Two Colorado men were arrested in Scottsbluff on multiple drug charges. On Monday, Scottsbluff police obtained and executed a search warrant at the Capri Motel and arrested 31-year-old Oscar Aguero and 34-year-old Stefine Ramos Juarez, both of Fort Collins, CO. 

During the search officers located stolen property, over 800 suspected fentanyl pills, 11.3 grams of suspected methamphetamine, $3,300.00, and miscellaneous drug paraphernalia. both men were charged with the following:

Possession with intent to distribute (methamphetamine), possession with intent to distribute (fentanyl), possession of marijuana less than one ounce, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp. Both were transported to the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center. The Scottsbluff Police Department was assisted by the Gering Police Department and WING drug taskforce.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostTwo Colorado men were arrested in Scottsbluff on multiple drug charges. On Monday, Scottsbluff police obtained and executed a search warrant at the Capri Motel and arrested 31-year-old Oscar Aguero and 34-year-old Stefine Ramos Juarez, both of Fort Collins, CO. During the search officers located stolen property, over 800 suspected fentanyl pills, 11.3 grams of suspected methamphetamine, $3,300.00, and miscellaneous drug paraphernalia. both men were charged with the following:Possession with intent to distribute (methamphetamine), possession with intent to distribute (fentanyl), possession of marijuana less than one ounce, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp. Both were transported to the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center. The Scottsbluff Police Department was assisted by the Gering Police Department and WING drug taskforce.

Colorado men charged with intent to distribute meth and fentanyl 

By Alex Benzegala&nbsp; Panhandle Post

It's homecoming week at Alliance High School, as Homecoming Coronation was held on Monday night at Bulldog Stadium to accommodate the various sports and activities at AHS going on later in the week. 

&nbsp;Mario Rodriguez and Ciara Hudson were named Homecoming King and queen. Rodriguez says he was surprised to hear he is homecoming king.

"I was really nervous, I definitely was not expecting it," Rodriguez said. "I'm very glad that people like who I am as a person."&nbsp;

Hudson says being honored as homecoming queen is special. "I'm super excited and I'm just glad that I get to be homecoming queen for my last year of high school.

 Senior attendants were Landen Crowe and Haylie Winter who were named 1st attendants, with Felix Figueroa Celestino and Jordan Yearling named 2nd attendants.

Junior attendants are Ryan Swanson and Amy Acosta. Sophomore attendants are Lexton Salcido and Kaiya Hudson.

Freshman attendants are Trini Trejo and Lexi Lopez.

By Alex Benzegala&nbsp; Panhandle PostIt's homecoming week at Alliance High School, as Homecoming Coronation was held on Monday night at Bulldog Stadium to accommodate the various sports and activities at AHS going on later in the week. &nbsp;Mario Rodriguez and Ciara Hudson were named Homecoming King and queen. Rodriguez says he was surprised to hear he is homecoming king. "I was really nervous, I definitely was not expecting it," Rodriguez said. "I'm very glad that people like who I am as a person."&nbsp;Hudson says being honored as homecoming queen is special. "I'm super excited and I'm just glad that I get to be homecoming queen for my last year of high school. Senior attendants were Landen Crowe and Haylie Winter who were named 1st attendants, with Felix Figueroa Celestino and Jordan Yearling named 2nd attendants.Junior attendants are Ryan Swanson and Amy Acosta. Sophomore attendants are Lexton Salcido and Kaiya Hudson.Freshman attendants are Trini Trejo and Lexi Lopez.

Alliance High School crowns Homecoming King & Queen

By Panhandle Post Alex Benzegala

Irrigation season is closing soon in the Panhandle, Gary Stone, Nebraska Extension Educator with the Panhandle Research and Extension Center provides an overview of the water use in the region this season.

"The most water we used was the week prior to July 4, a little over two inches," Stone said. "The least amount of water was somewhere around mid-May and the average each week was one and a half inches."&nbsp;

Stone says the season went well and that there are resources to help growers in the future, and that includes receiving text messages when the crop water use figures are released.&nbsp;

To visit the site to register, go to the Peer Learning Agricultural Network website phrec-irrigation.com. The estimated crop water use is based on data gathered and calculations made by Nebraska Extension personnel.

By Panhandle Post Alex BenzegalaIrrigation season is closing soon in the Panhandle, Gary Stone, Nebraska Extension Educator with the Panhandle Research and Extension Center provides an overview of the water use in the region this season. "The most water we used was the week prior to July 4, a little over two inches," Stone said. "The least amount of water was somewhere around mid-May and the average each week was one and a half inches."&nbsp;Stone says the season went well and that there are resources to help growers in the future, and that includes receiving text messages when the crop water use figures are released.&nbsp;To visit the site to register, go to the Peer Learning Agricultural Network website phrec-irrigation.com. The estimated crop water use is based on data gathered and calculations made by Nebraska Extension personnel.

Nebraska Extention provides overview of crop water use in Panhandle

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

The city of Alliance is holding a City Council meeting today, Tuesday, Sept 19, and the main item on the agenda is a public hearing for 2023-2024 proposed budget. 

The proposed budget contains estimated and anticipated revenues and expenses for the next fiscal year. The meeting is at 6:30 p.m. at the Alliance Learning Center at 1750 Sweetwater Ave.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe city of Alliance is holding a City Council meeting today, Tuesday, Sept 19, and the main item on the agenda is a public hearing for 2023-2024 proposed budget. The proposed budget contains estimated and anticipated revenues and expenses for the next fiscal year. The meeting is at 6:30 p.m. at the Alliance Learning Center at 1750 Sweetwater Ave.

Budget on the agenda for Alliance City Council meeting today

A man from Scottsbluff has lost his appeal with the Nebraska Supreme Court for two murders in the 1980's.

Jeff Boppre was sentenced to consecutive life sentences  after being found guilty in 1989 of the killings of Richard Valdez and Sharon Condon.

 Boppre has continued to proclaim his innocence  and  in 2021, Boppre was seeking a new trial under the notion that there was newly found evidence.&nbsp; 

However, Scotts Bluff County District Court Judge Andrea Miller dismissed the notion on Friday, saying there was no merit to his claims.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostA man from Scottsbluff has lost his appeal with the Nebraska Supreme Court for two murders in the 1980's.Jeff Boppre was sentenced to consecutive life sentences after being found guilty in 1989 of the killings of Richard Valdez and Sharon Condon. Boppre has continued to proclaim his innocence and in 2021, Boppre was seeking a new trial under the notion that there was newly found evidence.&nbsp; However, Scotts Bluff County District Court Judge Andrea Miller dismissed the notion on Friday, saying there was no merit to his claims.

Boppre has appeal denied in Nebraska Supreme Court for pair of murder sentences

35 lucky winners earned prizes at Saturday's annual United Way of Western Nebraska's Duck Draw at the 18th Street Plaza.&nbsp;

Scott Phillips of Scottsbluff took home the top prize of a 2024 Chevrolet Trax, Connie Hubbard of Bayard had the ticket for the 2023 Honda Pioneer side-by-side donated partly by Sandberg Honda.

