SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The Oglala Sioux Tribe is requiring churches and missionaries to register with the tribe before entering the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota after an evangelist was banned from entering the reservation for distributing a pamphlet that disparaged traditional Lakota spirituality.

The tribal ordinance, which does not apply to local churches and ministries run by tribal members, was passed in late July amid concern from some tribal council members over Christian ministries evangelizing on the reservation, working with children as well as a history of abuse against Native Americans by some churches. The tribe's leadership has insisted it remains open to all religions, in keeping with its Bill of Rights, but the action showed significant pushback against some Christian missionary groups.

“The history of abuses by the churches on Indigenous peoples has caused generational trauma to Indigenous peoples across the world,” the tribal council stated in its ordinance.

The council's actions were prompted by a South Dakota group called Jesus is King Missions creating a pamphlet that called Tunkasila a false god or demon,&nbsp;<a href="https://listen.sdpb.org/news/2022-08-02/tribe-requires-visiting-churches-missions-to-register-after-inflammatory-pamphlet-circulates">South Dakota Public Broadcasting</a>&nbsp;reported. It also claimed that the late Lakota medicine man Nicholas Black Elk, who converted to Catholicism and continued to practice Lakota ceremonies, had a “racist vision.”

“According to the Bible, Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and no one comes to the Father but by him,” said Michael Monfore, a missionary with the group. “I know that may not be considered politically correct, or it might be considered intolerant or bigoted, but that’s what Christ said.”

The tribe has banned Monfore from entering the reservation.

By Associated PressSIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The Oglala Sioux Tribe is requiring churches and missionaries to register with the tribe before entering the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota after an evangelist was banned from entering the reservation for distributing a pamphlet that disparaged traditional Lakota spirituality.The tribal ordinance, which does not apply to local churches and ministries run by tribal members, was passed in late July amid concern from some tribal council members over Christian ministries evangelizing on the reservation, working with children as well as a history of abuse against Native Americans by some churches. The tribe's leadership has insisted it remains open to all religions, in keeping with its Bill of Rights, but the action showed significant pushback against some Christian missionary groups.“The history of abuses by the churches on Indigenous peoples has caused generational trauma to Indigenous peoples across the world,” the tribal council stated in its ordinance.The council's actions were prompted by a South Dakota group called Jesus is King Missions creating a pamphlet that called Tunkasila a false god or demon,&nbsp;<a href="https://listen.sdpb.org/news/2022-08-02/tribe-requires-visiting-churches-missions-to-register-after-inflammatory-pamphlet-circulates">South Dakota Public Broadcasting</a>&nbsp;reported. It also claimed that the late Lakota medicine man Nicholas Black Elk, who converted to Catholicism and continued to practice Lakota ceremonies, had a “racist vision.”“According to the Bible, Jesus is the way, the truth and the life and no one comes to the Father but by him,” said Michael Monfore, a missionary with the group. “I know that may not be considered politically correct, or it might be considered intolerant or bigoted, but that’s what Christ said.”The tribe has banned Monfore from entering the reservation.

Oglala Sioux ban missionary, require ministries to register

OMAHA, Neb. –&nbsp;As students across Nebraska prepare for a return to school, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division encourages families to make time for conversations about the dangers of drug use and consequences of experimentation. Methamphetamine and fake pill seizures remain high in Nebraska and the DEA wants to raise awareness to the drug marketing being used to target youth.

“We’ve seen methamphetamine pressed into pills shaped like marshmallows from cereal and fake pills laced with fentanyl made to look like Xanax, Adderall, Oxy and other legitimate pharmaceuticals,” DEA Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Justin C. King said. “In addition, drug cartels are trying to entice a younger audience through the use of social media and the dark web. Make no mistake, these organizations know exactly what they’re doing as they try to recruit their next life-long customer.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported more than 108,000 overdose deaths in a 12 month span ending February 2022. Synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, are the primary driver behind the increase in drug overdose deaths. Fentanyl is 50 times stronger than heroin with a potentially lethal dose, two milligrams, small enough to fit on the tip of a freshly sharpened pencil.&nbsp;

DEA lab testing reveals that four out of every 10 pills with fentanyl contain a potentially lethal dose.&nbsp; In response to the growing threat, the DEA announced its One Pill Can Kill campaign in the fall of 2021, posting the website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dea.gov/OnePill" target="_blank">www.dea.gov/OnePill</a>&nbsp;as a resource for those looking to learn more about fake pills.

Drug dealers are taking advantage of today’s technology, turning to smartphones as a one-stop shop to market, sell, buy and deliver deadly, fake prescription pills and other dangerous drugs.

“It can be a hard conversation to start, but talk with the children in your life and help them realize the dangers that can come from experimenting and misusing drugs,” King said. “Kids are constantly asked to try new things. Let’s educate these students so that when presented with the temptation to experiment they make the choice to walk away and save themselves, their families and their communities the heartbreak of addiction, overdose and death.”

For more information on the drugs students may be exposed to, or for tips on talking with your family members about drugs, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dea.gov/OnePill" target="_blank">www.dea.gov/OnePill</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov/" target="_blank">www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.gov</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justthinktwice.gov/" target="_blank">www.JustThinkTwice.gov</a>.

By Drug Enforcement Agency&nbsp;OMAHA, Neb. –&nbsp;As students across Nebraska prepare for a return to school, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division encourages families to make time for conversations about the dangers of drug use and consequences of experimentation. Methamphetamine and fake pill seizures remain high in Nebraska and the DEA wants to raise awareness to the drug marketing being used to target youth.“We’ve seen methamphetamine pressed into pills shaped like marshmallows from cereal and fake pills laced with fentanyl made to look like Xanax, Adderall, Oxy and other legitimate pharmaceuticals,” DEA Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Justin C. King said. “In addition, drug cartels are trying to entice a younger audience through the use of social media and the dark web. Make no mistake, these organizations know exactly what they’re doing as they try to recruit their next life-long customer.”The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported more than 108,000 overdose deaths in a 12 month span ending February 2022. Synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, are the primary driver behind the increase in drug overdose deaths. Fentanyl is 50 times stronger than heroin with a potentially lethal dose, two milligrams, small enough to fit on the tip of a freshly sharpened pencil.&nbsp;DEA lab testing reveals that four out of every 10 pills with fentanyl contain a potentially lethal dose.&nbsp; In response to the growing threat, the DEA announced its One Pill Can Kill campaign in the fall of 2021, posting the website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dea.gov/OnePill" target="_blank">www.dea.gov/OnePill</a>&nbsp;as a resource for those looking to learn more about fake pills.Drug dealers are taking advantage of today’s technology, turning to smartphones as a one-stop shop to market, sell, buy and deliver deadly, fake prescription pills and other dangerous drugs.“It can be a hard conversation to start, but talk with the children in your life and help them realize the dangers that can come from experimenting and misusing drugs,” King said. “Kids are constantly asked to try new things. Let’s educate these students so that when presented with the temptation to experiment they make the choice to walk away and save themselves, their families and their communities the heartbreak of addiction, overdose and death.”For more information on the drugs students may be exposed to, or for tips on talking with your family members about drugs, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dea.gov/OnePill" target="_blank">www.dea.gov/OnePill</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov/" target="_blank">www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.gov</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.justthinktwice.gov/" target="_blank">www.JustThinkTwice.gov</a>.

Fentanyl, methamphetamine seizures remain high in Nebraska

By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

Lincoln –&nbsp;While life-saving vaccines can be given at any time during the year, August is an ideal time for immunizations, as teachers and students are typically due for their annual check-ups. .&nbsp;According&nbsp;to the World Health Organization (WHO), immunizations help prevent between two to three million deaths each year.

Vaccines are needed throughout life. This August, National Immunization Awareness Month raises awareness and encourages everyone to make sure they are current on the necessary vaccinations for potentially harmful diseases. Many diseases can be easily prevented by administering vaccines which give protection from unseen viruses.

