LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Applications are open to join the Nebraska State Patrol! With excellent salary, full benefits package, and unlimited career paths, the time has never been better to become a Nebraska State Trooper.&nbsp;

Troopers patrol Nebraska’s roadways, investigate criminal activity, fly drones, handle K9s, negotiate in crisis situations, operate on the SWAT Team, keep commercial traffic safe on the roads, fly helicopters and planes, safely handle explosives, and much more. With dozens of specialty positions, a career as a Trooper is a career that you get to define.&nbsp;

Troopers receive a starting salary of $30 per hour ($62,400 annually) upon graduating from the NSP Training Academy. Troopers receive excellent benefits, including medical and life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a great retirement program. Recruits are paid $22.49 per hour (with a wage increase pending) while attending the 22-week training program at the NSP Training Academy. Recruits also receive state benefits, including medical and life insurance during camp. Bilingual troopers are also eligible for a 2.5% pay increase upon graduation.

“The future is bright for the Nebraska State Patrol and we’re looking for the next generation of troopers to continue the mission,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our agency is constantly innovating to better serve the people of Nebraska. So, if you’re ready for a rewarding career with endless opportunity, join us and become a Nebraska State Trooper.”

The application process is open for Camp 68 until April 3, 2023. Camp 68 is scheduled to begin on July 5 and last through December 15, 2023.

Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by December 15, 2023, when they take the oath of office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the hiring process, including physical requirements, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskatroopers.com/" target="_blank">NebraskaTroopers.com.</a>

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Applications are open to join the Nebraska State Patrol! With excellent salary, full benefits package, and unlimited career paths, the time has never been better to become a Nebraska State Trooper.&nbsp;Troopers patrol Nebraska’s roadways, investigate criminal activity, fly drones, handle K9s, negotiate in crisis situations, operate on the SWAT Team, keep commercial traffic safe on the roads, fly helicopters and planes, safely handle explosives, and much more. With dozens of specialty positions, a career as a Trooper is a career that you get to define.&nbsp;Troopers receive a starting salary of $30 per hour ($62,400 annually) upon graduating from the NSP Training Academy. Troopers receive excellent benefits, including medical and life insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a great retirement program. Recruits are paid $22.49 per hour (with a wage increase pending) while attending the 22-week training program at the NSP Training Academy. Recruits also receive state benefits, including medical and life insurance during camp. Bilingual troopers are also eligible for a 2.5% pay increase upon graduation.“The future is bright for the Nebraska State Patrol and we’re looking for the next generation of troopers to continue the mission,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our agency is constantly innovating to better serve the people of Nebraska. So, if you’re ready for a rewarding career with endless opportunity, join us and become a Nebraska State Trooper.”The application process is open for Camp 68 until April 3, 2023. Camp 68 is scheduled to begin on July 5 and last through December 15, 2023.Applicants must be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age by December 15, 2023, when they take the oath of office. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED equivalence. Additional information about the hiring process, including physical requirements, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskatroopers.com/" target="_blank">NebraskaTroopers.com.</a>

NSP now hiring Nebraska State Troopers

Here is the Feb. 7 Alliance City Council agenda. You can also view the agenda on <a href="http://cityofalliance.net">cityofalliance.net</a>.&nbsp;

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675729780302.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here is the Feb. 7 Alliance City Council agenda. You can also view the agenda on <a href="http://cityofalliance.net">cityofalliance.net</a>.&nbsp;

UPDATED: Alliance City Council agenda, Feb. 7

Chadron City Council meeting, Feb. 6 - 6:00 P.M.

Mayor reads the following before continuing with the meeting:

“As required by Section 84-1412, subsection 8 of the Nebraska Statutes, notice is hereby

given that a copy of the Open Meetings Act is posted for your examination on the wall

inside the door to these City Council Chambers.”

1. Minutes for City Council Meeting No. 2023-02, January 16, 2023

4. Monthly Treasurer Reports for November and December 2022

b. Proclamation for FBLA-PBL (Future Business Leaders of America) Week

c. Proclamation for Problem Gambling Awareness Month (March 2023)

d. Resolution No. 2023-07 To Approve an Application of United Way of Western Nebraska for ACE/KENO Community Betterment Grant Funds

e. Resolution No. 2023-08 To Approve an Application of the Fur Trade Days, Inc. for ACE/KENO Community Betterment Grant Funds

f. Resolution No. 2023-09 To Approve an Application of the Chadron Community Hospital Corporation dba Western Community Health Resources (WCHR) for ACE/KENO Community Betterment Grant Funds

g. Resolution No. 2023-10 To Approve an Application of the Dawes and Sioux County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) for ACE/KENO Community Betterment Grant Funds

(REQUEST TO TABLE UNTIL 02/20/2023 COUNCIL MEETING)

h. Resolution No. 2023-11 To Renew Farm Lease Agreement between the City of Chadron and T T &amp; J, Inc. (Craig Price) for the Purpose of General Agricultural Activities on Lot 5, Southwest Tenth Addition (South of Greenwood Cemetery)

i. Donald Hlava, AgTeam Land Brokers – Discussion Regarding the Desire and Capability of the City of Chadron to Purchase the Panhandle Event Center Located at 247 Bordeaux Street as a Possible Community Center

j. Resolution No. 2023-12 To Approve Specifications for One (1) New 2023 ½ Ton Crew Cab 4x4 Pickup Truck for the Parks/Cemetery Department and Authorize Notice to Dealers

k. Resolution No. 2023-13 To Approve the Plans and Specifications for the Sixth Street Paving Project (Main to King Street) and Authorize Notice to Contractors/Bidders

l. Resolution No. 2023-14 To Rescind Resolution No. 2023-04 and Approve Agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation with Amended Attachment B for Maintenance of Highway US-20 for the 2023 Calendar Year

m. Resolution No. 2023-15 To Approve Year-End Certifications for Street Superintendent for 2022 per a Requirement of the State of Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT)

n. Motion to Designate Dustin Glass as the Street Superintendent for the City of Chadron for the 2023 Calendar Year as Required by the NE Department of Transportation

o. Schedule Date and Time for Special City Council Meeting/Workshop for City Council Informational/Training Purposes

q. Interim City Manager Report (Information Only, No Action Required)

r. Resolution No. 2023-16 To Excuse Absence of Councilmember(s)

t. Legal/Personnel Matters Involving the City Manager Position (R.R.S. 1943 84-1410)

By City of ChadronChadron City Council meeting, Feb. 6 - 6:00 P.M.Call to OrderPledge of AllegianceMayor reads the following before continuing with the meeting:“As required by Section 84-1412, subsection 8 of the Nebraska Statutes, notice is herebygiven that a copy of the Open Meetings Act is posted for your examination on the wallinside the door to these City Council Chambers.”Roll CallApproval of Agendaa. Consent Agenda1. Minutes for City Council Meeting No. 2023-02, January 16, 20232. Correspondence3. Minutes for Boards and Commissions4. Monthly Treasurer Reports for November and December 2022b. Proclamation for FBLA-PBL (Future Business Leaders of America) Week(February 5 – 11, 2023)c. Proclamation for Problem Gambling Awareness Month (March 2023)d. Resolution No. 2023-07 To Approve an Application of United Way of Western Nebraska for ACE/KENO Community Betterment Grant Fundse. Resolution No. 2023-08 To Approve an Application of the Fur Trade Days, Inc. for ACE/KENO Community Betterment Grant Fundsf. Resolution No. 2023-09 To Approve an Application of the Chadron Community Hospital Corporation dba Western Community Health Resources (WCHR) for ACE/KENO Community Betterment Grant Fundsg. Resolution No. 2023-10 To Approve an Application of the Dawes and Sioux County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) for ACE/KENO Community Betterment Grant Funds(REQUEST TO TABLE UNTIL 02/20/2023 COUNCIL MEETING)h. Resolution No. 2023-11 To Renew Farm Lease Agreement between the City of Chadron and T T &amp; J, Inc. (Craig Price) for the Purpose of General Agricultural Activities on Lot 5, Southwest Tenth Addition (South of Greenwood Cemetery)(REQUEST TO TABLE UNTIL 02/20/2023 COUNCIL MEETING)i. Donald Hlava, AgTeam Land Brokers – Discussion Regarding the Desire and Capability of the City of Chadron to Purchase the Panhandle Event Center Located at 247 Bordeaux Street as a Possible Community Centerj. Resolution No. 2023-12 To Approve Specifications for One (1) New 2023 ½ Ton Crew Cab 4x4 Pickup Truck for the Parks/Cemetery Department and Authorize Notice to Dealersk. Resolution No. 2023-13 To Approve the Plans and Specifications for the Sixth Street Paving Project (Main to King Street) and Authorize Notice to Contractors/Biddersl. Resolution No. 2023-14 To Rescind Resolution No. 2023-04 and Approve Agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation with Amended Attachment B for Maintenance of Highway US-20 for the 2023 Calendar Yearm. Resolution No. 2023-15 To Approve Year-End Certifications for Street Superintendent for 2022 per a Requirement of the State of Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT)n. Motion to Designate Dustin Glass as the Street Superintendent for the City of Chadron for the 2023 Calendar Year as Required by the NE Department of Transportationo. Schedule Date and Time for Special City Council Meeting/Workshop for City Council Informational/Training Purposesp. Motion to Approve Claimsq. Interim City Manager Report (Information Only, No Action Required)r. Resolution No. 2023-16 To Excuse Absence of Councilmember(s)s. Council Closing Commentst. Legal/Personnel Matters Involving the City Manager Position (R.R.S. 1943 84-1410)u. Adjourn

Chadron City Council agenda, Feb. 6

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen announced he appointed&nbsp;Jim Scheer as the District 3 Regent on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.&nbsp;

"Jim is a public servant who will work to grow the University of Nebraska," said&nbsp;Governor Pillen. "He believes in educational excellence, the importance of agriculture, and fiscal conservative leadership."

