UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: American Red Cross

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: East Point Horspice

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: The Doves Program

Box Butte County Commissioner's Meeting Agenda, Dec. 3

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Alliance Public Library invites you to Digital Detox Friday events, festive intergenerational activities to inspire and engage your creative mind!

Join in Holiday Crafts with Keep Alliance Beautiful on Friday, Dec. 5 for preschool and over, with families welcome to create together from 10-11 a.m. in the APL Community Room. All supplies are provided, including nature and recycled materials.

Celebrate Christmas Around the World, featuring fun facts about ways others celebrate the holidays on Friday, Dec. 12 from 10-11:30 a.m. in the APL Community Room. This intergenerational event for preschool and over, will also include a Show &amp; Tell time. Bring along a special treasure from your own holiday collection to share about. Plus enjoy books from our library collection and a Power Point presentation. If you have special items to share in our display, you can bring them to the library before Dec. 12 or bring to share at the event.

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

By Alliance Public Library<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764693071793.jpeg" alt="Holiday Crafts" />
 <figcaption>Holiday Crafts</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – Alliance Public Library invites you to Digital Detox Friday events, festive intergenerational activities to inspire and engage your creative mind!Join in Holiday Crafts with Keep Alliance Beautiful on Friday, Dec. 5 for preschool and over, with families welcome to create together from 10-11 a.m. in the APL Community Room. All supplies are provided, including nature and recycled materials.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764693040279.jpeg" alt="Christmas Around the World" />
 <figcaption>Christmas Around the World</figcaption>
 </figure>Celebrate Christmas Around the World, featuring fun facts about ways others celebrate the holidays on Friday, Dec. 12 from 10-11:30 a.m. in the APL Community Room. This intergenerational event for preschool and over, will also include a Show &amp; Tell time. Bring along a special treasure from your own holiday collection to share about. Plus enjoy books from our library collection and a Power Point presentation. If you have special items to share in our display, you can bring them to the library before Dec. 12 or bring to share at the event.For more information, please contact Steph Hamilton, Adult Services Librarian or Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

December Digital Detox Fridays at Alliance Public Library

McCOOK, Neb.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating an incident in which a McCook resident died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot while speaking on the phone with McCook police officers.

Monday afternoon, the McCook Police Department received a 911 call from a McCook resident reporting that he was considering self-harm. Officers responded to the location in the 600 block of West F Street.

Officers contacted the person via phone and spoke for several minutes. During the phone call, officers heard a gunshot inside the home. Officers entered the home and found the man with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. They attempted life-saving measures, but the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was nobody else in the house at the time of the incident.

No officers discharged their weapons during this incident. Because the death occurred during contact with law enforcement officers, the Red Willow County Attorney has requested the Nebraska State Patrol conduct the grand jury investigation.

School had already been dismissed at McCook High School, but because of the proximity to the scene, the school went into secure status during after-school practices and activities.

By Nebraska State Patrol<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682086647868.png" alt="New headquarters of the Nebraska State Patrol. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>New headquarters of the Nebraska State Patrol. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>McCOOK, Neb.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating an incident in which a McCook resident died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot while speaking on the phone with McCook police officers.Monday afternoon, the McCook Police Department received a 911 call from a McCook resident reporting that he was considering self-harm. Officers responded to the location in the 600 block of West F Street.Officers contacted the person via phone and spoke for several minutes. During the phone call, officers heard a gunshot inside the home. Officers entered the home and found the man with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. They attempted life-saving measures, but the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was nobody else in the house at the time of the incident.No officers discharged their weapons during this incident. Because the death occurred during contact with law enforcement officers, the Red Willow County Attorney has requested the Nebraska State Patrol conduct the grand jury investigation.School had already been dismissed at McCook High School, but because of the proximity to the scene, the school went into secure status during after-school practices and activities.

NSP Investigating Apparent Suicide in McCook

By The National Purple Heart Honor Mission

Scottsbluff Native and Lincoln Army Veteran Chosen as Nebraska’s Representative for the 2026 Purple Heart Patriot Project

NEWBURGH, NY – A local Purple Heart recipient has been chosen to be one of the nation’s 2026 Purple Heart Patriot Project honorees. U.S. Army Sergeant (SGT) Marty Ramirez will represent his fellow Purple Heart heroes as Nebraska’s representative at the multi-day tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America’s combat wounded. The Purple Heart Patriot Project is a program of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.purpleheartmission.org/" target="_blank">National Purple Heart Honor Mission</a>.&nbsp;

Selected from among hundreds of nominees and deserving candidates for their courage and service, both in combat and in their communities, this annual all-expenses paid ‘Honor Flight’-style salute will bring together Purple Heart recipients from across conflicts and generations. The multi-day Patriot Project Mission, scheduled for April 27 – May 1, 2026, will feature visits to historic sites, including the U.S. Military Academy at West Point; a private tour of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor; time at historic Washington’s Headquarters, where the Badge of Military Merit originated in 1782; and the 9/11 Memorial. Other special tribute events are also being planned.

“Marty and his fellow Patriot Project honorees represent the best of the best our country has to offer,” said Jeremy McVey, Chairman of the National Purple Heart Honor Mission.&nbsp;“These honorees represent a true cross-section of America and the diversity of our combat wounded through the decades. They answered the nation’s call and then kept on serving. This is our opportunity to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of a grateful nation, especially for our Vietnam veterans, the Patriot Project provides proper homecoming they never received.”

“These Patriot Project missions recognize the sacrifices made by our Purple Heart recipients and honor those who never made it home. They provide an invaluable opportunity for these heroes to bond with other combat wounded to help with healing, understanding and of course, know that this nation will never forget their sacrifice,” said National Purple Heart Honor Mission Executive Director Colonel Russell O. Vernon (Ret). “We received hundreds of nominations from across the country, and we look forward to honoring Marty for his courage and service, both during combat operations and in the years since returning home.”

This year’s Patriot Project honorees include men and women from all branches of military service, who sacrificed for America and then went on to be leaders in their communities and professions. &nbsp;

Asked what his service meant to him, SGT Ramirez said, “I grew up feeling and knowing that it was an honor to serve in the military. As a combat soldier, I felt that we were going to fight for democracy.”

Ramirez entered the Army on Oct. 20, 1967, and served with the 199th Light Infantry Brigade, A-4/12, during the 1968 Tet Offensive in Vietnam. In February 1969, with just ten days remaining in his year-long tour, his unit came under heavy enemy attack while he was guarding ammunition beneath a bridge. As mortar and rocket-propelled grenade rounds struck the area, Ramirez raced to reach the top of the bridge but was blown off and fell nearly 50 feet, suffering the combat wounds for which he received the Purple Heart. Previously, Marty came close to death on 8 different occasions.

Along with his Purple Heart, SGT Ramirez earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Army Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars.

Married and the father of seven children, SGT. Ramirez built an extraordinary post-military career rooted in service, leadership and community advocacy. He earned his Ph.D. and became a counseling psychologist, retiring after a distinguished professional life dedicated to helping others. A lifelong Chicano community activist, he has been deeply involved in educational and cultural advocacy and played a key role in helping create a Chicano/Mexican Veterans Monument in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He cites his academic achievements, his children all earning college degrees and his decades of community leadership as among his most meaningful accomplishments.

The Purple Heart Patriot Project provides an all-expenses paid trip to Purple Heart recipients from across the country to visit the museum dedicated as a tribute to their service and other historic sites connected with the Purple Heart. Located just north of West Point, New York, the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is housed near the site where General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit in 1782 during the Revolutionary War. The Badge, a purple cloth cut in the shape of a heart, was the forerunner of today’s Purple Heart medal. These powerful visits provide a unique opportunity for our Purple Heart veterans to connect with other recipients and experience the appreciation of a grateful nation committed to ensuring their courage and sacrifice is remembered for generations to come. Project Missions are supported by individual, foundation, and corporate donations.

In addition to creation of the museum, the National Purple Heart Honor Mission was instrumental in the creation of the Purple Heart Forever stamp, and the organization behind the U.S. Mint’s official Purple Heart Commemorative Coin series, which was issued by the United States Mint in 2022. Today, the organization is developing the National Purple Heart Traveling Tribute and Education Center, which will tour the country bringing the stories of our heroes’ service and sacrifice to communities across the nation.&nbsp;

Those wishing to learn more about the National Purple Heart Honor Mission or donate to sponsor the trip for our Purple Heart heroes should visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.purpleheartmission.org/" target="_blank">www.PurpleHeartMission.org</a>.

