbsp;will be the best way to catch a few fish – just like when you are fishing through a hole in the ice during the winter.

As spring progresses, the water warms and the weather stabilizes, the wild shifts in crappie location and feeding attitude will lessen. Pick your days and fish when the crappies are most likely to be shallow and catchable or follow the movements and catch fish even when the weather changes.

Presentations for spring crappies should be relatively simple.

Crappies will chase prey, and at times, they can be quite aggressive. Much of the time, however, they are a lot more laid back.&nbsp;Even though their intent is just as deadly as a muskellunge or flathead catfish, their feeding strategy is completely different.&nbsp;Remember that and you will catch more crappies at all times of year.

Slow and steady, nothing fancy, nothing too aggressive usually is best for crappies, especially in the cold water of early spring. Put a bait in their vicinity, keep it there and give them a chance to move in and eat it.

Where allowed, nothing is simpler than a bobber, split shot, light wire hook, and a small, lively minnow. Dabble that in front of a crappie most anytime and they will eat; that is predator/prey dynamics at its simplest and rawest.

I like light wire hooks because they keep minnows lively. Even with 8-pound test line, you usually&nbsp;can straighten the hook when you get snagged in the woody cover you likely will be fishing.&nbsp;Hook the minnows through the back, just under the dorsal fin.

Use bobbers only as large as needed to suspend the bait. Bobbers that are too big inhibit bite detection and result in less fish caught.

Crappie jigs are a popular option. A selection of 1/64- to 1/8-ounce jig heads and a variety of plastic bodies will give you the tools you need and an infinite variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Other options include tube bodies, imitation minnows, marabou jigs and wax worms.

Jigs are meant to be cast and retrieved, but remember slow and steady is usually best for crappies, especially in the spring.&nbsp;Bobbers are not just for fishing live bait.&nbsp;Attach a bobber on your line at the depth you want to fish and you can fish a jig slower.

The spring crappie bite can be good weeks before the fish are thinking about nesting and spawning. That means when the fish are shallow, they may be in some of the same areas over a couple of months. As they get closer to spawning, the crappies, especially males, will become darker colored. Expect the bite to slow as the fish get closer to spawning. Males will select small territories, then build and defend their nests, which often are located&nbsp;next to shallow water cover objects.

When spawning behavior starts,&nbsp;males stay close to their nests and&nbsp;will not move far to take baits. Fish slowly and put baits right on the crappies&nbsp;to get them to bite during the spawn. Females may stage close by until they are ready to move onto a nest and deposit eggs; they also tend to have something&nbsp;other than feeding on their mind during the spawn.

Once the spawn is over, crappies tend to disperse and head toward more open waters. Depending on the water body, available habitat, and prey, they may venture to emerging beds of aquatic vegetation, wander in the middle of the lake, or utilize some other type of deeper-water habitat.

Some crappies will remain in shallow cover year-round, but most crappies&nbsp;become more difficult to catch as they disperse and roam open water feeding on abundant prey during summer.