Vaccines aren’t just for kids – they’re recommended for all ages. Whether it’s a flu shot or a measles vaccine, you can take advantage of different tools to find out when it’s the right time to get the right vaccine. Easy-to-read vaccination schedules for all ages are provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and can be&nbsp;found&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcI-2B5MTRv2IkX0g4AHy4NfCuxgOh4JFngRy6-2Faj67o0PslCmuWdViWNsz7Pi4AYwNmhA-3D-3DuwRu_GdPmeSTuswZxZjekO55QTGmBitRrGaFhwZF4iUIiMVCSHm0opVHIJQEKvWejQw0DtvEVSZZ72E4rtOqcUWJCrhwB4BWRnRuqtVcSFQPKgPxcNLy2Ccm5jlB8G-2Ffer4Ip0-2F8-2BRF0jZHq6eNQHxaFZR9u7oMXeBG7w1BNqjco6IWoeyUncWxwvmgWZ-2F8JRmq8CLHUcVWTtXY34f9a2tTrFifQgoM6fPZpOzGkIimfmebwASZUlF-2FD8UspSjgfKPM30Q0sVIYo1JipWxKiuIm2abRi9dvb3bCPgUVBZa-2FJhP3wGfuVi12aCA8JShXDpLyIBpJqJkbmAiSs9T15odDqNQqDEFiM6tsPulSRAueBaGtnAX2cPyjR8f8jHuTUPrN0CVXwjft9RCtvliSJjvPh15w-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.html</a>

All adults should consider a COVID-19 vaccine, tetanus (Tdap) vaccine, and a yearly influenza vaccine. Other vaccines based on your age, health conditions, job, lifestyle, or travel habits may be needed such as a zoster (shingles) and a pneumonia vaccination.&nbsp;Talk with your doctor about the best options to make sure you are up to date on vaccines.&nbsp;

Today we move, travel, and change health care providers more than we did in previous generations. Finding old immunization information can be difficult and time-consuming. Therefore, it is critical to keep an accurate and up-to-date record of the vaccinations you have received. There is no national organization that maintains vaccination records. If you need official copies of vaccination records, or if you need to update your personal records, check with family members, school records, previous employers (including the military), your doctor's office, or health clinic.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In Nebraska, the Nebraska State Immunization Information System (NESIIS) is a secure, statewide, web-based system that connects and shares immunization information among public clinics, private provider offices, local health departments, schools, hospitals, and other health care facilities that administer immunizations and provide medical care to Nebraskans<a href="mailto:dhhs.nesiis@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">&nbsp;(dhhs.nesiis@nebraska.gov</a>).&nbsp;Not all&nbsp;states have registries that include adult vaccines. If you can’t find your personal records or records from the doctor, you may need to get some of the vaccines again. While this is not ideal, it is safe to repeat vaccines. The doctor can also sometimes do blood tests to see if you are immune to certain vaccine-preventable diseases.

Keeping an immunization record will save you time and unnecessary hassle. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other vaccine provider for an immunization record form. Bring this record with you to health visits and ask your vaccine provider to sign and date the form for each vaccine you receive so that your information is current and correct.

Vaccination is safe and effective. All vaccines undergo long and careful review by scientists, doctors, and the federal government to make sure they are safe. By getting vaccinated, we eliminate diseases before they have a chance to spread. Take the necessary precautions with a simple call to a doctor and avoid potential harm while leading a healthy, happy life.&nbsp;

By Nebraska Department of Health and Human ServicesLincoln –&nbsp;While life-saving vaccines can be given at any time during the year, August is an ideal time for immunizations, as teachers and students are typically due for their annual check-ups. .&nbsp;According&nbsp;to the World Health Organization (WHO), immunizations help prevent between two to three million deaths each year.Vaccines are needed throughout life. This August, National Immunization Awareness Month raises awareness and encourages everyone to make sure they are current on the necessary vaccinations for potentially harmful diseases. Many diseases can be easily prevented by administering vaccines which give protection from unseen viruses.Vaccines aren’t just for kids – they’re recommended for all ages. Whether it’s a flu shot or a measles vaccine, you can take advantage of different tools to find out when it’s the right time to get the right vaccine. Easy-to-read vaccination schedules for all ages are provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and can be&nbsp;found&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=JQrDlL-2FDrn4beqHnFHKcI-2B5MTRv2IkX0g4AHy4NfCuxgOh4JFngRy6-2Faj67o0PslCmuWdViWNsz7Pi4AYwNmhA-3D-3DuwRu_GdPmeSTuswZxZjekO55QTGmBitRrGaFhwZF4iUIiMVCSHm0opVHIJQEKvWejQw0DtvEVSZZ72E4rtOqcUWJCrhwB4BWRnRuqtVcSFQPKgPxcNLy2Ccm5jlB8G-2Ffer4Ip0-2F8-2BRF0jZHq6eNQHxaFZR9u7oMXeBG7w1BNqjco6IWoeyUncWxwvmgWZ-2F8JRmq8CLHUcVWTtXY34f9a2tTrFifQgoM6fPZpOzGkIimfmebwASZUlF-2FD8UspSjgfKPM30Q0sVIYo1JipWxKiuIm2abRi9dvb3bCPgUVBZa-2FJhP3wGfuVi12aCA8JShXDpLyIBpJqJkbmAiSs9T15odDqNQqDEFiM6tsPulSRAueBaGtnAX2cPyjR8f8jHuTUPrN0CVXwjft9RCtvliSJjvPh15w-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.html</a>All adults should consider a COVID-19 vaccine, tetanus (Tdap) vaccine, and a yearly influenza vaccine. Other vaccines based on your age, health conditions, job, lifestyle, or travel habits may be needed such as a zoster (shingles) and a pneumonia vaccination.&nbsp;Talk with your doctor about the best options to make sure you are up to date on vaccines.&nbsp;Today we move, travel, and change health care providers more than we did in previous generations. Finding old immunization information can be difficult and time-consuming. Therefore, it is critical to keep an accurate and up-to-date record of the vaccinations you have received. There is no national organization that maintains vaccination records. If you need official copies of vaccination records, or if you need to update your personal records, check with family members, school records, previous employers (including the military), your doctor's office, or health clinic.&nbsp; &nbsp;In Nebraska, the Nebraska State Immunization Information System (NESIIS) is a secure, statewide, web-based system that connects and shares immunization information among public clinics, private provider offices, local health departments, schools, hospitals, and other health care facilities that administer immunizations and provide medical care to Nebraskans<a href="mailto:dhhs.nesiis@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">&nbsp;(dhhs.nesiis@nebraska.gov</a>).&nbsp;Not all&nbsp;states have registries that include adult vaccines. If you can’t find your personal records or records from the doctor, you may need to get some of the vaccines again. While this is not ideal, it is safe to repeat vaccines. The doctor can also sometimes do blood tests to see if you are immune to certain vaccine-preventable diseases.Keeping an immunization record will save you time and unnecessary hassle. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other vaccine provider for an immunization record form. Bring this record with you to health visits and ask your vaccine provider to sign and date the form for each vaccine you receive so that your information is current and correct.Vaccination is safe and effective. All vaccines undergo long and careful review by scientists, doctors, and the federal government to make sure they are safe. By getting vaccinated, we eliminate diseases before they have a chance to spread. Take the necessary precautions with a simple call to a doctor and avoid potential harm while leading a healthy, happy life.&nbsp;

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

By Legacy of the Plains Museum in Gering

GERING – On Sunday, August 21st, the Legacy of the Plains Museum is holding its 3rd&nbsp;Annual Oregon Trail Wagon Train.&nbsp; The event is a continuation of Gordon Howard’s famous cookouts, with a ribeye steak, cheesy potatoes, baked beans, and roll.&nbsp; Ice cream is being added for dessert.&nbsp; &nbsp;

David Wolf, Executive Director at the Legacy of the Plains Museum is excited to have the event back after two years off.&nbsp;

“The Oregon Trail Wagon Train was such a hit in 2019.&nbsp; It was a beautiful night, great atmosphere, and wonderful food.&nbsp; We are excited to hold this event again in late August.”