Saturday marked the end of the annual United Way of Western Nebraska’s Duck Draw. Over 8,500 ducks were sold for the United Way’s major fundraiser, with proceeds going to help provide funds for their partner agencies.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post35 lucky winners earned prizes at Saturday's annual United Way of Western Nebraska's Duck Draw at the 18th Street Plaza.&nbsp;Scott Phillips of Scottsbluff took home the top prize of a 2024 Chevrolet Trax, Connie Hubbard of Bayard had the ticket for the 2023 Honda Pioneer side-by-side donated partly by Sandberg Honda.Saturday marked the end of the annual United Way of Western Nebraska’s Duck Draw. Over 8,500 ducks were sold for the United Way’s major fundraiser, with proceeds going to help provide funds for their partner agencies.

United Way of Western Nebraska Duck Draw a success

There is a need for Foster Care parents in the Panhandle, and Melissa Misegadis is the Foster Care Director at Guardian Light Family Services and talks about that need.

"We're in dire need of foster homes in Alliance and the surrounding Panhandle areas," Misegadis said. "What's happening is that kids are being sent to Omaha and Lincoln, which makes reunification with their parents very difficult. We're in what is being called a foster care crisis at this point."

Misgadis says that there may be some questions or concerns that people may have about being a foster parent and welcomes anyone interested in being a foster parent or learn more, call Misegadis at on her cell at (402) 917-2052 or reach her by email Melissa.misegadis@guardian-light.com.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThere is a need for Foster Care parents in the Panhandle, and Melissa Misegadis is the Foster Care Director at Guardian Light Family Services and talks about that need. "We're in dire need of foster homes in Alliance and the surrounding Panhandle areas," Misegadis said. "What's happening is that kids are being sent to Omaha and Lincoln, which makes reunification with their parents very difficult. We're in what is being called a foster care crisis at this point."Misgadis says that there may be some questions or concerns that people may have about being a foster parent and welcomes anyone interested in being a foster parent or learn more, call Misegadis at on her cell at (402) 917-2052 or reach her by email Melissa.misegadis@guardian-light.com.

Lack of Foster Care homes a crisis in Panhandle, says organization

The Alliance Bulldogs boys' cross-country team won their home meet at Laing Lake on Saturday in Alliance. Here are the full Alliance results.

Middle school boys placed 4th as a team

Kimber Freiberger 1st place medal 12:33 PR

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Alliance Bulldogs boys' cross-country team won their home meet at Laing Lake on Saturday in Alliance. Here are the full Alliance results.Boys VarsityTrevor Zurn third place medal 17:22 PRDevin Graham 4th place medal 18:06 PRAsher Saka 5th place medal18:11 PRBen Cassatt-Reina 10th place medal 18:51Mario Rodriguez 12th plce 18:59Evan Merrihew 17th place 19:34 PROut of 52 runners JV boys (3rd as team)Filipo Bandera 5th place medal 20:50 PRGraydon Zahn 8th place medal 21:20Gavin Mann 15th place 22:25 PRGabe Busch 16th place 23:09 PROut of 37 runners Middle school boys placed 4th as a teamWill Zurn 1st place medal 10:49 PRLevi Merrihew 7th place medal 12.04 PRPaxton Richey 13 place 12:24 PRLandon O’Leary 35th place 13:48 PRXavier Rodriguez 43rd place 13:49 PRJJ Hager 69th place 16:28 PROut of 82 runners Middle school girlsKimber Freiberger 1st place medal 12:33 PRLluvia Acosta 32nd place 15:32 PRArya Greiser 39th place 16:09

Alliance boy's XC team wins Saturday home meet

Weekly Column by U.S Senator Pete Ricketts

Since its creation in 1935, Social Security has been the backbone of most Americans’ retirement plans. For&nbsp;decades, workers paid into Social Security via the payroll tax each pay period. According to the Social Security Administration, nearly nine out of ten people aged 65 and older received a Social Security benefit as of June 30 of this year.

From the beginning, Social Security benefits were untaxed, and rightly so. Think&nbsp;about it: why would the government send you 12 checks a year and then ask for money back the following year? For nearly five decades, Social Security benefits remained tax-free, respecting the fact that seniors had been paying into the program via the payroll tax each pay period. In 1983, 50% of Social Security benefits became taxable. In 1993, President Clinton signed a bill into law to make 85% of benefits taxable. This double taxation remains the law today. It must change.

When I became Governor, Nebraska taxed Social Security benefits at the state level as well. Working with the Legislature, I proudly signed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=47318" target="_blank">LB873</a>&nbsp;into law to eliminate this tax and provide needed relief to Nebraska seniors. We did it in a fiscally responsible way. We gradually phased in the tax cuts over a period of years while controlling our state government spending.

This was not a Republican priority or a Democrat priority. It was a Nebraska priority. Every Nebraska State Senator&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=8094" target="_blank">voted</a>&nbsp;to pass the tax cut in a strong bipartisan endorsement of this common-sense idea. 100% support, and 0% opposition.

This policy is working for Nebraska, enabling more people to keep their hard-earned dollars in retirement. Now, it is ready for America. That’s why I’m introducing the Social Security Check Tax Cut Act.&nbsp;My bill would bring the same policy we implemented in Nebraska to all Americans and eliminate the double tax on Social Security benefits. It starts with a fiscally responsible phase-out of taxes, beginning with a 10% cut in year one and increasing to 20% in year two. Like any tax cut, there must be a plan to make up the difference. There are numerous examples of wasteful federal spending that can be reigned to pay for this.

I believe all Social Security benefits should be completely tax-free, but big changes usually don’t happen overnight. My bill, the Social Security Check Tax Cut Act, is the first step toward completely eliminating the double tax on Social Security benefits.

Passing my bill would allow a typical senior to save $800 in 2025. That would mean $800 more to pay for visits to grandkids, groceries, medication, utilities, and more. That’s 187 gallons of milk or 208 gallons of gas at current prices - real relief in this time of rising costs and stubborn inflation. It would mean government stops taking money you earned, and are entitled to, out of your pocket.

My bill is the first step in boosting the retirement income of millions of seniors in Nebraska and across the country. I will continue working with my colleagues until we see the same kind of bipartisan support we saw in Nebraska.

Along with Senator Fischer and the rest of my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation, my team and I are here to serve you. Contact my team and I anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>. I am honored to serve our great state and will continue to work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