By The National Purple Heart Honor Mission<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764692796997.png" alt="Maurice Ramirez (NE) - Service Photo" />
 <figcaption>Maurice Ramirez (NE) - Service Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Scottsbluff Native and Lincoln Army Veteran Chosen as Nebraska’s Representative for the 2026 Purple Heart Patriot ProjectNEWBURGH, NY – A local Purple Heart recipient has been chosen to be one of the nation’s 2026 Purple Heart Patriot Project honorees. U.S. Army Sergeant (SGT) Marty Ramirez will represent his fellow Purple Heart heroes as Nebraska’s representative at the multi-day tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America’s combat wounded. The Purple Heart Patriot Project is a program of the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.purpleheartmission.org/" target="_blank">National Purple Heart Honor Mission</a>.&nbsp;Selected from among hundreds of nominees and deserving candidates for their courage and service, both in combat and in their communities, this annual all-expenses paid ‘Honor Flight’-style salute will bring together Purple Heart recipients from across conflicts and generations. The multi-day Patriot Project Mission, scheduled for April 27 – May 1, 2026, will feature visits to historic sites, including the U.S. Military Academy at West Point; a private tour of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor; time at historic Washington’s Headquarters, where the Badge of Military Merit originated in 1782; and the 9/11 Memorial. Other special tribute events are also being planned.“Marty and his fellow Patriot Project honorees represent the best of the best our country has to offer,” said Jeremy McVey, Chairman of the National Purple Heart Honor Mission.&nbsp;“These honorees represent a true cross-section of America and the diversity of our combat wounded through the decades. They answered the nation’s call and then kept on serving. This is our opportunity to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of a grateful nation, especially for our Vietnam veterans, the Patriot Project provides proper homecoming they never received.”“These Patriot Project missions recognize the sacrifices made by our Purple Heart recipients and honor those who never made it home. They provide an invaluable opportunity for these heroes to bond with other combat wounded to help with healing, understanding and of course, know that this nation will never forget their sacrifice,” said National Purple Heart Honor Mission Executive Director Colonel Russell O. Vernon (Ret). “We received hundreds of nominations from across the country, and we look forward to honoring Marty for his courage and service, both during combat operations and in the years since returning home.”This year’s Patriot Project honorees include men and women from all branches of military service, who sacrificed for America and then went on to be leaders in their communities and professions. &nbsp;Asked what his service meant to him, SGT Ramirez said, “I grew up feeling and knowing that it was an honor to serve in the military. As a combat soldier, I felt that we were going to fight for democracy.”Ramirez entered the Army on Oct. 20, 1967, and served with the 199th Light Infantry Brigade, A-4/12, during the 1968 Tet Offensive in Vietnam. In February 1969, with just ten days remaining in his year-long tour, his unit came under heavy enemy attack while he was guarding ammunition beneath a bridge. As mortar and rocket-propelled grenade rounds struck the area, Ramirez raced to reach the top of the bridge but was blown off and fell nearly 50 feet, suffering the combat wounds for which he received the Purple Heart. Previously, Marty came close to death on 8 different occasions.Along with his Purple Heart, SGT Ramirez earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Army Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars.Married and the father of seven children, SGT. Ramirez built an extraordinary post-military career rooted in service, leadership and community advocacy. He earned his Ph.D. and became a counseling psychologist, retiring after a distinguished professional life dedicated to helping others. A lifelong Chicano community activist, he has been deeply involved in educational and cultural advocacy and played a key role in helping create a Chicano/Mexican Veterans Monument in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He cites his academic achievements, his children all earning college degrees and his decades of community leadership as among his most meaningful accomplishments.The Purple Heart Patriot Project provides an all-expenses paid trip to Purple Heart recipients from across the country to visit the museum dedicated as a tribute to their service and other historic sites connected with the Purple Heart. Located just north of West Point, New York, the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor is housed near the site where General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit in 1782 during the Revolutionary War. The Badge, a purple cloth cut in the shape of a heart, was the forerunner of today’s Purple Heart medal. These powerful visits provide a unique opportunity for our Purple Heart veterans to connect with other recipients and experience the appreciation of a grateful nation committed to ensuring their courage and sacrifice is remembered for generations to come. Project Missions are supported by individual, foundation, and corporate donations.In addition to creation of the museum, the National Purple Heart Honor Mission was instrumental in the creation of the Purple Heart Forever stamp, and the organization behind the U.S. Mint’s official Purple Heart Commemorative Coin series, which was issued by the United States Mint in 2022. Today, the organization is developing the National Purple Heart Traveling Tribute and Education Center, which will tour the country bringing the stories of our heroes’ service and sacrifice to communities across the nation.&nbsp;Those wishing to learn more about the National Purple Heart Honor Mission or donate to sponsor the trip for our Purple Heart heroes should visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.purpleheartmission.org/" target="_blank">www.PurpleHeartMission.org</a>.

Local Purple Heart Recipient Dr. Marty Ramirez To Be Honored During National Tribute Event

CHADRON, Neb. — Chadron State College Associate Professor Julian Berrian presented his paper, Cheating the Grave: Representations of Death Transcendence in the Movie Sinners, during the virtual Annual Northeast Popular Culture Association conference in October, marking his second appearance at the annual conference.

Berrian spoke on a panel titled Belief at the Brink: Faith, Death and Decay in Popular Culture. His talk examined how filmmaker Ryan Coogler’s film Sinners uses characters, music, and visual structure to illustrate psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton’s five symbolic modes of death transcendence: biological, theological, creative, natural and experiential.

Set in a Black music venue in Prohibition-era Mississippi, the film follows twin brothers Elijah and Elias, blues guitarist Sammie Moore, and the vampire-like outsider Remmick. Berrian’s analysis drew on scene and character examinations, including a musical sequence he described as the film’s visual centerpiece. He said the film demonstrates how one narrative can creatively express multiple human attempts to symbolically defy death.

Berrian’s abstract outlined his presentation’s key arguments and framed the film as a study in how people seek meaning and legacy in the face of mortality. During the discussion following his presentation, Berrian said questions reflected the core theme that Coogler’s characters embody varied and sometimes conflicting pathways toward symbolic transcendence, and how those pursuits resonate across the human experience.

Berrian joined the CSC faculty in 2022 and teaches Advanced Video Production (CA 445), Broadcast Production (CA 345), Video Production (CA 245), Audio Production (CA 215), Public Speaking (CA 155), and Fundamentals of Oral Communication (CA 125). He earned a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University and a bachelor’s from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

By CSC College Relations<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764692540165.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College Associate Professor Julian Berrian presented his paper, Cheating the Grave: Representations of Death Transcendence in the Movie Sinners, during the virtual Annual Northeast Popular Culture Association conference in October 2025, marking his second appearance at the annual conference. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College Associate Professor Julian Berrian presented his paper, Cheating the Grave: Representations of Death Transcendence in the Movie Sinners, during the virtual Annual Northeast Popular Culture Association conference in October 2025, marking his second appearance at the annual conference. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON, Neb. — Chadron State College Associate Professor Julian Berrian presented his paper, Cheating the Grave: Representations of Death Transcendence in the Movie Sinners, during the virtual Annual Northeast Popular Culture Association conference in October, marking his second appearance at the annual conference.Berrian spoke on a panel titled Belief at the Brink: Faith, Death and Decay in Popular Culture. His talk examined how filmmaker Ryan Coogler’s film Sinners uses characters, music, and visual structure to illustrate psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton’s five symbolic modes of death transcendence: biological, theological, creative, natural and experiential.Set in a Black music venue in Prohibition-era Mississippi, the film follows twin brothers Elijah and Elias, blues guitarist Sammie Moore, and the vampire-like outsider Remmick. Berrian’s analysis drew on scene and character examinations, including a musical sequence he described as the film’s visual centerpiece. He said the film demonstrates how one narrative can creatively express multiple human attempts to symbolically defy death.Berrian’s abstract outlined his presentation’s key arguments and framed the film as a study in how people seek meaning and legacy in the face of mortality. During the discussion following his presentation, Berrian said questions reflected the core theme that Coogler’s characters embody varied and sometimes conflicting pathways toward symbolic transcendence, and how those pursuits resonate across the human experience.Berrian joined the CSC faculty in 2022 and teaches Advanced Video Production (CA 445), Broadcast Production (CA 345), Video Production (CA 245), Audio Production (CA 215), Public Speaking (CA 155), and Fundamentals of Oral Communication (CA 125). He earned a Master of Fine Arts from Temple University and a bachelor’s from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Berrian Presents to Virtual Popular Culture Conference

UNITED WAY RADIOTHON: Reve Fries

Lawson told witness “If you talk, it’s your funeral”

U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Iowa - December 1, 2025

Two men with lengthy criminal histories were convicted by a jury on November 25, 2025, after a 11-day trial in federal court in Sioux City.

