By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

There will be several hearings at Box Butte County District Court on Wednesday, including for two cases that made headlines last year.

Yadira L Garza has a hearing at 1 pm to decide whether her case will go to trial, she plead not guilty in February on Terroristic Threats and Use of a Firearm to Commit a Felony, both Class C Felonies and Obstruction of Government Operations.

The charges stem from an incident in November when Alliance police responded to a welfare check, where allegedly Garza showed a firearm to officers leading to a hostage situation with a child.

A shelter-in-place was issued, and a standoff ensued before Garza surrendered peacefully to authorities shortly before midnight.&nbsp;

Also on Wednesday, Rebecca Ashing will have a pre-trial conference for her April 15th-17 trial for the alleged stabbing of her then partner Cody Daul. Ashing faces an Attempted First Degree Murder charge among others.

Both hearings will be at the Box Butte County District Courthouse in Alliance at 1 pm.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThere will be several hearings at Box Butte County District Court on Wednesday, including for two cases that made headlines last year.Yadira L Garza has a hearing at 1 pm to decide whether her case will go to trial, she plead not guilty in February on Terroristic Threats and Use of a Firearm to Commit a Felony, both Class C Felonies and Obstruction of Government Operations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699402080987.jpeg" alt="Yadira Garza" />
 <figcaption>Yadira Garza</figcaption>
 </figure>The charges stem from an incident in November when Alliance police responded to a welfare check, where allegedly Garza showed a firearm to officers leading to a hostage situation with a child.A shelter-in-place was issued, and a standoff ensued before Garza surrendered peacefully to authorities shortly before midnight.&nbsp;Also on Wednesday, Rebecca Ashing will have a pre-trial conference for her April 15th-17 trial for the alleged stabbing of her then partner Cody Daul. Ashing faces an Attempted First Degree Murder charge among others.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705340431058.jpeg" alt="Rebecca Ashing" />
 <figcaption>Rebecca Ashing</figcaption>
 </figure>Both hearings will be at the Box Butte County District Courthouse in Alliance at 1 pm.

Hearings to be held in Box Butte County Court for stabbing, hostage situation cases

LINCOLN, NE – &nbsp;On Tuesday, Governor Jim Pillen issued the following statement upon the Nebraska Legislature taking up a vote to override LB 307, introduced by Senator Megan Hunt. The body voted to sustain the Governor’s veto, 27-20.

“I appreciate that state senators took the time to evaluate LB&nbsp;307 and took due notice of concerns that caused me to veto the bill. We need to invest in less harmful ways to combat drug usage and disease transmission that are in line with Nebraska values. I look forward to working with our state senators on those strategies&nbsp;in the&nbsp;next session.”

LINCOLN, NE – &nbsp;On Tuesday, Governor Jim Pillen issued the following statement upon the Nebraska Legislature taking up a vote to override LB 307, introduced by Senator Megan Hunt. The body voted to sustain the Governor’s veto, 27-20.“I appreciate that state senators took the time to evaluate LB&nbsp;307 and took due notice of concerns that caused me to veto the bill. We need to invest in less harmful ways to combat drug usage and disease transmission that are in line with Nebraska values. I look forward to working with our state senators on those strategies&nbsp;in the&nbsp;next session.”

Gov. Pillen Statement to Sustained Veto on LB 307

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Recently, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted the impact of the University of Nebraska’s Daughtery Water for Food Global Institute in developing sustainable solutions to global water and food security challenges.

“Water and food security are two of the most pressing issues facing the world today,'”&nbsp;Ricketts said.&nbsp;“With a growing population, growing demand for resources, and increasing disruptions to water and food systems, it is vital to find sustainable and practical ways to overcome these challenges. The University of Nebraska’s Daughtery Water for Food Global Institute is uniquely positioned to advance water management for greater food security. By leveraging the world-class research at the University of Nebraska, the state’s expertise in agricultural and water resource management, and private sector partnerships, the institute is making progress on a more water and food-secure future.”

Watch the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jk3zoGpHyg" target="_blank">HERE.</a>

Ricketts made the comments during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations focused on global food security. Witnesses included Ms. Dina Esposito, Assistant to the Administrator for the Bureau for Resilience, Environment, and Food Security (REFS) at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Dr. Cary Fowler, Special Envoy for Global Food Security at the State Department.