Weekly Column by U.S Senator Pete RickettsSince its creation in 1935, Social Security has been the backbone of most Americans’ retirement plans. For&nbsp;decades, workers paid into Social Security via the payroll tax each pay period. According to the Social Security Administration, nearly nine out of ten people aged 65 and older received a Social Security benefit as of June 30 of this year.From the beginning, Social Security benefits were untaxed, and rightly so. Think&nbsp;about it: why would the government send you 12 checks a year and then ask for money back the following year? For nearly five decades, Social Security benefits remained tax-free, respecting the fact that seniors had been paying into the program via the payroll tax each pay period. In 1983, 50% of Social Security benefits became taxable. In 1993, President Clinton signed a bill into law to make 85% of benefits taxable. This double taxation remains the law today. It must change.When I became Governor, Nebraska taxed Social Security benefits at the state level as well. Working with the Legislature, I proudly signed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=47318" target="_blank">LB873</a>&nbsp;into law to eliminate this tax and provide needed relief to Nebraska seniors. We did it in a fiscally responsible way. We gradually phased in the tax cuts over a period of years while controlling our state government spending.This was not a Republican priority or a Democrat priority. It was a Nebraska priority. Every Nebraska State Senator&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=8094" target="_blank">voted</a>&nbsp;to pass the tax cut in a strong bipartisan endorsement of this common-sense idea. 100% support, and 0% opposition.This policy is working for Nebraska, enabling more people to keep their hard-earned dollars in retirement. Now, it is ready for America. That’s why I’m introducing the Social Security Check Tax Cut Act.&nbsp;My bill would bring the same policy we implemented in Nebraska to all Americans and eliminate the double tax on Social Security benefits. It starts with a fiscally responsible phase-out of taxes, beginning with a 10% cut in year one and increasing to 20% in year two. Like any tax cut, there must be a plan to make up the difference. There are numerous examples of wasteful federal spending that can be reigned to pay for this.I believe all Social Security benefits should be completely tax-free, but big changes usually don’t happen overnight. My bill, the Social Security Check Tax Cut Act, is the first step toward completely eliminating the double tax on Social Security benefits.Passing my bill would allow a typical senior to save $800 in 2025. That would mean $800 more to pay for visits to grandkids, groceries, medication, utilities, and more. That’s 187 gallons of milk or 208 gallons of gas at current prices - real relief in this time of rising costs and stubborn inflation. It would mean government stops taking money you earned, and are entitled to, out of your pocket.My bill is the first step in boosting the retirement income of millions of seniors in Nebraska and across the country. I will continue working with my colleagues until we see the same kind of bipartisan support we saw in Nebraska.Along with Senator Fischer and the rest of my colleagues in the Nebraska delegation, my team and I are here to serve you. Contact my team and I anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>. I am honored to serve our great state and will continue to work to protect the Good Life from Washington overreach.

Americans Should Keep Their Full Social Security Check

CHADRON – Chadron State College student Ethan Tussing&nbsp;of New Underwood, South Dakota, has completed two summer&nbsp;internships at the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota. A Social Science Education major, he said the summer job sounded like an interesting change of pace from his past work and more closely related to his future career.

“An internship gives you a great way to increase your confidence. It gives you a taste of teaching.&nbsp;If anyone's planning on going into education, I would highly recommend it,” he said. “It's good to get experience while you're still a student, especially doing something you're interested in.”

He&nbsp;chose CSC&nbsp;for several reasons, including its proximity to his home, the outstanding reputation of the Education program,&nbsp;more financial aid than&nbsp;at other institutions,&nbsp;and three generations of his family had attended in the past.&nbsp;He is a member of the Education Club and Vice President of the Blue Key Honor Society.&nbsp;In the community, he has been a TeamMates volunteer and mentored the same student since 2021.

Tussing visited the Mammoth Site often as a youngster.

“I was one of the dinosaur kids. I grew up in a very science-centered household, so it really interested me,” he said.

He and the other education staff members at the Mammoth Site took turns roving through the main building with carts full of items intended to spark conversations with guests. One memorable moment in the summer of 2023 came when he was teaching from a cart of fossilized animal scat.

“I was roving with the dung cart. A boy about eight or nine was with his grandparents and they were really interested. He was pretty quiet, so I was trying to get him engaged. Partway through our conversation he stopped me and told me I was doing a good job. It surprised me because he had been just sitting and listening. It really made me feel more confident. To have that spontaneously happen was super cool and reaffirmed I was doing a good job,” Tussing said.

Science Educator Seth Vandenberg said Tussing was such an exemplary employee that he won the Intern of the Year award, which includes a $1,000 scholarship.

“Ethan has a combination of knowledge and attitude that make him excellent at working with guests of all ages and backgrounds. Using skills he learned both here at the Mammoth Site and at Chadron State, Ethan was able to take topics that might be unfamiliar to guests, such as coprolites, and teach them not only the importance and utility of studying fossil droppings, but also keep their interest and spur them to ask further questions,” Vandenberg said.

Another of Tussing’s&nbsp;favorite memories came during the summer of 2022 while he was teaching a paleontology class for children ages four to 12.

“A boy about seven or eight was digging in the pit when his parents asked me to be in a picture with him. They showed me a picture of the boy’s older brother&nbsp;eight or nine years before. He had taken the same class in the same building with a different instructor. So, they wanted to set up a similar photo of the younger son and I was honored to be part of recreating that memory,” Tussing said.

The internship has provided Tussing insights into teaching techniques&nbsp;he wants to implement in his future classroom.

“We make sure the people on the tour remain interested and willing to listen, as well as developing skills like being able to read the room,” Tussing said. “We like to talk about context or the story around the fossils. An example we used was the exhibit at the Trailside Museum at Fort Robinson of two mammoths locked together. If they had dug around one and immediately taken it out of the ground, they could have ruined the story about how the animals died.”

Tussing highly recommends meeting new people and forging connections during an internship. This opportunity was readily available to him in the on-site housing provided for the 13 to 18 summer interns.

“This year we had a student from Canada and last year we had people from California, Maryland, and everywhere in between. It's been absolutely fantastic,” Tussing said.

Tussing’s family has long-term ties to CSC, science, and the Mammoth Site.

His maternal grandparents, Gary and Nancy Fisher of Crawford, Nebraska, knew the late Dr. Larry Agenbroad,&nbsp;chief scientist and director of the Mammoth Site.&nbsp;Gary Fisher was a geoscience major while Agenbroad was on the CSC faculty.

“My grandpa took about every class taught by Dr. Agenbroad. He loved his classes and knew him pretty well,” Tussing said.

After the Fishers graduated from CSC, they remained friends with Agenbroad and occasionally received behind-the-scenes tours of the Mammoth Site from him.

“They got to see almost every facet of what was going on at the time,” Tussing said.

Tussing’s mother, Maria Tibbets, is a CSC alum who works with the University of Nebraska Lincoln translating beef research data into interesting formats for the public.

His&nbsp;father, Chad Tussing, oversaw the construction of the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks’ Outdoor Campus West and was the first manager of the facility.

“I took it all in. I have pictures of me wearing a hard hat, watching the construction,” he said. “I definitely have deep ties to that place.”