Wolf says there have been some changes to the dinner, with a more family friendly approach.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Since we had to move it to a Sunday, and are not going to have a concert afterwards, we are going to have more activities for families.&nbsp; We are going to have wagon rides, wooden horse roping, live animals, pedal tractors, and a lot more.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tickets for the dinner are still available for just $50 for adults and $20 for kids 12 and under.&nbsp; Gates will open at 4:30 pm with the dinner bell ringing at 6:00 pm.&nbsp;

By Legacy of the Plains Museum in GeringGERING – On Sunday, August 21st, the Legacy of the Plains Museum is holding its 3rd&nbsp;Annual Oregon Trail Wagon Train.&nbsp; The event is a continuation of Gordon Howard’s famous cookouts, with a ribeye steak, cheesy potatoes, baked beans, and roll.&nbsp; Ice cream is being added for dessert.&nbsp; &nbsp;David Wolf, Executive Director at the Legacy of the Plains Museum is excited to have the event back after two years off.&nbsp;“The Oregon Trail Wagon Train was such a hit in 2019.&nbsp; It was a beautiful night, great atmosphere, and wonderful food.&nbsp; We are excited to hold this event again in late August.”Wolf says there have been some changes to the dinner, with a more family friendly approach.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;“Since we had to move it to a Sunday, and are not going to have a concert afterwards, we are going to have more activities for families.&nbsp; We are going to have wagon rides, wooden horse roping, live animals, pedal tractors, and a lot more.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tickets for the dinner are still available for just $50 for adults and $20 for kids 12 and under.&nbsp; Gates will open at 4:30 pm with the dinner bell ringing at 6:00 pm.&nbsp;

Annual Oregon Trail Wagon Train to be held in Gering

OMAHA, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested one person following a pursuit and standoff on Interstate 80 near the Missouri River bridge in Omaha.

At approximately 9:25 a.m. Friday, NSP received a report of a pickup driving erratically and at a high rate of speed on eastbound I-80 in Omaha. A trooper located the vehicle near 42nd&nbsp;street on I-80, observed the erratic driving behavior, and attempted a traffic stop. The driver refused to stop and continued eastbound.

As the pickup approached the Missouri River bridge, it struck both the inside and outside barriers and came to a stop just before the Nebraska/Iowa line. The driver remained inside the vehicle and initially refused troopers’ commands to exit the vehicle. After a short standoff and response from additional law enforcement, the driver voluntarily exited the vehicle and was taken into custody.

The driver, Quentin Rockefeller, 26, of Gibbon, was arrested for willful reckless driving, flight to avoid arrest, no driver’s license, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and traffic violations. He was lodged in Douglas County Jail.

I-80 was closed in the area for approximately 30 minutes. NSP was assisted by the Omaha Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and Council Bluffs Police Department.

OMAHA, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested one person following a pursuit and standoff on Interstate 80 near the Missouri River bridge in Omaha.At approximately 9:25 a.m. Friday, NSP received a report of a pickup driving erratically and at a high rate of speed on eastbound I-80 in Omaha. A trooper located the vehicle near 42nd&nbsp;street on I-80, observed the erratic driving behavior, and attempted a traffic stop. The driver refused to stop and continued eastbound.As the pickup approached the Missouri River bridge, it struck both the inside and outside barriers and came to a stop just before the Nebraska/Iowa line. The driver remained inside the vehicle and initially refused troopers’ commands to exit the vehicle. After a short standoff and response from additional law enforcement, the driver voluntarily exited the vehicle and was taken into custody.The driver, Quentin Rockefeller, 26, of Gibbon, was arrested for willful reckless driving, flight to avoid arrest, no driver’s license, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and traffic violations. He was lodged in Douglas County Jail.I-80 was closed in the area for approximately 30 minutes. NSP was assisted by the Omaha Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and Council Bluffs Police Department.

Man arrested after pursuit, standoff near Missouri River I-80 bridge

News Release Mid-Plains Community College

Those interested in learning how to pilot a plane will have the opportunity to do so through the Mid-Plains Community College Ogallala Campus.

A Private Pilot Certificate Preparation class has been added to the lineup of course offerings this fall. Sessions are scheduled for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 9-11 with instructor Ron Schmidt, a general aviation pilot.

The intense, three-day ground school will cover the topics needed to master the private pilot federal written examination.

Instruction will cover aviation theory, weather conditions, general aircraft knowledge - including instruments, weight and balance, performance, airport operations and runways, aviation regulations and other aviation-related topics.&nbsp;

All classes will be at the Ogallala Campus, 512 E. B St. S., in Ogallala. Students will travel as a group to Sidney to take the test on Sept. 12.

The fee for the class is $549, which includes all study materials. The cost of the test is not included in the fee.

Registration can be done through the campus by calling (308) 284-9830 or emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ogallala@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">Ogallala@mpcc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659727906604.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Mid-Plains Community CollegeThose interested in learning how to pilot a plane will have the opportunity to do so through the Mid-Plains Community College Ogallala Campus.A Private Pilot Certificate Preparation class has been added to the lineup of course offerings this fall. Sessions are scheduled for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 9-11 with instructor Ron Schmidt, a general aviation pilot.The intense, three-day ground school will cover the topics needed to master the private pilot federal written examination.Instruction will cover aviation theory, weather conditions, general aircraft knowledge - including instruments, weight and balance, performance, airport operations and runways, aviation regulations and other aviation-related topics.&nbsp;All classes will be at the Ogallala Campus, 512 E. B St. S., in Ogallala. Students will travel as a group to Sidney to take the test on Sept. 12.The fee for the class is $549, which includes all study materials. The cost of the test is not included in the fee.Registration can be done through the campus by calling (308) 284-9830 or emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ogallala@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">Ogallala@mpcc.edu</a>.

MPCC Ogallala Campus launches aviation class

&nbsp; BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/paulhammel/">PAUL HAMMEL</a>

LINCOLN &nbsp;It’s being called a “miracle kitten.”

A day after a fast-moving wildfire destroyed the rural ranch home of&nbsp;&nbsp;Carolyne and David Ewing&nbsp;south of Gering, the family was allowed a quick visit to the charred remains.

They heard a loud “meow” coming from the blackened debris of a garage. Inside a cinder block, underneath some steel roofing panels that had collapsed, they found a small kitten, slightly burned but alive.

“Its eyebrow was singed, but it was like the miracle kitten,” said the Ewings’ son, Josh.&nbsp;

“The cat is providing some comic relief to keep us from crying,” he said.

The kitten, who had wandered into the Ewings’ ranch a few days before the fire, is now named “Smokey” and is staying in Gering with the displaced family.

Their home was one of three destroyed after lightning strikes sparked fires in the rugged Wildcat Hills south of Gering on Saturday night.

Josh Ewing, who lives in Bluffs, Utah, said his father was texting him Saturday evening as flames bore down on the family ranch, which has been in the family for four generations.

“Whoa, you need to get out of there,” Josh, who is a volunteer firefighter, said he texted in response.

He said his mother, a retired school teacher, evacuated first, but his father, also a retired teacher, stayed and tried to wet down the house. But the electricity had already been cut off, and the ranch well wasn’t working. He was able to cut barbed-wire fences so about 50 cattle could flee.

Flames, pushed by high winds, took only about an hour to reach the family home, which is about 18 miles outside Gering, according to Ewing.

The house had recently undergone a renovation so a 95-year-old grandmother could move in. The structure was a complete loss, the son said. Only a shower stall and a rock chimney remained standing.

Lost in the flames was his mother’s handwritten recipes, along with an 1870s rifle that had been brought to the Panhandle by Josh Ewing’s great-great-grandfather, who homesteaded the land.

“There’s nothing left,” Josh Ewing said, estimating that the family’s insurance will fall a couple hundred thousand dollars short of covering rebuilding costs.

Smokey was checked out by a local veterinarian, and besides singed eyebrows and feet, was OK.

“We need to figure out who the owner is,” Ewing said, guessing that the kitten had wandered alone to his parents’ place from a nearby ranch.

He said his family is feeling “the Nebraska spirit” from friends and neighbors, who have already volunteered to help with the rebuilding effort.

For now, his parents are living with a friend and former school principal, Maurie Deines, and waiting for an insurance adjuster to survey the ruins.

