On April 10, 37-year-old Ryan McElroy killed 22-year-old Blythe Boness of Alliance in a vehicle crash on Highway 2 east of Alliance.

"As we know on April 10, 2022 in the afternoon, victim in this case, Blythe Boness, was traveling eastbound on Highway 2 in Box Butte County, Nebraska," Edward Vierk of the Nebraska Attorney General's Office said in Box Butte County District County today. "Blythe had just dropped off her fiancé Bailey to pick up a used truck that would be their future ranch truck. Blythe and Bailey were putting the pieces in place for their life together as husband and wife on a ranch. In fact, at the time of the crash that would soon happen, Bailey was following Blythe approximately two and a half miles behind her in this new used truck that they had purchased. At the time, Blythe was driving her Ford Escape SUV. In her vehicle, she had no other human passenger. She did have her and Bailey's four companions, their loyal dogs, not all of which would survive the upcoming event. And at the same time, the defendant, Mr. McElroy was traveling westbound on Highway 2. He was alone in his Camaro. At that time, he was driving on a suspended Kansas license and in fact, in Kansas, he did have a warrant out for his arrest. He had been drinking that morning, but he'd run out of alcohol and got in his car to go buy more alcohol. At approximately mile marker 92.5 in Box Butte County, Mr. McElroy crossed the center line and began driving in the eastbound lane of Highway 2. This was the lane that Blythe was properly driving in. Blythe made an evasive maneuver to try to avoid Mr. McElroy's oncoming car. She moved towards the north shoulder rather than trying to endanger herself by going into a ditch and the defendant then made another maneuver, returning to his lane, and he struck Miss Boness vehicle. As a result of this collision, Miss Boness was ejected and was killed." Boness was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash and both vehicles were traveling slightly above the 65 MPH speed limit. McElroy hit Boness at approximately 73 MPH. McElroy was extracted from his vehicle by first responders and flown to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff for treatment. His Blood Alcohol Content was .235 grams per 100 ml of blood. McElroy was previously convicted of a DUI in Gage County on June 12, 2008 and another DUI in Salina, Kansas that year.

"In addition to this trauma, Blythe's fiancee, who I'd stated earlier had been following about two and a half miles behind, did arrive at the scene," Vierk said. "The worst nightmare possible he finds his fiancee underneath her vehicle, Bailey attempted to lift the vehicle off of her, but obviously could not. And he's still wracked with guilt that he was unable to do so. Mr McElroy is actions and choices that day provided lives, family and friends with the worst day of their lives. Mr. McElroy however his series of bad choices took Blythe away from her mother, her father, her fiancé, her brother's, the rest of her family or friends in her community. When we look around this courtroom, it's clear the damage to the community that Mr. McElroy has wrought with his bad and selfish choices. Blythe's mother Teresa didn't have an easy time giving birth to her daughter, she's been affected by this. She was on five months bed rest when she carried Blythe with every doctor telling her she was going to lose the baby. Despite the odds Blythe was healthy baby and she lived a short life that enlightened the lives of all those around her."

"Your Honor, this is a sad case," McElroy's attorney Stacy Bach said. "When I took this case on, I knew I wasn't going to be popular in the community. But, I had a duty and obligation and that's what we do as defense counsel, we represent our clients to the best of our ability. Mr. McElroy...after he got out of the hospital, and after I had an opportunity to meet with him, and after he was able to bond out of jail...he and I came into my office and we sat down. As defense counsel, it's my job to review every ounce of the evidence to review all the transcripts, and help my client make determinations on how to proceed to trial. In reviewing those transcripts and viewing the evidence, it was clear that there was no seatbelt being worn. It was clear there was a high rate of speed on the part of both parties. There were also issues of whether or not Ms. Boness was on her cell phone at the time. There were also issues that were being addressed, instigated by the firm that we intended to hire as expert witnesses, whether or not this was avoidable-- whether or not the evasive actions that she took were inappropriate. And again, those are what defense counsel does. As I sat and talked with Mr. McElroy about that, he said don't do it. I'm not gonna put the family to trial. I'm guilty. I was drunk. I caused the accident. He came into court. This court said, How do you plead? And he said, I plead guilty. He didn't plead no contest, which is what I tell 99% of my clients to do when there's civil litigation potentially. He said I don't care. I caused the accident, I'm absolutely guilty. I think that's what he told the court. This is hard for me. It's hard for Mr. McElroy. It's hard for these people behind me to sit here and listen to this today. But, it's closure. And I hope that this court gives them the closure that they need."

Bach then spoke about McElroy's criminal past.

"Mr. McElroy when he turned 29, I think he kind of had an epiphany," Bach said. "And that's when, for the most part, his criminal record left. He had a couple of things...no proof of insurance in 2018, and then got sideways with a girlfriend in 2020. And then there was this. The two prior convictions, although valid, are all right on the cusp of not being usable offenses anymore. They're 14 and a half years. In Nebraska, it's a 15 year look back period. Doesn't discount it. They're there. It's an&nbsp;enhanceable  offense. And that's what the courts done and my clients not objecting to that. When we look through here, your Honor, I know you have a range that you can do a range from one to 50 years. I'm asking for the opportunity for Mr. McElroy to be able to get out at some point, put what he has learned to use, whether that's to go to schools and talk about driving and drinking and telling kids what he did. The court has the opportunity to put two numbers out there bottom to top. And so what we're asking for is at least somewhere in the middle for the bottom number and top numbers up to the discretion of the court. I know this, again, has been hard on everyone. But I appreciate that Mr. McElroy stood up, took responsibility for his actions in this case, and didn't drag this family through anything more than what they've already suffered."

"I just wrote this today," McElroy said "For six months. I've thought about what to say today and just have so many thoughts and everything is like a snowball and it just melted together. I had to say something today because I didn't want to feel like a coward. I don't know how to say what I want to say, I cannot imagine the grief that I put everyone through. This is one of those things that unless it actually happens to you, you will never thoroughly understand how it feels. Nothing I say will return what's lost or heal their broken hearts. I've had the privilege today to read some of the letters. I feel the sadness radiating from these letters. I can't fault anyone for feeling the way they do about me, I would too in their shoes. One letter that stuck out to me had a different message. One that said they hope my heart and mind find a different path. And I hope so. I'm sorry is not enough. No words will ever be enough. But, still I'm sorry. In the end, I had a choice that day to drink and drive. I wish more than anything that I could go back and do better."

"This is just a very difficult, tragic case," Box Butte County District Court Judge Travis P. O'Gorman said. "I wish there was something magical that I could say today that would take away all the pain and hurt and anger in this room. And I've been doing this long enough. I know that that's not possible for me to do.&nbsp;All I can say is the people here from Miss Boness, is that you have my most sincere condolences and I'm very sorry for your mom. We've all heard Mr. McElroy, you do have a concerning record to prior DUI offenses, one of which had a child in the vehicle, some theft offenses as well as two prior domestic offenses, which all contribute to the present report finding that you are high risk to reoffend. As noted by the prosecution going to treatment on multiple occasions, but still continuing to drink and drive. You admit and your criminal history is in your words fueled by alcohol. And that's what the evidence in this case shows." McElroy was sentenced to a term of &nbsp;"not less than 45 years, not more than 50 years" in the Nebraska State Prison. McElroy was credited for the 108 days already served. He will be eligible for parole in 22 1/2 years.

McElroy was also ordered to pay the cost of the prosecution and his driver's license was revoked for 15 years. His mandatory discharge will be in 25 years.