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATORCHADRON – Chadron State College student Ethan Tussing&nbsp;of New Underwood, South Dakota, has completed two summer&nbsp;internships at the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota. A Social Science Education major, he said the summer job sounded like an interesting change of pace from his past work and more closely related to his future career.“An internship gives you a great way to increase your confidence. It gives you a taste of teaching.&nbsp;If anyone's planning on going into education, I would highly recommend it,” he said. “It's good to get experience while you're still a student, especially doing something you're interested in.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694725328233.png" alt="Chadron State College student Ethan Tussing, left, teaches children about fossils and the scientists who recover them July 26, 2023, in the education building at The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, S.D. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College student Ethan Tussing, left, teaches children about fossils and the scientists who recover them July 26, 2023, in the education building at The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, S.D. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>He&nbsp;chose CSC&nbsp;for several reasons, including its proximity to his home, the outstanding reputation of the Education program,&nbsp;more financial aid than&nbsp;at other institutions,&nbsp;and three generations of his family had attended in the past.&nbsp;He is a member of the Education Club and Vice President of the Blue Key Honor Society.&nbsp;In the community, he has been a TeamMates volunteer and mentored the same student since 2021.Tussing visited the Mammoth Site often as a youngster.“I was one of the dinosaur kids. I grew up in a very science-centered household, so it really interested me,” he said.He and the other education staff members at the Mammoth Site took turns roving through the main building with carts full of items intended to spark conversations with guests. One memorable moment in the summer of 2023 came when he was teaching from a cart of fossilized animal scat.“I was roving with the dung cart. A boy about eight or nine was with his grandparents and they were really interested. He was pretty quiet, so I was trying to get him engaged. Partway through our conversation he stopped me and told me I was doing a good job. It surprised me because he had been just sitting and listening. It really made me feel more confident. To have that spontaneously happen was super cool and reaffirmed I was doing a good job,” Tussing said.Science Educator Seth Vandenberg said Tussing was such an exemplary employee that he won the Intern of the Year award, which includes a $1,000 scholarship.“Ethan has a combination of knowledge and attitude that make him excellent at working with guests of all ages and backgrounds. Using skills he learned both here at the Mammoth Site and at Chadron State, Ethan was able to take topics that might be unfamiliar to guests, such as coprolites, and teach them not only the importance and utility of studying fossil droppings, but also keep their interest and spur them to ask further questions,” Vandenberg said.Another of Tussing’s&nbsp;favorite memories came during the summer of 2022 while he was teaching a paleontology class for children ages four to 12.“A boy about seven or eight was digging in the pit when his parents asked me to be in a picture with him. They showed me a picture of the boy’s older brother&nbsp;eight or nine years before. He had taken the same class in the same building with a different instructor. So, they wanted to set up a similar photo of the younger son and I was honored to be part of recreating that memory,” Tussing said.The internship has provided Tussing insights into teaching techniques&nbsp;he wants to implement in his future classroom.“We make sure the people on the tour remain interested and willing to listen, as well as developing skills like being able to read the room,” Tussing said. “We like to talk about context or the story around the fossils. An example we used was the exhibit at the Trailside Museum at Fort Robinson of two mammoths locked together. If they had dug around one and immediately taken it out of the ground, they could have ruined the story about how the animals died.”Tussing highly recommends meeting new people and forging connections during an internship. This opportunity was readily available to him in the on-site housing provided for the 13 to 18 summer interns.“This year we had a student from Canada and last year we had people from California, Maryland, and everywhere in between. It's been absolutely fantastic,” Tussing said.Tussing’s family has long-term ties to CSC, science, and the Mammoth Site.His maternal grandparents, Gary and Nancy Fisher of Crawford, Nebraska, knew the late Dr. Larry Agenbroad,&nbsp;chief scientist and director of the Mammoth Site.&nbsp;Gary Fisher was a geoscience major while Agenbroad was on the CSC faculty.“My grandpa took about every class taught by Dr. Agenbroad. He loved his classes and knew him pretty well,” Tussing said.After the Fishers graduated from CSC, they remained friends with Agenbroad and occasionally received behind-the-scenes tours of the Mammoth Site from him.“They got to see almost every facet of what was going on at the time,” Tussing said.Tussing’s mother, Maria Tibbets, is a CSC alum who works with the University of Nebraska Lincoln translating beef research data into interesting formats for the public.His&nbsp;father, Chad Tussing, oversaw the construction of the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks’ Outdoor Campus West and was the first manager of the facility.“I took it all in. I have pictures of me wearing a hard hat, watching the construction,” he said. “I definitely have deep ties to that place.”

 CSC student gets taste of his future career in teaching

&nbsp;Governor&nbsp;Pillen on Thursday announced his appointment of Senator Tom Briese as state treasurer. Briese will assume the duties of the office on Nov. 1. He will complete the remaining term of John Murante, who will become director of the Nebraska Public Employees Retirement Systems (NPERS).

“Sen. Briese has the respect of his peers and has been a great representative for District 41 in the Legislature,” said Gov.&nbsp;Pillen. “He’s a proven leader on tax policy reform, which will serve him well in his new role as treasurer.”&nbsp;

Briese was raised in Albion, NE and is a fourth-generation family farmer. He was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2016 and re-elected in 2020. Briese has a degree in agricultural economics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a juris doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law.

“I am honored to be selected by Gov.&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;to serve Nebraskans as treasurer,” said Sen. Briese. “I have truly enjoyed my time in the Legislature and am proud of the accomplishments achieved during my tenure, as well as the relationships that were forged. I look forward to this new opportunity and continuing to serve the people of our great state.”&nbsp;

Murante will complete his tenure as treasurer on Sept. 18.&nbsp;Pursuant to statute, the powers of the State Treasurer’s Office will transfer to Gov.&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;until Nov. 1, when Briese takes office. During the transition, Assistant State Treasurer Rachel Biar will manage the day-to-day operations of the office.

Information concerning the selection process to fill the impending vacancy for District 41 will be provided at a later date.

Governor&nbsp;Pillen om Thursday announced his appointment of Senator Tom Briese as state treasurer. Briese will begin in office on Nov. 1. He will complete the remaining term of John Murante, who is set to become director of the Nebraska Public Employees Retirement Systems (NPERS).

“Sen. Briese has the respect of his peers and has been a great representative for District 41 in the Legislature,” Gov.&nbsp;Pillen said. “He’s a proven leader on tax policy reform, which will serve him well in his new role as treasurer.”&nbsp;

Murante will complete his tenure as treasurer on Sept. 18. The powers of the State Treasurer’s Office will transfer to Gov.&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;until Nov. 1, when Briese takes office. During the transition, Assistant State Treasurer Rachel Biar will manage the day-to-day operations of the office.

Information about the selection process to fill the impending vacancy for District 41 will be provided at a later date.

&nbsp;Governor&nbsp;Pillen on Thursday announced his appointment of Senator Tom Briese as state treasurer. Briese will assume the duties of the office on Nov. 1. He will complete the remaining term of John Murante, who will become director of the Nebraska Public Employees Retirement Systems (NPERS).“Sen. Briese has the respect of his peers and has been a great representative for District 41 in the Legislature,” said Gov.&nbsp;Pillen. “He’s a proven leader on tax policy reform, which will serve him well in his new role as treasurer.”&nbsp;Briese was raised in Albion, NE and is a fourth-generation family farmer. He was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2016 and re-elected in 2020. Briese has a degree in agricultural economics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a juris doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law.“I am honored to be selected by Gov.&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;to serve Nebraskans as treasurer,” said Sen. Briese. “I have truly enjoyed my time in the Legislature and am proud of the accomplishments achieved during my tenure, as well as the relationships that were forged. I look forward to this new opportunity and continuing to serve the people of our great state.”&nbsp;Murante will complete his tenure as treasurer on Sept. 18.&nbsp;Pursuant to statute, the powers of the State Treasurer’s Office will transfer to Gov.&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;until Nov. 1, when Briese takes office. During the transition, Assistant State Treasurer Rachel Biar will manage the day-to-day operations of the office.Information concerning the selection process to fill the impending vacancy for District 41 will be provided at a later date.Governor&nbsp;Pillen om Thursday announced his appointment of Senator Tom Briese as state treasurer. Briese will begin in office on Nov. 1. He will complete the remaining term of John Murante, who is set to become director of the Nebraska Public Employees Retirement Systems (NPERS).“Sen. Briese has the respect of his peers and has been a great representative for District 41 in the Legislature,” Gov.&nbsp;Pillen said. “He’s a proven leader on tax policy reform, which will serve him well in his new role as treasurer.”&nbsp;Briese was raised in Albion, NE and is a fourth-generation family farmer. He was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2016 and re-elected in 2020. Briese has a degree in agricultural economics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a juris doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law.“I am honored to be selected by Gov.&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;to serve Nebraskans as treasurer,” said Sen. Briese. “I have truly enjoyed my time in the Legislature and am proud of the accomplishments achieved during my tenure, as well as the relationships that were forged. I look forward to this new opportunity and continuing to serve the people of our great state.”&nbsp;Murante will complete his tenure as treasurer on Sept. 18. The powers of the State Treasurer’s Office will transfer to Gov.&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;until Nov. 1, when Briese takes office. During the transition, Assistant State Treasurer Rachel Biar will manage the day-to-day operations of the office.Information about the selection process to fill the impending vacancy for District 41 will be provided at a later date.