The fire, dubbed the Carson Canyon Fire, burned about 15,000 acres. Firefighters, who at one time numbered about 200, have been leaving the area after mopping up hot spots.&nbsp;

Josh Ewing said his wife and others have set up&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://gofund.me/7b96e9ee">a Gofundme page</a>&nbsp;to collect donations to help defray the cost of rebuilding the home. As of Friday, it had collected more than $23,000.

&nbsp; BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/paulhammel/">PAUL HAMMEL</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659727889970.jpeg" alt="This kitten, now dubbed “Smokey,” survived a fast-moving wildfire that destroyed a garage in which the kitten had taken refuge on Saturday. (Courtesy of Josh Ewing)" />
 <figcaption>This kitten, now dubbed “Smokey,” survived a fast-moving wildfire that destroyed a garage in which the kitten had taken refuge on Saturday. (Courtesy of Josh Ewing)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN &nbsp;It’s being called a “miracle kitten.”A day after a fast-moving wildfire destroyed the rural ranch home of&nbsp;&nbsp;Carolyne and David Ewing&nbsp;south of Gering, the family was allowed a quick visit to the charred remains.<h2>Loud ‘meow’</h2>They heard a loud “meow” coming from the blackened debris of a garage. Inside a cinder block, underneath some steel roofing panels that had collapsed, they found a small kitten, slightly burned but alive.“Its eyebrow was singed, but it was like the miracle kitten,” said the Ewings’ son, Josh.&nbsp;“The cat is providing some comic relief to keep us from crying,” he said.The kitten, who had wandered into the Ewings’ ranch a few days before the fire, is now named “Smokey” and is staying in Gering with the displaced family.Their home was one of three destroyed after lightning strikes sparked fires in the rugged Wildcat Hills south of Gering on Saturday night.Josh Ewing, who lives in Bluffs, Utah, said his father was texting him Saturday evening as flames bore down on the family ranch, which has been in the family for four generations.“Whoa, you need to get out of there,” Josh, who is a volunteer firefighter, said he texted in response.He said his mother, a retired school teacher, evacuated first, but his father, also a retired teacher, stayed and tried to wet down the house. But the electricity had already been cut off, and the ranch well wasn’t working. He was able to cut barbed-wire fences so about 50 cattle could flee.Flames, pushed by high winds, took only about an hour to reach the family home, which is about 18 miles outside Gering, according to Ewing.The house had recently undergone a renovation so a 95-year-old grandmother could move in. The structure was a complete loss, the son said. Only a shower stall and a rock chimney remained standing.Lost in the flames was his mother’s handwritten recipes, along with an 1870s rifle that had been brought to the Panhandle by Josh Ewing’s great-great-grandfather, who homesteaded the land.“There’s nothing left,” Josh Ewing said, estimating that the family’s insurance will fall a couple hundred thousand dollars short of covering rebuilding costs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659727960118.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Three homes were destroyed south of Gering by a wildfire sparked Saturday night by a lightning strike. (Courtesy of Nebraska Forest Service)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Three homes were destroyed south of Gering by a wildfire sparked Saturday night by a lightning strike. (Courtesy of Nebraska Forest Service)</figcaption>
 </figure>Smokey was checked out by a local veterinarian, and besides singed eyebrows and feet, was OK.“We need to figure out who the owner is,” Ewing said, guessing that the kitten had wandered alone to his parents’ place from a nearby ranch.He said his family is feeling “the Nebraska spirit” from friends and neighbors, who have already volunteered to help with the rebuilding effort.For now, his parents are living with a friend and former school principal, Maurie Deines, and waiting for an insurance adjuster to survey the ruins.The fire, dubbed the Carson Canyon Fire, burned about 15,000 acres. Firefighters, who at one time numbered about 200, have been leaving the area after mopping up hot spots.&nbsp;Josh Ewing said his wife and others have set up&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://gofund.me/7b96e9ee">a Gofundme page</a>&nbsp;to collect donations to help defray the cost of rebuilding the home. As of Friday, it had collected more than $23,000.

‘Smokey’ the cat seen as ‘miracle’ kitten after Gering wildfire

"To squash recent rumors, there was not a homicide at Laing Lake over the weekend," Alliance Police Chief Philip Lukens said. "Two juveniles in separate locations were found to have overdosed on alcohol and were transported to the hospital."

Lukens said charges are being processed for the responsible party involved.&nbsp;

"A separate individual was found deceased at a residence," Lukens said. "It is unrelated and currently under investigation.  All preliminary investigations, including a recent autopsy, indicate the subject fell from a balcony.  Alcohol is believed to have been a factor.  Again, this case remains under investigation."&nbsp;&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post"To squash recent rumors, there was not a homicide at Laing Lake over the weekend," Alliance Police Chief Philip Lukens said. "Two juveniles in separate locations were found to have overdosed on alcohol and were transported to the hospital."Lukens said charges are being processed for the responsible party involved.&nbsp;"A separate individual was found deceased at a residence," Lukens said. "It is unrelated and currently under investigation. All preliminary investigations, including a recent autopsy, indicate the subject fell from a balcony. Alcohol is believed to have been a factor. Again, this case remains under investigation."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alliance police release details following weekend death, rumors 

Chadron, Nebraska — During the Labor Day holiday, including the end of summertime and the busy Labor Day weekend, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is working alongside the law enforcement community in Chadron, Nebraska to decrease impaired driving. From August 19 through September 5, the Chadron Police Department will be participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement period. In support of the law enforcement community’s dedication to protecting the lives of residents in their communities, you’ll see officers working together during this time to take drunk drivers off the roads. No matter how you plan to celebrate the end of the season this year, make sure you plan it safely.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 11,654 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2020 that involved an alcohol-impaired driver. On average, more than 10,000 people were killed each year from 2016 to 2020, and one person was killed in a drunk-driving crash every 45 minutes in 2020. This is why the Chadron Police Department is working together with NHTSA to remind drivers that drunk driving is not only illegal, it is a matter of life and death. As you head out to festivities during the end of summer and Labor Day weekend, remember: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

“We’re fortunate to live in a community where we work closely with our friends and neighbors that know it’s our first priority to keep people safe. Throughout the year we rely on our community members to help keep our streets free of drunk drivers; we want everyone to have a safe summertime and Labor Day holiday.” said Sergeant Cloyd. “This awareness effort is designed to get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and to help prevent loss of life. We look forward to our continued partnership between law enforcement and drivers helping us protect our community and putting an end to this senseless behavior.” he said.

During the 2020 Labor Day holiday period (6 p.m. September 4 – 5:59 a.m. September 8), there were 530 crash fatalities nationwide. Forty-six percent of those fatalities involved drivers who had been drinking (.01+ BAC). More than one-third (38%) of the fatalities involved drivers who were drunk (.08+ BAC), and one-fourth (25%) involved drivers who were driving with a BAC almost&nbsp;

twice the legal limit (.15+ BAC). Age is a particularly risky factor: Among drivers between the ages of 21 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday period in 2020, 44% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.

The Chadron Police Department and NHTSA are reminding citizens of the many resources available to get them home safely. Drunk driving is not acceptable behavior, especially when there are so many safe alternatives to get you home safely.

The Chadron Police Department recommends these safe alternatives to drinking and driving:

· Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.

· If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact the Chadron Police Department, or dial 911.

· Do you have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely.

For more information on impaired driving,

· Stop by the Chadron Police Department located at:

o 125 Main Street, Chadron, Nebraska or call (308) 432-0510. · Follow your Police Department on Facebook at www.facebook.com/chadronpolice · Or visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving

We wish everyone a safe and happy driving experience.