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostOn April 10, 37-year-old Ryan McElroy killed 22-year-old Blythe Boness of Alliance in a vehicle crash on Highway 2 east of Alliance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607783127913.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"As we know on April 10, 2022 in the afternoon, victim in this case, Blythe Boness, was traveling eastbound on Highway 2 in Box Butte County, Nebraska," Edward Vierk of the Nebraska Attorney General's Office said in Box Butte County District County today. "Blythe had just dropped off her fiancé Bailey to pick up a used truck that would be their future ranch truck. Blythe and Bailey were putting the pieces in place for their life together as husband and wife on a ranch. In fact, at the time of the crash that would soon happen, Bailey was following Blythe approximately two and a half miles behind her in this new used truck that they had purchased. At the time, Blythe was driving her Ford Escape SUV. In her vehicle, she had no other human passenger. She did have her and Bailey's four companions, their loyal dogs, not all of which would survive the upcoming event. And at the same time, the defendant, Mr. McElroy was traveling westbound on Highway 2. He was alone in his Camaro. At that time, he was driving on a suspended Kansas license and in fact, in Kansas, he did have a warrant out for his arrest. He had been drinking that morning, but he'd run out of alcohol and got in his car to go buy more alcohol. At approximately mile marker 92.5 in Box Butte County, Mr. McElroy crossed the center line and began driving in the eastbound lane of Highway 2. This was the lane that Blythe was properly driving in. Blythe made an evasive maneuver to try to avoid Mr. McElroy's oncoming car. She moved towards the north shoulder rather than trying to endanger herself by going into a ditch and the defendant then made another maneuver, returning to his lane, and he struck Miss Boness vehicle. As a result of this collision, Miss Boness was ejected and was killed." Boness was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash and both vehicles were traveling slightly above the 65 MPH speed limit. McElroy hit Boness at approximately 73 MPH. McElroy was extracted from his vehicle by first responders and flown to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff for treatment. His Blood Alcohol Content was .235 grams per 100 ml of blood. McElroy was previously convicted of a DUI in Gage County on June 12, 2008 and another DUI in Salina, Kansas that year."In addition to this trauma, Blythe's fiancee, who I'd stated earlier had been following about two and a half miles behind, did arrive at the scene," Vierk said. "The worst nightmare possible he finds his fiancee underneath her vehicle, Bailey attempted to lift the vehicle off of her, but obviously could not. And he's still wracked with guilt that he was unable to do so. Mr McElroy is actions and choices that day provided lives, family and friends with the worst day of their lives. Mr. McElroy however his series of bad choices took Blythe away from her mother, her father, her fiancé, her brother's, the rest of her family or friends in her community. When we look around this courtroom, it's clear the damage to the community that Mr. McElroy has wrought with his bad and selfish choices. Blythe's mother Teresa didn't have an easy time giving birth to her daughter, she's been affected by this. She was on five months bed rest when she carried Blythe with every doctor telling her she was going to lose the baby. Despite the odds Blythe was healthy baby and she lived a short life that enlightened the lives of all those around her.""Your Honor, this is a sad case," McElroy's attorney Stacy Bach said. "When I took this case on, I knew I wasn't going to be popular in the community. But, I had a duty and obligation and that's what we do as defense counsel, we represent our clients to the best of our ability. Mr. McElroy...after he got out of the hospital, and after I had an opportunity to meet with him, and after he was able to bond out of jail...he and I came into my office and we sat down. As defense counsel, it's my job to review every ounce of the evidence to review all the transcripts, and help my client make determinations on how to proceed to trial. In reviewing those transcripts and viewing the evidence, it was clear that there was no seatbelt being worn. It was clear there was a high rate of speed on the part of both parties. There were also issues of whether or not Ms. Boness was on her cell phone at the time. There were also issues that were being addressed, instigated by the firm that we intended to hire as expert witnesses, whether or not this was avoidable-- whether or not the evasive actions that she took were inappropriate. And again, those are what defense counsel does. As I sat and talked with Mr. McElroy about that, he said don't do it. I'm not gonna put the family to trial. I'm guilty. I was drunk. I caused the accident. He came into court. This court said, How do you plead? And he said, I plead guilty. He didn't plead no contest, which is what I tell 99% of my clients to do when there's civil litigation potentially. He said I don't care. I caused the accident, I'm absolutely guilty. I think that's what he told the court. This is hard for me. It's hard for Mr. McElroy. It's hard for these people behind me to sit here and listen to this today. But, it's closure. And I hope that this court gives them the closure that they need." Bach then spoke about McElroy's criminal past."Mr. McElroy when he turned 29, I think he kind of had an epiphany," Bach said. "And that's when, for the most part, his criminal record left. He had a couple of things...no proof of insurance in 2018, and then got sideways with a girlfriend in 2020. And then there was this. The two prior convictions, although valid, are all right on the cusp of not being usable offenses anymore. They're 14 and a half years. In Nebraska, it's a 15 year look back period. Doesn't discount it. They're there. It's an&nbsp;enhanceable offense. And that's what the courts done and my clients not objecting to that. When we look through here, your Honor, I know you have a range that you can do a range from one to 50 years. I'm asking for the opportunity for Mr. McElroy to be able to get out at some point, put what he has learned to use, whether that's to go to schools and talk about driving and drinking and telling kids what he did. The court has the opportunity to put two numbers out there bottom to top. And so what we're asking for is at least somewhere in the middle for the bottom number and top numbers up to the discretion of the court. I know this, again, has been hard on everyone. But I appreciate that Mr. McElroy stood up, took responsibility for his actions in this case, and didn't drag this family through anything more than what they've already suffered."McElroy then spoke to the court."I just wrote this today," McElroy said "For six months. I've thought about what to say today and just have so many thoughts and everything is like a snowball and it just melted together. I had to say something today because I didn't want to feel like a coward. I don't know how to say what I want to say, I cannot imagine the grief that I put everyone through. This is one of those things that unless it actually happens to you, you will never thoroughly understand how it feels. Nothing I say will return what's lost or heal their broken hearts. I've had the privilege today to read some of the letters. I feel the sadness radiating from these letters. I can't fault anyone for feeling the way they do about me, I would too in their shoes. One letter that stuck out to me had a different message. One that said they hope my heart and mind find a different path. And I hope so. I'm sorry is not enough. No words will ever be enough. But, still I'm sorry. In the end, I had a choice that day to drink and drive. I wish more than anything that I could go back and do better.""This is just a very difficult, tragic case," Box Butte County District Court Judge Travis P. O'Gorman said. "I wish there was something magical that I could say today that would take away all the pain and hurt and anger in this room. And I've been doing this long enough. I know that that's not possible for me to do.&nbsp;All I can say is the people here from Miss Boness, is that you have my most sincere condolences and I'm very sorry for your mom. We've all heard Mr. McElroy, you do have a concerning record to prior DUI offenses, one of which had a child in the vehicle, some theft offenses as well as two prior domestic offenses, which all contribute to the present report finding that you are high risk to reoffend. As noted by the prosecution going to treatment on multiple occasions, but still continuing to drink and drive. You admit and your criminal history is in your words fueled by alcohol. And that's what the evidence in this case shows." McElroy was sentenced to a term of &nbsp;"not less than 45 years, not more than 50 years" in the Nebraska State Prison. McElroy was credited for the 108 days already served. He will be eligible for parole in 22 1/2 years.McElroy was also ordered to pay the cost of the prosecution and his driver's license was revoked for 15 years. His mandatory discharge will be in 25 years.

Kansas man sentenced to prison for crash that killed Alliance woman 

Nebraska Public Power District will be shutting off power to the entire Chadron community today, November 7, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. due to the number of down power lines until further notice.

 Residents are strongly urged to stay off the streets due to the dangers presented by high winds.

By City of ChadronNebraska Public Power District will be shutting off power to the entire Chadron community today, November 7, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. due to the number of down power lines until further notice. Residents are strongly urged to stay off the streets due to the dangers presented by high winds.

NPPD to shut off City of Chadron power due to high winds 

Alliance, NE – Due to high wind causing unsafe conditions, the Alliance Landfill will be closing for the remainder of the day. They will be open tomorrow regular business hours.

For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705

Alliance – Due to high wind causing unsafe conditions, the Alliance Landfill Construction and Demolition area and top of the hill are closed to the public. 

They are still accepting yard waste and household refuse.

For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

By City of AllianceUpdated 1:12 p.m.&nbsp;Alliance, NE – Due to high wind causing unsafe conditions, the Alliance Landfill will be closing for the remainder of the day. They will be open tomorrow regular business hours.For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705------Alliance – Due to high wind causing unsafe conditions, the Alliance Landfill Construction and Demolition area and top of the hill are closed to the public. They are still accepting yard waste and household refuse.For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

UPDATE: Alliance landfill issues temporary closure

The Chadron State College campus is closed Monday, Nov. 7 due to high winds and an electrical outage.

Residence halls and dining services will remain open.

The college plans to open Tuesday, Nov. 8.

By Chadron State CollegeThe Chadron State College campus is closed Monday, Nov. 7 due to high winds and an electrical outage.Residence halls and dining services will remain open.The college plans to open Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Chadron State College campus temporarily closed 

The City of Chadron is issuing a no-travel advisory due to high winds.&nbsp; The city is asking citizens not to travel unless it is an emergency.

 The high winds may blow down large trees and damage roofs, small outbuildings, and signs. 

Travel could be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. 

Strong winds can cause blowing dust, reduced visibility, and flying debris. 

The advisory is in effect until 8:00 p.m. tonight or until further notice.

By City of ChadronThe City of Chadron is issuing a no-travel advisory due to high winds.&nbsp; The city is asking citizens not to travel unless it is an emergency. The high winds may blow down large trees and damage roofs, small outbuildings, and signs. Power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. Strong winds can cause blowing dust, reduced visibility, and flying debris. The advisory is in effect until 8:00 p.m. tonight or until further notice.

City of Chadron issues no travel advisory 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 11/7/22

SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB. — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a vehicle-pedestrian fatality crash that occurred Saturday evening in Sheridan County.

At approximately 8:00 p.m. MT Saturday, NSP was alerted by the Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office of a crash that occurred on Highway 87 approximately two miles north of Rushville. The crash reportedly involved a Honda Odyssey and a pedestrian.

Preliminary investigation shows that the pedestrian was walking in the northbound lane of traffic. The driver of the Odyssey attempted to slow down and avoid the pedestrian, but the van struck the pedestrian.

The pedestrian, identified as Arrow Merrita Long, 21, of South Dakota, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The two occupants of the van suffered minor injuries in the crash.

The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office has assisted with the investigation.

By Nebraska State PatrolSCOTTSBLUFF, NEB. — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a vehicle-pedestrian fatality crash that occurred Saturday evening in Sheridan County.At approximately 8:00 p.m. MT Saturday, NSP was alerted by the Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office of a crash that occurred on Highway 87 approximately two miles north of Rushville. The crash reportedly involved a Honda Odyssey and a pedestrian.Preliminary investigation shows that the pedestrian was walking in the northbound lane of traffic. The driver of the Odyssey attempted to slow down and avoid the pedestrian, but the van struck the pedestrian.The pedestrian, identified as Arrow Merrita Long, 21, of South Dakota, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The two occupants of the van suffered minor injuries in the crash.The crash remains under investigation. The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office has assisted with the investigation.

NSP investigating fatal crash near Rushville

P202200998 01:32 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Officer responded to the 100 block of Niobrara Ave. referencing a car window being broken out by an unknown person. This case is under investigation. Open - Under Investigation

P202200999 09:51 AOA : ASSIST OTHER Assist Other Agency Request/ Sioux Falls, South Dakota Police Dept./ Completed/ Informational

P202201000 17:44 DISTURBANCE : Officers were dispatched to the 600 block of east 9th Street for a disturbance. One male was placed under arrest for a protection order violation. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202201001 00:44 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Report of a dog bite. Animal has been placed in quarantine Closed - Resolved

P202201002 07:50 INFO : INFORMATIONAL Alliance Animal Shelter/ Damaged Property Located/ Damages appear not to be intentional/ Closed and Unfounded/ Closed - Unfounded

P202201003 08:42 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL 2600 Block of Big Horn Drive/ Reported suicidal subject/ Contact made and individual transported to BBGH/ Individual placed under Emergency Protective Custody Closed - Resolved

P202201004 11:48 FOUND : FOUND A set of GMC keys was turned into dispatch/ the keys were deemed founded property and stored in the evidence vault/ case is inactive pending locating the owner. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202201005 17:48 WARRANT : ARREST 5th and Big Horn Avenue/ Individual with Warrant located/ Warrant is for Failure to Appear in court reference Child Support/ Individual arrested/ No bond listed/ Closed - Resolved

P202201012 17:24 INTAKE : INTAKE DHHS Intake regarding bills not being paid for a resident at the Highland Park Assisted Living. Closed - Unfounded