 Governor Pillen Appoints Briese as State Treasurer 

By Kevin Horn, Special to Panhandle Post

All great radio sports announcers become legends. Lyell Bremser announced Cornhusker football for 45 years. Kent Pavelka has announced over one-thousand NU men’s basketball games.

Vin Scully created radio theatre of the mind announcing Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers baseball from 1950 to 2016. Harry Carey wasn’t far behind, describing St. Louis Cardinals, Oakland Athletics, Chicago White Sox, and Chicago Cubs baseball for a combined 53 years. And then there is KCOW’s Mike Glesinger.

The 65-year-old Spaulding, NE native has announced Alliance Bulldogs sports on KCOW Radio for 37 years in legendary fashion. Mike recalls that he had missed only one Alliance High football game since 1988. Season number 38 will be his last. Retirement begins on January 1, 2024.

The first two broadcasts of the 2023 Bulldog season have found Glesinger switching positions in the broadcast booth. Mike is the color announcer for his successor, Alex Benzegala, who is now KCOW’s chief play-by-play announcer.

Alex has already announced Bulldog football, softball and volleyball games and Spartan baseball games.

Glesinger's catchphrase is "Oh My!" Alex’s catchphrase following exciting plays is, “Dear, Mama!” The catchphrase comes from his favorite song, "Dear Mama" by the late rapper Tupac Shakur, in honor of his mom.

&nbsp;Benzegala, 31, is a native of Gig Harbor, Washington. "Alliance is a great sports town, and it actually reminds me of my hometown," Alex said. “Alliance really supports their athletes and teams, win or lose.”

Benzegala, who also serves as KCOW’s news director, is very aware he is sharing a microphone with a broadcast legend.

“I was also excited to work with Mike before he retires. His knowledge of past players, coaches and teams is incredible. His stories are wonderful to listen to and very educational.”

Here’s predicting that Glesinger’s memories of serving as the eyes for thousands of listeners since 1986 will linger – to infinity and beyond.

“I truly never thought I would do this for 38 years,” Glesinger admits. “But I got in that comfort zone that I never wanted to leave.”

Glesinger replaced Mike Gastineau, who left Alliance for an announcing job in Virginia. The first game the second Mike G. would announce on KCOW was an eight-man contest in Mullen when the Broncos hosted the Alliance St. Agnes Academy Crusaders in early September 1986.

“To be honest with you, I honestly don’t remember the very first Alliance High football broadcast, he said. “I think it was Alliance at Kimball the week after that St. Agnes-Mullen game.”

His first two years were spent splitting time between Alliance High and St. Agnes. When the Academy closed its high school in May 1988, all his focus turned to the Bulldogs. He has witnessed blazes of glory along the trail.

“Alliance St. Agnes winning the State Volleyball Championship in 1987 was certainly a thrill,” he said. “As were the 1988 and 1989 Alliance High Boys basketball teams that competed at state. They only lost two games in two years. The Bulldog girls’ basketball team also competed at state six of seven years between 1996 and 2002, which was a lot of fun.”

Through 37+ seasons, Glesinger, an avid reader, has been aboard the roller-coaster that includes state champion seasons to those with zero victories.

While the team’s final records have been inconsistent through the years, the coaches and athletic administrators have not.

“No matter whom they were or what they coached, they always have been accessible and very easy to get along with,” Glesinger said. “That isn’t the case with every radio station that covers high school sports in this state. Some athletic directors don’t want to see radio stations around because they have this silly notion that we drive away crowds. That’s not the case in Alliance. Our coaches know the radio station only promotes their programs and helps create interest. That has been the case in Alliance since the day I met Skip Olds." What was the most thrilling moment?

“The 1992 Alliance-Scottsbluff football game was the most exciting high school football game I’ve ever witnessed,” he reminisced. “Late in the game Alliance’s Chris Nelson ran the old guard-around play for something like 40 yards. Alliance then scored a touchdown a few plays later and won the game by four or five points."

Another football thriller took place ten years later. Alliance traveled across the state and beat Beatrice in three overtimes, 35-34.

“Not only was it a thrilling game, but it also gave Alliance its first football playoff victory in the school’s history,” he stressed.

But his top thrill was the Alliance Boys beating Beatrice in the finals of the 2001 Boys State Basketball Tournament and the Alliance Girls State Championship run in March 2007. The most crushing Alliance defeat he ever announced was a four-point overtime loss to Lincoln Pius X in the semifinals of the 2000 Boys State Basketball Tournament. “Alliance should never have lost that game,” he opined. “Heck, we had a lead of at least ten points late in the third quarter. That really stung. But the pain went away the next year when we won state.”

Just like a million other Nebraskans, his favorite team is the Cornhuskers.

“The most exciting athletic event I attended but didn’t announce was the 1978 Nebraska/Oklahoma game in Lincoln. I was a student at the U at the

time. My whole dorm floor sat in the east stands and watched the game together.”

The Cornhuskers upset the No. 1 ranked Sooners and Heisman Trophy winner Billy Sims that cold, gray November day, 17-14.

Glesinger moved from the east stands to the press box of Memorial Stadium a few years later to announce NU football games on KRNU, the campus radio station. Each radio station originating a football broadcast had its own private booth.

Now, decades years later, Glesinger enjoys his own private booth at Bulldog Stadium.

The Alliance Booster Club donated $45,000 to build the new facility, which opened in September 2005.

For Glesinger, whose honors include receiving the Alliance Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Service Award in 2016, the press box was well worth the exercise in patience.

“It wasn't the first time I’ve had to wait to get something I really wanted,” he said. “After all, it took me six years to graduate from college. But I tell people that’s because I was red-shirted for two years."

Enjoy the 2023 Alliance Bulldogs football games on KCOW Radio.

Here’s hoping that 38 years of “Oh, My,” will be followed by decades of “Dear, Mama!”