By Chadron Police DepartmentChadron, Nebraska — During the Labor Day holiday, including the end of summertime and the busy Labor Day weekend, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is working alongside the law enforcement community in Chadron, Nebraska to decrease impaired driving. From August 19 through September 5, the Chadron Police Department will be participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement period. In support of the law enforcement community’s dedication to protecting the lives of residents in their communities, you’ll see officers working together during this time to take drunk drivers off the roads. No matter how you plan to celebrate the end of the season this year, make sure you plan it safely.According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 11,654 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2020 that involved an alcohol-impaired driver. On average, more than 10,000 people were killed each year from 2016 to 2020, and one person was killed in a drunk-driving crash every 45 minutes in 2020. This is why the Chadron Police Department is working together with NHTSA to remind drivers that drunk driving is not only illegal, it is a matter of life and death. As you head out to festivities during the end of summer and Labor Day weekend, remember: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.“We’re fortunate to live in a community where we work closely with our friends and neighbors that know it’s our first priority to keep people safe. Throughout the year we rely on our community members to help keep our streets free of drunk drivers; we want everyone to have a safe summertime and Labor Day holiday.” said Sergeant Cloyd. “This awareness effort is designed to get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and to help prevent loss of life. We look forward to our continued partnership between law enforcement and drivers helping us protect our community and putting an end to this senseless behavior.” he said.During the 2020 Labor Day holiday period (6 p.m. September 4 – 5:59 a.m. September 8), there were 530 crash fatalities nationwide. Forty-six percent of those fatalities involved drivers who had been drinking (.01+ BAC). More than one-third (38%) of the fatalities involved drivers who were drunk (.08+ BAC), and one-fourth (25%) involved drivers who were driving with a BAC almost&nbsp;twice the legal limit (.15+ BAC). Age is a particularly risky factor: Among drivers between the ages of 21 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday period in 2020, 44% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.The Chadron Police Department and NHTSA are reminding citizens of the many resources available to get them home safely. Drunk driving is not acceptable behavior, especially when there are so many safe alternatives to get you home safely.The Chadron Police Department recommends these safe alternatives to drinking and driving:· Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.· If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact the Chadron Police Department, or dial 911.· Do you have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely.For more information on impaired driving,· Stop by the Chadron Police Department located at:o 125 Main Street, Chadron, Nebraska or call (308) 432-0510. · Follow your Police Department on Facebook at www.facebook.com/chadronpolice · Or visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-drivingWe wish everyone a safe and happy driving experience.

Chadron police to enforce 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 8/5/22

On Aug. 4 at 5:12 p.m. the Scottsbluff Police Department was called to 401 South Beltline (West) to a shooting. 

Officers found two males in the parking lot. 

35-year-old Alexander J. Maldonado of Gering was taken into custody. 

34-year-old Martin A. Maldonado Jr. of Scottsbluff suffered a single gun shot to his abdomen. He was transported by ambulance to Regional West Medical Center for treatment.

Maldonado was arrested and charged with Attempted Murder, Use of a Firearm to Commit a Felony, Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, Protection Order Violation, and Discharging a Firearm Within City Limits. 

Maldonado was transported to the Scotts Bluff County Jail.

Scottsbluff Fire Department, Gering Police Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Mitchell Police Department, and Valley Ambulance assisted with this incident. 

"Should the public have any additional information about this case, please contact the Communications Center at (308) 632-7171 or they may contact Crime Stoppers at (308) 632-STOP/crimestoppers@scottsbluff.org," Scottsbluff Police Operations Captain Lance L. Kite said. 

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostOn Aug. 4 at 5:12 p.m. the Scottsbluff Police Department was called to 401 South Beltline (West) to a shooting. Officers found two males in the parking lot. 35-year-old Alexander J. Maldonado of Gering was taken into custody. 34-year-old Martin A. Maldonado Jr. of Scottsbluff suffered a single gun shot to his abdomen. He was transported by ambulance to Regional West Medical Center for treatment.Maldonado was arrested and charged with Attempted Murder, Use of a Firearm to Commit a Felony, Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm, Protection Order Violation, and Discharging a Firearm Within City Limits. Maldonado was transported to the Scotts Bluff County Jail.Scottsbluff Fire Department, Gering Police Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, Mitchell Police Department, and Valley Ambulance assisted with this incident. "Should the public have any additional information about this case, please contact the Communications Center at (308) 632-7171 or they may contact Crime Stoppers at (308) 632-STOP/crimestoppers@scottsbluff.org," Scottsbluff Police Operations Captain Lance L. Kite said.

Gering man arrested in shooting 

LAUREL, Neb. (AP) — Police arrested a suspect early Friday in connection with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fires-nebraska-omaha-57aa8ea4c3cfb05715f2693211172a54">deaths of four people</a>&nbsp;in the small northeast Nebraska city of Laurel, according to the Nebraska State Patrol.

The patrol said it would release more details about the arrest later Friday morning.

The arrest came a day after four people were found dead in two burning homes in the city about 100 miles (160 kilometers) northwest of Omaha.

The body of one person was found after firefighters were called to an explosion and fire. A short time later, firefighters were called to another home nearby and found the bodies of three people inside.

After examining both burned-out homes, the state patrol said that “gunfire played a part in the incident at both homes" and that both fires had started just after 3 a.m. Thursday.

Nebraska State Patrol Col. John Bolduc declined to say whether the victims were related and did not offer more detail about how they died.

“We’re not categorizing it as anything right now,” Bolduc said.

When asked if residents of the town of less than 1,000 people should worry about their safety, Cedar County Sheriff Larry Koranda called Laurel “a very safe community" but said people “need to be diligent" and report anything out of the ordinary to police.

When the bodies were discovered, Laurel police recommended that the community go on a voluntary lockdown, prompting most businesses, a senior center and schools to limit access for part of the day.

By Associated PressLAUREL, Neb. (AP) — Police arrested a suspect early Friday in connection with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fires-nebraska-omaha-57aa8ea4c3cfb05715f2693211172a54">deaths of four people</a>&nbsp;in the small northeast Nebraska city of Laurel, according to the Nebraska State Patrol.The patrol said it would release more details about the arrest later Friday morning.The arrest came a day after four people were found dead in two burning homes in the city about 100 miles (160 kilometers) northwest of Omaha.The body of one person was found after firefighters were called to an explosion and fire. A short time later, firefighters were called to another home nearby and found the bodies of three people inside.After examining both burned-out homes, the state patrol said that “gunfire played a part in the incident at both homes" and that both fires had started just after 3 a.m. Thursday.Nebraska State Patrol Col. John Bolduc declined to say whether the victims were related and did not offer more detail about how they died.“We’re not categorizing it as anything right now,” Bolduc said.When asked if residents of the town of less than 1,000 people should worry about their safety, Cedar County Sheriff Larry Koranda called Laurel “a very safe community" but said people “need to be diligent" and report anything out of the ordinary to police.When the bodies were discovered, Laurel police recommended that the community go on a voluntary lockdown, prompting most businesses, a senior center and schools to limit access for part of the day.

Nebraska State Patrol: Suspect linked to 4 deaths arrested in Laurel 

Alliance- The DISCover United Way Disc Golf Tournament is set for Saturday, August 13 at the Rolling Prairie Course at Laing Lake in Alliance. 

The Pro Disc Golf Association (PDGA) C-Tier sanctioned tournament is open to both professionals and amateurs with $1000 added cash payout in the pro division. Disc golfers of all ages and abilities are welcome to play with divisions from juniors to professional. Players can register at dgscene.com/UW22. Amateurs will receive a player’s pack of 1 custom hot stamped disc at check-in on the day of the tournament.

The United Way tournament features four bonus holes added to the regular 18 hole Rolling Prairie Course per round. There are a total of 44 holes with 22 holes in the morning and 22 holes in the afternoon. Friday, August 12th at 6 p.m. a disc golf clinic will be held at Rolling Prairie Disc Golf Course in Alliance. The clinic is $10 per participant. There is no preregistration for the clinic and registration will be taken that evening on a first come first serve basis with the registration fee payable to United Way. There is no need to play in the tournament to attend the clinic. A beverage cart is available for the participants of the tournament. The course is open to the public and the public is welcome to attend to watch the tournament. The proceeds from DISCover United Way Disc Golf Tournament benefit United Way of Western Nebraska and helps fund United Way’s 27 partner agencies along with providing resources for United Way’s community impact work. The title sponsors for the DISCover United Way Disc Golf tournament are Box Butte General Hospital, Alliance Community Pharmacy and Western Nebraska Community College.