P202201007 22:41 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Officers were dispatched to 600 East 9th Street about a male who is having a mental health crisis. Upon arrival the male was seen holding a firearm and came to the door and refused to come out initially. The male later came outside with a handgun in one hand and a beer in the other. The male was taken safely into custody and held on an Emergency Protective Custody. Closed - Resolved

P202201007 22:41 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Officers were dispatched to 600 East 9th Street about a male who is having a mental health crisis. Upon arrival the male was seen holding a firearm and came to the door and refused to come out initially. The male later came outside with a handgun in one hand and a beer in the other. The male was taken safely into custody and held on an Emergency Protective Custody. Open - Under Investigation

P202201008 15:06 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : MINOR DAMAGE TO A VEHICLE / SMALL DENT ON DRIVER'S DOOR / CRIMINAL MISCHIEF / Inactive - Case Suspended

P202201010 15:18 WARRANT : ARREST 512 Niobrara Avenue/ Individual with Lancaster County Warrant located/ Warrant for False Reporting Confirmed/ Pay $450 OR post $1,000 bond and set future court date/ Individual Arrested/ Case Closed Closed - Resolved

P202201011 05:20 STOLEN VEHICLE : Report of a vehicle having been possibly stolen from the 900 block west Alleyway of Box Butte. Owner believed it could have been repossessed. Bank confirmed the vehicle was repossessed. Closed - Unfounded

P202201013 14:19 LOST : LOST Report of a lost ring // Ring was lost on the 21st of October // Report was taken Inactive - Case Suspended

P202201015 14:29 DEATH : UNATTENDED 2900 block of Cheyenne Ave // EMS and Police responded to a call about an adult male unconscious and not breathing // Male was found to be deceased // An investigation was conducted // Closed - Unfounded

P202201016 02:36 OD : Overdose Informational

P202201017 10:01 FOUND : FOUND 21st Street/ Citizen located lost wallet and cologne/ Turned into PD/ Inactivated and Suspended Inactive - Case Suspended

P202201018 15:33 TRESPASS : TRESPASS Gathering Spot Bar and Grill/ Report of Trespasser/ Made contact with Trespasser inside establishment/ Confirmed previous Trespass Warnings for Trespasser from Establishment/ Trespasser placed under arrest/ During search incident to arrest, possible methamphetamine located on arrestee/ Closed - Charges Recommended

By Alliance Police Department10/30/22P202200998 01:32 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Officer responded to the 100 block of Niobrara Ave. referencing a car window being broken out by an unknown person. This case is under investigation. Open - Under InvestigationP202200999 09:51 AOA : ASSIST OTHER Assist Other Agency Request/ Sioux Falls, South Dakota Police Dept./ Completed/ InformationalP202201000 17:44 DISTURBANCE : Officers were dispatched to the 600 block of east 9th Street for a disturbance. One male was placed under arrest for a protection order violation. Closed - Charges Recommended10/30/22 Total: 310/31/22P202201001 00:44 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Report of a dog bite. Animal has been placed in quarantine Closed - ResolvedP202201002 07:50 INFO : INFORMATIONAL Alliance Animal Shelter/ Damaged Property Located/ Damages appear not to be intentional/ Closed and Unfounded/ Closed - UnfoundedP202201003 08:42 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL 2600 Block of Big Horn Drive/ Reported suicidal subject/ Contact made and individual transported to BBGH/ Individual placed under Emergency Protective Custody Closed - ResolvedP202201004 11:48 FOUND : FOUND A set of GMC keys was turned into dispatch/ the keys were deemed founded property and stored in the evidence vault/ case is inactive pending locating the owner. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202201005 17:48 WARRANT : ARREST 5th and Big Horn Avenue/ Individual with Warrant located/ Warrant is for Failure to Appear in court reference Child Support/ Individual arrested/ No bond listed/ Closed - Resolved10/31/22 Total: 511/01/22P202201012 17:24 INTAKE : INTAKE DHHS Intake regarding bills not being paid for a resident at the Highland Park Assisted Living. Closed - UnfoundedP202201007 22:41 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Officers were dispatched to 600 East 9th Street about a male who is having a mental health crisis. Upon arrival the male was seen holding a firearm and came to the door and refused to come out initially. The male later came outside with a handgun in one hand and a beer in the other. The male was taken safely into custody and held on an Emergency Protective Custody. Closed - ResolvedP202201007 22:41 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Officers were dispatched to 600 East 9th Street about a male who is having a mental health crisis. Upon arrival the male was seen holding a firearm and came to the door and refused to come out initially. The male later came outside with a handgun in one hand and a beer in the other. The male was taken safely into custody and held on an Emergency Protective Custody. Open - Under Investigation11/01/22 Total: 311/02/22P202201008 15:06 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : MINOR DAMAGE TO A VEHICLE / SMALL DENT ON DRIVER'S DOOR / CRIMINAL MISCHIEF / Inactive - Case SuspendedP202201010 15:18 WARRANT : ARREST 512 Niobrara Avenue/ Individual with Lancaster County Warrant located/ Warrant for False Reporting Confirmed/ Pay $450 OR post $1,000 bond and set future court date/ Individual Arrested/ Case Closed Closed - Resolved11/02/22 Total: 211/03/22P202201011 05:20 STOLEN VEHICLE : Report of a vehicle having been possibly stolen from the 900 block west Alleyway of Box Butte. Owner believed it could have been repossessed. Bank confirmed the vehicle was repossessed. Closed - UnfoundedP202201013 14:19 LOST : LOST Report of a lost ring // Ring was lost on the 21st of October // Report was taken Inactive - Case Suspended11/03/22 Total: 211/04/22P202201015 14:29 DEATH : UNATTENDED 2900 block of Cheyenne Ave // EMS and Police responded to a call about an adult male unconscious and not breathing // Male was found to be deceased // An investigation was conducted // Closed - Unfounded11/04/22 Total: 111/05/22P202201016 02:36 OD : Overdose InformationalP202201017 10:01 FOUND : FOUND 21st Street/ Citizen located lost wallet and cologne/ Turned into PD/ Inactivated and Suspended Inactive - Case SuspendedP202201018 15:33 TRESPASS : TRESPASS Gathering Spot Bar and Grill/ Report of Trespasser/ Made contact with Trespasser inside establishment/ Confirmed previous Trespass Warnings for Trespasser from Establishment/ Trespasser placed under arrest/ During search incident to arrest, possible methamphetamine located on arrestee/ Closed - Charges Recommended11/05/22 Total: 3Total Records: 19

Alliance Police Department: The media report

Amity Palmer discusses November exhibits and workshops at the Carnegie.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Carnegie Arts Center" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2c62f-1308f92-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Amity Palmer discusses November exhibits and workshops at the Carnegie.

POST PODCAST: Carnegie Arts Center 

On Tuesday, November 8th Box Butte County citizens (those who did not vote early or send mail-in ballots) will vote on a variety of races including Nebraska Governor, Alliance City Council seats, congressional representatives and more.

As a public service, Panhandle Post presents a look at this year's complete Box Butte County ballot.&nbsp; Note that although this sample ballot features all Box Butte County races, each voter's individual ballot will only contain races pertaining to their district.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, November 8th Box Butte County citizens (those who did not vote early or send mail-in ballots) will vote on a variety of races including Nebraska Governor, Alliance City Council seats, congressional representatives and more.As a public service, Panhandle Post presents a look at this year's complete Box Butte County ballot.&nbsp; Note that although this sample ballot features all Box Butte County races, each voter's individual ballot will only contain races pertaining to their district.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667835424017.png" alt="" />
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ELECTION '22: Box Butte County Ballot

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Warren Buffett's company again reported a loss — this time only $2.7 billion — because of a drop in the paper value of its investment portfolio in the third quarter, but most of its operating businesses performed well with the notable exception of Geico.

Berkshire Hathaway reported a quarterly loss Saturday of $2.7 billion, or $1,832 per Class A share. That's down from a $10.3 billion profit, or $6,882 per Class A share, a year ago when the stock market was soaring. In the second quarter of this year, Berkshire reported a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/earnings-warren-buffett-03d1c9296e24b5e7117ae7e1dc37aa8a">$44 billion loss.</a>

Buffett has long said he believes Berkshire’s operating earnings are a better measure of the company’s performance because they exclude investment gains and losses, which can vary widely quarter to quarter. By that measure, Berkshire’s operating earnings jumped 20% to $7.76 billion, or $5,293.83 per Class A share. That's up from $6.47 billion, or $4,330.60 per Class A share.

The four analysts surveyed by FactSet expected Berkshire to report operating earnings per Class A share of $4,205.82 on average.

Berkshire said its revenue grew 9% to $76.9 billion.

Most of Berkshire's eclectic assortment of more than 90 companies performed well during the quarter, but the key insurance unit of Geico reported a pre-tax underwriting loss of $759 million as the cost of auto claims soared along with the prices of used cars and car parts. Geico has been hampered by soaring costs since the second half of last year.

Geico did increase its rates by 5.4% during the quarter, but that was almost entirely offset because it lost 4.6% of its customers.

Another notable weak spot in the results was that BNSF railroad's profit declined 6% to $1.44 billion as it hauled 5% less freight the cost of fuel soared and salary costs were adjusted up to reflect the raises railroads have agreed to pay their workers in tentative agreements with their 12 unions. Most of BNSF's peers reported significant increases in profits during the quarter.

Berkshire also owns a number of businesses linked to the housing market which has weakened significantly as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-technology-business-economy-b31b8ef21d9445c68fd2134e2b53ed51">mortgage rates</a>&nbsp;more than doubled over the past year. So Berkshire's large network of real estate brokers and its Clayton Homes manufactured housing unit could suffer in the months ahead.

CFRA Research analyst Cathy Seifert said at a time like this when a number of Berkshire's businesses are facing challenges it would be nice if the company would share more details about what it's doing to respond. But Berkshire's longstanding practice is just to post its quarterly report online without holding a conference call to discuss the results, so investors are left to draw their own conclusions about what's ahead because Berkshire does not say much in its report about what it is anticipating.

And Berkshire is known for its decentralized approach that largely lets its businesses run themselves on a day-to-day basis.