Floyd Clifford Coates, Jr., aka Cliff Coates, age 44, from St. Francis, Kansas, was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, Possession of Ammunition by a Felon and Drug User, Conspiracy to Conceal Objects with the Intent to Impair Their Availability for an Official Proceeding, and Concealing Objects with the Intent to Impair their Availability for an Official Proceeding. Coates was acquitted of other charges related to threats, and obstruction of justice.&nbsp;

Dennis Lawson, age 65, from Whiting, Iowa, was convicted of Using Threat of Physical Force Against Another with the Intent to Hinder, Delay, or Prevent the Communication to a Law Enforcement Officer and Judge of the United States of Information Relating to the Commission and Possible Commission of a Federal Offense. Lawson was acquitted of other charges relating to drugs, threats and obstruction.&nbsp;

The verdict was returned following about 2 hours of jury deliberations.

The evidence at trial showed that in Spring 2019, Coates was a member of a drug trafficking organization that funneled pounds of methamphetamine from Colorado to Strubel, Iowa, among other places, for redistribution, and that Coates possessed firearms to protect his illegal drug operation. Evidence also showed that on Easter weekend 2019, Coates had arranged a drug run to Kansas City, Missouri.

To execute the Easter weekend drug run, Coates had convinced an Iowa woman to drive from Sioux City, Iowa; meet him in Blair, Nebraska; and drive him to Kansas City, Missouri, and back. Coates decided to travel to Blair from Trenton, Nebraska, with another woman, 18-year-old Sunny Sramek. Coates and Sramek left Trenton in his wife’s white Ford Explorer to go on the trip. There is no evidence Ms. Sramek knew Coates was going to Kansas City; in fact, she told friends and family that she was going to be on a day trip to Omaha.&nbsp;

The pair made it to Blair, where Coates went into a home, but Ms. Sramek did not. Coates’s driver arrived from Sioux City and Coates said nothing of Ms. Sramek to the driver. As the driver and Coates left the home, the driver saw Ms. Sramek’s motionless body. The driver testified it looked as if Ms. Sramek had overdosed, and Coates said he had provided her methamphetamine. Coates cancelled his drug run to Kansas City and told his driver to go to the home of his brother-in-law Dennis Lawson near Whiting, Iowa, on the banks of the Missouri River. The driver testified that after they arrived at Lawson’s residence Lawson and Coates disappeared for a time, when they returned, Ms. Sramek’s body was gone. The driver also testified that she and Coates cleaned out the car, and that Lawson threatened her saying if she told anyone, “it would be her funeral.”

Later, Coates told confidants that Ms. Sramek had overdosed. He told other friends a more violent story. In both versions, however, he told people he had thrown Ms. Sramek’s body into the Missouri River to conceal evidence of his crimes. Coates was confident his efforts at concealing Ms. Sramek’s body would insulate him from accountability. He told one person “no body, no case” and asked another “you can’t get charged with murder if there is no body, can you?”

Coates’s confidence was misplaced. Law enforcement gathered a significant amount of physical evidence tying Coates to Ms. Sramek’s disappearance. Forensic analysis indicated Ms. Sramek’s DNA and a significant amount of blood were found in the white Ford Explorer. The forensic findings combined with other evidence provided the proof the jury used to convict Coates and Lawson.&nbsp;

“Sunny Sramek went missing more than six years ago,” said United States Attorney Leif Olson. “But the investigators’ dedication kept her case from going cold. Thanks to them, these two criminals now face judgment for Sunny’s disappearance. Those who believe they can escape justice through threats, cover-ups, or the passage of time will discover they are mistaken.”

“The convictions of Coates and Lawson represent years of tireless, unwavering efforts by a dedicated team of FBI personnel who never stopped looking for Sunny Sramek,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. “Despite the defendants’ best efforts to conceal involvement in her disappearance, the FBI persisted in our mission to hold these subjects accountable for their actions. We hope these convictions bring some measure of solace to Sunny’s family. The FBI will always use every tool and technique in our arsenal to seek justice for the missing and attempts to hinder those efforts will be aggressively investigated.”

Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Coates and Lawson remain in custody of the United States Marshal.

Coates faces a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment and five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

Lawson faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

&nbsp;The case was investigated by Hitchcock County, Nebraska, Sheriff’s Office; the Nebraska State Patrol; the Iowa Department of Public Safety—Division of Criminal Investigation; the Plymouth County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office; the O’Brien County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office; the Iowa Department of Natural Resources; the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner; the Goodland, Kansas, Police Department; and the&nbsp;<a></a>United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.&nbsp;

For Immediate Release<h2>Lawson told witness “If you talk, it’s your funeral”</h2>U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Iowa - December 1, 2025<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764644350839.jpeg" alt="Sunny Sramek, of Trenton, Ne, has been missing since April 20 of 2019 when she was 18 years-old. Two men linked to the disappearance were found guilty on drug, gun and obstruction-related charges December 1, 2025. (Find Sunny Sramek Facebook Page)" />
 <figcaption>Sunny Sramek, of Trenton, Ne, has been missing since April 20 of 2019 when she was 18 years-old. Two men linked to the disappearance were found guilty on drug, gun and obstruction-related charges December 1, 2025. (Find Sunny Sramek Facebook Page)</figcaption>
 </figure>Two men with lengthy criminal histories were convicted by a jury on November 25, 2025, after a 11-day trial in federal court in Sioux City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764644790644.png" alt="Coates (Woodbury County Sheriff's Office)" />
 <figcaption>Coates (Woodbury County Sheriff's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Floyd Clifford Coates, Jr., aka Cliff Coates, age 44, from St. Francis, Kansas, was convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, Possession of Ammunition by a Felon and Drug User, Conspiracy to Conceal Objects with the Intent to Impair Their Availability for an Official Proceeding, and Concealing Objects with the Intent to Impair their Availability for an Official Proceeding. Coates was acquitted of other charges related to threats, and obstruction of justice.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764645071823.png" alt="Lawson (Woodbury County Sheriff's Office)" />
 <figcaption>Lawson (Woodbury County Sheriff's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis Lawson, age 65, from Whiting, Iowa, was convicted of Using Threat of Physical Force Against Another with the Intent to Hinder, Delay, or Prevent the Communication to a Law Enforcement Officer and Judge of the United States of Information Relating to the Commission and Possible Commission of a Federal Offense. Lawson was acquitted of other charges relating to drugs, threats and obstruction.&nbsp;The verdict was returned following about 2 hours of jury deliberations.The evidence at trial showed that in Spring 2019, Coates was a member of a drug trafficking organization that funneled pounds of methamphetamine from Colorado to Strubel, Iowa, among other places, for redistribution, and that Coates possessed firearms to protect his illegal drug operation. Evidence also showed that on Easter weekend 2019, Coates had arranged a drug run to Kansas City, Missouri.To execute the Easter weekend drug run, Coates had convinced an Iowa woman to drive from Sioux City, Iowa; meet him in Blair, Nebraska; and drive him to Kansas City, Missouri, and back. Coates decided to travel to Blair from Trenton, Nebraska, with another woman, 18-year-old Sunny Sramek. Coates and Sramek left Trenton in his wife’s white Ford Explorer to go on the trip. There is no evidence Ms. Sramek knew Coates was going to Kansas City; in fact, she told friends and family that she was going to be on a day trip to Omaha.&nbsp;The pair made it to Blair, where Coates went into a home, but Ms. Sramek did not. Coates’s driver arrived from Sioux City and Coates said nothing of Ms. Sramek to the driver. As the driver and Coates left the home, the driver saw Ms. Sramek’s motionless body. The driver testified it looked as if Ms. Sramek had overdosed, and Coates said he had provided her methamphetamine. Coates cancelled his drug run to Kansas City and told his driver to go to the home of his brother-in-law Dennis Lawson near Whiting, Iowa, on the banks of the Missouri River. The driver testified that after they arrived at Lawson’s residence Lawson and Coates disappeared for a time, when they returned, Ms. Sramek’s body was gone. The driver also testified that she and Coates cleaned out the car, and that Lawson threatened her saying if she told anyone, “it would be her funeral.”Later, Coates told confidants that Ms. Sramek had overdosed. He told other friends a more violent story. In both versions, however, he told people he had thrown Ms. Sramek’s body into the Missouri River to conceal evidence of his crimes. Coates was confident his efforts at concealing Ms. Sramek’s body would insulate him from accountability. He told one person “no body, no case” and asked another “you can’t get charged with murder if there is no body, can you?”Coates’s confidence was misplaced. Law enforcement gathered a significant amount of physical evidence tying Coates to Ms. Sramek’s disappearance. Forensic analysis indicated Ms. Sramek’s DNA and a significant amount of blood were found in the white Ford Explorer. The forensic findings combined with other evidence provided the proof the jury used to convict Coates and Lawson.&nbsp;“Sunny Sramek went missing more than six years ago,” said United States Attorney Leif Olson. “But the investigators’ dedication kept her case from going cold. Thanks to them, these two criminals now face judgment for Sunny’s disappearance. Those who believe they can escape justice through threats, cover-ups, or the passage of time will discover they are mistaken.”“The convictions of Coates and Lawson represent years of tireless, unwavering efforts by a dedicated team of FBI personnel who never stopped looking for Sunny Sramek,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. “Despite the defendants’ best efforts to conceal involvement in her disappearance, the FBI persisted in our mission to hold these subjects accountable for their actions. We hope these convictions bring some measure of solace to Sunny’s family. The FBI will always use every tool and technique in our arsenal to seek justice for the missing and attempts to hinder those efforts will be aggressively investigated.”Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Coates and Lawson remain in custody of the United States Marshal.Coates faces a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment and five years of supervised release following any imprisonment.Lawson faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.&nbsp;The case was investigated by Hitchcock County, Nebraska, Sheriff’s Office; the Nebraska State Patrol; the Iowa Department of Public Safety—Division of Criminal Investigation; the Plymouth County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office; the O’Brien County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Office; the Iowa Department of Natural Resources; the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner; the Goodland, Kansas, Police Department; and the&nbsp;<a></a>United States Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Forde Fairchild.&nbsp;