Scheer represented District 19 in the Nebraska Legislature from 2013 to 2021. He was elected Speaker of the Legislature in 2017. Previously, he served on the Norfolk school board and as the mayor of Norfolk. Between 2004 and 2008, he was on the Nebraska State Board of Education and served as the board president in 2011 and 2012. He is a small business owner, who runs an insurance agency and an auto-parts store. Scheer earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675695286202.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Governor PillenNebraska Governor Jim Pillen announced he appointed&nbsp;Jim Scheer as the District 3 Regent on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents.&nbsp;"Jim is a public servant who will work to grow the University of Nebraska," said&nbsp;Governor Pillen. "He believes in educational excellence, the importance of agriculture, and fiscal conservative leadership."Scheer represented District 19 in the Nebraska Legislature from 2013 to 2021. He was elected Speaker of the Legislature in 2017. Previously, he served on the Norfolk school board and as the mayor of Norfolk. Between 2004 and 2008, he was on the Nebraska State Board of Education and served as the board president in 2011 and 2012. He is a small business owner, who runs an insurance agency and an auto-parts store. Scheer earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Gov. Pillen appoints University of Neb. Regent for District 3

Every Nebraska kid should be given the opportunity to have their educational needs met, whether they live in Omaha or Scottsbluff. Every parent regardless of socio-economic status should have the ability to decide what is the best school to meet their child’s need.  

Currently, Nebraska remains one of only two states that does not support school choice. This leaves us uncompetitive with neighboring states and it means we are not giving our kids every opportunity to flourish at a school they want to attend.   

This past week, I participated in a rally at the Capitol with six schools advocating for the Opportunity Scholarships Act, a priority bill to commit $50 million in tax credits to give underprivileged kids the ability to attend schools of their choice. Grants will be issued from qualified organizations to students who meet certain criteria. Priority will be given to those who live in poverty, foster care, experience bullying, harassment, or other victimizing behaviors, or have a parent or guardian, who is serving in the military.  

I support this bill because I support competition. This legislation will give parents, who have kids with the greatest needs, the means to choose a school that serves them best and allows them to thrive.  

The kids I met in the Rotunda already know that opportunity. Now, we need to give others the same chance. This is not about public education vs private education; it is simply about creating an opportunity for all parents to choose what they believe best fits their child’s needs. 

Over the past two years, multiple states have taken focused steps to give parents and students more education alternatives.  

I know all Nebraskans believe we should never, ever give up on a kid. The Opportunity Scholarships Act is part of my promise to make Nebraska a place where future generations can succeed. Now is the time for Nebraska to step up our competition in education to help our kids prosper. 

If you have any questions about our vision for Nebraska, please call my office at 402-471-2244 or email me at jim.pillen@nebraska.gov. Together we can!

By Gov. PillenEvery Nebraska kid should be given the opportunity to have their educational needs met, whether they live in Omaha or Scottsbluff. Every parent regardless of socio-economic status should have the ability to decide what is the best school to meet their child’s need. Currently, Nebraska remains one of only two states that does not support school choice. This leaves us uncompetitive with neighboring states and it means we are not giving our kids every opportunity to flourish at a school they want to attend. This past week, I participated in a rally at the Capitol with six schools advocating for the Opportunity Scholarships Act, a priority bill to commit $50 million in tax credits to give underprivileged kids the ability to attend schools of their choice. Grants will be issued from qualified organizations to students who meet certain criteria. Priority will be given to those who live in poverty, foster care, experience bullying, harassment, or other victimizing behaviors, or have a parent or guardian, who is serving in the military. I support this bill because I support competition. This legislation will give parents, who have kids with the greatest needs, the means to choose a school that serves them best and allows them to thrive. The kids I met in the Rotunda already know that opportunity. Now, we need to give others the same chance. This is not about public education vs private education; it is simply about creating an opportunity for all parents to choose what they believe best fits their child’s needs. Over the past two years, multiple states have taken focused steps to give parents and students more education alternatives. I know all Nebraskans believe we should never, ever give up on a kid. The Opportunity Scholarships Act is part of my promise to make Nebraska a place where future generations can succeed. Now is the time for Nebraska to step up our competition in education to help our kids prosper. If you have any questions about our vision for Nebraska, please call my office at 402-471-2244 or email me at jim.pillen@nebraska.gov. Together we can!

Gov. Pillen: Every kid deserves school choice

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A United Airlines flight headed from Chicago to Las Vegas made an unplanned stop in Nebraska on Saturday after the pilot reported engine problems.

Mark Grant, a communications operator at the Lincoln Airport, said 326 passengers and crew members were aboard the Boeing 777 when it took off from O’Hare International Airport.

After the plane lost the use of one of its engines about 70 miles (112.65 kilometers) west of Lincoln, the pilot turned around. Grant said the pilot landed the plane safely at the Lincoln Airport at 11:41 a.m.

United Airlines described what happened in a news release as a “technical issue" and said another plane was sent to Lincoln to pick up the passengers of Flight 1888 so they could finish their trip.

By Associated PressLINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A United Airlines flight headed from Chicago to Las Vegas made an unplanned stop in Nebraska on Saturday after the pilot reported engine problems.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675644761137.jpeg" alt="Members of the ground crew secure the site after a United airlines flight made an emergency landing at the Lincoln airport on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023. The flight headed from Chicago to Las Vegas made an unplanned stop in Nebraska on Saturday after the pilot reported engine problems.(Kenneth Ferriera/Lincoln Journal Star via AP)" />
 <figcaption>Members of the ground crew secure the site after a United airlines flight made an emergency landing at the Lincoln airport on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2023. The flight headed from Chicago to Las Vegas made an unplanned stop in Nebraska on Saturday after the pilot reported engine problems.(Kenneth Ferriera/Lincoln Journal Star via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>Mark Grant, a communications operator at the Lincoln Airport, said 326 passengers and crew members were aboard the Boeing 777 when it took off from O’Hare International Airport.After the plane lost the use of one of its engines about 70 miles (112.65 kilometers) west of Lincoln, the pilot turned around. Grant said the pilot landed the plane safely at the Lincoln Airport at 11:41 a.m.United Airlines described what happened in a news release as a “technical issue" and said another plane was sent to Lincoln to pick up the passengers of Flight 1888 so they could finish their trip.

Engine problems force Vegas-bound flight to land in Nebraska

Most people know that getting enough sleep is important for their health, but many do not realize that there are specific health benefits that come from getting a good night’s sleep. Getting enough sleep can improve your mood, help you maintain a healthy weight, and reduce your risk of chronic health problems like diabetes and heart disease. Sleep can even help boost your immune system and improve memory.

Despite knowing that sleep is important, according to the CDC, one in three adults do not get enough sleep. The National Sleep Foundation found that almost half of all Americans say they feel sleepy during the day between three and seven days each week. Many untreated health conditions can interrupt or affect sleep. Issues from an enlarged prostate, hot flashes from menopause, sleep apnea, acid reflux, and restless legs are just some of the conditions that can keep us from a good night’s rest. A lack of sleep can also affect or worsen depression and anxiety. Unfortunately depression and anxiety can make falling asleep much harder causing a cycle of worsening mood and sleep difficulties.

Weight can also be affected by the lack of sleep due to the hormones that help regulate your appetite and sense of fullness. Lack of sleep increases the hormone ghrelin, which increases appetite. Even partial sleep deprivation can increase the body’s resistance to insulin. This can increase blood sugar levels and contribute to the development of diabetes.

Loss of sleep affects the risk of heart attacks and high blood pressure. This is related to the hormone, cortisol which is on a circadian rhythm and increases in the morning hours. Increased cortisol helps to awaken you and peaks about thirty to forty-five minutes after awakening. One study found that there was a 24% increase in heart attacks on the Monday after Daylight Savings Time. This increase is thought to be related to the hour of sleep lost and increased cortisol levels.

Certain immune components work more while you are sleeping to help repair the body and fight infections. Good sleep helps consolidate memories, improves creativity, and can even improve sports performance.

Getting a good night’s rest is not just nice, it is imperative to your body’s health. If you are having trouble sleeping, it is important to talk with your health care provider to see what can be done to help your sleep improve. He or she can also help rule out any underlying health conditions that could be impacting your ability to get the rest your body needs. Count some sheep and get some extra ZZZ’s so you can “stay healthy out there!”

Jill Kruse, D.O. is part of The Prairie Doc® team of physicians and currently practices as a hospitalist in Brookings, South Dakota. Follow The Prairie Doc® at www.prairiedoc.org and on Facebook featuring On Call with the Prairie Doc®, a medical Q&amp;A show providing health information based on science, built on trust, streaming live on Facebook most Thursdays at 7 p.m. central.