“It’s fine to be hands off when everything is going well. When you start getting into a more difficult operating environment, investors should demand more detail, and it’s not forthcoming here,” Seifert said. “And I personally find that problematic.”

But Edward Jones analyst Jim Shanahan said he thought the results were good overall, and the utility unit was a particularly strong contributor. Berkshire's utilities, which include MidAmerican Energy and PacifiCorp, added $1.59 billion in profits, up 6% over last year.

Berkshire said its insurance units recorded after tax losses of $2.7 billion related to Hurricane Ian. That compares with $1.7 billion in catastrophic losses a year ago related to Hurricane Ida and major floods in Europe.

Berkshire is sitting on nearly $109 billion cash even though it has been actively investing in the stock market this year, including putting more than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-earnings-omaha-warren-buffett-16d017b2579b9d7bb1cbff7f821e7578">$51 billion to work</a>&nbsp;in the first quarter. That is up slightly from the $105.4 billion it held at the end of the second quarter because Berkshire's businesses generated more cash than it spent. Although after the end of the third quarter, Berkshire did spend $11.6 billion in October to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-nebraska-omaha-business-90b41bfbecf4f12a7a018abd4028a5e7">complete its acquisition</a>&nbsp;of the Alleghany insurance conglomerate.

Buffett’s biggest stock investments this year included buying roughly $12 billion worth of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-nebraska-omaha-warren-buffett-82f97fb422287d83a85cf10922187871">Occidental Petroleum</a>&nbsp;stock and about $20 billion worth of Chevron shares. Besides those oil sector investments, Berkshire also bought more than 120 million shares of printer maker HP Inc. and bet big that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/microsoft-activision-blizzard-acquisition-call-of-duty-7a9e2bcc8f0b7b9049e4f93fe3e0a4dd">Microsoft’s acquisition</a>&nbsp;of Activision Blizzard will go through by buying nearly 70 million shares of the video game maker.

But during the third quarter, Berkshire was only a net buyer of about $3.7 billion in stocks, Shanahan said. About $2 billion of that went to Occidental purchases that have already been disclosed. Berkshire also repurchased $1.05 billion of its own shares.

Berkshire's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-nebraska-omaha-warren-buffett-4fcb31265074f60c8495aee2aa6aa217">investment portfolio</a>&nbsp;also includes major stakes in Apple, American Express, Bank of America and Coca-Cola stock.

The Omaha, Nebraska, based conglomerate's companies include manufacturing firms like aviation parts maker Precision Castparts and specialty chemical maker Lubrizol, retail firms like See's Candy, Dairy Queen and Helzberg Diamonds and other companies like NetJets.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Warren Buffett's company again reported a loss — this time only $2.7 billion — because of a drop in the paper value of its investment portfolio in the third quarter, but most of its operating businesses performed well with the notable exception of Geico.Berkshire Hathaway reported a quarterly loss Saturday of $2.7 billion, or $1,832 per Class A share. That's down from a $10.3 billion profit, or $6,882 per Class A share, a year ago when the stock market was soaring. In the second quarter of this year, Berkshire reported a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/earnings-warren-buffett-03d1c9296e24b5e7117ae7e1dc37aa8a">$44 billion loss.</a>Buffett has long said he believes Berkshire’s operating earnings are a better measure of the company’s performance because they exclude investment gains and losses, which can vary widely quarter to quarter. By that measure, Berkshire’s operating earnings jumped 20% to $7.76 billion, or $5,293.83 per Class A share. That's up from $6.47 billion, or $4,330.60 per Class A share.The four analysts surveyed by FactSet expected Berkshire to report operating earnings per Class A share of $4,205.82 on average.Berkshire said its revenue grew 9% to $76.9 billion.Most of Berkshire's eclectic assortment of more than 90 companies performed well during the quarter, but the key insurance unit of Geico reported a pre-tax underwriting loss of $759 million as the cost of auto claims soared along with the prices of used cars and car parts. Geico has been hampered by soaring costs since the second half of last year.Geico did increase its rates by 5.4% during the quarter, but that was almost entirely offset because it lost 4.6% of its customers.Another notable weak spot in the results was that BNSF railroad's profit declined 6% to $1.44 billion as it hauled 5% less freight the cost of fuel soared and salary costs were adjusted up to reflect the raises railroads have agreed to pay their workers in tentative agreements with their 12 unions. Most of BNSF's peers reported significant increases in profits during the quarter.Berkshire also owns a number of businesses linked to the housing market which has weakened significantly as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-technology-business-economy-b31b8ef21d9445c68fd2134e2b53ed51">mortgage rates</a>&nbsp;more than doubled over the past year. So Berkshire's large network of real estate brokers and its Clayton Homes manufactured housing unit could suffer in the months ahead.CFRA Research analyst Cathy Seifert said at a time like this when a number of Berkshire's businesses are facing challenges it would be nice if the company would share more details about what it's doing to respond. But Berkshire's longstanding practice is just to post its quarterly report online without holding a conference call to discuss the results, so investors are left to draw their own conclusions about what's ahead because Berkshire does not say much in its report about what it is anticipating.And Berkshire is known for its decentralized approach that largely lets its businesses run themselves on a day-to-day basis.“It’s fine to be hands off when everything is going well. When you start getting into a more difficult operating environment, investors should demand more detail, and it’s not forthcoming here,” Seifert said. “And I personally find that problematic.”But Edward Jones analyst Jim Shanahan said he thought the results were good overall, and the utility unit was a particularly strong contributor. Berkshire's utilities, which include MidAmerican Energy and PacifiCorp, added $1.59 billion in profits, up 6% over last year.Berkshire said its insurance units recorded after tax losses of $2.7 billion related to Hurricane Ian. That compares with $1.7 billion in catastrophic losses a year ago related to Hurricane Ida and major floods in Europe.Berkshire is sitting on nearly $109 billion cash even though it has been actively investing in the stock market this year, including putting more than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-earnings-omaha-warren-buffett-16d017b2579b9d7bb1cbff7f821e7578">$51 billion to work</a>&nbsp;in the first quarter. That is up slightly from the $105.4 billion it held at the end of the second quarter because Berkshire's businesses generated more cash than it spent. Although after the end of the third quarter, Berkshire did spend $11.6 billion in October to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-nebraska-omaha-business-90b41bfbecf4f12a7a018abd4028a5e7">complete its acquisition</a>&nbsp;of the Alleghany insurance conglomerate.Buffett’s biggest stock investments this year included buying roughly $12 billion worth of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-nebraska-omaha-warren-buffett-82f97fb422287d83a85cf10922187871">Occidental Petroleum</a>&nbsp;stock and about $20 billion worth of Chevron shares. Besides those oil sector investments, Berkshire also bought more than 120 million shares of printer maker HP Inc. and bet big that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/microsoft-activision-blizzard-acquisition-call-of-duty-7a9e2bcc8f0b7b9049e4f93fe3e0a4dd">Microsoft’s acquisition</a>&nbsp;of Activision Blizzard will go through by buying nearly 70 million shares of the video game maker.But during the third quarter, Berkshire was only a net buyer of about $3.7 billion in stocks, Shanahan said. About $2 billion of that went to Occidental purchases that have already been disclosed. Berkshire also repurchased $1.05 billion of its own shares.Berkshire's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-nebraska-omaha-warren-buffett-4fcb31265074f60c8495aee2aa6aa217">investment portfolio</a>&nbsp;also includes major stakes in Apple, American Express, Bank of America and Coca-Cola stock.The Omaha, Nebraska, based conglomerate's companies include manufacturing firms like aviation parts maker Precision Castparts and specialty chemical maker Lubrizol, retail firms like See's Candy, Dairy Queen and Helzberg Diamonds and other companies like NetJets.

Warren Buffett's firm reports $2.7B loss on investment drop

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Another one of the 12 railroad unions narrowly approved its deal with the major freight railroads Saturday, offering some hope that the contract dispute might be resolved without a strike even though two other unions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-strikes-government-and-politics-581babaeee804c37e4761424c02af21a">rejected</a>&nbsp;their agreements last month.

Now that 52% of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers members who voted approved their deal, seven railroad unions have ratified contracts that include 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses, but all 12 have to approve contracts to prevent a strike.

Concerns remain about the possibility of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-congress-government-and-politics-a53abd85fa6f8b3ccd622222ea9a4c46">economically devastating strike</a>&nbsp;because the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division and Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen unions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-0744cffe919f0d48fcc02d16c8a298b3">voted down</a>&nbsp;their contracts, and many workers say these deals just don't address their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-207229bcd558b6a6c1d58f3f85e2d804">quality-of life concerns</a>. No strike is imminent because those unions agreed to return to the bargaining table to try to work out a new deal, but those talks have been deadlocked over the unions' demands for paid sick time and there is a Nov. 19 deadline.

The railroads have rejected union demands for paid sick time because they say the deals they've been offering include higher wages that are intended to compensate workers for the lack of sick time and their other quality of life concerns. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-norfolk-government-and-politics-eeedec386f2acba5d63181436ca03f3f">railroads want</a>&nbsp;any deal to closely follow the recommendations made this summer by a special panel of arbitrators that President Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-transportation-strikes-ba718974eb14fcd615d606bfcdffb3d2">appointed</a>.

The railroads have also maintained that the unions have agreed over the years to forego paid sick leave in favor of better wages and strong short-term disability benefits.

The group that negotiates on behalf of Norfolk Southern, Union Pacific, BNSF, Kansas City Southern, CSX and other railroads said the deal the Machinists approved includes “the largest wage package in nearly five decades” and implements the recommendations the Presidential Emergency Board made.

The deal the Machinists approved this weekend was the second one they voted on after rejecting their first agreement. This one includes all the raises and an additional paid leave day that was in the original deal, but it also included several additional benefits including a cap on health insurance expenses, an agreement that the railroads will study how much overtime employees are being forced to work and a promise that each railroad will negotiate individually over expense reimbursement.

The railroads also promised the Machinists that they won’t force workers to share hotel rooms when they’re on the road for work.

“Our union recognizes that the agreement wasn’t accepted overwhelmingly, so our team will continue conversing with our members at our rail yards across the nation,” the Machinists union's District 19 unit said in a statement. “This agreement is the first step in addressing some of the issues in our industry. Our fight was able to shine a light on the work-life balance issues as well as the lack of proper paid sick leave.”