Men Linked to the Disappearance of an 18-Year-Old Nebraska Woman Found Guilty of Drug, Gun, and Obstruction-Related Charges

-Dayde Michael Belknap and Kristen Ann Romick

-Terry Wayne Monroe Jr. and Brandon Lee Grossnickle

-Guillermo Gonzalez Jr. and Jessica Estelle Rodriguez

-Trace Patrick McCuen and Sophie Lynn Bricker

Marriages:&nbsp;-Dayde Michael Belknap and Kristen Ann Romick-Terry Wayne Monroe Jr. and Brandon Lee Grossnickle-Guillermo Gonzalez Jr. and Jessica Estelle Rodriguez-Trace Patrick McCuen and Sophie Lynn BrickerDivorces:-Tyrel Hoatson and Chelsea Hoatson-Barbara Beck and Joshua Beck

Marriages, divorces, November 2025

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.

-Jesse Watson,&nbsp;Poss Cont Sub, Poss Deadly weapon-prohibited person, DUI-Drugs, paraphernalia	

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.Box Butte Co:-no new felony cases to reportScotts Bluff Co:-Jesse Watson,&nbsp;Poss Cont Sub, Poss Deadly weapon-prohibited person, DUI-Drugs, paraphernalia	Dawes Co:&nbsp;-no new felony cases to report

Panhandle police activity, Nov. 25 - Dec. 1

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) removed 24 impaired drivers from the road during Thanksgiving weekend.

From Wednesday, Nov. 26 through Sunday, Nov. 30, troopers arrested 24 people for driving under the influence.

“Last weekend’s winter weather created an additional challenge for many families traveling across the state,” said Colonel Bryan Waugh, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As the holiday season continues our troopers will continue to be on the road ready to keep families safe as they travel to and from their holiday destinations.”

In addition to the 24 people arrested for driving under the influence, troopers issued citations for speeding (363), no seat belt (11), improper child restraint (5) and minor in possession (6). Troopers also assisted 303 motorists in need of assistance on the road.

With the arrival of winter weather, NSP urges all motorists to be prepared for poor driving conditions. Before you begin your trip, check road conditions by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://511.Nebraska.gov">511.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or downloading the Nebraska 511 app. Have a passenger in your vehicle check 511 periodically throughout your trip for any updates that may cause issues due to road closures or crash responses.

If you do become stranded, call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555. NSP dispatchers are prepared to take your call 24/7 and route the nearest trooper in your direction to provide help.

By Nebraska State Patrol<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701289355941.jpeg" alt="NSP cruiser/Photo provided by NSP" />
 <figcaption>NSP cruiser/Photo provided by NSP</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) removed 24 impaired drivers from the road during Thanksgiving weekend.From Wednesday, Nov. 26 through Sunday, Nov. 30, troopers arrested 24 people for driving under the influence.“Last weekend’s winter weather created an additional challenge for many families traveling across the state,” said Colonel Bryan Waugh, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As the holiday season continues our troopers will continue to be on the road ready to keep families safe as they travel to and from their holiday destinations.”In addition to the 24 people arrested for driving under the influence, troopers issued citations for speeding (363), no seat belt (11), improper child restraint (5) and minor in possession (6). Troopers also assisted 303 motorists in need of assistance on the road.With the arrival of winter weather, NSP urges all motorists to be prepared for poor driving conditions. Before you begin your trip, check road conditions by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://511.Nebraska.gov">511.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or downloading the Nebraska 511 app. Have a passenger in your vehicle check 511 periodically throughout your trip for any updates that may cause issues due to road closures or crash responses.If you do become stranded, call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555. NSP dispatchers are prepared to take your call 24/7 and route the nearest trooper in your direction to provide help.

Troopers Remove 24 Impaired Drivers During Thanksgiving Travel Weekend

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Denver Air Connection is offering a Thanksgiving Sale, with fares as low as $49 one way, for flights from Alliance to Denver.

For more information, please contact Airport Director, Lynn Placek, at (308) 762-4512.

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764626372566.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – Denver Air Connection is offering a Thanksgiving Sale, with fares as low as $49 one way, for flights from Alliance to Denver.For more information, please contact Airport Director, Lynn Placek, at (308) 762-4512.

Denver Air Connection Thanksgiving Sale

Imagine a mother in our community who just lost her job. She’s doing everything she can to keep food on the table and a roof over her children’s heads. Thanks to your generosity, she doesn’t have to face this alone.

Your gift to United Way helps fund 22 local nonprofit partners, including programs that provide emergency shelter, food assistance, mental health support, and job training. These aren’t just services—they’re lifelines for families right here at home.﻿﻿

This Giving Tuesday, you can make sure these stories continue—and new ones begin:

-Donate online today or call in during the United Way Radiothon!