By Jill Kruse, DO<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675440878503.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Most people know that getting enough sleep is important for their health, but many do not realize that there are specific health benefits that come from getting a good night’s sleep. Getting enough sleep can improve your mood, help you maintain a healthy weight, and reduce your risk of chronic health problems like diabetes and heart disease. Sleep can even help boost your immune system and improve memory.Despite knowing that sleep is important, according to the CDC, one in three adults do not get enough sleep. The National Sleep Foundation found that almost half of all Americans say they feel sleepy during the day between three and seven days each week. Many untreated health conditions can interrupt or affect sleep. Issues from an enlarged prostate, hot flashes from menopause, sleep apnea, acid reflux, and restless legs are just some of the conditions that can keep us from a good night’s rest. A lack of sleep can also affect or worsen depression and anxiety. Unfortunately depression and anxiety can make falling asleep much harder causing a cycle of worsening mood and sleep difficulties.Weight can also be affected by the lack of sleep due to the hormones that help regulate your appetite and sense of fullness. Lack of sleep increases the hormone ghrelin, which increases appetite. Even partial sleep deprivation can increase the body’s resistance to insulin. This can increase blood sugar levels and contribute to the development of diabetes.Loss of sleep affects the risk of heart attacks and high blood pressure. This is related to the hormone, cortisol which is on a circadian rhythm and increases in the morning hours. Increased cortisol helps to awaken you and peaks about thirty to forty-five minutes after awakening. One study found that there was a 24% increase in heart attacks on the Monday after Daylight Savings Time. This increase is thought to be related to the hour of sleep lost and increased cortisol levels.Certain immune components work more while you are sleeping to help repair the body and fight infections. Good sleep helps consolidate memories, improves creativity, and can even improve sports performance.Getting a good night’s rest is not just nice, it is imperative to your body’s health. If you are having trouble sleeping, it is important to talk with your health care provider to see what can be done to help your sleep improve. He or she can also help rule out any underlying health conditions that could be impacting your ability to get the rest your body needs. Count some sheep and get some extra ZZZ’s so you can “stay healthy out there!”Jill Kruse, D.O. is part of The Prairie Doc® team of physicians and currently practices as a hospitalist in Brookings, South Dakota. Follow The Prairie Doc® at www.prairiedoc.org and on Facebook featuring On Call with the Prairie Doc®, a medical Q&amp;A show providing health information based on science, built on trust, streaming live on Facebook most Thursdays at 7 p.m. central.

Prairie Doc Perspectives: Why you should be sleeping more

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Powerball jackpot grew to an estimated $747 million after no one beat the odds and won the top prize in Saturday night's drawing.

The numbers drawn were: 2, 8, 15, 19, 58 and Powerball 10.

The $747 million Powerball jackpot up for grabs Monday night is the ninth largest in U.S. lottery history and the latest in a string of huge lottery prizes. Someone in Maine won a $1.35 billion Mega Millions prize less than three weeks ago and a California player won a record $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot last November.

The jackpots grow so large because the tough odds offer just a miniscule chance of matching all six numbers and winning the top prize. That enables the jackpots like Saturday night's $700 million top prize to roll over and increase for months.

The last time someone overcame the odds of one in 292.2 million and won the Powerball jackpot was Nov. 19, 2022.

The $747 million estimate is for a winner who is paid through an annuity over 29 years. Winners usually opt for cash, which for Monday night's drawing would be $403.1 million.

Powerball is played in 45 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675596594192.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Powerball jackpot grew to an estimated $747 million after no one beat the odds and won the top prize in Saturday night's drawing.The numbers drawn were: 2, 8, 15, 19, 58 and Powerball 10.The $747 million Powerball jackpot up for grabs Monday night is the ninth largest in U.S. lottery history and the latest in a string of huge lottery prizes. Someone in Maine won a $1.35 billion Mega Millions prize less than three weeks ago and a California player won a record $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot last November.The jackpots grow so large because the tough odds offer just a miniscule chance of matching all six numbers and winning the top prize. That enables the jackpots like Saturday night's $700 million top prize to roll over and increase for months.The last time someone overcame the odds of one in 292.2 million and won the Powerball jackpot was Nov. 19, 2022.The $747 million estimate is for a winner who is paid through an annuity over 29 years. Winners usually opt for cash, which for Monday night's drawing would be $403.1 million.Powerball is played in 45 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Powerball jackpot grows to $747 million after no winner

By&nbsp;AP Video journalist Shelby Lum and AP Science Writer Maddie Burakoff&nbsp;

AP -&nbsp;U.S. agriculture officials on Friday proposed new nutrition standards for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/school-lunch-menu-farm-table-c8578122bf8d40351cc4eb99c94d9dbb">school meals</a>, including the first limits on added sugars, with a focus on sweetened foods such as cereals, yogurt, flavored milk and breakfast pastries.

The plan announced by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack also seeks to significantly decrease sodium in the meals served to the nation’s schoolkids by 2029, while making the rules for foods made with whole grains more flexible.

The goal is to improve nutrition and align with U.S. dietary guidelines in the program that serves breakfast to more than 15 million children and lunch to nearly 30 million children every day, Vilsack said.

“School meals happen to be the meals with the highest nutritional value of any meal that children can get outside the home,” Vilsack said in an interview.

The first limits on added sugars would be required in the 2025-2026 school year, starting with high-sugar foods such as sweetened cereals, yogurts and flavored milks.

Under the plan, for instance, an 8-ounce container of chocolate milk could contain no more than 10 grams of sugar. Some popular flavored milks now contain twice that amount. The plan also limits sugary grain desserts, such as muffins or doughnuts, to no more than twice a week at breakfast.

By the fall of 2027, added sugars in school meals would be limited to less than 10% of the total calories per week for breakfasts and lunches.

The proposal also would reduce sodium in school meals by 30% by the fall of 2029. They would gradually be reduced to align with federal guidelines, which recommend Americans aged 14 and older limit sodium to about 2,300 milligrams a day, with less for younger children.

Levels would drop, for instance, from an average of about 1,280 milligrams of sodium allowed now per lunch for kids in grades 9 to 12 to about 935 milligrams. For comparison, a typical turkey sandwich with mustard and cheese might contain 1,500 milligrams of sodium.

Health experts say cutting back on sugar and salt can help decrease the risk of disease in kids, including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and other problems that often continue into adulthood.

The plan, detailed in a 280-page document, drew mixed reactions. Katie Wilson, executive director of the Urban School Food Alliance, said the changes are “necessary to help America’s children lead healthier lives.”

But Diane Pratt-Heavner, spokeswoman for the School Nutrition Association, a trade group, said school meals are already healthier than they were a decade ago and that increased regulations are a burden, especially for small and rural school districts.

“School meal programs are at a breaking point,” she said. “These programs are simply not equipped to meet additional rules.”

Vilsack emphasized that the plan phases changes in over the next six years to allow schools and food manufacturers time to adjust to the new standards.

“Our hope is that many school districts and food providers accelerate the timeline on their own,” he said.

Courtney Gaines, president of the Sugar Association, said the proposal ignores the “many functional roles” sugar plays in food beyond sweetness and encourages the use of sugar substitutes, which have not been fully studied in children. Sugar substitutes are allowed under the new standards, Vilsack said.

As part of the plan, agriculture officials are seeking feedback about a proposal that would continue to require that 80% of all grains offered in a week must be whole grains. But it would allow schools to serve non-whole grain foods, such as white-flour tortillas, one day a week to vary their menus.

Another option suggests serving unflavored nonfat and lowfat milk to the youngest children and reserving chocolate and other flavored milks for high school kids.

A 60-day public comment period on the plan opens Feb. 7.

Shiriki Kumanyika, a community health expert at Drexel University’s Dornsife School of Public Health said if they’re done right some of the changes will be hard for kids to notice: “They’ll see things that they like to eat, but those foods will be healthier,” she said.

By&nbsp;AP Video journalist Shelby Lum and AP Science Writer Maddie Burakoff&nbsp;AP -&nbsp;U.S. agriculture officials on Friday proposed new nutrition standards for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/school-lunch-menu-farm-table-c8578122bf8d40351cc4eb99c94d9dbb">school meals</a>, including the first limits on added sugars, with a focus on sweetened foods such as cereals, yogurt, flavored milk and breakfast pastries.The plan announced by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack also seeks to significantly decrease sodium in the meals served to the nation’s schoolkids by 2029, while making the rules for foods made with whole grains more flexible.The goal is to improve nutrition and align with U.S. dietary guidelines in the program that serves breakfast to more than 15 million children and lunch to nearly 30 million children every day, Vilsack said.“School meals happen to be the meals with the highest nutritional value of any meal that children can get outside the home,” Vilsack said in an interview.The first limits on added sugars would be required in the 2025-2026 school year, starting with high-sugar foods such as sweetened cereals, yogurts and flavored milks.Under the plan, for instance, an 8-ounce container of chocolate milk could contain no more than 10 grams of sugar. Some popular flavored milks now contain twice that amount. The plan also limits sugary grain desserts, such as muffins or doughnuts, to no more than twice a week at breakfast.By the fall of 2027, added sugars in school meals would be limited to less than 10% of the total calories per week for breakfasts and lunches.The proposal also would reduce sodium in school meals by 30% by the fall of 2029. They would gradually be reduced to align with federal guidelines, which recommend Americans aged 14 and older limit sodium to about 2,300 milligrams a day, with less for younger children.Levels would drop, for instance, from an average of about 1,280 milligrams of sodium allowed now per lunch for kids in grades 9 to 12 to about 935 milligrams. For comparison, a typical turkey sandwich with mustard and cheese might contain 1,500 milligrams of sodium.Health experts say cutting back on sugar and salt can help decrease the risk of disease in kids, including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and other problems that often continue into adulthood.The plan, detailed in a 280-page document, drew mixed reactions. Katie Wilson, executive director of the Urban School Food Alliance, said the changes are “necessary to help America’s children lead healthier lives.”But Diane Pratt-Heavner, spokeswoman for the School Nutrition Association, a trade group, said school meals are already healthier than they were a decade ago and that increased regulations are a burden, especially for small and rural school districts.“School meal programs are at a breaking point,” she said. “These programs are simply not equipped to meet additional rules.”Vilsack emphasized that the plan phases changes in over the next six years to allow schools and food manufacturers time to adjust to the new standards.“Our hope is that many school districts and food providers accelerate the timeline on their own,” he said.Courtney Gaines, president of the Sugar Association, said the proposal ignores the “many functional roles” sugar plays in food beyond sweetness and encourages the use of sugar substitutes, which have not been fully studied in children. Sugar substitutes are allowed under the new standards, Vilsack said.As part of the plan, agriculture officials are seeking feedback about a proposal that would continue to require that 80% of all grains offered in a week must be whole grains. But it would allow schools to serve non-whole grain foods, such as white-flour tortillas, one day a week to vary their menus.Another option suggests serving unflavored nonfat and lowfat milk to the youngest children and reserving chocolate and other flavored milks for high school kids.A 60-day public comment period on the plan opens Feb. 7.Shiriki Kumanyika, a community health expert at Drexel University’s Dornsife School of Public Health said if they’re done right some of the changes will be hard for kids to notice: “They’ll see things that they like to eat, but those foods will be healthier,” she said.