For more information about the United Way disc golf tournament please contact Karen Benzel at 308-763-8031 or kbenzel@uwwn.org.

By United Way of Western NebraskaAlliance- The DISCover United Way Disc Golf Tournament is set for Saturday, August 13 at the Rolling Prairie Course at Laing Lake in Alliance. The Pro Disc Golf Association (PDGA) C-Tier sanctioned tournament is open to both professionals and amateurs with $1000 added cash payout in the pro division. Disc golfers of all ages and abilities are welcome to play with divisions from juniors to professional. Players can register at dgscene.com/UW22. Amateurs will receive a player’s pack of 1 custom hot stamped disc at check-in on the day of the tournament.The United Way tournament features four bonus holes added to the regular 18 hole Rolling Prairie Course per round. There are a total of 44 holes with 22 holes in the morning and 22 holes in the afternoon. Friday, August 12th at 6 p.m. a disc golf clinic will be held at Rolling Prairie Disc Golf Course in Alliance. The clinic is $10 per participant. There is no preregistration for the clinic and registration will be taken that evening on a first come first serve basis with the registration fee payable to United Way. There is no need to play in the tournament to attend the clinic. A beverage cart is available for the participants of the tournament. The course is open to the public and the public is welcome to attend to watch the tournament. The proceeds from DISCover United Way Disc Golf Tournament benefit United Way of Western Nebraska and helps fund United Way’s 27 partner agencies along with providing resources for United Way’s community impact work. The title sponsors for the DISCover United Way Disc Golf tournament are Box Butte General Hospital, Alliance Community Pharmacy and Western Nebraska Community College.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659654912347.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>For more information about the United Way disc golf tournament please contact Karen Benzel at 308-763-8031 or kbenzel@uwwn.org.

United Way to host PDGA Sanctioned Disc Golf Tournament at Rolling Prairie Course

This week,&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts thanked Nebraska National Guard (NNG) Soldiers from the 1057th&nbsp;Military Police Company for their service during a visit to the Middle East.&nbsp; The Governor spoke to Soldiers at Camp Arifjan Army Base in Kuwait to celebrate a rare occurrence—one Nebraska team transferring its command to another detachment of fellow Nebraskans.&nbsp; The Scottsbluff-based team of the 1057th&nbsp;Military Police deployed in October 2021.&nbsp; As they return home, the Kearney-based detachment of the 1057th&nbsp;is carrying on their mission.

“Twenty-five years ago, Nebraskans in the National Guard rarely deployed overseas,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Today, young women and men who join the Nebraska National Guard not only prepare to be deployed—they&nbsp;expect&nbsp;to be deployed.&nbsp; They’re eager to support U.S. military missions abroad, and they have the training and skills to take on major responsibilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to the first team of the 1057th&nbsp;Military Policy Company for completing a successful deployment.&nbsp; We pray for the safety and success of the second team as they carry on the great work of the Nebraska National Guard in the Middle East.”

Major General Daryl L. Bohac, Adjutant General of the NNG, joined the Governor in thanking members of the Guard for their excellent service.

“Although nowhere on our uniform does it say ‘Nebraska’ when we serve overseas with our U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force fellows, our Soldiers and Airmen of the Nebraska National Guard distinguish themselves through their skillful and dedicated service,” said Maj. Gen. Bohac.&nbsp; “They represent the people of our great state exceedingly well and make all of us proud.”

The 1057th&nbsp;Military Police Company has been providing law enforcement at Camp Arifjan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Given the large size of the base, people enter it every day to provide routine services such as delivering food and supplies or collecting trash.&nbsp; Everyone who works on the base—whether they are contractors, military personnel, State Department diplomats, or local service providers—requires background checks and regular screening. &nbsp;The Nebraska National Guard is performing this work at Camp Arifjan to secure the base and ensure law and order.

Currently, there are 425 Soldiers and Airmen from the Nebraska National Guard supporting U.S. military missions around the world.&nbsp; For updates on the Nebraska National Guard’s great work—both in Nebraska and around the world—follow its Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNebraskaNationalGuard&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C69087cb0d8a5464908aa08da7626d2ea%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637952206446146757%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=5BH73hhXKjEeqZSX9nUIPSKpVkNJm%2BFFQFzV7GM7JXM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">facebook.com/NebraskaNationalGuard</a>.

More photos from the Governor’s visit to Camp Arifjan are available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dvidshub.net%2Fimage%2F7352549%2Fnebraska-governor-visits-kuwait-july-2022&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C69087cb0d8a5464908aa08da7626d2ea%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637952206446156715%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1C5fqkcJCWceahr%2BACft1ZxZCqaIqJaHCyXa50AzU%2F4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

By Office of Gov. Pete RickettsThis week,&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts thanked Nebraska National Guard (NNG) Soldiers from the 1057th&nbsp;Military Police Company for their service during a visit to the Middle East.&nbsp; The Governor spoke to Soldiers at Camp Arifjan Army Base in Kuwait to celebrate a rare occurrence—one Nebraska team transferring its command to another detachment of fellow Nebraskans.&nbsp; The Scottsbluff-based team of the 1057th&nbsp;Military Police deployed in October 2021.&nbsp; As they return home, the Kearney-based detachment of the 1057th&nbsp;is carrying on their mission.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659640671292.jpeg" alt="Gov. Ricketts (blue shirt); Maj. Gen. Daryl Bohac, Adjutant General of the Nebraska National Guard (right of Gov. Ricketts);&nbsp;and Jim Cada, Nebraska’s civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army (white shirt) with members of Area Support Group-Kuwait at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. (U.S. Army photo by Claudia LaMantia)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Ricketts (blue shirt); Maj. Gen. Daryl Bohac, Adjutant General of the Nebraska National Guard (right of Gov. Ricketts);&nbsp;and Jim Cada, Nebraska’s civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army (white shirt) with members of Area Support Group-Kuwait at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. (U.S. Army photo by Claudia LaMantia)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Twenty-five years ago, Nebraskans in the National Guard rarely deployed overseas,” said Gov. Ricketts.&nbsp; “Today, young women and men who join the Nebraska National Guard not only prepare to be deployed—they&nbsp;expect&nbsp;to be deployed.&nbsp; They’re eager to support U.S. military missions abroad, and they have the training and skills to take on major responsibilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to the first team of the 1057th&nbsp;Military Policy Company for completing a successful deployment.&nbsp; We pray for the safety and success of the second team as they carry on the great work of the Nebraska National Guard in the Middle East.”Major General Daryl L. Bohac, Adjutant General of the NNG, joined the Governor in thanking members of the Guard for their excellent service.“Although nowhere on our uniform does it say ‘Nebraska’ when we serve overseas with our U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force fellows, our Soldiers and Airmen of the Nebraska National Guard distinguish themselves through their skillful and dedicated service,” said Maj. Gen. Bohac.&nbsp; “They represent the people of our great state exceedingly well and make all of us proud.”The 1057th&nbsp;Military Police Company has been providing law enforcement at Camp Arifjan.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Given the large size of the base, people enter it every day to provide routine services such as delivering food and supplies or collecting trash.&nbsp; Everyone who works on the base—whether they are contractors, military personnel, State Department diplomats, or local service providers—requires background checks and regular screening. &nbsp;The Nebraska National Guard is performing this work at Camp Arifjan to secure the base and ensure law and order.Currently, there are 425 Soldiers and Airmen from the Nebraska National Guard supporting U.S. military missions around the world.&nbsp; For updates on the Nebraska National Guard’s great work—both in Nebraska and around the world—follow its Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNebraskaNationalGuard&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C69087cb0d8a5464908aa08da7626d2ea%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637952206446146757%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=5BH73hhXKjEeqZSX9nUIPSKpVkNJm%2BFFQFzV7GM7JXM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">facebook.com/NebraskaNationalGuard</a>.More photos from the Governor’s visit to Camp Arifjan are available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dvidshub.net%2Fimage%2F7352549%2Fnebraska-governor-visits-kuwait-july-2022&amp;data=05%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C69087cb0d8a5464908aa08da7626d2ea%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637952206446156715%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=1C5fqkcJCWceahr%2BACft1ZxZCqaIqJaHCyXa50AzU%2F4%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Gov. Ricketts thanks Neb. National Guard for service in Middle East

An Alliance man has seen multiple criminal charges filed against him recently in Box Butte County Court. 