-Give Online&nbsp;<a href="https://ytiaud4ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016bW8CtA1qyd2h39WO4GoobS1xbyH-pZgk5QPbQztSgGIyZYxROqZ2bQxnTY3O3JVonkt3-mIXDCCIwrjYwTCVa5S_1qJMWn4S08NwjCS1TuVYIyzystL76m8Mbm4GzOR5UGkTXX9Dfu_7DohFGpbIiZj5jHOKCyyK3U-FYDFl_90QsIV0viOFJWuCvZduT0XDMN8o-AIC_na94w5UdcEzg7egQjOpJqb&amp;c=BbfpV_CvLzdf3CnTvumGN4NQ1EiapqegSlmUkEGMGQ644Cd4y5y2pg==&amp;ch=K5EgXi-UTxxXSahSipVIoggW_Ow5Li9vKRYpBlDzC1Z0PnqvmbuuWw==" target="_blank">https://www.uwwn.org/give</a>

-PayPal&nbsp;<a href="https://ytiaud4ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016bW8CtA1qyd2h39WO4GoobS1xbyH-pZgk5QPbQztSgGIyZYxROqZ2bQxnTY3O3JVQZP3F4EMCHADGB31Zoiu4f0qJhSzkrI8sSv41rVxGx5nCitN1dCObOTKBckJ1pEhzp2xxXnBd4ITrWOH-bYM4VWEaBuH7W0MCLhtHp12BEduzDd65FLPkT941roNw435JUyXGGY8OTt4rPSNZjaHuegPKy3Hiu2geUJDKJo8xl2be1Cocab1bbsMe0G-crG2lq_wTpg14sMMr-aizmnHP4aQ29S_8T3na0sjQ1-20UxwYVi4AsBBy_CVQgqf_auuJ_EENeLn6ER-k0ZBbd000oPslx4fwRsgXYL2du33LpUMx1Ehq6g4dIeEMLq4trFYTJbikV0dqVex5GskyAc3mA==&amp;c=BbfpV_CvLzdf3CnTvumGN4NQ1EiapqegSlmUkEGMGQ644Cd4y5y2pg==&amp;ch=K5EgXi-UTxxXSahSipVIoggW_Ow5Li9vKRYpBlDzC1Z0PnqvmbuuWw==" target="_blank">https://conta.cc/3M3nSn2</a>

-Venmo&nbsp;<a href="https://ytiaud4ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016bW8CtA1qyd2h39WO4GoobS1xbyH-pZgk5QPbQztSgGIyZYxROqZ2bQxnTY3O3JV4CDIX22Uo4j12odGzKEJYx4hyuvy8FIUlKoFpZ0Id-I_KAszL0tQem2dk-Pe7A13zNqhezvVQA3r8LgcMeUdSIp19sTIhHLEcHzT3AyZoQ66g1cFdN-S2SGM1PX7EJ3qA5AF3JRCrx8fjXyLYW1G0m2zv5DHgF022wuMUbARB13sCIdoPtsdZ5uLDUShpd9YksVI3YxdWThP5--tvU2BCFLa1yKwHDZkHWdTp5UzfcX6X6-Gcif4lRwqUPIXMuiI0Mv1mtDF-58fvJfUvlA-2Li4BEXy-A1gF3SIokjCVq2zdcelswYqtsG7BuRFmWtf5A9u7pahHkCv2SDL25j3jQ==&amp;c=BbfpV_CvLzdf3CnTvumGN4NQ1EiapqegSlmUkEGMGQ644Cd4y5y2pg==&amp;ch=K5EgXi-UTxxXSahSipVIoggW_Ow5Li9vKRYpBlDzC1Z0PnqvmbuuWw==" target="_blank">https://conta.cc/44ndRr7</a>

-Call 308-635-2522 on Dec. 2 ONLY from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Every dollar stays local. Every gift makes a difference.&nbsp;Give LOCAL this Giving Tuesday.

Thank you for being the reason hope lives here.﻿

By United Way of Western Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764626279241.png" alt="United Way of Western Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>United Way of Western Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>Imagine a mother in our community who just lost her job. She’s doing everything she can to keep food on the table and a roof over her children’s heads. Thanks to your generosity, she doesn’t have to face this alone.Your gift to United Way helps fund 22 local nonprofit partners, including programs that provide emergency shelter, food assistance, mental health support, and job training. These aren’t just services—they’re lifelines for families right here at home.﻿﻿This Giving Tuesday, you can make sure these stories continue—and new ones begin:-Donate online today or call in during the United Way Radiothon!-Give Online&nbsp;<a href="https://ytiaud4ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016bW8CtA1qyd2h39WO4GoobS1xbyH-pZgk5QPbQztSgGIyZYxROqZ2bQxnTY3O3JVonkt3-mIXDCCIwrjYwTCVa5S_1qJMWn4S08NwjCS1TuVYIyzystL76m8Mbm4GzOR5UGkTXX9Dfu_7DohFGpbIiZj5jHOKCyyK3U-FYDFl_90QsIV0viOFJWuCvZduT0XDMN8o-AIC_na94w5UdcEzg7egQjOpJqb&amp;c=BbfpV_CvLzdf3CnTvumGN4NQ1EiapqegSlmUkEGMGQ644Cd4y5y2pg==&amp;ch=K5EgXi-UTxxXSahSipVIoggW_Ow5Li9vKRYpBlDzC1Z0PnqvmbuuWw==" target="_blank">https://www.uwwn.org/give</a>-PayPal&nbsp;<a href="https://ytiaud4ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016bW8CtA1qyd2h39WO4GoobS1xbyH-pZgk5QPbQztSgGIyZYxROqZ2bQxnTY3O3JVQZP3F4EMCHADGB31Zoiu4f0qJhSzkrI8sSv41rVxGx5nCitN1dCObOTKBckJ1pEhzp2xxXnBd4ITrWOH-bYM4VWEaBuH7W0MCLhtHp12BEduzDd65FLPkT941roNw435JUyXGGY8OTt4rPSNZjaHuegPKy3Hiu2geUJDKJo8xl2be1Cocab1bbsMe0G-crG2lq_wTpg14sMMr-aizmnHP4aQ29S_8T3na0sjQ1-20UxwYVi4AsBBy_CVQgqf_auuJ_EENeLn6ER-k0ZBbd000oPslx4fwRsgXYL2du33LpUMx1Ehq6g4dIeEMLq4trFYTJbikV0dqVex5GskyAc3mA==&amp;c=BbfpV_CvLzdf3CnTvumGN4NQ1EiapqegSlmUkEGMGQ644Cd4y5y2pg==&amp;ch=K5EgXi-UTxxXSahSipVIoggW_Ow5Li9vKRYpBlDzC1Z0PnqvmbuuWw==" target="_blank">https://conta.cc/3M3nSn2</a>-Venmo&nbsp;<a href="https://ytiaud4ab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016bW8CtA1qyd2h39WO4GoobS1xbyH-pZgk5QPbQztSgGIyZYxROqZ2bQxnTY3O3JV4CDIX22Uo4j12odGzKEJYx4hyuvy8FIUlKoFpZ0Id-I_KAszL0tQem2dk-Pe7A13zNqhezvVQA3r8LgcMeUdSIp19sTIhHLEcHzT3AyZoQ66g1cFdN-S2SGM1PX7EJ3qA5AF3JRCrx8fjXyLYW1G0m2zv5DHgF022wuMUbARB13sCIdoPtsdZ5uLDUShpd9YksVI3YxdWThP5--tvU2BCFLa1yKwHDZkHWdTp5UzfcX6X6-Gcif4lRwqUPIXMuiI0Mv1mtDF-58fvJfUvlA-2Li4BEXy-A1gF3SIokjCVq2zdcelswYqtsG7BuRFmWtf5A9u7pahHkCv2SDL25j3jQ==&amp;c=BbfpV_CvLzdf3CnTvumGN4NQ1EiapqegSlmUkEGMGQ644Cd4y5y2pg==&amp;ch=K5EgXi-UTxxXSahSipVIoggW_Ow5Li9vKRYpBlDzC1Z0PnqvmbuuWw==" target="_blank">https://conta.cc/44ndRr7</a>-Call 308-635-2522 on Dec. 2 ONLY from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Every dollar stays local. Every gift makes a difference.&nbsp;Give LOCAL this Giving Tuesday.Thank you for being the reason hope lives here.﻿

United Way Urges Community Members to Give Local on Giving Tuesday

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen is highlighting the generosity of Nebraskans in the aftermath of a blood drive outside of the State Capitol prior to Thanksgiving. The event, organized in partnership with the Nebraska Community Blood Bank, filled quickly with state public servants and community members who rolled up their sleeves – literally – to help save lives.

That blood drive is part of the&nbsp;We Give Blood&nbsp;challenge, a friendly competition among Big Ten schools to see which one can collect the most donations and win $1 million for student health. Nebraska secured the victory last year. This year, the University of Nebraska is in a neck-and-neck race with Wisconsin.

“Aside from the fun and the funds generated through this event, the cause is quite serious,” noted Gov. Pillen. “Here in Nebraska, we are always ready to step up and help our neighbors, and being able to provide a pint of blood when needed is certainly the greatest gift there is.”