New rules would limit sugar in school meals for first time

Nebraska Game and Parks, in collaboration with the Platte Basin Timelapse project, released expanded wetlands educational content on World Wetlands Day, Feb. 2.

These new resources offer the opportunity to learn about Nebraska's five diverse wetland types, as well as grow one's understanding of their importance to the state, its people and its wildlife.

Find all of these resources and more at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDIuNzA5MTE3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvbmVicmFza2F3ZXRsYW5kcy8ifQ.Ds_rK24HReJVTaPieSFyFmyT2OJkRGUMQWJAJgEJoeM/s/497221906/br/153920938504-l" target="_blank">NebraskaWetlands.com</a>.

This project was led by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and funded by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Other project partners included the Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at Nebraska and Ducks Unlimited.

World Wetlands Day is celebrated each year on Feb. 2 to raise awareness about wetlands. In Nebraska, our wetlands provide important habitat for 50% of our birds and plants, 100% of our amphibians and fish, a third of our mammals and reptiles, and 70% of threatened or endangered species.

In addition to these benefits, they also improve water quality, recharge groundwater, protect us from flooding and provide places to recreate.

“In many places, Nebraska’s wetlands have suffered losses and face ongoing threats putting their benefits at risk,” said Ted LaGrange, Game and Parks’ wetlands program manager, who led the project. “We hope sharing these stories about Nebraska’s wetlands will help to improve the conservation of these important areas.”

By Nebraska Game and Parks<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675444533754.jpeg" alt="Riverine wetlands, such as this one along the North Platte River, are biodiversity hotspots. These wetlands can be found all across Nebraska along rivers and river floodplains. Grant Reiner/Platte Basin Timelapse" />
 <figcaption>Riverine wetlands, such as this one along the North Platte River, are biodiversity hotspots. These wetlands can be found all across Nebraska along rivers and river floodplains. Grant Reiner/Platte Basin Timelapse</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Game and Parks, in collaboration with the Platte Basin Timelapse project, released expanded wetlands educational content on World Wetlands Day, Feb. 2.These new resources offer the opportunity to learn about Nebraska's five diverse wetland types, as well as grow one's understanding of their importance to the state, its people and its wildlife.Expanded content includes:<ul>
 <li>Five documentary films about Nebraska’s wetlands and the wildlife and people who depend on them. These films, created by Platte Basin Timelapse at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, highlight Nebraska’s sandhills, playas, saline, riverine and urban wetlands. Viewers take a journey across the state, meet people working to conserve these spaces, and see landscapes and wildlife few get to experience;</li><li>An updated “Guide to Nebraska’s Wetlands and their Conservation Needs,” available in print and PDF form. The full-color publication covers in-depth 14 Nebraska wetland systems;</li><li>A new booklet, “Wetlandology,” a child-friendly, activity-filled publication on Nebraska’s wetlands and the plants and animals that love them;</li><li>Five digital stories from PBT producers Mariah Lundgren, Ethan Freese, Grant Reiner, Dakota Altman and Brooke Talbott. These ESRI StoryMaps integrate maps, text, photos and video to generate an interactive learning experience; and</li><li>An educator guide to the products and two educational videos with paired lesson plans, which are nearing completion and will be shared soon.</li>
 </ul>Find all of these resources and more at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDIuNzA5MTE3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvbmVicmFza2F3ZXRsYW5kcy8ifQ.Ds_rK24HReJVTaPieSFyFmyT2OJkRGUMQWJAJgEJoeM/s/497221906/br/153920938504-l" target="_blank">NebraskaWetlands.com</a>.This project was led by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and funded by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Other project partners included the Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at Nebraska and Ducks Unlimited.World Wetlands Day is celebrated each year on Feb. 2 to raise awareness about wetlands. In Nebraska, our wetlands provide important habitat for 50% of our birds and plants, 100% of our amphibians and fish, a third of our mammals and reptiles, and 70% of threatened or endangered species.In addition to these benefits, they also improve water quality, recharge groundwater, protect us from flooding and provide places to recreate.“In many places, Nebraska’s wetlands have suffered losses and face ongoing threats putting their benefits at risk,” said Ted LaGrange, Game and Parks’ wetlands program manager, who led the project. “We hope sharing these stories about Nebraska’s wetlands will help to improve the conservation of these important areas.”

Celebrate World Wetlands Day with new Nebraska wetland resources

NORTH LAS VEGAS, Nev. (AP) — A former “Dances With Wolves” actor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-south-dakota-law-enforcement-sexual-assault-sd-state-wire-805c2bd29d303c32cb1fab164dfb69cc">accused of sexually abusing Indigenous girls</a>&nbsp;and leading a cult must remain held without bail until his next court hearing, a judge ordered Thursday morning.

Nathan Chasing Horse, 46, faces charges of sex trafficking, sexual assault against a child younger than 16, and child abuse. He has been in custody&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dances-with-wolves-actor-arrested-1bc3119c6308a0221b7ce1ec18d6d97e">since his arrest Tuesday afternoon</a>&nbsp;near the North Las Vegas home that he shares with his five wives.

He appeared briefly in court Thursday for the first time since he was taken into custody but did not speak before North Las Vegas Justice of the Peace Belinda Harris scheduled a bail hearing for Monday. Chasing Horse has not been formally charged.

A different judge is expected to address Chasing Horse's custody status Monday and could set bail after hearing from lawyers and investigators, as well as victims and the defendant's relatives if they choose to speak.

Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney Jessica Walsh told Harris that she expected Las Vegas police detectives, FBI special agents and victims to speak at the hearing.

Gesturing Thursday to the first row in the courtroom gallery where Chasing Horse's family members were seated, public defender Michael Wilfong said the defendant has a “great deal of support." His relatives declined to comment as they left the courthouse, as did Wilfong.

Known for his role as young Sioux tribe member Smiles a Lot in the Oscar-winning Kevin Costner film, Chasing Horse gained a reputation among tribes across the United States and in Canada as a so-called medicine man who performed healing ceremonies.

He is believed to be the leader of a cult known as The Circle whose followers believed he could communicate with higher powers, according to an arrest warrant released Wednesday. Police said he abused his position, physically and sexually assaulted Indigenous girls and took underage wives over two decades.

Chasing Horse was born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, which is home to the Sicangu Sioux, one of the seven tribes of the Lakota nation.

A 50-page search warrant obtained Tuesday by The Associated Press said Chasing Horse trained his wives to use firearms, instructing them to “shoot it out” with police officers if they tried to “break their family apart.” If that failed, he told his wives to take “suicide pills.”

SWAT officers and detectives took Chasing Horse into custody and cleared the family's home without incident.

Detectives who searched the property and Chasing Horse's vehicles found firearms, 41 pounds (18.5 kilograms) of marijuana and psilocybin mushrooms, and a memory card with multiple videos of sexual assaults, according to Chasing Horse's arrest report released Wednesday.

Additional charges could be filed related to the videos, the report said.

Las Vegas police said in the search warrant that investigators have identified at least six sexual assault victims, including one who was 13 when she says she was abused. Police also traced sexual allegations against Chasing Horse to the early 2000s in Canada and in multiple states, including South Dakota, Montana and Nevada, where he has lived for about a decade.

One of Chasing Horse’s wives was offered to him as a “gift” when she was 15, according to police, while another became a wife after turning 16. He also is accused of recording sexual assaults and arranging sex between victims and other men who paid him.

His arrest comes nearly a decade after he was banished from the Fort Peck Reservation in Poplar, Montana, amid allegations of human trafficking.

Fort Peck tribal leaders voted 7-0 to ban Chasing Horse in 2015 from stepping foot again on the reservation, citing the alleged trafficking and accusations of drug dealing, spiritual abuse and intimidation of tribal members, Indian Country Today&nbsp;<a href="https://ictnews.org/archive/actor-medicine-man-chasing-horse-banished-from-fort-peck">reported</a>.

Angeline Cheek, an activist and community organizer who has lived on the Fort Peck Reservation most of her life, said she clearly remembers the tensions that arose inside the tribal council chambers when Chasing Horse was banished.

“Some of Nathan's supporters told the members that something bad was going to happen to them,” Cheek told the AP. “They made threats to our elders sitting in the council chambers.”

Cheek said she remembered Chasing Horse visiting the reservation frequently when she was growing up, especially during her high school years in the early 2000s when she would see him talking with her classmates.

Cheek, now 34, said she hopes Chasing Horse's arrest will inspire more Indigenous girls and women to report crimes and push lawmakers and elected officials across the U.S. to prioritize addressing violence against Native people.

But she said she also hopes the cultural significance of medicine men doesn't get lost in the news of the crimes.