By Kevin Horn, Special to Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694722354767.jpeg" alt="Long-time KCOW Sports Director MIke Glesinger with new News/Sports Director Alex Benzegala" />
 <figcaption>Long-time KCOW Sports Director MIke Glesinger with new News/Sports Director Alex Benzegala</figcaption>
 </figure>All great radio sports announcers become legends. Lyell Bremser announced Cornhusker football for 45 years. Kent Pavelka has announced over one-thousand NU men’s basketball games.Vin Scully created radio theatre of the mind announcing Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers baseball from 1950 to 2016. Harry Carey wasn’t far behind, describing St. Louis Cardinals, Oakland Athletics, Chicago White Sox, and Chicago Cubs baseball for a combined 53 years. And then there is KCOW’s Mike Glesinger.The 65-year-old Spaulding, NE native has announced Alliance Bulldogs sports on KCOW Radio for 37 years in legendary fashion. Mike recalls that he had missed only one Alliance High football game since 1988. Season number 38 will be his last. Retirement begins on January 1, 2024.The first two broadcasts of the 2023 Bulldog season have found Glesinger switching positions in the broadcast booth. Mike is the color announcer for his successor, Alex Benzegala, who is now KCOW’s chief play-by-play announcer.Alex has already announced Bulldog football, softball and volleyball games and Spartan baseball games.Glesinger's catchphrase is "Oh My!" Alex’s catchphrase following exciting plays is, “Dear, Mama!” The catchphrase comes from his favorite song, "Dear Mama" by the late rapper Tupac Shakur, in honor of his mom.&nbsp;Benzegala, 31, is a native of Gig Harbor, Washington. "Alliance is a great sports town, and it actually reminds me of my hometown," Alex said. “Alliance really supports their athletes and teams, win or lose.”Benzegala, who also serves as KCOW’s news director, is very aware he is sharing a microphone with a broadcast legend.“I was also excited to work with Mike before he retires. His knowledge of past players, coaches and teams is incredible. His stories are wonderful to listen to and very educational.”Here’s predicting that Glesinger’s memories of serving as the eyes for thousands of listeners since 1986 will linger – to infinity and beyond.“I truly never thought I would do this for 38 years,” Glesinger admits. “But I got in that comfort zone that I never wanted to leave.”Glesinger replaced Mike Gastineau, who left Alliance for an announcing job in Virginia. The first game the second Mike G. would announce on KCOW was an eight-man contest in Mullen when the Broncos hosted the Alliance St. Agnes Academy Crusaders in early September 1986.“To be honest with you, I honestly don’t remember the very first Alliance High football broadcast, he said. “I think it was Alliance at Kimball the week after that St. Agnes-Mullen game.”His first two years were spent splitting time between Alliance High and St. Agnes. When the Academy closed its high school in May 1988, all his focus turned to the Bulldogs. He has witnessed blazes of glory along the trail.“Alliance St. Agnes winning the State Volleyball Championship in 1987 was certainly a thrill,” he said. “As were the 1988 and 1989 Alliance High Boys basketball teams that competed at state. They only lost two games in two years. The Bulldog girls’ basketball team also competed at state six of seven years between 1996 and 2002, which was a lot of fun.”Through 37+ seasons, Glesinger, an avid reader, has been aboard the roller-coaster that includes state champion seasons to those with zero victories.While the team’s final records have been inconsistent through the years, the coaches and athletic administrators have not.“No matter whom they were or what they coached, they always have been accessible and very easy to get along with,” Glesinger said. “That isn’t the case with every radio station that covers high school sports in this state. Some athletic directors don’t want to see radio stations around because they have this silly notion that we drive away crowds. That’s not the case in Alliance. Our coaches know the radio station only promotes their programs and helps create interest. That has been the case in Alliance since the day I met Skip Olds." What was the most thrilling moment?“The 1992 Alliance-Scottsbluff football game was the most exciting high school football game I’ve ever witnessed,” he reminisced. “Late in the game Alliance’s Chris Nelson ran the old guard-around play for something like 40 yards. Alliance then scored a touchdown a few plays later and won the game by four or five points."Another football thriller took place ten years later. Alliance traveled across the state and beat Beatrice in three overtimes, 35-34.“Not only was it a thrilling game, but it also gave Alliance its first football playoff victory in the school’s history,” he stressed.But his top thrill was the Alliance Boys beating Beatrice in the finals of the 2001 Boys State Basketball Tournament and the Alliance Girls State Championship run in March 2007. The most crushing Alliance defeat he ever announced was a four-point overtime loss to Lincoln Pius X in the semifinals of the 2000 Boys State Basketball Tournament. “Alliance should never have lost that game,” he opined. “Heck, we had a lead of at least ten points late in the third quarter. That really stung. But the pain went away the next year when we won state.”Just like a million other Nebraskans, his favorite team is the Cornhuskers.“The most exciting athletic event I attended but didn’t announce was the 1978 Nebraska/Oklahoma game in Lincoln. I was a student at the U at thetime. My whole dorm floor sat in the east stands and watched the game together.”The Cornhuskers upset the No. 1 ranked Sooners and Heisman Trophy winner Billy Sims that cold, gray November day, 17-14.Glesinger moved from the east stands to the press box of Memorial Stadium a few years later to announce NU football games on KRNU, the campus radio station. Each radio station originating a football broadcast had its own private booth.Now, decades years later, Glesinger enjoys his own private booth at Bulldog Stadium.The Alliance Booster Club donated $45,000 to build the new facility, which opened in September 2005.For Glesinger, whose honors include receiving the Alliance Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Service Award in 2016, the press box was well worth the exercise in patience.“It wasn't the first time I’ve had to wait to get something I really wanted,” he said. “After all, it took me six years to graduate from college. But I tell people that’s because I was red-shirted for two years."Enjoy the 2023 Alliance Bulldogs football games on KCOW Radio.Here’s hoping that 38 years of “Oh, My,” will be followed by decades of “Dear, Mama!”Both catchphrases are legendary.

From Oh, My to Dear, Mama! 

 A farewell  reception for Dr. Tom Perkins is scheduled for September 20 as he resigned from his at-large seat on the Western Nebraska Community College Board of Governors  on September 1.

The reception for Dr. Perkins will be held immediately after the board meeting on September 20. 

If you or anyone you know is interested in stepping in and completing the remainder of Dr. Perkins’ term, that runs through the end of December 2024, send a letter of interest and resume by Sept. 29 to the WCCA Board of Governors, and the board secretary.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post A farewell reception for Dr. Tom Perkins is scheduled for September 20 as he resigned from his at-large seat on the Western Nebraska Community College Board of Governors on September 1.The reception for Dr. Perkins will be held immediately after the board meeting on September 20. If you or anyone you know is interested in stepping in and completing the remainder of Dr. Perkins’ term, that runs through the end of December 2024, send a letter of interest and resume by Sept. 29 to the WCCA Board of Governors, and the board secretary.

WNCC searches for replacement of member of board

Alliance, NE – Youth Book Club for grades 3-6 at the Alliance Public Library will share discussion of “The Birchbark House” by Louise Erdrich on Tuesday, September 26th at 6 pm in the Community Room. 

This book is featured as the 2023 One Book One Nebraska for Kids and copies are available for check out at the circulation desk with a $2 ILL fee.

For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

Youth Book ClubAlliance, NE – Youth Book Club for grades 3-6 at the Alliance Public Library will share discussion of “The Birchbark House” by Louise Erdrich on Tuesday, September 26th at 6 pm in the Community Room. This book is featured as the 2023 One Book One Nebraska for Kids and copies are available for check out at the circulation desk with a $2 ILL fee.For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

APL Youth Book Club to discuss "The Birchbark House"

The new Panhandle Post Post app for iOS and Android devices is now available FREE for your mobile device.