The competition continues through Friday, Dec. 5. Those wishing to donate and have their contribution count toward the&nbsp;We Give Blood&nbsp;challenge can schedule an appointment by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://bigten.org/abbott/nebraska" target="_blank">bigten.org/abbott/nebraska</a>. To ensure a donation has been included in the competition total, donors can log onto the same website or text&nbsp;DONATE&nbsp;to&nbsp;222688 (ABBOTT).&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714683083685.jpeg" alt="Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen. April 18, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen. April 18, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen is highlighting the generosity of Nebraskans in the aftermath of a blood drive outside of the State Capitol prior to Thanksgiving. The event, organized in partnership with the Nebraska Community Blood Bank, filled quickly with state public servants and community members who rolled up their sleeves – literally – to help save lives.That blood drive is part of the&nbsp;We Give Blood&nbsp;challenge, a friendly competition among Big Ten schools to see which one can collect the most donations and win $1 million for student health. Nebraska secured the victory last year. This year, the University of Nebraska is in a neck-and-neck race with Wisconsin.“Aside from the fun and the funds generated through this event, the cause is quite serious,” noted Gov. Pillen. “Here in Nebraska, we are always ready to step up and help our neighbors, and being able to provide a pint of blood when needed is certainly the greatest gift there is.”The competition continues through Friday, Dec. 5. Those wishing to donate and have their contribution count toward the&nbsp;We Give Blood&nbsp;challenge can schedule an appointment by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://bigten.org/abbott/nebraska" target="_blank">bigten.org/abbott/nebraska</a>. To ensure a donation has been included in the competition total, donors can log onto the same website or text&nbsp;DONATE&nbsp;to&nbsp;222688 (ABBOTT).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Highlights Blood Donations as Big Ten Competition Draws to Close

LINCOLN, Neb. — Today, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) announced the selected proposals for the tenth round of the County Bridge Match Program (CBMP). Established in 2016 under the Transportation Innovation Act (TIA), the program concludes its first decade having delivered significant, lasting benefits to rural communities across Nebraska.

Created to share construction costs and help counties rebuild crossings essential to rural life and commerce, the CBMP has become a cornerstone in maintaining and improving Nebraska’s county bridge network. The program provides funding for the innovative replacement and repair of deficient county bridges, with NDOT selecting applications based on criteria that emphasize community impacts on essential services, local economies and daily life.

For Round 10, the proposals selected for funding represent 9 counties and 15 bridges, with an estimated total construction cost of $9.8M, including $4 million from the CBMP. A full list of selected proposals is available on the NDOT website at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.b04f70AIkXepI61RSjEid1wcGxursQJ5tSuGL-2FYR1LBXxUcOHhTccs3HeehWmZOg1upADciJaXoLVANVi5myMQ-3D-3DYW2d_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyPhG1TMqI6e9S8KGoJbMSS-2FF4lQmv064gRlTzmG6k79oDqeGh-2FVzz4vetxundhxJ4vhIMRb42EcLsovDWsE5ox01hHQHDzC4MuLDh4V4KYRByNjsYDy-2B11etwyWbID8gDeSZEkvSjL6XY98LXrbMntcMSE1CiIBrU-2BXXtlenwiYTmbGwp7w1OZcCHbWaFYZQkKvAKIElT1z0QE3cYAF022TW8AzSNvydbDpaafqKhCcjrjJL7caoxJcKiD3zxOhTf-2BSx-2BLjSaYNBVmxSxIJhx09ZsacU-2Fzz2naU4yuJdaxvAXYKCa3ZbCk9gV-2FdhVjqrWdGsZmmuyibHBFpDmqciidg-3D-3D" target="_blank">dot.nebraska.gov/projects/tia/bridge-match/</a>. Since its inception in 2016, the CBMP has:

By Nebraska Department of Transportation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1562699733063.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. — Today, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) announced the selected proposals for the tenth round of the County Bridge Match Program (CBMP). Established in 2016 under the Transportation Innovation Act (TIA), the program concludes its first decade having delivered significant, lasting benefits to rural communities across Nebraska.Created to share construction costs and help counties rebuild crossings essential to rural life and commerce, the CBMP has become a cornerstone in maintaining and improving Nebraska’s county bridge network. The program provides funding for the innovative replacement and repair of deficient county bridges, with NDOT selecting applications based on criteria that emphasize community impacts on essential services, local economies and daily life.For Round 10, the proposals selected for funding represent 9 counties and 15 bridges, with an estimated total construction cost of $9.8M, including $4 million from the CBMP. A full list of selected proposals is available on the NDOT website at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.b04f70AIkXepI61RSjEid1wcGxursQJ5tSuGL-2FYR1LBXxUcOHhTccs3HeehWmZOg1upADciJaXoLVANVi5myMQ-3D-3DYW2d_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyPhG1TMqI6e9S8KGoJbMSS-2FF4lQmv064gRlTzmG6k79oDqeGh-2FVzz4vetxundhxJ4vhIMRb42EcLsovDWsE5ox01hHQHDzC4MuLDh4V4KYRByNjsYDy-2B11etwyWbID8gDeSZEkvSjL6XY98LXrbMntcMSE1CiIBrU-2BXXtlenwiYTmbGwp7w1OZcCHbWaFYZQkKvAKIElT1z0QE3cYAF022TW8AzSNvydbDpaafqKhCcjrjJL7caoxJcKiD3zxOhTf-2BSx-2BLjSaYNBVmxSxIJhx09ZsacU-2Fzz2naU4yuJdaxvAXYKCa3ZbCk9gV-2FdhVjqrWdGsZmmuyibHBFpDmqciidg-3D-3D" target="_blank">dot.nebraska.gov/projects/tia/bridge-match/</a>. Since its inception in 2016, the CBMP has:<ul>
 <li>Received 591 proposals, of which 173 were selected.</li><li>Repaired or replaced 390 bridges.</li><li>Awarded $40 million to counties, generating over $108 million in construction activity.</li>
 </ul>

NDOT Selects Proposals for 10th Round of County Bridge Match Program

Secretary of State Bob Evnen recently led a successful trade and investment mission to Egypt focused on building opportunities for collaboration in sectors of beef, water management, grain storage and medical education. Among the delegation were representatives from Nebraska irrigation companies, the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute and others.

Nebraska’s world-renowned professor of animal science, Dr. Chris Calkins gave a beef cutting demonstration to showcase the superior quality of Nebraska beef. Innovative livestock nutrition techniques, developed in Nebraska, have allowed ranchers to elevate what traditionally would be sub-prime cuts, destined for the grinder, into prime cuts for use in high-value dining. Dr. Calkins’ presentation drew significant interest from local chefs and business owners and led to an immediate increase in demand for Nebraska beef among local businesses.

“The Secretary of State’s trade mission to Egypt was wildly successful. I was able to speak to customers for beef from Nebraska with tangible results,” said Dr. Calkins. “The potential for collaboration in agricultural research was another high point. Nebraska is fortunate to have an administration that works tirelessly for our citizens.”

Representatives from Nebraska ag companies met with local officials leading the “Future of Egypt” Project for Sustainable Development, a venture spearheaded by the Egyptian government and focused on boosting food security and the economy through the development of arid land for agricultural use. Nebraska’s expertise in the development and application of fine-tuned irrigation technology facilitated the discussion, resulting in the initiation of sales discussions for irrigation equipment and grain storage solutions to advance the project.

“Our Nebraska trade mission participants found tangible opportunities in Egypt,” said Secretary Evnen.

Delegates representing the University of Nebraska met with local Egyptian medical and educational institutions about the possibility of establishing a partnership to enhance educational opportunities for both Nebraska and Egyptian students. Egypt is ideally positioned within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for students who wish to study subjects specialized in or unique to the region. Nebraska’s agricultural and medical research colleges offer programs that could help Egyptian students prepare for careers addressing their country’s most critical challenges.

“This mission has laid a solid foundation for a long-term, strategic, and mutually beneficial relationship across key sectors, including investment opportunities, education, health, and technology with the Ministries of Health and Population, Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Agriculture and Land Reclamation, as well as other governmental and private entities,” said Dr. Wael ElRayes, a University of Nebraska faculty member representing UNMC.