The University of Nebraska hosts the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, addressing the need for irrigated food production to increase by 50 percent by 2050 to feed the world. In October of 2023,&nbsp;the institute received a $19 million grant from USAID to lead a global collaboration aimed at developing irrigation and mechanization for small farmers in developing countries. This partnership focuses on the technical aspects of irrigation and issues crucial to long-term success, such as workforce development, installation, maintenance, and more.

By Office of Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Recently, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) highlighted the impact of the University of Nebraska’s Daughtery Water for Food Global Institute in developing sustainable solutions to global water and food security challenges.“Water and food security are two of the most pressing issues facing the world today,'”&nbsp;Ricketts said.&nbsp;“With a growing population, growing demand for resources, and increasing disruptions to water and food systems, it is vital to find sustainable and practical ways to overcome these challenges. The University of Nebraska’s Daughtery Water for Food Global Institute is uniquely positioned to advance water management for greater food security. By leveraging the world-class research at the University of Nebraska, the state’s expertise in agricultural and water resource management, and private sector partnerships, the institute is making progress on a more water and food-secure future.”Watch the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jk3zoGpHyg" target="_blank">HERE.</a>Ricketts made the comments during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations focused on global food security. Witnesses included Ms. Dina Esposito, Assistant to the Administrator for the Bureau for Resilience, Environment, and Food Security (REFS) at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Dr. Cary Fowler, Special Envoy for Global Food Security at the State Department.BACKGROUND:The University of Nebraska hosts the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, addressing the need for irrigated food production to increase by 50 percent by 2050 to feed the world. In October of 2023,&nbsp;the institute received a $19 million grant from USAID to lead a global collaboration aimed at developing irrigation and mechanization for small farmers in developing countries. This partnership focuses on the technical aspects of irrigation and issues crucial to long-term success, such as workforce development, installation, maintenance, and more.

Ricketts: University of Nebraska “Uniquely Positioned to Advance Water Management 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Hotel Horror Stories

Alliance, March 12th, 2024 – In the early hours of March 12th, 2024, the Alliance Police Department swiftly responded to a report of a stolen vehicle, a 2013 GMC Acadia, white in color, seen heading southbound on Box Butte Avenue from 25th Street. The department was alerted at 01:14 hours and Officer Gomez swiftly responded to the call and located the stolen vehicle in the vicinity at around 01:16 hours, initiating a traffic stop. 

Despite Officer Gomez's attempt to pull over the vehicle, the suspect failed to comply, prompting a pursuit that commenced near the Lakefield Apartments which traversed through town until reaching 7th and Black Hills. Recognizing the need for additional support, a call for assistance was issued to the Nebraska State Patrol and the Box Butte County Sheriff's Office during the pursuit. Off-duty NSP Trooper Garfio responded to the call for assistance, reinforcing efforts to apprehend the suspect. 

The juvenile suspect, whose identity is withheld, abandoned the stolen vehicle near the alleyway of 7th and Black Hills, fleeing on foot. Trooper Garfio and Officer Gomez, with exceptional coordination, pursued the suspect, successfully bringing him into custody without further incident. "The swift response and collaborative efforts of our officer, alongside the invaluable support from our law enforcement partners, led to the safe apprehension of the suspect without harm to the public or officers involved," stated Lieutenant Felker, acknowledging the commendable efforts of Officer Gomez and the assisting agencies. The Alliance Police Department extends its sincere gratitude to the Nebraska State Patrol and Box Butte County Sheriff's Office for their invaluable assistance during this operation, exemplifying the spirit of collaboration and mutual support in ensuring the safety and security of our community.