“There are good medicine men and medicine women among our people who are not trying to commercialize the sacred ways of our ancestors," Cheek said. “They're supposed to heal people, not harm."

By Associated PressNORTH LAS VEGAS, Nev. (AP) — A former “Dances With Wolves” actor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-south-dakota-law-enforcement-sexual-assault-sd-state-wire-805c2bd29d303c32cb1fab164dfb69cc">accused of sexually abusing Indigenous girls</a>&nbsp;and leading a cult must remain held without bail until his next court hearing, a judge ordered Thursday morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675440702798.jpeg" alt="Photo by Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>Nathan Chasing Horse, 46, faces charges of sex trafficking, sexual assault against a child younger than 16, and child abuse. He has been in custody&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dances-with-wolves-actor-arrested-1bc3119c6308a0221b7ce1ec18d6d97e">since his arrest Tuesday afternoon</a>&nbsp;near the North Las Vegas home that he shares with his five wives.He appeared briefly in court Thursday for the first time since he was taken into custody but did not speak before North Las Vegas Justice of the Peace Belinda Harris scheduled a bail hearing for Monday. Chasing Horse has not been formally charged.A different judge is expected to address Chasing Horse's custody status Monday and could set bail after hearing from lawyers and investigators, as well as victims and the defendant's relatives if they choose to speak.Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney Jessica Walsh told Harris that she expected Las Vegas police detectives, FBI special agents and victims to speak at the hearing.Gesturing Thursday to the first row in the courtroom gallery where Chasing Horse's family members were seated, public defender Michael Wilfong said the defendant has a “great deal of support." His relatives declined to comment as they left the courthouse, as did Wilfong.Known for his role as young Sioux tribe member Smiles a Lot in the Oscar-winning Kevin Costner film, Chasing Horse gained a reputation among tribes across the United States and in Canada as a so-called medicine man who performed healing ceremonies.He is believed to be the leader of a cult known as The Circle whose followers believed he could communicate with higher powers, according to an arrest warrant released Wednesday. Police said he abused his position, physically and sexually assaulted Indigenous girls and took underage wives over two decades.Chasing Horse was born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, which is home to the Sicangu Sioux, one of the seven tribes of the Lakota nation.A 50-page search warrant obtained Tuesday by The Associated Press said Chasing Horse trained his wives to use firearms, instructing them to “shoot it out” with police officers if they tried to “break their family apart.” If that failed, he told his wives to take “suicide pills.”SWAT officers and detectives took Chasing Horse into custody and cleared the family's home without incident.Detectives who searched the property and Chasing Horse's vehicles found firearms, 41 pounds (18.5 kilograms) of marijuana and psilocybin mushrooms, and a memory card with multiple videos of sexual assaults, according to Chasing Horse's arrest report released Wednesday.Additional charges could be filed related to the videos, the report said.Las Vegas police said in the search warrant that investigators have identified at least six sexual assault victims, including one who was 13 when she says she was abused. Police also traced sexual allegations against Chasing Horse to the early 2000s in Canada and in multiple states, including South Dakota, Montana and Nevada, where he has lived for about a decade.One of Chasing Horse’s wives was offered to him as a “gift” when she was 15, according to police, while another became a wife after turning 16. He also is accused of recording sexual assaults and arranging sex between victims and other men who paid him.His arrest comes nearly a decade after he was banished from the Fort Peck Reservation in Poplar, Montana, amid allegations of human trafficking.Fort Peck tribal leaders voted 7-0 to ban Chasing Horse in 2015 from stepping foot again on the reservation, citing the alleged trafficking and accusations of drug dealing, spiritual abuse and intimidation of tribal members, Indian Country Today&nbsp;<a href="https://ictnews.org/archive/actor-medicine-man-chasing-horse-banished-from-fort-peck">reported</a>.Angeline Cheek, an activist and community organizer who has lived on the Fort Peck Reservation most of her life, said she clearly remembers the tensions that arose inside the tribal council chambers when Chasing Horse was banished.“Some of Nathan's supporters told the members that something bad was going to happen to them,” Cheek told the AP. “They made threats to our elders sitting in the council chambers.”Cheek said she remembered Chasing Horse visiting the reservation frequently when she was growing up, especially during her high school years in the early 2000s when she would see him talking with her classmates.Cheek, now 34, said she hopes Chasing Horse's arrest will inspire more Indigenous girls and women to report crimes and push lawmakers and elected officials across the U.S. to prioritize addressing violence against Native people.But she said she also hopes the cultural significance of medicine men doesn't get lost in the news of the crimes.“There are good medicine men and medicine women among our people who are not trying to commercialize the sacred ways of our ancestors," Cheek said. “They're supposed to heal people, not harm."

'Dances With Wolves' actor remains jailed in sex abuse case

Starting February 5, Nebraska Lottery players will be able to purchase Double Play®, an add-on feature that offers another chance to match your Powerball® numbers for cash prizes up to $10 million.

Powerball Double Play drawings are held between 10:30 and 10:40 p.m. CT on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday nights. If you regularly publish the winning Powerball numbers, please also publish the Double Play numbers starting with the Monday, February 6 drawing. The Double Play results have five white ball numbers and a Powerball number, but no Power Play® multiplier.

More information about Double Play is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=G10blhdwm5olYkcIb4bt-2B4ZfZjzywCwGZ9P1jf1T5aj9duzFdDBuzp1dswPtATpeHSpwwX-2FtJ7-2FgLWrZUDT1Ng-3D-3DG3mA_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9t4D9LWTP99krvREf42zUykodJoYUQSV-2F1k4Z8ao-2FaDJph9ZkfVXZjxwvtNcdHNFGdcivstgf-2B1hki-2BCZIS4W8MRCdUpP-2FxrWeNON5a7pibWJqtaC7BPkVQmesQgXudye8k3T41yrKdgLfaFW94duZz2qKm76RpsrUHypepTbvrvaCPRt0CU4cNYtMZiB5-2Br99spUVewR2gkeftMspLLKx-2FYFaGL-2FfK3cFO8Og5WVN2WCPr9nBvmyciHBRmrl606lsozQw3wJx38Tw4Kdr8DFO5o6lIDQ4Z9F8Rl5PpHR-2BTLqsW6BsCXwFA1PUnzfw8dCRxlQVqsbTmLRej-2FYoC-2BWXA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://nelottery.com/homeapp/article/4494/display</a>.

Powerball is a multi-state jackpot game currently offered by 45 state lotteries, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. Proceeds from the sale of Nebraska Powerball tickets benefit the environment, education, the Nebraska State Fair, and compulsive gamblers assistance. Over $908 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675516400979.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska LotteryStarting February 5, Nebraska Lottery players will be able to purchase Double Play®, an add-on feature that offers another chance to match your Powerball® numbers for cash prizes up to $10 million.Powerball Double Play drawings are held between 10:30 and 10:40 p.m. CT on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday nights. If you regularly publish the winning Powerball numbers, please also publish the Double Play numbers starting with the Monday, February 6 drawing. The Double Play results have five white ball numbers and a Powerball number, but no Power Play® multiplier.More information about Double Play is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=G10blhdwm5olYkcIb4bt-2B4ZfZjzywCwGZ9P1jf1T5aj9duzFdDBuzp1dswPtATpeHSpwwX-2FtJ7-2FgLWrZUDT1Ng-3D-3DG3mA_f5CCQS0N95iO0XGkG5jjbwFPcyVdNsE7ynqorsRVxhOi2A2KVJqJgpwSdOopdwB9t4D9LWTP99krvREf42zUykodJoYUQSV-2F1k4Z8ao-2FaDJph9ZkfVXZjxwvtNcdHNFGdcivstgf-2B1hki-2BCZIS4W8MRCdUpP-2FxrWeNON5a7pibWJqtaC7BPkVQmesQgXudye8k3T41yrKdgLfaFW94duZz2qKm76RpsrUHypepTbvrvaCPRt0CU4cNYtMZiB5-2Br99spUVewR2gkeftMspLLKx-2FYFaGL-2FfK3cFO8Og5WVN2WCPr9nBvmyciHBRmrl606lsozQw3wJx38Tw4Kdr8DFO5o6lIDQ4Z9F8Rl5PpHR-2BTLqsW6BsCXwFA1PUnzfw8dCRxlQVqsbTmLRej-2FYoC-2BWXA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://nelottery.com/homeapp/article/4494/display</a>.Powerball is a multi-state jackpot game currently offered by 45 state lotteries, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. Proceeds from the sale of Nebraska Powerball tickets benefit the environment, education, the Nebraska State Fair, and compulsive gamblers assistance. Over $908 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.

Nebraska Powerball Double Play starts Sunday

The annual On-Farm Research Results Meeting for this year has been scheduled in Alliance at the Knight Museum, 908 Yellowstone Ave, Alliance. The meeting will be on Wednesday February 15th, 2023. There will be results from six local studies including a direct harvest pinto variety trial, two dry bean N rate studies, a Pod Ceal dry bean study, a corn N rate study and a corn N stabilizer study. Nevin Lawrence will be a guest speaker talking about weed management in our cropping systems and Jeff Bradshaw will be speaking on Wheat Stem Sawfly and other insect related topics on dry beans and sunflowers. Gary Stone will be talking about ET Gauge use and application in our Ag systems. All speakers will present in person at the meeting this year.

Sign in will be at 8:30 with sessions beginning at 9:00 AM. Lunch will be included with the meeting which will end by 2 PM. Please RSVP by calling the Box Butte County Extension Office at (308) 762-5616 to be included in the lunch. See the site below for the general statewide flyer.