By State of Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764610063419.png" alt="State of Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>State of Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>Secretary of State Bob Evnen recently led a successful trade and investment mission to Egypt focused on building opportunities for collaboration in sectors of beef, water management, grain storage and medical education. Among the delegation were representatives from Nebraska irrigation companies, the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute and others.Nebraska’s world-renowned professor of animal science, Dr. Chris Calkins gave a beef cutting demonstration to showcase the superior quality of Nebraska beef. Innovative livestock nutrition techniques, developed in Nebraska, have allowed ranchers to elevate what traditionally would be sub-prime cuts, destined for the grinder, into prime cuts for use in high-value dining. Dr. Calkins’ presentation drew significant interest from local chefs and business owners and led to an immediate increase in demand for Nebraska beef among local businesses.“The Secretary of State’s trade mission to Egypt was wildly successful. I was able to speak to customers for beef from Nebraska with tangible results,” said Dr. Calkins. “The potential for collaboration in agricultural research was another high point. Nebraska is fortunate to have an administration that works tirelessly for our citizens.”Representatives from Nebraska ag companies met with local officials leading the “Future of Egypt” Project for Sustainable Development, a venture spearheaded by the Egyptian government and focused on boosting food security and the economy through the development of arid land for agricultural use. Nebraska’s expertise in the development and application of fine-tuned irrigation technology facilitated the discussion, resulting in the initiation of sales discussions for irrigation equipment and grain storage solutions to advance the project.“Our Nebraska trade mission participants found tangible opportunities in Egypt,” said Secretary Evnen.Delegates representing the University of Nebraska met with local Egyptian medical and educational institutions about the possibility of establishing a partnership to enhance educational opportunities for both Nebraska and Egyptian students. Egypt is ideally positioned within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for students who wish to study subjects specialized in or unique to the region. Nebraska’s agricultural and medical research colleges offer programs that could help Egyptian students prepare for careers addressing their country’s most critical challenges.“This mission has laid a solid foundation for a long-term, strategic, and mutually beneficial relationship across key sectors, including investment opportunities, education, health, and technology with the Ministries of Health and Population, Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Agriculture and Land Reclamation, as well as other governmental and private entities,” said Dr. Wael ElRayes, a University of Nebraska faculty member representing UNMC.

Trade and Investment Mission to Egypt Advances Opportunities for Nebraskans

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Post-Thanksgiving Blahs

ALLIANCE, Neb. - Pumpkins lined the walkway to our house until the day after Thanksgiving morning. At this point we carted off at least five of what had been nearly perfect orange orbs a fortnight before. Granted one had begun to rot, and the rest . . . let’s just say the squirrels had their Thanksgiving feast early.

Holiday decorations constructed from recyclable materials, or reusing anything at home rather than buying armloads of fresh decorations from the dollar store is a green practice I have mentioned before. How to responsibly retire perishable decorations was not really on my radar this season until I noticed the first bites out of our pumpkins mid-November. I am no Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot, yet it took no time to deduce that the squirrels (the one who lives in our maple tree and at least one buddy, probably more) discovered our pumpkins are tasty. They seem to coordinate with the backyard birds to sample our apple tree’s fruit every autumn though this is a first for front-yard pumpkins. Three neighbors on this end of the block also had non-jack-o-lantern pumpkins on their front steps with no squirrel bites in sight.

Often by early October pumpkins begin popping up in front yards in Box Butte County and most communities throughout America whether your bent tends to be toward Halloween or simply creating a fall decor. Fairly fresh jack-o-lanterns can still be fed to livestock following the holiday. In our brainstorming session at a Keep Nebraska Beautiful conference one affiliate’s director detailed an event to collect unwanted pumpkins after Halloween. Goats at a local farm dined on what had been creative and scary components of the celebration.

Composting is another option for what started as an intimidating jagged-tooth face before resembling a toothless old man a week or so later. Unopened pumpkins that have not been damaged by cold temperatures can always find their way into pies and other yummy treats with the leftover flesh frozen for later. Not a pumpkin fan? Goats, pigs and other critters would enjoy these pumpkins as well.

Personally, I enjoyed seeing the squirrels’ method. First, a few bites from the farthest from the house on the side of “their” tree, then the next one. The depressions grew larger and deeper yet did not pierce the cavity. It seemed the outer layer – not the seeds, appealed to their taste buds. The process continued with several pumpkins. A tallish one looked like an artist had been prepping for a 3D piece as the fluffy-tailed gluttons left a nearly see through lattice.

Wildlife photography was not in the cards to capture the constant dine and dash – no game camera, no tripod ready at the front window. Instead we just watched the pumpkins, grown by a rural Hemingford farmer – serve as an unexpected squirrel feeder.

Even relocated to a more suitable location before Thanksgiving company arrived, I suspect they will still find the buffet with leftovers destined for the compost pile.

For Thanksgiving 2025 I add to memories of family, food and fellowship a scene returning from church the Sunday before: A now heavy-set squirrel holding a chunk of pumpkin in his paws paid little attention as I parked in the driveway. He (she?) did not move until I opened the car door after watching for perhaps half a minute. Walking into the house I looked up. He had laid down on the branch hosting our children’s swing like your uncle on the sofa watching football after Thanksgiving dinner not moving a muscle as I shut the front door.

By John Weare, Keep Alliance Beautiful<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764450335868.jpeg" alt="Squirrels help themselves to pumpkins for their own Thanksgiving feast (courtesy John Weare, Keep Alliance Beautiful)." />
 <figcaption>Squirrels help themselves to pumpkins for their own Thanksgiving feast (courtesy John Weare, Keep Alliance Beautiful).</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. - Pumpkins lined the walkway to our house until the day after Thanksgiving morning. At this point we carted off at least five of what had been nearly perfect orange orbs a fortnight before. Granted one had begun to rot, and the rest . . . let’s just say the squirrels had their Thanksgiving feast early.Holiday decorations constructed from recyclable materials, or reusing anything at home rather than buying armloads of fresh decorations from the dollar store is a green practice I have mentioned before. How to responsibly retire perishable decorations was not really on my radar this season until I noticed the first bites out of our pumpkins mid-November. I am no Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot, yet it took no time to deduce that the squirrels (the one who lives in our maple tree and at least one buddy, probably more) discovered our pumpkins are tasty. They seem to coordinate with the backyard birds to sample our apple tree’s fruit every autumn though this is a first for front-yard pumpkins. Three neighbors on this end of the block also had non-jack-o-lantern pumpkins on their front steps with no squirrel bites in sight.Often by early October pumpkins begin popping up in front yards in Box Butte County and most communities throughout America whether your bent tends to be toward Halloween or simply creating a fall decor. Fairly fresh jack-o-lanterns can still be fed to livestock following the holiday. In our brainstorming session at a Keep Nebraska Beautiful conference one affiliate’s director detailed an event to collect unwanted pumpkins after Halloween. Goats at a local farm dined on what had been creative and scary components of the celebration.Composting is another option for what started as an intimidating jagged-tooth face before resembling a toothless old man a week or so later. Unopened pumpkins that have not been damaged by cold temperatures can always find their way into pies and other yummy treats with the leftover flesh frozen for later. Not a pumpkin fan? Goats, pigs and other critters would enjoy these pumpkins as well.Personally, I enjoyed seeing the squirrels’ method. First, a few bites from the farthest from the house on the side of “their” tree, then the next one. The depressions grew larger and deeper yet did not pierce the cavity. It seemed the outer layer – not the seeds, appealed to their taste buds. The process continued with several pumpkins. A tallish one looked like an artist had been prepping for a 3D piece as the fluffy-tailed gluttons left a nearly see through lattice.Wildlife photography was not in the cards to capture the constant dine and dash – no game camera, no tripod ready at the front window. Instead we just watched the pumpkins, grown by a rural Hemingford farmer – serve as an unexpected squirrel feeder.Even relocated to a more suitable location before Thanksgiving company arrived, I suspect they will still find the buffet with leftovers destined for the compost pile.For Thanksgiving 2025 I add to memories of family, food and fellowship a scene returning from church the Sunday before: A now heavy-set squirrel holding a chunk of pumpkin in his paws paid little attention as I parked in the driveway. He (she?) did not move until I opened the car door after watching for perhaps half a minute. Walking into the house I looked up. He had laid down on the branch hosting our children’s swing like your uncle on the sofa watching football after Thanksgiving dinner not moving a muscle as I shut the front door.

COLUMN: Thanksgiving Squirrels

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced a collaboration between multiple agencies and community organizations to assist Lexington families impacted by the upcoming closure of Tyson’s meat processing facility. “The whole state is behind the community of Lexington as they face this tough transition,” said Gov. Pillen.

"Our state agencies are working together to provide the support this community deserves.”

The state departments of Labor (DOL), Health and Human Services (DHHS), Economic Development (DED), and Agriculture (NDA) are partnering with each other and with local Lexington organizations to connect Tyson’s workers and their families with various assistance programs and support.