By Alliance Police DepartmentAlliance, March 12th, 2024 – In the early hours of March 12th, 2024, the Alliance Police Department swiftly responded to a report of a stolen vehicle, a 2013 GMC Acadia, white in color, seen heading southbound on Box Butte Avenue from 25th Street. The department was alerted at 01:14 hours and Officer Gomez swiftly responded to the call and located the stolen vehicle in the vicinity at around 01:16 hours, initiating a traffic stop. Despite Officer Gomez's attempt to pull over the vehicle, the suspect failed to comply, prompting a pursuit that commenced near the Lakefield Apartments which traversed through town until reaching 7th and Black Hills. Recognizing the need for additional support, a call for assistance was issued to the Nebraska State Patrol and the Box Butte County Sheriff's Office during the pursuit. Off-duty NSP Trooper Garfio responded to the call for assistance, reinforcing efforts to apprehend the suspect. The juvenile suspect, whose identity is withheld, abandoned the stolen vehicle near the alleyway of 7th and Black Hills, fleeing on foot. Trooper Garfio and Officer Gomez, with exceptional coordination, pursued the suspect, successfully bringing him into custody without further incident. "The swift response and collaborative efforts of our officer, alongside the invaluable support from our law enforcement partners, led to the safe apprehension of the suspect without harm to the public or officers involved," stated Lieutenant Felker, acknowledging the commendable efforts of Officer Gomez and the assisting agencies. The Alliance Police Department extends its sincere gratitude to the Nebraska State Patrol and Box Butte County Sheriff's Office for their invaluable assistance during this operation, exemplifying the spirit of collaboration and mutual support in ensuring the safety and security of our community.

Alliance Police arrests teen who stole vehicle

&nbsp; Ranchers and cattle producers interested in learning about the latest research in range livestock production from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln are encouraged to register for the 2024 Nebraska Ranch Practicum offered by Nebraska Extension.

The practicum will be held during eight sessions over the course of three seasons to cover the production cycle of livestock and forage resources. Participants will learn about a variety of topics, including the effective use of decision support tools to evaluate management and marketing alternatives, plant identification, range condition and grazing strategies, wildlife management, evaluation of cow body condition scores, and beef cattle production systems.

The practicum is June 4 and 5, July 10, September 4 and 5, and November 7, 2024; and January 7 and 8, 2025. Classroom activities will open and close the practicum in North Platte with the remainder of the classes conducted at the University of Nebraska's Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory, a working ranch with education and research facilities, near Whitman.

The registration fee is $675. The fee for a spouse is an additional $350. Registration covers educational materials, noon meals and breaks. Participants are responsible for travel and lodging expenses. The practicum can count for college or continuing education credit.&nbsp;&nbsp;To register, submit a completed application and registration fee by May 3. Applications will not be accepted after that date. Enrollment is limited to 35 participants. Applicants will be notified of their status no later than May 20. Refunds will be issued if space is not available.