<a href="https://onfarmresearch.unl.edu/nebraska-farm-research-network-resultsupdate-meetings-2023">https://onfarmresearch.unl.edu/nebraska-farm-research-network-resultsupdate-meetings-2023</a>

The annual On-Farm Research Results Meeting for this year has been scheduled in Alliance at the Knight Museum, 908 Yellowstone Ave, Alliance. The meeting will be on Wednesday February 15th, 2023. There will be results from six local studies including a direct harvest pinto variety trial, two dry bean N rate studies, a Pod Ceal dry bean study, a corn N rate study and a corn N stabilizer study. Nevin Lawrence will be a guest speaker talking about weed management in our cropping systems and Jeff Bradshaw will be speaking on Wheat Stem Sawfly and other insect related topics on dry beans and sunflowers. Gary Stone will be talking about ET Gauge use and application in our Ag systems. All speakers will present in person at the meeting this year.Sign in will be at 8:30 with sessions beginning at 9:00 AM. Lunch will be included with the meeting which will end by 2 PM. Please RSVP by calling the Box Butte County Extension Office at (308) 762-5616 to be included in the lunch. See the site below for the general statewide flyer.<a href="https://onfarmresearch.unl.edu/nebraska-farm-research-network-resultsupdate-meetings-2023">https://onfarmresearch.unl.edu/nebraska-farm-research-network-resultsupdate-meetings-2023</a>

On-Farm Research Results meeting to be held in Alliance at Knight Museum 

By Joe Reagan,&nbsp;Director of Military and Veterans Outreach at Wreaths Across America

At the entrance to the U.S. Army Infantry Museum, located in Ft. Moore, GA, (formerly&nbsp;Ft. Benning),&nbsp;visitors begin their journey by walking up a 100-yard ramp that shows the history of the U.S. Army Infantry. It is a symbolic representation of what is ingrained in every infantry soldier – you can have all the tanks, artillery, planes, trucks, and anything else in the world, but in battle the last 100 yards requires a soldier with a gun – the last 100 yards will always belong to the Infantry.

This mindset inspires great pride in Infantry Soldiers, and inspires the admiration of historians, filmmakers, and civilians alike – often lost is the story of those troops who comprise supply lines that often begin in the U.S. and extend thousands of miles to ensure that the infantry has everything it needs to fight their way across that last 100 yards. By some estimates standing behind each infantry soldier are six support soldiers – they are the lifeline and unsung heroes whose efforts are often overlooked. This was especially true in World War II.

World War II saw an increased level of mechanization – no longer did an army run solely on its stomach, fuel and spare parts were needed to keep the machines of war moving and that meant a supply chain extending back to industrial hubs in the United States. When comparing the success of campaigns like D-Day to failures like the German invasion of Russian in 1941 – it was logistics that determined success or failure – even the most tactically proficient army can’t win if it doesn’t have supplies. This required support soldiers to be better trained, and the U.S. Army needed more of them.

Nearly one million black men served in WWII, over 80 percent of them were assigned to logistics and service units, in fact by 1944 almost all black soldiers were assigned to these units. They were responsible for building bridges, roads, and runways, they moved beans, bullets, fuel, and the fallen – their efforts were critical to the allied success and were the embodiment of the modern military saying, “armatures study tactics, professionals study logistics.” To be historically accurate, all black units such as the 92nd and 93rd infantry divisions, the 861 Tank Battalion, and the Tuskegee Airman have impressive and well documented success in combat – the story of black quartermasters is important because it not only embodies the courage and valor of these Americans but demonstrates their ingenuity and how their service led to success on the battlefield and when they came home.

In Europe, allied preparations for the D-Day invasion required a massive movement of supplies, ships would have to be quickly unloaded to make room for the next load – this job fell to the quartermaster corps whose dockhands were primarily black GI’s. In prior conflicts much of this unloading would have been done by hand – a menial task – given the size of the loads, often exceeding 30 tons, it required skilled crane operators who worked non-stop during the 18-month build up to D-Day. In the final hours before the invasion these skilled operators would transfer loads directly from the supply ships to the invasion crafts.

Once the foothold was established in Normandy, the quartermasters were in a race to ensure the front-line troops they needed to continue to push the Nazi’s back. By July of 1944, allied troops were moving east at a rate of nearly 80 miles a week. With sea and rail infrastructure badly damaged – Normandy remained the sole point of entry for supplies entering the European theatre. Allied commanders were determined to prevent a lack of supplies from stopping the advances on the front lines, so they devised an ambitious plan that became known as the Red Ball Express. Nearly 75 percent of the drivers who made up this critical and constantly expanding supply line were black and not all of them were trained to drive trucks, never mind drive trucks filled with ammunition, at night, without headlights working in teams of two to complete the 54-hour round-trip journey. They succeeded in delivering roughly 12,000 tons of supplies per day – for 82 consecutive days.

The quartermasters played a huge role in the Pacific as well. While we typically think about the island-hopping campaign in the Pacific, crucial to the success of these missions was the work of our Chinese allies under Chiang Kai-shek. The Ledo Road, like the Red Ball Express, was a critical supply route connecting U.S. bases in India with allied forces in China – without these supplies Chinese forces likely would have been defeated allowing Japan to focus all its efforts on the Pacific. The building and maintenance of the Ledo Road was overseen primarily by these units. The roughly 1,000-mile road cut through many obstacles including Japanese snipers, dense jungles and of course the southern Himalayan Mountains. Running the route was treacherous, challenging even experienced drivers. Keeping the road open was an equally daunting task that fell on engineering units who would operate bulldozers and other specialized equipment in torrential rain to clear blocked portions of the road or reconstruct parts that washed out.

The legacy of black quartermasters in World War II is one of&nbsp;Service&nbsp;and Success. GI’s who quickly learned how to become skilled crane operators working non-stop to ensure the D-Day invasion had all the supplies needed to succeed. They became expert truck drivers and tirelessly kept the flow of supplies moving to the front during the Red Ball Express. They were engineers and drivers who crossed the Himalayan Mountains to ensure allied forces could keep pressure on the Japanese to allow U.S. forces to succeed in the Pacific. These quartermasters answered the call to serve, while in uniform they succeeded in quickly learning new skills, adapting to challenges, and committing themselves to mission success. After the war their service left an enduring legacy on our military. An after-action review of the war found that the contributions of black soldiers was instrumental to the success of the war effort. The report went on to recommend creating a desegregated force that was fully reflective of American society.

After the war these quartermasters continued to serve and succeed. Men like Medgar Evers, who was a driver on the Red Ball Express, saw what could happen when Americans worked together during the war. He returned home and became a highly influential part of the Civil Rights movement. Others like Harry Bellefonte who dropped out of high school to enlist in the Navy, while not part of the quartermaster corps he served as a crane operator loading and unloading ships. After the war Bellefonte used his GI bill to pay for acting classes in New York. He would find tremendous success on stage. Charity Adams, one of the first black female officers in the military who served in the Quartermaster Corps, continued to serve using her GI bill to earn a degree in psychology and then working at the Veterans Administration. This year the home of the Quartermaster Corps in southern Virginia will be renamed Ft. Gregg-Adams a fitting tribute to the legacy of service and success of the black soldiers who served in World War II.