Three other unions are scheduled to vote later this month, including the largest ones that represent engineers and conductors.

The workers represented by the Machinists union generally have more regular schedules than the engineers and conductors who say the railroads' strict attendance policies keep them on call 24/7. And the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers unions won't even release the results of their votes until after the current Nov. 19 deadline in the BMWED talks.

Because of the fears about a possible strike,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-economy-congress-government-and-politics-6b60d53fefc7b85f301b0a3e7011715b">business groups</a>&nbsp;have urged Biden and Congress to be ready to intervene if both sides can't reach an agreement. Biden played an active role in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-economy-strikes-congress-94089be6a4f469444da99fec9dde1b3e">securing</a>&nbsp;these original deals back in September, and Congress has the power to block a strike and impose terms on the workers if there is a walkout.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Another one of the 12 railroad unions narrowly approved its deal with the major freight railroads Saturday, offering some hope that the contract dispute might be resolved without a strike even though two other unions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-strikes-government-and-politics-581babaeee804c37e4761424c02af21a">rejected</a>&nbsp;their agreements last month.Now that 52% of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers members who voted approved their deal, seven railroad unions have ratified contracts that include 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses, but all 12 have to approve contracts to prevent a strike.Concerns remain about the possibility of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-congress-government-and-politics-a53abd85fa6f8b3ccd622222ea9a4c46">economically devastating strike</a>&nbsp;because the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division and Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen unions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-0744cffe919f0d48fcc02d16c8a298b3">voted down</a>&nbsp;their contracts, and many workers say these deals just don't address their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-government-and-politics-207229bcd558b6a6c1d58f3f85e2d804">quality-of life concerns</a>. No strike is imminent because those unions agreed to return to the bargaining table to try to work out a new deal, but those talks have been deadlocked over the unions' demands for paid sick time and there is a Nov. 19 deadline.The railroads have rejected union demands for paid sick time because they say the deals they've been offering include higher wages that are intended to compensate workers for the lack of sick time and their other quality of life concerns. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-norfolk-government-and-politics-eeedec386f2acba5d63181436ca03f3f">railroads want</a>&nbsp;any deal to closely follow the recommendations made this summer by a special panel of arbitrators that President Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-transportation-strikes-ba718974eb14fcd615d606bfcdffb3d2">appointed</a>.The railroads have also maintained that the unions have agreed over the years to forego paid sick leave in favor of better wages and strong short-term disability benefits.The group that negotiates on behalf of Norfolk Southern, Union Pacific, BNSF, Kansas City Southern, CSX and other railroads said the deal the Machinists approved includes “the largest wage package in nearly five decades” and implements the recommendations the Presidential Emergency Board made.The deal the Machinists approved this weekend was the second one they voted on after rejecting their first agreement. This one includes all the raises and an additional paid leave day that was in the original deal, but it also included several additional benefits including a cap on health insurance expenses, an agreement that the railroads will study how much overtime employees are being forced to work and a promise that each railroad will negotiate individually over expense reimbursement.The railroads also promised the Machinists that they won’t force workers to share hotel rooms when they’re on the road for work.“Our union recognizes that the agreement wasn’t accepted overwhelmingly, so our team will continue conversing with our members at our rail yards across the nation,” the Machinists union's District 19 unit said in a statement. “This agreement is the first step in addressing some of the issues in our industry. Our fight was able to shine a light on the work-life balance issues as well as the lack of proper paid sick leave.”Three other unions are scheduled to vote later this month, including the largest ones that represent engineers and conductors.The workers represented by the Machinists union generally have more regular schedules than the engineers and conductors who say the railroads' strict attendance policies keep them on call 24/7. And the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers unions won't even release the results of their votes until after the current Nov. 19 deadline in the BMWED talks.Because of the fears about a possible strike,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-economy-congress-government-and-politics-6b60d53fefc7b85f301b0a3e7011715b">business groups</a>&nbsp;have urged Biden and Congress to be ready to intervene if both sides can't reach an agreement. Biden played an active role in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-economy-strikes-congress-94089be6a4f469444da99fec9dde1b3e">securing</a>&nbsp;these original deals back in September, and Congress has the power to block a strike and impose terms on the workers if there is a walkout.

Rail union approves deal offering hope of avoiding strike

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — A record Powerball jackpot grew to an even larger $1.9 billion after no one won the lottery drawing on Saturday night.

The numbers for the drawing were: white balls 28, 45, 53, 56, 69 and red Powerball 20.

The website of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.calottery.com/">California Lottery Association</a>&nbsp;said the next chance for someone to get lucky will be Monday.

The new $1.9 billion jackpot is for a winner who is paid through an annuity over 29 years. Winners of lottery jackpots usually prefer a lump sum of cash, which for Monday’s drawing would be $929.1 million, the California lottery site said.

The Powerball prize keeps getting more massive because of the inability of anyone to overcome the long odds of 1 in 292.2 million and win the jackpot. To take the top prize, players must match all five white balls and one red Powerball.

Since someone won the prize on Aug. 3, there have been 40 drawings without a winner.

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/2022/11/1667732500471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — A record Powerball jackpot grew to an even larger $1.9 billion after no one won the lottery drawing on Saturday night.The numbers for the drawing were: white balls 28, 45, 53, 56, 69 and red Powerball 20.The website of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.calottery.com/">California Lottery Association</a>&nbsp;said the next chance for someone to get lucky will be Monday.The new $1.9 billion jackpot is for a winner who is paid through an annuity over 29 years. Winners of lottery jackpots usually prefer a lump sum of cash, which for Monday’s drawing would be $929.1 million, the California lottery site said.The Powerball prize keeps getting more massive because of the inability of anyone to overcome the long odds of 1 in 292.2 million and win the jackpot. To take the top prize, players must match all five white balls and one red Powerball.Since someone won the prize on Aug. 3, there have been 40 drawings without a winner.Powerball is played in 45 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Powerball jackpot up to record $1.9 billion after no winner

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The call went out from leaders in the medical marijuana industry: Money was needed for a Missouri ballot initiative to legalize recreational cannabis for adults. Their colleagues responded.

Marijuana farms, manufacturers and retailers provided millions of dollars that footed a petition drive to put the proposal on the November ballot and promote it to voters. The deep-pocketed outpouring highlighted the depth of the emerging industry's roots in the traditionally conservative state, as well as its tremendous potential for growth.

All told,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-missouri-marijuana-government-and-politics-9e980221d47993b409629088ad1768bd">marijuana legalization campaigns</a>&nbsp;have raised about $23 million in five states — Arkansas, Maryland, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. The vast majority of that has been in Arkansas and Missouri, where more than 85% of contributions have come from donors associated with companies holding medical marijuana licenses, according to an Associated Press analysis of the most recent campaign finance reports.

The biggest donor is Good Day Farm, which describes itself as the “largest licensed medical cannabis producer in the South” with facilities in Arkansas, Missouri and Louisiana. It gave a combined $3.5 million to legalization campaigns in Arkansas and Missouri. And when the Missouri campaign needed help gathering petition signatures, Good Day Farm paid an additional $1 million directly to the firm circulating the petitions.

“It’s kind of the cost of doing business, I guess," said Alex Gray, chief strategy officer at Good Day Farm. "This is something that is a positive for the industry, but it’s also a positive for the state.”

Licensed medical marijuana businesses affiliated with Greenlight have given a total of about $1 million to legalization campaigns in Arkansas, Missouri and South Dakota, according to the AP’s analysis.

If the ballot measures pass, Greenlight CEO John Mueller said he expects to “easily double” a workforce of about 370 people at Greenlight-affiliated cultivation farms and dispensaries in Arkansas, Missouri, South Dakota and West Virginia.

“Obviously, your consumer base goes up when you go to adult use,” said Mueller, a self-described activist who encouraged industry colleagues to contribute to the legalization campaigns.

Provisions in the proposed constitutional amendments in Arkansas and Missouri would give established medical marijuana licensees a leg up in the new recreational marketplace. But Mueller said the measures don’t merely enrich the industry.

“It’s more jobs, more tax revenue — get it off the black market,” he said.

Marijuana legalization efforts elsewhere have not eliminated illegal dealers. California voters approved recreational marijuana use in 2016 following a $36 million campaign for it, and the first retail stores opened in 2018. Yet&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-california-los-angeles-marijuana-congress-c237d1bd1f7cb14faa8d32b930d860ad">a vast illegal market remains</a>&nbsp;— more than double the legal sales, by some estimates.

Medical marijuana was authorized voters in 2016 in Arkansas and North Dakota, in 2018 in Missouri and in 2020 in South Dakota. Like elsewhere, it took a while to get the programs up and running. But in less than two years since Missouri’s stores opened, medical marijuana dispensaries have&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/medical-marijuana/pdf/dispensary-cumulative-sales.pdf">reported about $500 million in sales</a>.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-biden-health-donald-trump-arkansas-30242edb2600bf46ff404fc2c80862cd">Arkansas campaign to legalize recreational marijuana</a>&nbsp;for adults has raised over $13 million, including more than $8 million in October alone, while the Missouri effort has raised more than $7 million. Campaigns in other states have raised less than $1 million each. Maryland's initiative has been particularly low-profile, raising a little over $300,000 amid presumed broad public support.

In Arkansas and Missouri, resistance has come from an unusual alliance of public safety groups, social conservatives opposed to legalization and some marijuana advocates who believe the ballot initiatives are still too restrictive.

The Arkansas opposition is the best funded among the states. Uline CEO Richard Uihlein and Mountaire Corp. CEO Ronald Cameron each contributed $1 million to the Safe and Secure Communities campaign committee. Its ads have asserted that legalizing marijuana for adults will cause a spike in traffic fatalities and illegal use by youths, among other things.

Other critics contend the Arkansas measure is structured to benefit only a limited number of dispensaries, noting it lacks provisions allowing adults to grow marijuana at home or expunging past convictions.

“This amendment is not a start,” said Melissa Fults, executive director of Arkansans for Cannabis Reform. “It is a brick wall.”