“This holiday season will look different for these families, but we know that Nebraskans show up for each other,” said Gov. Pillen. “We are seeing that happen in Lexington.”

On Dec. 3 and 4, a Rapid Response layoff services event will be held for all Tyson workers at the Dawson County Fairgrounds. Agencies will cover resources such as unemployment insurance benefits, job search resources, and economic support programs. Tyson will convey timing for next week’s Rapid Response event to workers.

The Department of Labor reminds workers to file an unemployment claim when their employment ends, not before. Individuals who quit their jobs due to an upcoming layoff are generally not eligible for unemployment benefits. DOL is providing reemployment services to impacted workers. Inquiries can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ndol.rapidresponse@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ndol.rapidresponse@nebraska.gov</a>.

“This is a difficult time for the community and the impacted workers, but they have truly come together to help make DOL’s efforts possible.&nbsp; An event of this size would not be happening this quickly without community support,” said Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber. “Nebraska employers are also coming together for job fairs, with more details to be announced soon.”

In addition to efforts by state agencies, the Lexington Community Foundation has information about local organizations that are providing and accepting assistance to support workers. Flyers are attached to this release in both English and Spanish. In addition to the included QR code, people can log onto&nbsp;<a href="http://givebiglexington.org">givebiglexington.org</a>&nbsp;for information.

If anyone would like to learn more about how to help support the community, they can call the Lexington Community Foundation at 308-324-6704.

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737046324329.jpeg" alt="Gov. Jim Pillen is greeted by members of the Nebraska Legislature during his annual State of the State speech on Wednesday. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Jim Pillen is greeted by members of the Nebraska Legislature during his annual State of the State speech on Wednesday. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced a collaboration between multiple agencies and community organizations to assist Lexington families impacted by the upcoming closure of Tyson’s meat processing facility. “The whole state is behind the community of Lexington as they face this tough transition,” said Gov. Pillen."Our state agencies are working together to provide the support this community deserves.”The state departments of Labor (DOL), Health and Human Services (DHHS), Economic Development (DED), and Agriculture (NDA) are partnering with each other and with local Lexington organizations to connect Tyson’s workers and their families with various assistance programs and support.“This holiday season will look different for these families, but we know that Nebraskans show up for each other,” said Gov. Pillen. “We are seeing that happen in Lexington.”On Dec. 3 and 4, a Rapid Response layoff services event will be held for all Tyson workers at the Dawson County Fairgrounds. Agencies will cover resources such as unemployment insurance benefits, job search resources, and economic support programs. Tyson will convey timing for next week’s Rapid Response event to workers.The Department of Labor reminds workers to file an unemployment claim when their employment ends, not before. Individuals who quit their jobs due to an upcoming layoff are generally not eligible for unemployment benefits. DOL is providing reemployment services to impacted workers. Inquiries can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ndol.rapidresponse@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">ndol.rapidresponse@nebraska.gov</a>.“This is a difficult time for the community and the impacted workers, but they have truly come together to help make DOL’s efforts possible.&nbsp; An event of this size would not be happening this quickly without community support,” said Commissioner of Labor Katie Thurber. “Nebraska employers are also coming together for job fairs, with more details to be announced soon.”In addition to efforts by state agencies, the Lexington Community Foundation has information about local organizations that are providing and accepting assistance to support workers. Flyers are attached to this release in both English and Spanish. In addition to the included QR code, people can log onto&nbsp;<a href="http://givebiglexington.org">givebiglexington.org</a>&nbsp;for information.If anyone would like to learn more about how to help support the community, they can call the Lexington Community Foundation at 308-324-6704.

Governor Pillen Announces Joint Response to Tyson Closure

Post Podcast: Kman's Concert Calendar, weekend of Nov. 28 

ALLIANCE, Neb. – Box Butte County RSVP invites and challenges you to include a local nursing home resident in your Christmas giving this year. RSVP will set up a “Tree of Love” at Carter’s on Wednesday, Nov. 26. This tree will be decorated with ornaments, listing gift suggestions for the residents of Highland Park and Highland Park Assisted Living. In Hemingford, there is a tree set up at Treasured Grounds that is decorated with ornaments listing gift suggestions for the residents of Hemingford Care Center.

To share in the true spirit of Christmas, stop into Carter’s or Treasured Grounds, select an ornament, and purchase a gift for a nursing home resident. Gifts should be left at Carter’s or the Hemingford Care Center no later than Thursday, Dec. 18.

For more information, please contact the RSVP Director, Angie Flesner, at (308) 762-1293.

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571965688810.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ALLIANCE, Neb. – Box Butte County RSVP invites and challenges you to include a local nursing home resident in your Christmas giving this year. RSVP will set up a “Tree of Love” at Carter’s on Wednesday, Nov. 26. This tree will be decorated with ornaments, listing gift suggestions for the residents of Highland Park and Highland Park Assisted Living. In Hemingford, there is a tree set up at Treasured Grounds that is decorated with ornaments listing gift suggestions for the residents of Hemingford Care Center.To share in the true spirit of Christmas, stop into Carter’s or Treasured Grounds, select an ornament, and purchase a gift for a nursing home resident. Gifts should be left at Carter’s or the Hemingford Care Center no later than Thursday, Dec. 18.For more information, please contact the RSVP Director, Angie Flesner, at (308) 762-1293.

Tree of Love Coming to Nebraska

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764293147934.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764293163282.png" alt="" />
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Alliance City Council Meeting Agenda, Dec. 2

LINCOLN, Neb. –&nbsp;A new report presented to Governor Jim Pillen provides reassuring news to teachers. The most recent actuarial valuation of the School Retirement System indicates that the School Employees Retirement System (the Plan) is more than 100 percent funded, translating to money in their pockets, as well as a stable funding pool for retirement.

The report, authored annually and submitted to the Public Employees Retirement Board (PERB), is the first since the passage of LB645, introduced last legislative session by Senator Beau Ballard on the Governor’s behalf. The new law applies to all state teachers, except those in the Omaha School District, who are covered under a separate retirement plan. It stipulates the contribution rate by employees, their employers and the state, based on the funded ratio of the actuarial value of assets in the previous year.

Prior to passage of LB645, the state was making a 2 percent contribution to the fund, regardless of its status. Based on results of the most recent actuarial valuation and the current statutory contribution rates for fiscal year (FY) 2026, no additional state contribution is required in the current plan year. That translates to a reduction of more than $45 million in state spending, which is required through the new legislation to be invested in education.

The rate of contribution for teachers is 7.25 percent and for school districts 7.32 percent. But with the plan fully funded, it enables teachers to retain an additional $1,000 a year average in take home pay.

“The ability to modify contributions based on the fund’s status provides much needed flexibility,” said Gov. Pillen. “This allows us to be good stewards of our tax dollars, make further investments in education and it provides teachers stability in the amount of contribution they are required to make.”

In addition to members of PERB, the report is also provided to Gov. Pillen for his review.

By Governor's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764293059326.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. –&nbsp;A new report presented to Governor Jim Pillen provides reassuring news to teachers. The most recent actuarial valuation of the School Retirement System indicates that the School Employees Retirement System (the Plan) is more than 100 percent funded, translating to money in their pockets, as well as a stable funding pool for retirement.The report, authored annually and submitted to the Public Employees Retirement Board (PERB), is the first since the passage of LB645, introduced last legislative session by Senator Beau Ballard on the Governor’s behalf. The new law applies to all state teachers, except those in the Omaha School District, who are covered under a separate retirement plan. It stipulates the contribution rate by employees, their employers and the state, based on the funded ratio of the actuarial value of assets in the previous year.Prior to passage of LB645, the state was making a 2 percent contribution to the fund, regardless of its status. Based on results of the most recent actuarial valuation and the current statutory contribution rates for fiscal year (FY) 2026, no additional state contribution is required in the current plan year. That translates to a reduction of more than $45 million in state spending, which is required through the new legislation to be invested in education.The rate of contribution for teachers is 7.25 percent and for school districts 7.32 percent. But with the plan fully funded, it enables teachers to retain an additional $1,000 a year average in take home pay.“The ability to modify contributions based on the fund’s status provides much needed flexibility,” said Gov. Pillen. “This allows us to be good stewards of our tax dollars, make further investments in education and it provides teachers stability in the amount of contribution they are required to make.”In addition to members of PERB, the report is also provided to Gov. Pillen for his review.