<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/download">CLICK HERE to download from the App Store and Google Play.&nbsp;</a>

The new Panhandle Post Post app for iOS and Android devices is now available FREE for your mobile device.<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/download">CLICK HERE to download from the App Store and Google Play.&nbsp;</a>

Panhandle Post app now available 

MILLS, Wyo.&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Bureau of Reclamation has reopened the access road to the Anchor Reservoir Campground.&nbsp;&nbsp;The road was badly damaged by flood waters at the Owl Creek Middle Fork crossing on June 12.&nbsp;The crossing was temporarily impassable to vehicular traffic, and repairs were recently completed.&nbsp;

Anchor Dam and Reservoir are features of the Owl Creek Unit in Hot Springs County, approximately 35 miles west of Thermopolis&nbsp;via highways 120 and 170. The site is very remote and has a vault toilet and primitive camping.&nbsp;

Reclamation has four&nbsp;main managing partners between 19 recreation areas in Wyoming, with more than 100,000 visitors just at our state park areas every year.&nbsp;

By the Bureau of ReclamationMILLS, Wyo.&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Bureau of Reclamation has reopened the access road to the Anchor Reservoir Campground.&nbsp;&nbsp;The road was badly damaged by flood waters at the Owl Creek Middle Fork crossing on June 12.&nbsp;The crossing was temporarily impassable to vehicular traffic, and repairs were recently completed.&nbsp;Anchor Dam and Reservoir are features of the Owl Creek Unit in Hot Springs County, approximately 35 miles west of Thermopolis&nbsp;via highways 120 and 170. The site is very remote and has a vault toilet and primitive camping.&nbsp;Reclamation has four&nbsp;main managing partners between 19 recreation areas in Wyoming, with more than 100,000 visitors just at our state park areas every year.&nbsp;

Reclamation announces road reopening at Anchor Reservoir  

The Humanities Nebraska (HN) board of directors is meeting in Chadron this week. HN is a private, statewide nonprofit with a mission to help people explore what connects us and makes us human. “Humanities Nebraska serves our entire state, so it is important for our board and staff to visit communities.

and experience the humanities at work in every region,” said Chris Sommerich, HN executive director. “Board members from Omaha and Lincoln, for example, love having opportunities to learn about great projects and meet wonderful community members in western Nebraska.”

The organization is served by dedicated volunteers on two boards: the Nebraska Humanities Council and the Nebraska Foundation for the Humanities. Board members are selected statewide from nominees. 

who show a strong interest in the humanities and the cultural life of Nebraska, with special emphasis on community leaders from the state’s diverse geographic, occupational and ethnic constituencies. Humanities Nebraska seeks a balance between scholarly involvement in the humanities and other professional, business or community endeavors. The boards meet three times annually, in January, April and September.

While in the Chadron area, board members will have a business meeting and major grant review in the Mari Sandoz Heritage Center at Chadron State College on Friday, September 15. Board members and HN staff will also pay visits to the Dawes County History Museum, the Museum of the Fur Trade, and Fort Robinson State Park and the park’s History Center.

Anyone interested in learning more or in nominating someone to serve on the board should visit the HN website at humanitiesnebraska.org/about-us/ and select “Board of Directors.” Board nominations for 2024 are due October 20, 2023.

Humanities Nebraska is celebrating 50 years of what connects us and makes us human. Let your curiosity get the best of you and discover events throughout 2023 and during Humanities Week October 7-15, 2023. HN is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities, an appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature, private donations, and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, a public-private partnership with state dollars matching private dollars to benefit the arts and humanities in Nebraska. 

By Humanities NebraskaThe Humanities Nebraska (HN) board of directors is meeting in Chadron this week. HN is a private, statewide nonprofit with a mission to help people explore what connects us and makes us human. “Humanities Nebraska serves our entire state, so it is important for our board and staff to visit communities.and experience the humanities at work in every region,” said Chris Sommerich, HN executive director. “Board members from Omaha and Lincoln, for example, love having opportunities to learn about great projects and meet wonderful community members in western Nebraska.”The organization is served by dedicated volunteers on two boards: the Nebraska Humanities Council and the Nebraska Foundation for the Humanities. Board members are selected statewide from nominees. who show a strong interest in the humanities and the cultural life of Nebraska, with special emphasis on community leaders from the state’s diverse geographic, occupational and ethnic constituencies. Humanities Nebraska seeks a balance between scholarly involvement in the humanities and other professional, business or community endeavors. The boards meet three times annually, in January, April and September.While in the Chadron area, board members will have a business meeting and major grant review in the Mari Sandoz Heritage Center at Chadron State College on Friday, September 15. Board members and HN staff will also pay visits to the Dawes County History Museum, the Museum of the Fur Trade, and Fort Robinson State Park and the park’s History Center.Anyone interested in learning more or in nominating someone to serve on the board should visit the HN website at humanitiesnebraska.org/about-us/ and select “Board of Directors.” Board nominations for 2024 are due October 20, 2023.Humanities Nebraska is celebrating 50 years of what connects us and makes us human. Let your curiosity get the best of you and discover events throughout 2023 and during Humanities Week October 7-15, 2023. HN is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities, an appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature, private donations, and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, a public-private partnership with state dollars matching private dollars to benefit the arts and humanities in Nebraska.

Humanities Nebraska Boards of Directors to meet in Chadron area this week

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Most families try to do what is best for their children. But sometimes circumstances cause a situation to spin out of control. Sometimes the best solution is to remove the child from the home. Hopefully the situation is temporary, and the family can get the support they need to get back on track. Meanwhile, the child/children might be placed in foster care.

Children enter foster care because they or their families are in crisis. The family cannot take care of a child because of a death or incarceration of a parent, or maybe a health issue or addiction is creating the problem. Sometimes a child has been neglected, abused, or abandoned. Occasionally a parent cannot control a child's behavior, and the Court will order foster care if the judge thinks it is in the best interest of the child. Some children spend days in foster care; others are in the system for years.

The foster care system is operated by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Within DHHS there is a Division of Children and Family Services, which includes child welfare. The mission of the Division of Children and Family Services is to provide the least disruptive services when needed, for only as long as needed, to give children the opportunity to succeed as adults.

Foster parents provide care for children who cannot safely remain in their own home. Foster homes provide support for foster children through either the Department of Health and Human Services or a contracted foster care agency.

There are three types of foster parents in Nebraska. A Relative Foster Home has foster parents who are related to the child/children by blood, marriage, or adoption. A Kinship Foster Home relies on a relationship that has already been developed with the child, like a neighbor, godparent, or friend of the family. In a Licensed Foster Home, parents care for a child they have not previously known.

More than 5,000 children are in foster care in Nebraska. Foster parents are always needed, and they are asked to provide a safe, nurturing home environment for the children placed in their care.

There are requirements to become a licensed foster parent in our state. Members of the household must pass a background check, including fingerprinting. Three positive reference checks are required for each adult household member who will provide care to children. A home inspection is required and is conducted by either DHHS or a contracted foster care agency. The house must meet local fire codes and have a separate bed for each child. Adult household members providing care are required to attend foster parent pre-service training, provided by DHHS. The training lasts about 30 hours.

Foster parents are compensated for the expenses of providing food, clothing, shelter, and other necessary costs associated with caring for a child. Their reimbursement for fostering is discussed on a case-by-case basis as it truly depends on multiple factors.