By Joe Reagan,&nbsp;Director of Military and Veterans Outreach at Wreaths Across America<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675446566206.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>At the entrance to the U.S. Army Infantry Museum, located in Ft. Moore, GA, (formerly&nbsp;Ft. Benning),&nbsp;visitors begin their journey by walking up a 100-yard ramp that shows the history of the U.S. Army Infantry. It is a symbolic representation of what is ingrained in every infantry soldier – you can have all the tanks, artillery, planes, trucks, and anything else in the world, but in battle the last 100 yards requires a soldier with a gun – the last 100 yards will always belong to the Infantry.This mindset inspires great pride in Infantry Soldiers, and inspires the admiration of historians, filmmakers, and civilians alike – often lost is the story of those troops who comprise supply lines that often begin in the U.S. and extend thousands of miles to ensure that the infantry has everything it needs to fight their way across that last 100 yards. By some estimates standing behind each infantry soldier are six support soldiers – they are the lifeline and unsung heroes whose efforts are often overlooked. This was especially true in World War II.World War II saw an increased level of mechanization – no longer did an army run solely on its stomach, fuel and spare parts were needed to keep the machines of war moving and that meant a supply chain extending back to industrial hubs in the United States. When comparing the success of campaigns like D-Day to failures like the German invasion of Russian in 1941 – it was logistics that determined success or failure – even the most tactically proficient army can’t win if it doesn’t have supplies. This required support soldiers to be better trained, and the U.S. Army needed more of them.Nearly one million black men served in WWII, over 80 percent of them were assigned to logistics and service units, in fact by 1944 almost all black soldiers were assigned to these units. They were responsible for building bridges, roads, and runways, they moved beans, bullets, fuel, and the fallen – their efforts were critical to the allied success and were the embodiment of the modern military saying, “armatures study tactics, professionals study logistics.” To be historically accurate, all black units such as the 92nd and 93rd infantry divisions, the 861 Tank Battalion, and the Tuskegee Airman have impressive and well documented success in combat – the story of black quartermasters is important because it not only embodies the courage and valor of these Americans but demonstrates their ingenuity and how their service led to success on the battlefield and when they came home.In Europe, allied preparations for the D-Day invasion required a massive movement of supplies, ships would have to be quickly unloaded to make room for the next load – this job fell to the quartermaster corps whose dockhands were primarily black GI’s. In prior conflicts much of this unloading would have been done by hand – a menial task – given the size of the loads, often exceeding 30 tons, it required skilled crane operators who worked non-stop during the 18-month build up to D-Day. In the final hours before the invasion these skilled operators would transfer loads directly from the supply ships to the invasion crafts.Once the foothold was established in Normandy, the quartermasters were in a race to ensure the front-line troops they needed to continue to push the Nazi’s back. By July of 1944, allied troops were moving east at a rate of nearly 80 miles a week. With sea and rail infrastructure badly damaged – Normandy remained the sole point of entry for supplies entering the European theatre. Allied commanders were determined to prevent a lack of supplies from stopping the advances on the front lines, so they devised an ambitious plan that became known as the Red Ball Express. Nearly 75 percent of the drivers who made up this critical and constantly expanding supply line were black and not all of them were trained to drive trucks, never mind drive trucks filled with ammunition, at night, without headlights working in teams of two to complete the 54-hour round-trip journey. They succeeded in delivering roughly 12,000 tons of supplies per day – for 82 consecutive days.The quartermasters played a huge role in the Pacific as well. While we typically think about the island-hopping campaign in the Pacific, crucial to the success of these missions was the work of our Chinese allies under Chiang Kai-shek. The Ledo Road, like the Red Ball Express, was a critical supply route connecting U.S. bases in India with allied forces in China – without these supplies Chinese forces likely would have been defeated allowing Japan to focus all its efforts on the Pacific. The building and maintenance of the Ledo Road was overseen primarily by these units. The roughly 1,000-mile road cut through many obstacles including Japanese snipers, dense jungles and of course the southern Himalayan Mountains. Running the route was treacherous, challenging even experienced drivers. Keeping the road open was an equally daunting task that fell on engineering units who would operate bulldozers and other specialized equipment in torrential rain to clear blocked portions of the road or reconstruct parts that washed out.The legacy of black quartermasters in World War II is one of&nbsp;Service&nbsp;and Success. GI’s who quickly learned how to become skilled crane operators working non-stop to ensure the D-Day invasion had all the supplies needed to succeed. They became expert truck drivers and tirelessly kept the flow of supplies moving to the front during the Red Ball Express. They were engineers and drivers who crossed the Himalayan Mountains to ensure allied forces could keep pressure on the Japanese to allow U.S. forces to succeed in the Pacific. These quartermasters answered the call to serve, while in uniform they succeeded in quickly learning new skills, adapting to challenges, and committing themselves to mission success. After the war their service left an enduring legacy on our military. An after-action review of the war found that the contributions of black soldiers was instrumental to the success of the war effort. The report went on to recommend creating a desegregated force that was fully reflective of American society.After the war these quartermasters continued to serve and succeed. Men like Medgar Evers, who was a driver on the Red Ball Express, saw what could happen when Americans worked together during the war. He returned home and became a highly influential part of the Civil Rights movement. Others like Harry Bellefonte who dropped out of high school to enlist in the Navy, while not part of the quartermaster corps he served as a crane operator loading and unloading ships. After the war Bellefonte used his GI bill to pay for acting classes in New York. He would find tremendous success on stage. Charity Adams, one of the first black female officers in the military who served in the Quartermaster Corps, continued to serve using her GI bill to earn a degree in psychology and then working at the Veterans Administration. This year the home of the Quartermaster Corps in southern Virginia will be renamed Ft. Gregg-Adams a fitting tribute to the legacy of service and success of the black soldiers who served in World War II.

Serve and Succeed: The story of Black Quartermasters in WWII

By&nbsp;United States Attorney Steven Russell

United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Rudy Ortega Raymundo, 35, of Lexington, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal&nbsp;court in Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp; United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Raymundo to 108 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture and 50 grams or more actual methamphetamine.&nbsp; After serving his sentence, Raymundo will be placed on supervised release for 2 years.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system.

On October 3, 2021, law enforcement in Frontier County, Nebraska received information that a vehicle on Old Highway 23 was failing to maintain speed.&nbsp; A Frontier County Sheriff’s Office deputy saw the vehicle and followed it to a nearby gas station.&nbsp;&nbsp;The officer contacted the driver, later identified as Raymundo, and his vehicle at a gas pump regarding traffic violations.&nbsp; Raymundo failed to comply with the deputy’s requests, and he was arrested.&nbsp; Law enforcement searched Raymundo’s vehicle and found a black trash bag in the back seat containing four bags of methamphetamine.&nbsp; The deputies also found a methamphetamine pipe with residue and a scale in the center console.&nbsp;&nbsp;In total, about three and a half pounds of lab confirmed methamphetamine were seized from Raymundo’s vehicle.&nbsp; Some of that methamphetamine was tested for purity and determined to be at least 98% pure.&nbsp;

This case was investigated by the Cooperation Operation for Drug Enforcement (CODE) Task Force, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Frontier County Sheriff’s Office.

By&nbsp;United States Attorney Steven RussellUnited States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Rudy Ortega Raymundo, 35, of Lexington, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal&nbsp;court in Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp; United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Raymundo to 108 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture and 50 grams or more actual methamphetamine.&nbsp; After serving his sentence, Raymundo will be placed on supervised release for 2 years.&nbsp; There is no parole in the federal system.On October 3, 2021, law enforcement in Frontier County, Nebraska received information that a vehicle on Old Highway 23 was failing to maintain speed.&nbsp; A Frontier County Sheriff’s Office deputy saw the vehicle and followed it to a nearby gas station.&nbsp;&nbsp;The officer contacted the driver, later identified as Raymundo, and his vehicle at a gas pump regarding traffic violations.&nbsp; Raymundo failed to comply with the deputy’s requests, and he was arrested.&nbsp; Law enforcement searched Raymundo’s vehicle and found a black trash bag in the back seat containing four bags of methamphetamine.&nbsp; The deputies also found a methamphetamine pipe with residue and a scale in the center console.&nbsp;&nbsp;In total, about three and a half pounds of lab confirmed methamphetamine were seized from Raymundo’s vehicle.&nbsp; Some of that methamphetamine was tested for purity and determined to be at least 98% pure.&nbsp;This case was investigated by the Cooperation Operation for Drug Enforcement (CODE) Task Force, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Frontier County Sheriff’s Office.

Lexington man sentenced 9 years for meth distribution 

Alliance – Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day with Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska to promote kindness throughout the world, at the Alliance Public Library in the Community Room, Saturday, February 11th from 10:30 to 11:45 am. This event is for girls in kindergarten through third grade, a caregiver must attend with their child. We will read the book “Have You Filled a Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids” by Carol McCloud, decorate our own buckets, make warm fuzzies to share with our communities, sing songs, earn a patch and more!

For more information, contact the Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Panhandle Membership Coordinator at 308-765-2571 or Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at Alliance Public Library, 762-1387

By City of AllianceAlliance – Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day with Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska to promote kindness throughout the world, at the Alliance Public Library in the Community Room, Saturday, February 11th from 10:30 to 11:45 am. This event is for girls in kindergarten through third grade, a caregiver must attend with their child. We will read the book “Have You Filled a Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids” by Carol McCloud, decorate our own buckets, make warm fuzzies to share with our communities, sing songs, earn a patch and more!For more information, contact the Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Panhandle Membership Coordinator at 308-765-2571 or Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at Alliance Public Library, 762-1387

Acts of Kindness Day to be held at Alliance Public Library

Alliance – A Valentine search for Sherbet the unicorn for preschool through second grade starts tomorrow, February 1st until February 14th during library hours, with one prize per child.

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

By City of AllianceAlliance – A Valentine search for Sherbet the unicorn for preschool through second grade starts tomorrow, February 1st until February 14th during library hours, with one prize per child.For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.<figure>
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'Valentine search for Sherbet the unicorn' continues at Alliance library 

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS CHADRON – The Chadron State College Galaxy Series will host the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus at Memorial Hall Auditorium Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. Celebrating two decades of keeping American traditional circus alive, the family show brings a diverse roster of sideshow, vaudeville, and variety talent. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for children and seniors at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/conferencing/galaxy-series/" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/conferencing/galaxy-series/</a>.

Since 1995, Bindlestiff Family Cirkus co-founders Stephanie Monseu and Keith Nelson have traveled the world with the show that includes a combination of jugglers, contortionists, plate spinning, sword swallowing, brain twisters, and other risk-taking feats set to live music.

According to its website, the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus harkens back to the day of the traditional American Circus touring the country by caravan while offering its own artistic twist. It is earthy and gritty in an engaging and participatory way.

The New York Times said the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Cabaret is, “old-fashioned variety entertainment of the sort Ed Sullivan so astutely scooped up, but with twists.” TIME OUT NY said, “this troupe of circus artists will remind your family what the circus is really about.”&nbsp;

Bindlestiff performed and taught the variety arts on stages and festivals around the world including Lincoln Center’s Avery Fischer Hall, Burning Man, and in the United Kingdom and the Caribbean Seas.

The program is supported, in part, by funding from the New York State Council on the Arts.