Missouri's legalization measure — which does expunge many past marijuana arrests and convictions — has drawn opposition from Pro-Choice Missouri. The abortion rights group said it backs cannabis legalization and expungement as “an issue of reproductive justice” but believes the measure doesn't do enough to address the historic harms from the “racist criminalization of cannabis.”

A total of 19 states have legalized recreational marijuana for adults since voters in Colorado and Washington state first approved ballot measures in 2012. Those early efforts were heavily funded by wealthy individuals, such as former Progressive Insurance CEO Peter Lewis. Tech billionaire Sean Parker, the first president of Facebook, ranked among the top donors to California's legalization campaign.

But philanthropic funding for legalization campaigns has fallen as the marijuana industry has risen.

“The philanthropists who really got this movement off the ground” are either are "ready to move on to other issues or they don’t think it’s their place to support this movement, given that the industry is now mature and many of these businesses are making a lot of money,” said Matthew Schweich, deputy director of the Marijuana Policy Project, a nonprofit advocacy group based in Washington, D.C.

Schweich&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-south-dakota-sioux-falls-government-and-politics-f42cd12d50e7606d8cafec120e7e8611">moved to South Dakota to run this year's legalization campaign</a>. The Marijuana Policy Project also is providing staff support for the North Dakota campaign. But it isn't as deeply involved Arkansas and Missouri, where there are greater industry resources.

New Approach, another D.C.-based drug policy group, has directed more money to psychedelic mushrooms than to marijuana this year. It's poured $4.2 million into a campaign to make Colorado the second state, after Oregon, to allow adults 21 and older to use hallucinogenic chemicals found in some mushrooms.

Meanwhile, New Approach has contributed a total of around $700,000 to marijuana legalization campaigns in Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. As the medical marijuana industry has grown, the organization has refined its targets.

“Our focus in recent years has been on initiatives in traditionally red states, in part because that is what we see as the most effective way to continue to move toward broader acceptance of cannabis policy reform,” said New Approach Chief of Staff Taylor West.

By Associated PressJEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The call went out from leaders in the medical marijuana industry: Money was needed for a Missouri ballot initiative to legalize recreational cannabis for adults. Their colleagues responded.Marijuana farms, manufacturers and retailers provided millions of dollars that footed a petition drive to put the proposal on the November ballot and promote it to voters. The deep-pocketed outpouring highlighted the depth of the emerging industry's roots in the traditionally conservative state, as well as its tremendous potential for growth.All told,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-missouri-marijuana-government-and-politics-9e980221d47993b409629088ad1768bd">marijuana legalization campaigns</a>&nbsp;have raised about $23 million in five states — Arkansas, Maryland, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. The vast majority of that has been in Arkansas and Missouri, where more than 85% of contributions have come from donors associated with companies holding medical marijuana licenses, according to an Associated Press analysis of the most recent campaign finance reports.The biggest donor is Good Day Farm, which describes itself as the “largest licensed medical cannabis producer in the South” with facilities in Arkansas, Missouri and Louisiana. It gave a combined $3.5 million to legalization campaigns in Arkansas and Missouri. And when the Missouri campaign needed help gathering petition signatures, Good Day Farm paid an additional $1 million directly to the firm circulating the petitions.“It’s kind of the cost of doing business, I guess," said Alex Gray, chief strategy officer at Good Day Farm. "This is something that is a positive for the industry, but it’s also a positive for the state.”Licensed medical marijuana businesses affiliated with Greenlight have given a total of about $1 million to legalization campaigns in Arkansas, Missouri and South Dakota, according to the AP’s analysis.If the ballot measures pass, Greenlight CEO John Mueller said he expects to “easily double” a workforce of about 370 people at Greenlight-affiliated cultivation farms and dispensaries in Arkansas, Missouri, South Dakota and West Virginia.“Obviously, your consumer base goes up when you go to adult use,” said Mueller, a self-described activist who encouraged industry colleagues to contribute to the legalization campaigns.Provisions in the proposed constitutional amendments in Arkansas and Missouri would give established medical marijuana licensees a leg up in the new recreational marketplace. But Mueller said the measures don’t merely enrich the industry.“It’s more jobs, more tax revenue — get it off the black market,” he said.Marijuana legalization efforts elsewhere have not eliminated illegal dealers. California voters approved recreational marijuana use in 2016 following a $36 million campaign for it, and the first retail stores opened in 2018. Yet&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-california-los-angeles-marijuana-congress-c237d1bd1f7cb14faa8d32b930d860ad">a vast illegal market remains</a>&nbsp;— more than double the legal sales, by some estimates.Medical marijuana was authorized voters in 2016 in Arkansas and North Dakota, in 2018 in Missouri and in 2020 in South Dakota. Like elsewhere, it took a while to get the programs up and running. But in less than two years since Missouri’s stores opened, medical marijuana dispensaries have&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/medical-marijuana/pdf/dispensary-cumulative-sales.pdf">reported about $500 million in sales</a>.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-biden-health-donald-trump-arkansas-30242edb2600bf46ff404fc2c80862cd">Arkansas campaign to legalize recreational marijuana</a>&nbsp;for adults has raised over $13 million, including more than $8 million in October alone, while the Missouri effort has raised more than $7 million. Campaigns in other states have raised less than $1 million each. Maryland's initiative has been particularly low-profile, raising a little over $300,000 amid presumed broad public support.In Arkansas and Missouri, resistance has come from an unusual alliance of public safety groups, social conservatives opposed to legalization and some marijuana advocates who believe the ballot initiatives are still too restrictive.The Arkansas opposition is the best funded among the states. Uline CEO Richard Uihlein and Mountaire Corp. CEO Ronald Cameron each contributed $1 million to the Safe and Secure Communities campaign committee. Its ads have asserted that legalizing marijuana for adults will cause a spike in traffic fatalities and illegal use by youths, among other things.Other critics contend the Arkansas measure is structured to benefit only a limited number of dispensaries, noting it lacks provisions allowing adults to grow marijuana at home or expunging past convictions.“This amendment is not a start,” said Melissa Fults, executive director of Arkansans for Cannabis Reform. “It is a brick wall.”Missouri's legalization measure — which does expunge many past marijuana arrests and convictions — has drawn opposition from Pro-Choice Missouri. The abortion rights group said it backs cannabis legalization and expungement as “an issue of reproductive justice” but believes the measure doesn't do enough to address the historic harms from the “racist criminalization of cannabis.”A total of 19 states have legalized recreational marijuana for adults since voters in Colorado and Washington state first approved ballot measures in 2012. Those early efforts were heavily funded by wealthy individuals, such as former Progressive Insurance CEO Peter Lewis. Tech billionaire Sean Parker, the first president of Facebook, ranked among the top donors to California's legalization campaign.But philanthropic funding for legalization campaigns has fallen as the marijuana industry has risen.“The philanthropists who really got this movement off the ground” are either are "ready to move on to other issues or they don’t think it’s their place to support this movement, given that the industry is now mature and many of these businesses are making a lot of money,” said Matthew Schweich, deputy director of the Marijuana Policy Project, a nonprofit advocacy group based in Washington, D.C.Schweich&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-south-dakota-sioux-falls-government-and-politics-f42cd12d50e7606d8cafec120e7e8611">moved to South Dakota to run this year's legalization campaign</a>. The Marijuana Policy Project also is providing staff support for the North Dakota campaign. But it isn't as deeply involved Arkansas and Missouri, where there are greater industry resources.New Approach, another D.C.-based drug policy group, has directed more money to psychedelic mushrooms than to marijuana this year. It's poured $4.2 million into a campaign to make Colorado the second state, after Oregon, to allow adults 21 and older to use hallucinogenic chemicals found in some mushrooms.Meanwhile, New Approach has contributed a total of around $700,000 to marijuana legalization campaigns in Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. As the medical marijuana industry has grown, the organization has refined its targets.“Our focus in recent years has been on initiatives in traditionally red states, in part because that is what we see as the most effective way to continue to move toward broader acceptance of cannabis policy reform,” said New Approach Chief of Staff Taylor West.

Medical marijuana firms lead donors for legal weed campaigns

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/georgia-man-fined-for-illegal-deer-hunt-arranged-by-north-platte-outfitter/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A Georgia hunter was fined $5,000 and ordered to pay $4,000
 in restitution on Friday for illegally shooting two mule deer while 
guided by a North Platte commercial outfitter.

Chad M. McCullough, 34, of Franklin, Georgia, is the third person 
prosecuted by federal officials for illegal hunts through Noble Outdoors
 in 2020.&nbsp; Four additional defendants have pleaded guilty in Nebraska 
state court, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

All told, the seven people convicted have been ordered to pay a total of $37,500 in fines and restitution.

A joint investigation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the 
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission found that in October of 2020, 
McCullough traveled to North Platte for an archery mule deer hunt.

During the hunt, McCullough unlawfully shot a mule deer buck with a 
rifle while seated in a Noble Outdoors vehicle parked on a public 
roadway, despite knowing that rifle deer season was not open at that 
time.

U.S. District Judge John Gerrard also sentenced McCullough to two 
years’ probation for unlawful transportation of wildlife in interstate 
commerce. He was also ordered to&nbsp;surrender the taxidermy mounts of two 
mule deer taken unlawfully during the 2020 hunt.

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/georgia-man-fined-for-illegal-deer-hunt-arranged-by-north-platte-outfitter/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A Georgia hunter was fined $5,000 and ordered to pay $4,000
 in restitution on Friday for illegally shooting two mule deer while 
guided by a North Platte commercial outfitter.Chad M. McCullough, 34, of Franklin, Georgia, is the third person 
prosecuted by federal officials for illegal hunts through Noble Outdoors
 in 2020.&nbsp; Four additional defendants have pleaded guilty in Nebraska 
state court, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.All told, the seven people convicted have been ordered to pay a total of $37,500 in fines and restitution.<h2>Shot from road, out of season</h2>A joint investigation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the 
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission found that in October of 2020, 
McCullough traveled to North Platte for an archery mule deer hunt.During the hunt, McCullough unlawfully shot a mule deer buck with a 
rifle while seated in a Noble Outdoors vehicle parked on a public 
roadway, despite knowing that rifle deer season was not open at that 
time.U.S. District Judge John Gerrard also sentenced McCullough to two 
years’ probation for unlawful transportation of wildlife in interstate 
commerce. He was also ordered to&nbsp;surrender the taxidermy mounts of two 
mule deer taken unlawfully during the 2020 hunt.