There are three agencies in our area who train and license homes: DHHS, Guardian Light Family Services, and Saint Francis Ministries. People who might be interested in being foster parents can also call Nebraska Foster and Adoptive Parenting Association (NFAPA) to find what agencies serve specific towns.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity Most families try to do what is best for their children. But sometimes circumstances cause a situation to spin out of control. Sometimes the best solution is to remove the child from the home. Hopefully the situation is temporary, and the family can get the support they need to get back on track. Meanwhile, the child/children might be placed in foster care.Children enter foster care because they or their families are in crisis. The family cannot take care of a child because of a death or incarceration of a parent, or maybe a health issue or addiction is creating the problem. Sometimes a child has been neglected, abused, or abandoned. Occasionally a parent cannot control a child's behavior, and the Court will order foster care if the judge thinks it is in the best interest of the child. Some children spend days in foster care; others are in the system for years.The foster care system is operated by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Within DHHS there is a Division of Children and Family Services, which includes child welfare. The mission of the Division of Children and Family Services is to provide the least disruptive services when needed, for only as long as needed, to give children the opportunity to succeed as adults.Foster parents provide care for children who cannot safely remain in their own home. Foster homes provide support for foster children through either the Department of Health and Human Services or a contracted foster care agency.There are three types of foster parents in Nebraska. A Relative Foster Home has foster parents who are related to the child/children by blood, marriage, or adoption. A Kinship Foster Home relies on a relationship that has already been developed with the child, like a neighbor, godparent, or friend of the family. In a Licensed Foster Home, parents care for a child they have not previously known.More than 5,000 children are in foster care in Nebraska. Foster parents are always needed, and they are asked to provide a safe, nurturing home environment for the children placed in their care.There are requirements to become a licensed foster parent in our state. Members of the household must pass a background check, including fingerprinting. Three positive reference checks are required for each adult household member who will provide care to children. A home inspection is required and is conducted by either DHHS or a contracted foster care agency. The house must meet local fire codes and have a separate bed for each child. Adult household members providing care are required to attend foster parent pre-service training, provided by DHHS. The training lasts about 30 hours.Foster parents are compensated for the expenses of providing food, clothing, shelter, and other necessary costs associated with caring for a child. Their reimbursement for fostering is discussed on a case-by-case basis as it truly depends on multiple factors.There are three agencies in our area who train and license homes: DHHS, Guardian Light Family Services, and Saint Francis Ministries. People who might be interested in being foster parents can also call Nebraska Foster and Adoptive Parenting Association (NFAPA) to find what agencies serve specific towns.Foster parents are always needed!

Getting Ahead: Foster Care

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 9/13/23

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

Box Butte and Scotts Bluff counties rank in the top 10 counties in Nebraska for teen driver and passenger-involved crash rate according to the most recent Nebraska Teen Motor Vehicle Safety Surveillance Report.&nbsp;

The Panhandle Public Health District and the Nebraska Department of Transportation have announced a partership where they will have a motivational speaker that will share a critical message of highway safety, positive choices and leadership at multiple Panhandle Schools. 

The upcoming assembly series is called Driven to Inspire, and features a world renown speaker in Cara Filler, who watched her identical sister pass away in a speed related car crash the day after their 18th birthday and the summer before their graduation. 

Her story has reached over two million world-wide and has been featured on Ted Talks among other conferences, assemblies and presentations.&nbsp;

The following schools offering this impactful &amp; informational assembly include: 

• Alliance High School: September 19 @ 8:15 am 

• Hemingford High School: September 19 @ 10 am 

• Pine Ridge Job Corp: September 19 @ 3 pm 

• Creek Valley High School: September 20 @ 8:15 am 

• Sidney High School: September 20 @ 10 am

• Kimball High School: September 20 @ 12:30 pm

For more information, contact: Nicole Berosek at nberosek@pphd.ne.gov or 308-279-3496.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post Box Butte and Scotts Bluff counties rank in the top 10 counties in Nebraska for teen driver and passenger-involved crash rate according to the most recent Nebraska Teen Motor Vehicle Safety Surveillance Report.&nbsp;The Panhandle Public Health District and the Nebraska Department of Transportation have announced a partership where they will have a motivational speaker that will share a critical message of highway safety, positive choices and leadership at multiple Panhandle Schools. The upcoming assembly series is called Driven to Inspire, and features a world renown speaker in Cara Filler, who watched her identical sister pass away in a speed related car crash the day after their 18th birthday and the summer before their graduation. Her story has reached over two million world-wide and has been featured on Ted Talks among other conferences, assemblies and presentations.&nbsp;The following schools offering this impactful &amp; informational assembly include: • Alliance High School: September 19 @ 8:15 am • Hemingford High School: September 19 @ 10 am • Pine Ridge Job Corp: September 19 @ 3 pm • Creek Valley High School: September 20 @ 8:15 am • Sidney High School: September 20 @ 10 am• Kimball High School: September 20 @ 12:30 pmFor more information, contact: Nicole Berosek at nberosek@pphd.ne.gov or 308-279-3496.

Motivational Speaker to talk to Panhandle Students about vehicle safety

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission announced Wednesday that firefighters from multiple agencies are getting ready for the Western Nebraska Engine Academy.&nbsp; That will include training exercises at Buffalo Creek Wildlife Management Area in the Wildcat Hills near Gering on Sept. 15-17.

Chris Becker, a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission wildlife biologist, says hunters and others should be aware that burning will occur at various locations on the property and should take that into consideration if they plan to visit the wildlife area this weekend.

Becker said the annual event readies personnel for fighting fire while providing the benefits of prescribed burning. Land managers in western Nebraska often use prescribed burning to improve diversity of desirable plants and lessen the risk of catastrophic wildfire.

More information about the academy may be obtained by contacting the Gering Fire Department at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:firedept@gering.org">firedept@gering.org</a>&nbsp;or 308-436-2441.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission announced Wednesday that firefighters from multiple agencies are getting ready for the Western Nebraska Engine Academy.&nbsp; That will include training exercises at Buffalo Creek Wildlife Management Area in the Wildcat Hills near Gering on Sept. 15-17.Chris Becker, a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission wildlife biologist, says hunters and others should be aware that burning will occur at various locations on the property and should take that into consideration if they plan to visit the wildlife area this weekend.Becker said the annual event readies personnel for fighting fire while providing the benefits of prescribed burning. Land managers in western Nebraska often use prescribed burning to improve diversity of desirable plants and lessen the risk of catastrophic wildfire.More information about the academy may be obtained by contacting the Gering Fire Department at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:firedept@gering.org">firedept@gering.org</a>&nbsp;or 308-436-2441.

Wildfire exercises planned at Buffalo Creek WMA this week

The Alliance Bulldogs came into their road showdown with undefeated Bayard on Tuesday night looking for a win to jump start their season, but the Tigers were able to hold on in five sets 3-2, (12-25, 22-25, 25-23, 25-21, 13-15)

The Bulldogs had another slow start that put them in a difficult position down two sets against one of the better teams in Western Nebraska, if not the state in Bayard.

Looking at the match, every set besides the first was extremely close, with the 2nd set being decided by three points while the next three sets were all decided by two.

&nbsp;I n a look at how the season has gone so far, Alliance had won five in a row in a tournament in Wyoming after starting the season with a loss at Gering, but the loss for Alliance drops the Bulldogs to 5-6 on the year and is their 5th straight loss.&nbsp; Alliance will look to get on track in a match at Sidney on Thursday.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Alliance Bulldogs came into their road showdown with undefeated Bayard on Tuesday night looking for a win to jump start their season, but the Tigers were able to hold on in five sets 3-2, (12-25, 22-25, 25-23, 25-21, 13-15)The Bulldogs had another slow start that put them in a difficult position down two sets against one of the better teams in Western Nebraska, if not the state in Bayard.Looking at the match, every set besides the first was extremely close, with the 2nd set being decided by three points while the next three sets were all decided by two.&nbsp;I n a look at how the season has gone so far, Alliance had won five in a row in a tournament in Wyoming after starting the season with a loss at Gering, but the loss for Alliance drops the Bulldogs to 5-6 on the year and is their 5th straight loss.&nbsp; Alliance will look to get on track in a match at Sidney on Thursday.

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