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS CHADRON – The Chadron State College Galaxy Series will host the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus at Memorial Hall Auditorium Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. Celebrating two decades of keeping American traditional circus alive, the family show brings a diverse roster of sideshow, vaudeville, and variety talent. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for children and seniors at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/conferencing/galaxy-series/" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/conferencing/galaxy-series/</a>.Since 1995, Bindlestiff Family Cirkus co-founders Stephanie Monseu and Keith Nelson have traveled the world with the show that includes a combination of jugglers, contortionists, plate spinning, sword swallowing, brain twisters, and other risk-taking feats set to live music.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675382665213.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; The Chadron State College Galaxy Series will host the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus at Memorial Hall Auditorium Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. Celebrating two decades of keeping American traditional circus alive, the family show brings a diverse roster of sideshow, vaudeville, and variety talent. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for children and seniors at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/conferencing/galaxy-series/">http://www.csc.edu/conferencing/galaxy-series/</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; The Chadron State College Galaxy Series will host the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus at Memorial Hall Auditorium Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. Celebrating two decades of keeping American traditional circus alive, the family show brings a diverse roster of sideshow, vaudeville, and variety talent. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for children and seniors at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/conferencing/galaxy-series/">http://www.csc.edu/conferencing/galaxy-series/</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>According to its website, the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus harkens back to the day of the traditional American Circus touring the country by caravan while offering its own artistic twist. It is earthy and gritty in an engaging and participatory way.The New York Times said the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Cabaret is, “old-fashioned variety entertainment of the sort Ed Sullivan so astutely scooped up, but with twists.” TIME OUT NY said, “this troupe of circus artists will remind your family what the circus is really about.”&nbsp;Bindlestiff performed and taught the variety arts on stages and festivals around the world including Lincoln Center’s Avery Fischer Hall, Burning Man, and in the United Kingdom and the Caribbean Seas.The program is supported, in part, by funding from the New York State Council on the Arts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675382727627.jpeg" alt="" />
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CSC to host the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus Feb. 21

Nebraskans receiving an income tax refund this year have an opportunity to support wildlife and habitat conservation.

On Line 46 of the Nebraska state income tax form, 1040N, individuals may donate $1 or more of their tax refund to the Nebraska Wildlife Conservation Fund, which is used to help several hundred species in Nebraska that are rare, endangered or threatened.

Tax refund donations have benefited native wildlife, fish, and plants over the years, including the Blanding’s turtle, swift fox, peregrine falcon, bald eagle, songbirds, blowout penstemon and at-risk pollinators like monarch butterflies and bumble bees. Donations are used to monitor, maintain and improve habitat for these and many other fish and wildlife species, as well as to provide wildlife viewing and other educational opportunities for Nebraskans. Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDIuNzA5MTE3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk5lYnJhc2thV2lsZGxpZmVGdW5kLm9yZyJ9.qnJ2CBVxpPMOw8ABWcyy3qIBa6-adM81cIudsxWfTMg/s/1372948182/br/153920939930-l" target="_blank">NebraskaWildlifeFund.com</a>.

For taxpayers not entitled to a state tax refund, contributions can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDIuNzA5MTE3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk5lYnJhc2thV2lsZGxpZmVGdW5kLm9yZyJ9.5hRP6Aa59J4-HdfgTA-kCsB53lBaPBB698bGQA65xBA/s/1372948182/br/153920939930-l" target="_blank">NebraskaWildlifeFund.com</a>&nbsp;or by mail to: Nebraska Wildlife Conservation Fund, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, P.O. Box 30370, 2200 N. 33rd St., Lincoln, NE 68503.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675423879239.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKSNebraskans receiving an income tax refund this year have an opportunity to support wildlife and habitat conservation.On Line 46 of the Nebraska state income tax form, 1040N, individuals may donate $1 or more of their tax refund to the Nebraska Wildlife Conservation Fund, which is used to help several hundred species in Nebraska that are rare, endangered or threatened.Tax refund donations have benefited native wildlife, fish, and plants over the years, including the Blanding’s turtle, swift fox, peregrine falcon, bald eagle, songbirds, blowout penstemon and at-risk pollinators like monarch butterflies and bumble bees. Donations are used to monitor, maintain and improve habitat for these and many other fish and wildlife species, as well as to provide wildlife viewing and other educational opportunities for Nebraskans. Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDIuNzA5MTE3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk5lYnJhc2thV2lsZGxpZmVGdW5kLm9yZyJ9.qnJ2CBVxpPMOw8ABWcyy3qIBa6-adM81cIudsxWfTMg/s/1372948182/br/153920939930-l" target="_blank">NebraskaWildlifeFund.com</a>.For taxpayers not entitled to a state tax refund, contributions can be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMDIuNzA5MTE3NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3Lk5lYnJhc2thV2lsZGxpZmVGdW5kLm9yZyJ9.5hRP6Aa59J4-HdfgTA-kCsB53lBaPBB698bGQA65xBA/s/1372948182/br/153920939930-l" target="_blank">NebraskaWildlifeFund.com</a>&nbsp;or by mail to: Nebraska Wildlife Conservation Fund, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, P.O. Box 30370, 2200 N. 33rd St., Lincoln, NE 68503.

Tax season provides opportunity to support Nebraska wildlife conservation

We want to express our gratitude to the members of our community for your continued support and cooperation. Your trust in our department is greatly appreciated, and we are honored to serve and protect you. Together, we are making our streets safer and our community stronger.

Since the launch of our new community-survey initiative last year, we’ve received an outpouring of feedback on our officer-citizen interactions. With a 90% positive rating, we’re proud of the work our department is doing each and every day.

Thank you for your partnership and commitment. Together, we are building the best hometown in America.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Alliance Police DepartmentWe want to express our gratitude to the members of our community for your continued support and cooperation. Your trust in our department is greatly appreciated, and we are honored to serve and protect you. Together, we are making our streets safer and our community stronger.Since the launch of our new community-survey initiative last year, we’ve received an outpouring of feedback on our officer-citizen interactions. With a 90% positive rating, we’re proud of the work our department is doing each and every day.Thank you for your partnership and commitment. Together, we are building the best hometown in America.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675358246682.jpeg" alt="Photo by Alliance Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Alliance Police Department</figcaption>
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Alliance Police Department express gratitude to community 

Security First Bank and Security First Insurance of Chadron are holding the "Feeding Heart Food Drive" through Feb. 14.&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675353774530.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Security First Bank and Security First Insurance of Chadron are holding the "Feeding Heart Food Drive" through Feb. 14.&nbsp;

Security First Bank, Insurance to hold 'Feeding Hearts Food Drive' in Chadron

By Patricia Jones, Alliance (Neb.) Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Now that January has ended, we should have all the forms we need to file our federal and state income taxes. One of the biggest changes in our federal 2022 taxes is the Child Tax Credit, which is claimed by tens of millions of Americans every year.

As a response to the economic problems created by COVID, for 2021 Congress changed the child tax credit so it was higher and fully refundable. Their goal was to reduce child poverty in the United States.

And it worked! Combined with other relief efforts, the expansion helped lower child poverty by more than 40 percent between 2020 and 2021, from 9.7% to a record low of 5.2%, according to the Census Bureau. This meant 3.7 million children were lifted out of poverty in 2021.

What were the changes? The amount of the credit was $3,000 per child, $3,600 if they were under age 6. 17-year-olds were included. For July through December, the credit was paid out monthly: $250 per month for each qualifying child age 6 to 17, $300 per month for each qualifying child under age 6. This enabled families to budget and spend the money as it was needed.

Those changes all ended in December, 2021, for taxes filed by April, 2022.

The rules reverted back to those that were in place for filing 2020 returns. The amount of the credit is $2,000 per child through age 16. There were no early payments last year.

According to the IRS, you can claim the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child, meaning

By Patricia Jones, Alliance (Neb.) Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityNow that January has ended, we should have all the forms we need to file our federal and state income taxes. One of the biggest changes in our federal 2022 taxes is the Child Tax Credit, which is claimed by tens of millions of Americans every year.As a response to the economic problems created by COVID, for 2021 Congress changed the child tax credit so it was higher and fully refundable. Their goal was to reduce child poverty in the United States.And it worked! Combined with other relief efforts, the expansion helped lower child poverty by more than 40 percent between 2020 and 2021, from 9.7% to a record low of 5.2%, according to the Census Bureau. This meant 3.7 million children were lifted out of poverty in 2021.What were the changes? The amount of the credit was $3,000 per child, $3,600 if they were under age 6. 17-year-olds were included. For July through December, the credit was paid out monthly: $250 per month for each qualifying child age 6 to 17, $300 per month for each qualifying child under age 6. This enabled families to budget and spend the money as it was needed.Those changes all ended in December, 2021, for taxes filed by April, 2022.The rules reverted back to those that were in place for filing 2020 returns. The amount of the credit is $2,000 per child through age 16. There were no early payments last year.According to the IRS, you can claim the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child, meaningyour dependent must:· Be under age 17 at the end of the year· Be your son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, or a descendant of one of these (grandchild, niece or nephew)· Provide no more than half of their own financial support during the year· Have lived with you for more than half the year· Be properly claimed as your dependent on your tax return· Have been a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or U.S. resident alien· Have a valid Social Security NumberYou qualify for the full amount of the 2022 Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child if you meet all eligibility factors and your annual income is not more than $200,000 ($400,000 if filing a joint return). Parents and guardians with higher incomes may be eligible to claim a partial credit.Last year households could claim the credit even if they hadn't earned income from a job or didn't owe any income taxes. Instead, only up to $1,500 of the Child Tax Credit is refundable for some lower-income individuals with children. You must have at least $2,500 of earned income to even qualify for this partial refund.You have to file a tax return to get any of the Child Tax Credit refund. You must file Schedule 8812 to figure the amount of the credit.Families who qualify for the Child Tax Credit might also qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, Adoption Credit, or Education credits.The IRS asks that, if possible, people file electronically rather than mailing in paper forms. The library has public computers that anyone can use. Log in using your library card number. If you aren’t a patron of the library, you can use a guest pass if you provide a current photo ID. You can print from the computer for 25¢ a page.The library will print blank tax forms for patrons at no cost at their request. This does not include the tax instruction booklets, just the blank tax forms.The IRS is generally promising refunds within 21 days of filing of electronic returns. This would be true for people who file online, make no errors on their return, and request that their refund be directly deposited into their bank account.If you qualify for tax credits and are getting a refund, file your income taxes soon!

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