Ga. man fined for illegal deer hunt arranged by North Platte outfitter

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — A collaboration between the Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska Department of Transportation, Nebraska Crime Commission, and Office of the Chief Information Officer has been awarded a national honor to their effort to streamline crash reporting and data collection for law enforcement agencies across the state.

The team was honored with the Cross-Boundary Collaboration and Partnerships Award at last month’s National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) conference in Louisville, Kentucky. The Nebraska entry was selected as the winner from among ten programs from states across the country.

The effort focused on the development of a new statewide crash database. The partnership utilized the existing foundation of NSP’s Traffic and Crime Software system (TraCS) to create the new crash reporting system. NSP’s TraCS team onboarded 60 new law enforcement partners to the TraCS system in a four-month period, bringing the total number of partners on the TraCS platform to over 130 agencies across Nebraska.

“I’m incredibly proud of the outstanding work that our TraCS team has accomplished over the last few years,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “From our troopers, deputies, and officers on the front lines, all the way to our data analysts at NDOT, this tool has been invaluable and has been the ultimate collaboration.”

Data collected through the TraCS crash reporting system is delivered to NDOT for research into Nebraska’s roadways and how drivers are operating on roadways to evaluate improved safety features. Additionally, data collected provides information on future planning for transportation across the State.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“The safety of the citizens of Nebraska is paramount to multiple agencies and partners,” said John Selmer, NDOT Director. “NDOT is proud to help advance TraCS with additional partners in the State and modernize both the collection of data, and how it is used.”

By Nebraska State PatrolLINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — A collaboration between the Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska Department of Transportation, Nebraska Crime Commission, and Office of the Chief Information Officer has been awarded a national honor to their effort to streamline crash reporting and data collection for law enforcement agencies across the state.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667589462391.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The team was honored with the Cross-Boundary Collaboration and Partnerships Award at last month’s National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) conference in Louisville, Kentucky. The Nebraska entry was selected as the winner from among ten programs from states across the country.The effort focused on the development of a new statewide crash database. The partnership utilized the existing foundation of NSP’s Traffic and Crime Software system (TraCS) to create the new crash reporting system. NSP’s TraCS team onboarded 60 new law enforcement partners to the TraCS system in a four-month period, bringing the total number of partners on the TraCS platform to over 130 agencies across Nebraska.“I’m incredibly proud of the outstanding work that our TraCS team has accomplished over the last few years,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “From our troopers, deputies, and officers on the front lines, all the way to our data analysts at NDOT, this tool has been invaluable and has been the ultimate collaboration.”Data collected through the TraCS crash reporting system is delivered to NDOT for research into Nebraska’s roadways and how drivers are operating on roadways to evaluate improved safety features. Additionally, data collected provides information on future planning for transportation across the State.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The safety of the citizens of Nebraska is paramount to multiple agencies and partners,” said John Selmer, NDOT Director. “NDOT is proud to help advance TraCS with additional partners in the State and modernize both the collection of data, and how it is used.”###

NSP, NDOT IT partnership receives national recognition

We are pleased to announce that we will once again be serving our Thanksgiving meal on November 24, 2022 at St. Agnes Academy. This year will be under new management, so patience will be greatly appreciated.

This year, the meal will be dine in and pick up only.

There will be NO deliveries to the general public.


Drive through pickup is available from 10:30 am to noon. Pickup will be located on Cheyenne Ave. Please line up along Cheyenne in your vehicle. A volunteer will come to you to obtain the number of meals you need and then the meals will be brought to your vehicle.

You may dine with us from 11:30 to 1:30. Please enter through the doors at the school parking lot. All are welcome to enjoy the company of your community by sharing conversation and a traditional Thanksgiving meal together. Bring a friend.

Pie Bakers: We will need pies again this year. All pies are welcome, but pumpkin is the most requested.

Volunteers: We look forward to seeing you! Please contact Rahne Girard at 760-2028 or Trish Johnston at 762-6069

Donations are greatly accepted, but not expected. They can be dropped off at Consumers Cooperative FCU or mailed to Teresa Boyles at 608 Platte Ave. Please make checks payable to “People Helping People”.

Please contact Rahne Girard at 760-2028 with any other questions.

By People Helping PeopleWe are pleased to announce that we will once again be serving our Thanksgiving meal on November 24, 2022 at St. Agnes Academy. This year will be under new management, so patience will be greatly appreciated.This year, the meal will be dine in and pick up only.There will be NO deliveries to the general public.
Drive through pickup is available from 10:30 am to noon. Pickup will be located on Cheyenne Ave. Please line up along Cheyenne in your vehicle. A volunteer will come to you to obtain the number of meals you need and then the meals will be brought to your vehicle.You may dine with us from 11:30 to 1:30. Please enter through the doors at the school parking lot. All are welcome to enjoy the company of your community by sharing conversation and a traditional Thanksgiving meal together. Bring a friend.Pie Bakers: We will need pies again this year. All pies are welcome, but pumpkin is the most requested.Volunteers: We look forward to seeing you! Please contact Rahne Girard at 760-2028 or Trish Johnston at 762-6069Donations are greatly accepted, but not expected. They can be dropped off at Consumers Cooperative FCU or mailed to Teresa Boyles at 608 Platte Ave. Please make checks payable to “People Helping People”.Please contact Rahne Girard at 760-2028 with any other questions.

People Helping People to hold annual community Thanksgiving dinner

POST BOBCAST: Bob plays 'Catch The Taco'

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 11/4/22

-Timothy John Barnes III and Johnna Y'Vonne Servin

-Brian Scott Newman and Victoria Anne Bouydston

There are no divorces to report at this time.&nbsp;

Marriages:&nbsp;-Dennis Lee Griffin and Evanna Mae Small-Timothy John Barnes III and Johnna Y'Vonne Servin-Brian Scott Newman and Victoria Anne BouydstonDivorces:&nbsp;There are no divorces to report at this time.&nbsp;

Marriages, divorces Oct. 2022

The Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department will hold their "appreciation night" on Nov. 5 starting at 5 p.m. with happy hour and the meal beginning at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667573623418.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department will hold their "appreciation night" on Nov. 5 starting at 5 p.m. with happy hour and the meal beginning at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp;An auction will follow the dinner.&nbsp;

Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department to hold appreciation night 

Scottsbluff – Runza® Restaurants are teaming up with United Way of Western Nebraska to help make a difference in the communities they serve!

On Tuesday, November 8th, Runza® Restaurants in Alliance, Chadron, Gering and Scottsbluff will be donating 10% of their day’s sales to United Way. The dollars raised will help fund non-profit agencies and programs serving local families in the areas of health, education and financial stability, as well as allow United Way to continue community impact projects focusing on food insecurity, homeless prevention, providing basic needs for families in need and fighting poverty in the communities they serve.

Drive thru, dine-in or carry-out! Enjoy great food for a great cause!

By United Way of Western NebraskaScottsbluff – Runza® Restaurants are teaming up with United Way of Western Nebraska to help make a difference in the communities they serve!On Tuesday, November 8th, Runza® Restaurants in Alliance, Chadron, Gering and Scottsbluff will be donating 10% of their day’s sales to United Way. The dollars raised will help fund non-profit agencies and programs serving local families in the areas of health, education and financial stability, as well as allow United Way to continue community impact projects focusing on food insecurity, homeless prevention, providing basic needs for families in need and fighting poverty in the communities they serve.Drive thru, dine-in or carry-out! Enjoy great food for a great cause!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667571623984.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Runza hosts fundraiser to benefit United Way of Western Nebraska 

Hunters returned to rural Nebraska the weekend of Oct. 29 for the 2022 upland bird hunting season opener and found variable success.

Based on field reports from Nebraska Game and Parks Commission staff and law enforcement, pheasant hunters had the greatest success in parts of northeast and south-central Nebraska, including the Rainwater Basin. Many hunters also found good numbers of quail, especially throughout their core range in south-central and southeastern Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Nebraska’s traditional pheasant strongholds, including the southwest and Panhandle regions where drought conditions have been prolonged, success was more limited.

Upland hunters planning trips to Nebraska are reminded that habitat conditions are highly variable this fall.

“The ongoing drought conditions, coupled with emergency haying and grazing of CRP lands, have greatly reduced the availability of suitable habitat in many areas,” said John Laux, Game and Parks’ upland game program manager. “When cover is more limited, scouting becomes even more crucial. Finding quality cover is going to be more challenging this year and hunters should focus on tracts adjacent to irrigated cropland, wetlands and other water sources – where birds can make a living despite the dry conditions.”

Crop harvest also is ahead of schedule this fall – with 80% and 97% of the state’s corn and soybean acreage harvested, respectively, according to an Oct. 31 U.S. Department of Agriculture report.

Hunters looking for new places to hunt are encouraged to pick up the Nebraska Public Access Atlas, which consolidates and displays more than 1.2 million acres of publicly accessible land throughout the state. This includes more than 370,000 acres of private lands enrolled in Game and Parks’ Open Fields and Waters Program. The atlas is available at Game and Parks offices and numerous vendors throughout the state. It also can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMDIuNjYwNzcxODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9QdWJsaWNBY2Nlc3NBdGxhcy8ifQ.6_wpSgfUO_DDFvP91OMq86b4wcy93fbtTPwtCtim788/s/497221906/br/147264733124-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>.&nbsp;

Nebraska’s pheasant and quail seasons run through Jan. 31, 2023. For more information on upland bird hunting in Nebraska or to view this year’s Upland Outlook, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMDIuNjYwNzcxODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9VcGxhbmQvIn0.JrT1B5wW6fSKk4Xuk_oNtJCJFYA40dSwWELGxiVYZMM/s/497221906/br/147264733124-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/Upland</a>.