Daryl Bauer is the fisheries outreach program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650297426437.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DARYL BAUER Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionThere is no doubt the fish species that can send the largest number of anglers to the banks during the spring outbreak of fishing fever is crappies.Everyone loves to sit on a shoreline on a warm afternoon and experience a good crappie bite. On the other hand, with schizophrenic weather changes, no other species of fish can be more frustrating than spring crappies.&nbsp;Consistently successful anglers always are adapting. What can an angler do to maximize the number of spring days catching crappies?Start earlyGiven some warming weather, crappies may move shallow right after ice-out.&nbsp;Those early movements are not spawning-related, but rather, driven by feeding. The relationship between the predator – crappies – and their prey, determines fish location much of the year. Understanding those relationships is crucial for successful angling.Crappies love warm areas; they also love bays, coves, corners and similar areas that are protected from the wind, especially cold north and northwest winds. Find cover in those warming areas — emergent vegetation, stalks of last summer’s submerged vegetation, brush piles, fallen trees or beaver lodges — and you likely will find some early spring crappies.&nbsp;Rocks and rocky habitats also hold fish, but, on many Nebraska reservoirs, those hold more crappies later in the spring after the water has warmed more.Where did they go?Fish for crappies on a beautiful spring afternoon and everything can be grand. Go back the next day when the wind is blowing and it is spitting snowflakes, and you will be lucky to dry off&nbsp;one crappie. In some cases, those crappies may be in the same location, just tucked deeper into cover. It is more likely they drifted back toward deeper water.Depending on where they started, how shallow they were, and the severity of the weather change, crappie may not have moved far. Or they may have moved hundreds of yards back to the relative stability of deeper water.If those&nbsp;crappies moved out of the shallows with the weather change, they likely will not be as active or&nbsp;as easy to catch. Vertical presentations probably&nbsp;will be the best way to catch a few fish – just like when you are fishing through a hole in the ice during the winter.As spring progresses, the water warms and the weather stabilizes, the wild shifts in crappie location and feeding attitude will lessen. Pick your days and fish when the crappies are most likely to be shallow and catchable or follow the movements and catch fish even when the weather changes.Keep it simplePresentations for spring crappies should be relatively simple.Crappies will chase prey, and at times, they can be quite aggressive. Much of the time, however, they are a lot more laid back.&nbsp;Even though their intent is just as deadly as a muskellunge or flathead catfish, their feeding strategy is completely different.&nbsp;Remember that and you will catch more crappies at all times of year.Slow and steady, nothing fancy, nothing too aggressive usually is best for crappies, especially in the cold water of early spring. Put a bait in their vicinity, keep it there and give them a chance to move in and eat it.Where allowed, nothing is simpler than a bobber, split shot, light wire hook, and a small, lively minnow. Dabble that in front of a crappie most anytime and they will eat; that is predator/prey dynamics at its simplest and rawest.I like light wire hooks because they keep minnows lively. Even with 8-pound test line, you usually&nbsp;can straighten the hook when you get snagged in the woody cover you likely will be fishing.&nbsp;Hook the minnows through the back, just under the dorsal fin.Use bobbers only as large as needed to suspend the bait. Bobbers that are too big inhibit bite detection and result in less fish caught.Crappie jigs are a popular option. A selection of 1/64- to 1/8-ounce jig heads and a variety of plastic bodies will give you the tools you need and an infinite variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Other options include tube bodies, imitation minnows, marabou jigs and wax worms.Jigs are meant to be cast and retrieved, but remember slow and steady is usually best for crappies, especially in the spring.&nbsp;Bobbers are not just for fishing live bait.&nbsp;Attach a bobber on your line at the depth you want to fish and you can fish a jig slower.The spawnThe spring crappie bite can be good weeks before the fish are thinking about nesting and spawning. That means when the fish are shallow, they may be in some of the same areas over a couple of months. As they get closer to spawning, the crappies, especially males, will become darker colored. Expect the bite to slow as the fish get closer to spawning. Males will select small territories, then build and defend their nests, which often are located&nbsp;next to shallow water cover objects.When spawning behavior starts,&nbsp;males stay close to their nests and&nbsp;will not move far to take baits. Fish slowly and put baits right on the crappies&nbsp;to get them to bite during the spawn. Females may stage close by until they are ready to move onto a nest and deposit eggs; they also tend to have something&nbsp;other than feeding on their mind during the spawn.Once the spawn is over, crappies tend to disperse and head toward more open waters. Depending on the water body, available habitat, and prey, they may venture to emerging beds of aquatic vegetation, wander in the middle of the lake, or utilize some other type of deeper-water habitat.Some crappies will remain in shallow cover year-round, but most crappies&nbsp;become more difficult to catch as they disperse and roam open water feeding on abundant prey during summer.Daryl Bauer is the fisheries outreach program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Getting hooked on spring crappie fishing

KAB's Kathy Worley discusses free services of Keep Alliance Beautiful as well as bags of mulch currently for sale.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Keep Alliance Beautiful" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=8xsah-1202c5c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>KAB's Kathy Worley discusses free services of Keep Alliance Beautiful as well as bags of mulch currently for sale.

POST PODCAST: Keep Alliance Beautiful

CHADRON – Chadron State College recognized employees for retirement, years of service, and several other awards Thursday during an annual luncheon in the Student Center.

Dr. Josh Ellis was named the recipient of the CSC Teaching Excellence Award. In addition to a $1,000 award and plaque, Ellis becomes a finalist for the Nebraska State College System Teaching Excellence Award to be announced later this year. Dr. Cassandra Ritzen was CSC’s other nominee.

Ellis, a professor in the Family and Consumer Sciences, has worked at Chadron State College since 2014. Ellis served as a Faculty-In-Residence during the program’s 2018-19 pilot and has continued in that capacity. As the Faculty-In-Residence, he has office hours in the Edna Work Hall Lobby and conducts monthly programming on a variety of topics.

“Each day I step on campus I smile because I find great joy and meaning in engaging with the students, my colleagues, and my course content. I consider it an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to play a small part in so many student stories,” Ellis said.