38-year-old Chad Kelley was arrested on a warrant and could be charged with many felonies and misdemeanors. 

On June 30, Kelley was charged with a Class 3 Misdemeanor for unauthorized use of a propelled vehicle. 

On July 10 Kelley was issued a citation for possession of drug paraphernalia in the 500 block of East Third Street. 

July 18 Kelley was charged with a Class 3 Misdemeanor for failure to appear or comply with a citation. He failed to appear in Box Butte County Court on July 5 dealing with his first case. 

July 21 Kelley was charged with a Class 4 Felony for possession of Alprazolam, possession of Fentanyl, a Class 3 Misdemeanor for unauthorized use of a propelled vehicle and an infraction for possession of drug paraphernalia. 

According to court documents, on July 19, the Alliance Police Department assisted the Nebraska Stae Patrol due to a stolen 1997 Ford F-150 in the 200 Block of Howard Avenue.

Officers spoke with a person on the scene who told them Kelley borrowed the vehicle four days prior.

According to court docuements, Kelley told that person, “that he lost a blue fentanyl pill in the truck and wished to find the truck to retrieve it.”

Officers asked the vehicle's owner/driver what was in the vehicle the last time they left it parked. The driver told them only a screwdriver and a jumper box. 

Officers searched the vehicle and found a clear plastic baggie with a fentanyl and Alprazolam pill. 

At the scene Kelley emptied his pockets. Court reports said, “At this time officers viewed multiple items fall out of Kelley’s pockets. Amongst these items, officers viewed a small piece of straw, a ball point pen tube, and a clear plastic baggie. The straw and the ball point pen tube were viewed to have a white residue inside and recognized as drug paraphernalia.”

On July 22, Kelley was charged with two Class 2A Felony counts of burglary, a Class 4 Felony of theft by unlawful taking, $1,500-$4,999, and a Class 1 Misdemeanor for theft by unlawful taking, $501-$1,499. 

These charges come from burglaries at the BNSF Railway maintenance building on June 20 and 21.

Kelley stole an impact wrench from a BNSF truck inside a locked garage. Video footage also revealed Kelley trying to break open a vending machine inside the building and stealing multiple items inside the building. 

A BNSF supervisor told police that Kelley was fired from the company in 2020. 

On June 13 and 14, Kelley stole other iteams from the BNSF maintenance building. 

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659646185042.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>An Alliance man has seen multiple criminal charges filed against him recently in Box Butte County Court. 38-year-old Chad Kelley was arrested on a warrant and could be charged with many felonies and misdemeanors. On June 30, Kelley was charged with a Class 3 Misdemeanor for unauthorized use of a propelled vehicle. On July 10 Kelley was issued a citation for possession of drug paraphernalia in the 500 block of East Third Street. July 18 Kelley was charged with a Class 3 Misdemeanor for failure to appear or comply with a citation. He failed to appear in Box Butte County Court on July 5 dealing with his first case. July 21 Kelley was charged with a Class 4 Felony for possession of Alprazolam, possession of Fentanyl, a Class 3 Misdemeanor for unauthorized use of a propelled vehicle and an infraction for possession of drug paraphernalia. According to court documents, on July 19, the Alliance Police Department assisted the Nebraska Stae Patrol due to a stolen 1997 Ford F-150 in the 200 Block of Howard Avenue.Officers spoke with a person on the scene who told them Kelley borrowed the vehicle four days prior.According to court docuements, Kelley told that person, “that he lost a blue fentanyl pill in the truck and wished to find the truck to retrieve it.”Officers asked the vehicle's owner/driver what was in the vehicle the last time they left it parked. The driver told them only a screwdriver and a jumper box. Officers searched the vehicle and found a clear plastic baggie with a fentanyl and Alprazolam pill. At the scene Kelley emptied his pockets. Court reports said, “At this time officers viewed multiple items fall out of Kelley’s pockets. Amongst these items, officers viewed a small piece of straw, a ball point pen tube, and a clear plastic baggie. The straw and the ball point pen tube were viewed to have a white residue inside and recognized as drug paraphernalia.”On July 22, Kelley was charged with two Class 2A Felony counts of burglary, a Class 4 Felony of theft by unlawful taking, $1,500-$4,999, and a Class 1 Misdemeanor for theft by unlawful taking, $501-$1,499. These charges come from burglaries at the BNSF Railway maintenance building on June 20 and 21.Kelley stole an impact wrench from a BNSF truck inside a locked garage. Video footage also revealed Kelley trying to break open a vending machine inside the building and stealing multiple items inside the building. A BNSF supervisor told police that Kelley was fired from the company in 2020. On June 13 and 14, Kelley stole other iteams from the BNSF maintenance building.

Alliance man arrested on multiple felonies, misdemeanors 

As of August 1 the City of Chadron has limited resources to board and house stray animals. 

We would like to ask everyone living within the City of Chadron that owns a dog to ensure they have their pet(s) licensed with the City of Chadron. 

Licensing your pets allows the police officers to identify your pet and where they live at, which allows us to get them home faster. 

Additionally, we post stray pets that we locate on our Facebook page.

 This has been a very successful tool for us and has assisted in reducing the number of animals that have to go to the animal shelter. 

By Chadron Police DepartmentAs of August 1 the City of Chadron has limited resources to board and house stray animals. We would like to ask everyone living within the City of Chadron that owns a dog to ensure they have their pet(s) licensed with the City of Chadron. Licensing your pets allows the police officers to identify your pet and where they live at, which allows us to get them home faster. Additionally, we post stray pets that we locate on our Facebook page. This has been a very successful tool for us and has assisted in reducing the number of animals that have to go to the animal shelter.

Animal licensing, limited animal shelter resources in Chadron 

Lady A has announced they have canceled their Request Line Tour for 2022. The band was scheduled to perform Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Nebraska State Fair. "We have decided to postpone our Request Line Tour until next year," the band said in a statement.&nbsp;"Being on the road with our fans is our greatest joy, so it was a hard but important decision to make. We are a band, but more importantly we’re family. We’re proud to say that Charles has embarked on a journey to sobriety. So, right now in order to be the healthiest, strongest and most creative band we can be, Lady A will take the time with the support of our families and team of professionals to walk through this together. It’s early on this road, but we are determined to do what will best set us up for many more years together. We’re grateful for your patience." Currently, the State Fair is working on a new concert, but no announcement is planned for today. When the announcement on the act for September 3 is made, all tickets for the Lady A concert will be honored for that show. At that time, if customers want a refund, they will be instructed on how to do so. "We are disappointed Lady A will not be at the Nebraska State Fair this year," said Bill Ogg, Nebraska State Fair executive director. "We wish them the best in their personal situations and hope to see them in the future."&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Nebraska State FairLady A has announced they have canceled their Request Line Tour for 2022. The band was scheduled to perform Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Nebraska State Fair. "We have decided to postpone our Request Line Tour until next year," the band said in a statement.&nbsp;"Being on the road with our fans is our greatest joy, so it was a hard but important decision to make. We are a band, but more importantly we’re family. We’re proud to say that Charles has embarked on a journey to sobriety. So, right now in order to be the healthiest, strongest and most creative band we can be, Lady A will take the time with the support of our families and team of professionals to walk through this together. It’s early on this road, but we are determined to do what will best set us up for many more years together. We’re grateful for your patience." Currently, the State Fair is working on a new concert, but no announcement is planned for today. When the announcement on the act for September 3 is made, all tickets for the Lady A concert will be honored for that show. At that time, if customers want a refund, they will be instructed on how to do so. "We are disappointed Lady A will not be at the Nebraska State Fair this year," said Bill Ogg, Nebraska State Fair executive director. "We wish them the best in their personal situations and hope to see them in the future."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lady A cancels tour, including Nebraska State Fair appearance

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 8/4/22

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

Including the cities of Alliance, Hemingford, Scottsbluff, Gering, Harrisburg, Angora, Bridgeport, Bayard, Redington, Kimball, Sidney, Brownson, Harrison, Agate, Lusk, Redbird, Wheatland, Guernsey, and Torrington

...HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 9 PM MDT FRIDAY...

* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions expected. Daytime highs will&nbsp;  climb to near 100 degrees with overnight lows only falling into&nbsp;  the upper 60s and lower 70s.

* WHERE...Much of east central Wyoming and the western Nebraska&nbsp;  Panhandle.

* WHEN...Noon MDT today until 9 PM MDT Friday.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses to occur.

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYIncluding the cities of Alliance, Hemingford, Scottsbluff, Gering, Harrisburg, Angora, Bridgeport, Bayard, Redington, Kimball, Sidney, Brownson, Harrison, Agate, Lusk, Redbird, Wheatland, Guernsey, and Torrington...HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 9 PM MDT FRIDAY...* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions expected. Daytime highs will&nbsp; climb to near 100 degrees with overnight lows only falling into&nbsp; the upper 60s and lower 70s.* WHERE...Much of east central Wyoming and the western Nebraska&nbsp; Panhandle.* WHEN...Noon MDT today until 9 PM MDT Friday.* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures may cause heat illnesses to occur.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

Heat Advisory in effect for Panhandle 

GERING, Neb. (AP) — Fire crews made substantial headway in containing a western Nebraska wildfire that has destroyed some homes, despite getting significantly less rain than officials hoped for.

Officials believed the Carter Canyon Fire south of Gering was about 85% contained by Wednesday morning after being only about 30% contained a day earlier, Ben Bohall with the Nebraska Forest Service said.

Fire crews had hoped storms Tuesday would bring heavy rains to help douse the flames, but Bohall said the area instead only saw light showers and lightning strikes that sparked two additional fires.

The first fire was sparked inside the wildfire parameters and was extinguished after burning a little more than 3 acres (12,140 square meters), Bohall said. The second fire erupted in Banner County south of the wildfire and was put out after burning about 5 acres (20,234 square meters), he said.

A jump in humidity has helped keep the wildfire from gaining energy, Bohall said. There also was a slight chance of thunderstorms and showers Wednesday night, but crews weren't expecting much in they way of help from Mother Nature, he said.

“Still, we're hoping that by tomorrow, we'll end up turning this effort back over to the Gering Fire Department,” Bohall said.

The wildfire has scorched about 25 square miles (65 square kilometers) of mostly grass and timberland, destroying three homes and damaging several others over the weekend. Officials confirmed late Tuesday that the fire was started by several lightning strikes Saturday evening. It gained ground early on due to tinder-dry conditions, rough terrain and high winds.

The National Weather Service has forecast scorching temperatures over 100 degrees (37.7 Celsius) each day through Friday, with the heat receding somewhat to the upper 80s on Saturday.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-california-56690ce338be4d983ea619f240777022">Other large fires are raging in the West</a>, including a Northern California fire that has burned roughly 90 square miles (233 square kilometers) in the Klamath National Forest. In northwestern Montana, a fire that started Friday on the Flathead Indian Reservation had 25 square miles (66 square kilometers) by Tuesday, and the Moose Fire in Idaho had burned more than 85 square miles (220 square kilometers) in the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

By Associated PressGERING, Neb. (AP) — Fire crews made substantial headway in containing a western Nebraska wildfire that has destroyed some homes, despite getting significantly less rain than officials hoped for.Officials believed the Carter Canyon Fire south of Gering was about 85% contained by Wednesday morning after being only about 30% contained a day earlier, Ben Bohall with the Nebraska Forest Service said.Fire crews had hoped storms Tuesday would bring heavy rains to help douse the flames, but Bohall said the area instead only saw light showers and lightning strikes that sparked two additional fires.The first fire was sparked inside the wildfire parameters and was extinguished after burning a little more than 3 acres (12,140 square meters), Bohall said. The second fire erupted in Banner County south of the wildfire and was put out after burning about 5 acres (20,234 square meters), he said.A jump in humidity has helped keep the wildfire from gaining energy, Bohall said. There also was a slight chance of thunderstorms and showers Wednesday night, but crews weren't expecting much in they way of help from Mother Nature, he said.“Still, we're hoping that by tomorrow, we'll end up turning this effort back over to the Gering Fire Department,” Bohall said.The wildfire has scorched about 25 square miles (65 square kilometers) of mostly grass and timberland, destroying three homes and damaging several others over the weekend. Officials confirmed late Tuesday that the fire was started by several lightning strikes Saturday evening. It gained ground early on due to tinder-dry conditions, rough terrain and high winds.The National Weather Service has forecast scorching temperatures over 100 degrees (37.7 Celsius) each day through Friday, with the heat receding somewhat to the upper 80s on Saturday.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-california-56690ce338be4d983ea619f240777022">Other large fires are raging in the West</a>, including a Northern California fire that has burned roughly 90 square miles (233 square kilometers) in the Klamath National Forest. In northwestern Montana, a fire that started Friday on the Flathead Indian Reservation had 25 square miles (66 square kilometers) by Tuesday, and the Moose Fire in Idaho had burned more than 85 square miles (220 square kilometers) in the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

Most of Panhandle wildfire contained, despite lack of rain

Alliance – Box Butte County RSVP will be hosting a mobile food pantry in conjunction with Northwest Community Action Partnership and Food bank for the Heartland on Wednesday, August 10 from&nbsp; 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. 

This is a free program which distributes food to families in Alliance, serving one distribution per car. 

This time Alliance Public Transit will be offering delivery of ten food boxes to customers. Just give them a call at (308) 762-7433. First to call, first served.

To ensure safe access to the Senior Center located at 212 Yellowstone Avenue, the Alliance Police Department are asking patrons to begin at the northeast corner of East 2nd Street and Yellowstone Avenue. Traffic will line up down East 2nd to Potash Avenue on the north side of the street. Please make sure to leave intersections open. Any overflow traffic will continue on Potash Avenue to East 3rd Street parking along the south curb on East 3rd Street. Please stay in your vehicle at time of delivery.

For more information about the food drive, please contact Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

By City of AllianceAlliance – Box Butte County RSVP will be hosting a mobile food pantry in conjunction with Northwest Community Action Partnership and Food bank for the Heartland on Wednesday, August 10 from&nbsp; 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. This is a free program which distributes food to families in Alliance, serving one distribution per car. This time Alliance Public Transit will be offering delivery of ten food boxes to customers. Just give them a call at (308) 762-7433. First to call, first served.To ensure safe access to the Senior Center located at 212 Yellowstone Avenue, the Alliance Police Department are asking patrons to begin at the northeast corner of East 2nd Street and Yellowstone Avenue. Traffic will line up down East 2nd to Potash Avenue on the north side of the street. Please make sure to leave intersections open. Any overflow traffic will continue on Potash Avenue to East 3rd Street parking along the south curb on East 3rd Street. Please stay in your vehicle at time of delivery.For more information about the food drive, please contact Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

RSVP, NCAP to hold mobile food pantry in Alliance

A lot is happening the world of City Transit. The Chadron City Transit is excited to announce our new office to be located at 127 W. 2nd Street #101 with storefront windows. 

This is an exciting move for City Transit allowing the drivers to have an office to report to, the public to visit and inquire about Transit Services or questions about Chadron, a community room for Transit meetings with the public and an indoor “bus stop” during inclement weather. The new office will be open and fully operational the week of August 8.

We will have a ribbon cutting at a later date.

By City of Chadron Public TransitA lot is happening the world of City Transit. The Chadron City Transit is excited to announce our new office to be located at 127 W. 2nd Street #101 with storefront windows. This is an exciting move for City Transit allowing the drivers to have an office to report to, the public to visit and inquire about Transit Services or questions about Chadron, a community room for Transit meetings with the public and an indoor “bus stop” during inclement weather. The new office will be open and fully operational the week of August 8..Make sure to drop by and say “hi”. We will have a ribbon cutting at a later date.

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