By Nebraska Game and ParksHunters returned to rural Nebraska the weekend of Oct. 29 for the 2022 upland bird hunting season opener and found variable success.Based on field reports from Nebraska Game and Parks Commission staff and law enforcement, pheasant hunters had the greatest success in parts of northeast and south-central Nebraska, including the Rainwater Basin. Many hunters also found good numbers of quail, especially throughout their core range in south-central and southeastern Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Nebraska’s traditional pheasant strongholds, including the southwest and Panhandle regions where drought conditions have been prolonged, success was more limited.Upland hunters planning trips to Nebraska are reminded that habitat conditions are highly variable this fall.“The ongoing drought conditions, coupled with emergency haying and grazing of CRP lands, have greatly reduced the availability of suitable habitat in many areas,” said John Laux, Game and Parks’ upland game program manager. “When cover is more limited, scouting becomes even more crucial. Finding quality cover is going to be more challenging this year and hunters should focus on tracts adjacent to irrigated cropland, wetlands and other water sources – where birds can make a living despite the dry conditions.”Crop harvest also is ahead of schedule this fall – with 80% and 97% of the state’s corn and soybean acreage harvested, respectively, according to an Oct. 31 U.S. Department of Agriculture report.Hunters looking for new places to hunt are encouraged to pick up the Nebraska Public Access Atlas, which consolidates and displays more than 1.2 million acres of publicly accessible land throughout the state. This includes more than 370,000 acres of private lands enrolled in Game and Parks’ Open Fields and Waters Program. The atlas is available at Game and Parks offices and numerous vendors throughout the state. It also can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMDIuNjYwNzcxODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9QdWJsaWNBY2Nlc3NBdGxhcy8ifQ.6_wpSgfUO_DDFvP91OMq86b4wcy93fbtTPwtCtim788/s/497221906/br/147264733124-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/PublicAccessAtlas</a>.&nbsp;Nebraska’s pheasant and quail seasons run through Jan. 31, 2023. For more information on upland bird hunting in Nebraska or to view this year’s Upland Outlook, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjExMDIuNjYwNzcxODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9VcGxhbmQvIn0.JrT1B5wW6fSKk4Xuk_oNtJCJFYA40dSwWELGxiVYZMM/s/497221906/br/147264733124-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/Upland</a>.

Upland hunters find variable success on opening weekend

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post&nbsp;

BNSF railroad employees and their families protested working and scheduling conditions with signs along crossings east of Alliance on Nov. 2 as BNSF CEO Kathryn "Katie" Farmer traveled through Alliance during an undisclosed trip.

A total of seven people, along with a backing of many railroaders that could not attend the protest, voiced their thoughts and opinions with multiple hand-written signs.

"We are here because we found out that the CEO of BNSF railway is coming through town on the Officer's Special [train] and we wanted to show her that the community supports all of the railroad unions in our community regardless of how they vote for the tentative agreement," Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen Union, Local 622 Auxiliary President/National Auxiliary 2nd Vice President and Legislative Representative Natalie Miller said. "Whether they vote yes or no, we wanted her to know we stand united with them."

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667503554878.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BNSF railroad employees and their families protested working and scheduling conditions with signs along crossings east of Alliance on Nov. 2 as BNSF CEO Kathryn "Katie" Farmer traveled through Alliance during an undisclosed trip.A total of seven people, along with a backing of many railroaders that could not attend the protest, voiced their thoughts and opinions with multiple hand-written signs."We are here because we found out that the CEO of BNSF railway is coming through town on the Officer's Special [train] and we wanted to show her that the community supports all of the railroad unions in our community regardless of how they vote for the tentative agreement," Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen Union, Local 622 Auxiliary President/National Auxiliary 2nd Vice President and Legislative Representative Natalie Miller said. "Whether they vote yes or no, we wanted her to know we stand united with them."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667503614234.jpeg" alt="Natalie Miller paints a sign at the Sunset Hotel parking area before the protest.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Natalie Miller paints a sign at the Sunset Hotel parking area before the protest.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"Businesses are increasingly worried about the renewed threat of a railroad strike after two unions rejected their deals, and they want the White House and Congress to be ready to intervene," Associated Press business writer Josh Funk said in an article published Oct. 27. "A coalition of 322 business groups sent a letter to President Joe Biden Thursday urging him to make sure the deals he helped broker last month get approved because a railroad strike would have dire consequences for the economy. All 12 rail unions must approve their agreements to prevent a strike next month [November]. The five-year deals include 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses, but the negotiations hinge on quality-of-life concerns about paid sick time and demanding schedules.""She [BNSF CEO Farmer] needs to understand our communities are supported by railroad workers...our restaurants, our bars, our schools; our wives work in all of those places," Miller said. "We support all those places with our dollars. And our community supports our railroad workers back and so we wanted to show her that. So, we got some people coming to hold up signs as she drives through."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667503824641.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Panhandle Post asked Miller how she believes railroad workers feel about their working conditions."I can tell you from experience, we're not happy, we're not satisfied," Miller said. "The working conditions are tough. Our railroad workers are on-call; and I'm not exaggerating, I know people roll their eyes when we say this, 24/7 - 365 days a year. But, it's true, they are. They don't get to have regular days off like people who work regular jobs. They might get called today, but they could sit first-out for ten hours and not get called until tonight. There's some people in Alliance who are in what's called a 'Grand Pool'. And they don't even know if they're going to go to Edgemont, South Dakota or Guernsey, Wyoming...so, they don't even know until they're called. It could be longer away from home depending on where they're going. They're also called to fill-in to go to Grand Island sometimes. It's very unfair, we don't have scheduled days off, we get penalized when we do take days off because of the attendance policy that has been put into effect starting February 1st of this year. So, that is a whole other story unto itself."Miller explained briefly how the BNSF attendance policy operates."But in a nutshell, if they take a day off on a weekend, they get docked 10 points or on a holiday, they get docked 10 points," Miller said. "If they get to take a day off on a weekday, they get docked, depending on their craft, two to seven points. Now, to earn those points back, they have to stay marked up ready to work for a whole entire half, which is 15 days. They cannot lay off for anything, any reason. And they only get four points back if they stay marked up. So if you do the math, and they take a weekend day off for an emergency or for a baseball game, or whatever they have to do, they take 10 points away from them, they have to stay marked up for two weeks to get four points back, two more weeks to get another 4 points back, two more weeks to get that three, four points back. They only get to make 37 points. So it takes them six weeks of being ready for work, ready to accept a call, for six weeks straight to earn those points back for taking one day off on a weekend. Yeah, it's crazy. It's unfair."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667503873610.jpeg" alt="BNSF CEO Katie Farmer sits in the rear train car and waved to the protesters and the public as she entered Alliance's east railroad yards.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>BNSF CEO Katie Farmer sits in the rear train car and waved to the protesters and the public as she entered Alliance's east railroad yards.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Railroad employees feel they have been essential workers as the COVID pandemic continues to loom."We had to stay on call, they had to go to work COVID or not," Miller said. "If they got COVID, they got the time off to heal from COVID. And as soon as they were negative [from a COVID test], they had to go back to work. So, as essential workers we feel that that were not taken care of. And they don't care that we're overworked, they don't care that once in a while we need to take time off. We need to have that rest cycle so that we can get our sleep back. And so that we can take those trains safely where they need to go. We are proud of our jobs. We're proud of what we do for a living. We just want a fair compensation."<figure>
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 </figure>An anonymous BNSF conductor came out to hold signs along the railroad crossings and voiced his opinions to Panhandle Post."Our working conditions have deteriorated since I hired out in 1998," the anonymous conductor said. "And since Warren Buffett has taken over, they just snowballed, in terms of the conditions getting worse. Now, with this, we've gone three years with no contract. Because BNSF wanted to negotiate only with engineers, they wanted to do away with conductors before they ever settled the contract, that was their whole thing. They don't care about safety. They don't care about the people that work for them. The only thing they care about is their bottom line, their bottom dollar...whatever they can send to Warren Buffett's coffers."Miller said, "To quote Katie Farmer. Our labor does not contribute to our profit margin.""Yeah, they came flat out and said it...said that in the STB [Surface Transportation Board] hearings, in the PEB hearings, which were for the contract negotiations for the Presidential Emergency Board, because we couldn't come to an agreement," the anonymous conductor said. "He signed a Presidential Emergency Board to help negotiations along. The carriers of all the railroads in that coalition said that labor does not contribute to their profits. They also said we assume no risk, therefore we're not entitled to any profits that they make. But yet, in the last two years, I know three people personally, that not only risked everything they have, they gave everything they had because they died out there [working]. But yet, we don't contribute and we don't assume any risks out here for them [BNSF]"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667503695067.jpeg" alt="This protest signs reads, "Katie your 'Hi-Viz' is killing railroaders."" />
 <figcaption>This protest signs reads, "Katie your 'Hi-Viz' is killing railroaders."</figcaption>
 </figure>Another source of stress is the occurrence of fatalities, both of civilians and railroad employees."They got guys that have killed people on crossings and are suffering from PTSD [Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder] and they can't work," Miller said. "They smell diesel fuel, and they go into panic attacks because the last thing that they smelled when they hit the tractor...and saw the man's flaming body on fire, that smell triggers them. And that just happened six weeks ago. He [a farmer] turned off the highway slowed, they [a BNSF engineer and conductor] thought he was going to stop, he [farmer] looked and then kept going. But he didn't see [the train coming] you know, he just kept going. He kind of paused and then kept going. They hit him about 45 MPH. He flew about 150 feet out. They found him on fire, his flaming body was naked and on fire. It had flown out of his clothes, out of his boots. And his body was on fire. He was killed instantly, but his body was on fire and our conductor thank goodness did not have to put out the flames. He only witnessed the first responders who had to, but he did see the horrific scene up close. Now what if that person was out there all by himself as an engineer?"The anonymous conductor said that a BNSF engineer cannot leave the locomotive "cab" according to policies."If there's a crossing accident, whether that person is right beside the motor or 100 cars back, that engineer has to stay in the cab," anonymous conductor said. "There's nobody there other than the conductor to go back and assess...and render any help.""Any aid if needed...if the person is still alive...or people or whatever, you know, it's frightening," Miller said. "They don't care about that. Their bottom line is they want profits, profits over people.""That's pretty much all I got to say, that I can say," anonymous conductor added.<figure>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667503732029.jpeg" alt="This protest sign reads, "Let employees inspect and repair equipment so no one else gets injured."" />
 <figcaption>This protest sign reads, "Let employees inspect and repair equipment so no one else gets injured."</figcaption>
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