He said a common thread that guides the instructional design of each course is a focus on presenting opportunities for students to engage in self-construction and flourish in life. Ellis said he encourages his students to be intellectually humble, curious, reflective, and kind, as they strive to find meaning and purpose in life. He said he designs courses with time to allow students to engage with the course content individually and then bring their thoughts, ideas, opinions, and experiences to class for discussion.

In addition to teaching, he has served on numerous committees and task forces, as an advisor for undergraduate and graduate students, attended more than 20 professional conferences and presented at six, and been a guest lecturer in his colleague’s classes and faculty forums.

Retirees honored at the event included Pam Anderson, Dr. Timothy E. Anderson, Joy Omelanuk, Sherry Douglas, Bruce L. Hoem, Lucinda Mays, and Don E. Watt.

Eagle Impact Award recipients were Dr. Jamie Wada, faculty, and Kimberly Hernandez, professional staff. The Eagle Impact Award provides CSC students the opportunity to honor and acknowledge employees who have positively impacted them during their time at CSC based on three criteria: Inspiring, Supporting, and Empowering. One winner was chosen by students comprising the Eagle Impact Committee for each group.

Tena L. Cook, Lorin Kuhnel, and Dr. Wendy Waugh

Dr. Dawn Brammer, Cindi Walgren, and Steve Weber

Todd Baumann, Kim Bradley, Dr. Matthew Evertson, Velinda “Val” S. Malone, and Stefani Van Vleet

Dr. Ann Marie Buchmann, Kristol Cummings, Alex Helmbrecht, Malinda Linegar, Stacie Mittleider, Dr. Michael Stephens, Stephanie Stroup, Michael Vogl, and Dr. James Wada

Colleen Brennan, Kim Clark, Jeremy Fry, Kari Gaswick, Brett Hunter, Kayla Junge, Jay Long, Lucinda Mays, Kay Mitchell, Dr. Cassandra Ritzen, Steven Rolfsmeier, Jennifer Schaer, and Alisha Scoggan

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College recognized employees for retirement, years of service, and several other awards Thursday during an annual luncheon in the Student Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650294041758.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College Faculty and Staff Recognition April 14, 2022, in the Student Center. Employees recognized for 15 years of service, back row from left, Alex Helmbrecht, Dr. Jamie Wada, Malinda Linegar, Dr. Michael Stevens, and Stephanie Stroup. Front row, from left, Dr. Ann Buchmann, Stacie Mittleider, and Kristol Cummings. Not pictured, Dr. Michael Vogl. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College Faculty and Staff Recognition April 14, 2022, in the Student Center. Employees recognized for 15 years of service, back row from left, Alex Helmbrecht, Dr. Jamie Wada, Malinda Linegar, Dr. Michael Stevens, and Stephanie Stroup. Front row, from left, Dr. Ann Buchmann, Stacie Mittleider, and Kristol Cummings. Not pictured, Dr. Michael Vogl. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Josh Ellis was named the recipient of the CSC Teaching Excellence Award. In addition to a $1,000 award and plaque, Ellis becomes a finalist for the Nebraska State College System Teaching Excellence Award to be announced later this year. Dr. Cassandra Ritzen was CSC’s other nominee.Ellis, a professor in the Family and Consumer Sciences, has worked at Chadron State College since 2014. Ellis served as a Faculty-In-Residence during the program’s 2018-19 pilot and has continued in that capacity. As the Faculty-In-Residence, he has office hours in the Edna Work Hall Lobby and conducts monthly programming on a variety of topics.“Each day I step on campus I smile because I find great joy and meaning in engaging with the students, my colleagues, and my course content. I consider it an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to play a small part in so many student stories,” Ellis said.He said a common thread that guides the instructional design of each course is a focus on presenting opportunities for students to engage in self-construction and flourish in life. Ellis said he encourages his students to be intellectually humble, curious, reflective, and kind, as they strive to find meaning and purpose in life. He said he designs courses with time to allow students to engage with the course content individually and then bring their thoughts, ideas, opinions, and experiences to class for discussion.In addition to teaching, he has served on numerous committees and task forces, as an advisor for undergraduate and graduate students, attended more than 20 professional conferences and presented at six, and been a guest lecturer in his colleague’s classes and faculty forums.Retirees honored at the event included Pam Anderson, Dr. Timothy E. Anderson, Joy Omelanuk, Sherry Douglas, Bruce L. Hoem, Lucinda Mays, and Don E. Watt.Eagle Impact Award recipients were Dr. Jamie Wada, faculty, and Kimberly Hernandez, professional staff. The Eagle Impact Award provides CSC students the opportunity to honor and acknowledge employees who have positively impacted them during their time at CSC based on three criteria: Inspiring, Supporting, and Empowering. One winner was chosen by students comprising the Eagle Impact Committee for each group.CSC Years of Service Award Recipients35 YearsDr. Scott Ritzen30 YearsTena L. Cook, Lorin Kuhnel, and Dr. Wendy Waugh25 YearsDr. Dawn Brammer, Cindi Walgren, and Steve Weber20 YearsTodd Baumann, Kim Bradley, Dr. Matthew Evertson, Velinda “Val” S. Malone, and Stefani Van Vleet15 YearsDr. Ann Marie Buchmann, Kristol Cummings, Alex Helmbrecht, Malinda Linegar, Stacie Mittleider, Dr. Michael Stephens, Stephanie Stroup, Michael Vogl, and Dr. James Wada10 YearsColleen Brennan, Kim Clark, Jeremy Fry, Kari Gaswick, Brett Hunter, Kayla Junge, Jay Long, Lucinda Mays, Kay Mitchell, Dr. Cassandra Ritzen, Steven Rolfsmeier, Jennifer Schaer, and Alisha Scoggan

CSC Faculty, staff receive awards at luncheon

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. – Planning is underway to burn 1,037 acres of land adjacent to the Elk Mountain Campground this spring. The fire could occur as early as the week of April 17.

The project area includes dense and open ponderosa pine forest with a grass understory. This is a wildland urban interface area involving structures in the park’s headquarters area and a nearby private residence. Ignition will take place through the utilization of ground resources, and the primary carrier of fire will be grass.  

“This prescribed fire will lessen the threat of wildfires by reducing the fuel load near park structures and a private residence,” said Park Superintendent Leigh Welling. “It will also decrease the encroachment of young ponderosa pine onto the prairie while improving water flow into the cave.” 

Assisting with the burn will be National Park Service firefighters with support from other interagency resources.  

During the day of the burn, smoke from the fire may be heavy at times along Highway 385 and visible from the surrounding region. The highway might be closed intermittently for safety reasons. Unless there is significant precipitation, smoke might be seen in the area for several days following the burn.  

This fire represents a continuation of the park's prescribed fire program which began in 1972. Segments of the park are burned, under favorable conditions, to simulate natural fires. Prescribed fires maintain the balance between forest and prairie, removes the build-up of dead fuels which reduces the chance of a catastrophic wildfire, and rejuvenates the native prairie grasses.   

Prescribed fires are carefully conducted under identified and approved prescription conditions.  Factors such as humidity, fuel moisture, wind speed and direction, and short and long-range weather patterns are all considered in establishing the acceptable conditions for conducting a prescribed fire. If the prescribed set of conditions cannot be met on a specific day, the planned fire is postponed.   

By&nbsp;National Park ServiceWIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. – Planning is underway to burn 1,037 acres of land adjacent to the Elk Mountain Campground this spring. The fire could occur as early as the week of April 17.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650236031531.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The project area includes dense and open ponderosa pine forest with a grass understory. This is a wildland urban interface area involving structures in the park’s headquarters area and a nearby private residence. Ignition will take place through the utilization of ground resources, and the primary carrier of fire will be grass. “This prescribed fire will lessen the threat of wildfires by reducing the fuel load near park structures and a private residence,” said Park Superintendent Leigh Welling. “It will also decrease the encroachment of young ponderosa pine onto the prairie while improving water flow into the cave.” Assisting with the burn will be National Park Service firefighters with support from other interagency resources. During the day of the burn, smoke from the fire may be heavy at times along Highway 385 and visible from the surrounding region. The highway might be closed intermittently for safety reasons. Unless there is significant precipitation, smoke might be seen in the area for several days following the burn. This fire represents a continuation of the park's prescribed fire program which began in 1972. Segments of the park are burned, under favorable conditions, to simulate natural fires. Prescribed fires maintain the balance between forest and prairie, removes the build-up of dead fuels which reduces the chance of a catastrophic wildfire, and rejuvenates the native prairie grasses. Prescribed fires are carefully conducted under identified and approved prescription conditions. Factors such as humidity, fuel moisture, wind speed and direction, and short and long-range weather patterns are all considered in establishing the acceptable conditions for conducting a prescribed fire. If the prescribed set of conditions cannot be met on a specific day, the planned fire is postponed.

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