To learn more or register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.lt.acemlnb.com/Prod/link-tracker?redirectUrl=aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZuZWJyYXNrYXJhbmNocHJhY3RpY3VtLnVubC5lZHUlMkYlM0Z1dG1fc291cmNlJTNEQWN0aXZlQ2FtcGFpZ24lMjZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtJTNEZW1haWwlMjZ1dG1fY29udGVudCUzREZvciUyQkltbWVkaWF0ZSUyQlJlbGVhc2UlMjUzQSUyQlJlZ2lzdGVyJTJCbm93JTJCZm9yJTJCdGhlJTJCTmVicmFza2ElMkJSYW5jaCUyQlByYWN0aWN1bSUyNnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbiUzREJlZWYlMkJSZWxlYXNlJTI1M0ElMkJUaW1tZXJtYW4lMkJJbnRlcm5zaGlwJTJCJTI1MjhDb3B5JTI1Mjk=&amp;sig=CWjJtN4bKtMijJJAgfxcMgYQ2oqKruByTU1RJi2qHMYs&amp;iat=1709847600&amp;a=%7C%7C68108822%7C%7C&amp;account=unl233%2Eactivehosted%2Ecom&amp;email=u1wzEb5mhaX8XTBCJOcaaL0eZqkrr2EdizGoAHhknBWKOPsRrq%2BzHKc%3D%3A4CGlJf1oPnogLcOMJqvUfezT%2FD5sCH57&amp;s=073f67d35943f6c01a66f2eac84e284e&amp;i=664A764A50A13537" target="_blank">https://nebraskaranchpracticum.unl.edu/</a>&nbsp;or contact Troy Walz at 308-872-6831 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:troy.walz@unl.edu" target="_blank">troy.walz@unl.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710164688317.jpeg" alt="The Nebraska Ranch Practicum shares the latest in ranching-related research from the University of Nebraska—Lincoln and hands-on experience that helps them make valuable decisions for their businesses. Photos by Troy Walz, Nebraska Extension educator." />
 <figcaption>The Nebraska Ranch Practicum shares the latest in ranching-related research from the University of Nebraska—Lincoln and hands-on experience that helps them make valuable decisions for their businesses. Photos by Troy Walz, Nebraska Extension educator.</figcaption>
 </figure>UNL Beef&nbsp; Ranchers and cattle producers interested in learning about the latest research in range livestock production from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln are encouraged to register for the 2024 Nebraska Ranch Practicum offered by Nebraska Extension.The practicum will be held during eight sessions over the course of three seasons to cover the production cycle of livestock and forage resources. Participants will learn about a variety of topics, including the effective use of decision support tools to evaluate management and marketing alternatives, plant identification, range condition and grazing strategies, wildlife management, evaluation of cow body condition scores, and beef cattle production systems.The practicum is June 4 and 5, July 10, September 4 and 5, and November 7, 2024; and January 7 and 8, 2025. Classroom activities will open and close the practicum in North Platte with the remainder of the classes conducted at the University of Nebraska's Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory, a working ranch with education and research facilities, near Whitman.The registration fee is $675. The fee for a spouse is an additional $350. Registration covers educational materials, noon meals and breaks. Participants are responsible for travel and lodging expenses. The practicum can count for college or continuing education credit.&nbsp;&nbsp;To register, submit a completed application and registration fee by May 3. Applications will not be accepted after that date. Enrollment is limited to 35 participants. Applicants will be notified of their status no later than May 20. Refunds will be issued if space is not available.To learn more or register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.lt.acemlnb.com/Prod/link-tracker?redirectUrl=aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZuZWJyYXNrYXJhbmNocHJhY3RpY3VtLnVubC5lZHUlMkYlM0Z1dG1fc291cmNlJTNEQWN0aXZlQ2FtcGFpZ24lMjZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtJTNEZW1haWwlMjZ1dG1fY29udGVudCUzREZvciUyQkltbWVkaWF0ZSUyQlJlbGVhc2UlMjUzQSUyQlJlZ2lzdGVyJTJCbm93JTJCZm9yJTJCdGhlJTJCTmVicmFza2ElMkJSYW5jaCUyQlByYWN0aWN1bSUyNnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbiUzREJlZWYlMkJSZWxlYXNlJTI1M0ElMkJUaW1tZXJtYW4lMkJJbnRlcm5zaGlwJTJCJTI1MjhDb3B5JTI1Mjk=&amp;sig=CWjJtN4bKtMijJJAgfxcMgYQ2oqKruByTU1RJi2qHMYs&amp;iat=1709847600&amp;a=%7C%7C68108822%7C%7C&amp;account=unl233%2Eactivehosted%2Ecom&amp;email=u1wzEb5mhaX8XTBCJOcaaL0eZqkrr2EdizGoAHhknBWKOPsRrq%2BzHKc%3D%3A4CGlJf1oPnogLcOMJqvUfezT%2FD5sCH57&amp;s=073f67d35943f6c01a66f2eac84e284e&amp;i=664A764A50A13537" target="_blank">https://nebraskaranchpracticum.unl.edu/</a>&nbsp;or contact Troy Walz at 308-872-6831 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:troy.walz@unl.edu" target="_blank">troy.walz@unl.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Register now for the Nebraska Ranch Practicum

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced the retirement of Jim Macy, director of the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE). His last day will be April 17.

Gov. Pillen thanked Dir. Macy for his nine years of public service and wished him well in all future endeavors.

Thad Fineran will serve as interim director of NDEE starting April 1. He is currently chief of staff to Major General Craig Strong, adjutant general for the Nebraska National Guard. Fineran will continue as interim director until Gov. Pillen makes a permanent appointment. A national recruitment firm has been enlisted to conduct the search for a new director.

By Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced the retirement of Jim Macy, director of the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE). His last day will be April 17.Gov. Pillen thanked Dir. Macy for his nine years of public service and wished him well in all future endeavors.Thad Fineran will serve as interim director of NDEE starting April 1. He is currently chief of staff to Major General Craig Strong, adjutant general for the Nebraska National Guard. Fineran will continue as interim director until Gov. Pillen makes a permanent appointment. A national recruitment firm has been enlisted to conduct the search for a new director.

NDEE Director Macy Retires from State Government

By Panhandle Research &amp; Education Center

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) will host a Nebraska Soil Health School, sponsored by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), on Wednesday, April 24, at UNL’s High Plains Ag Lab (HPAL), 3257 Rd. 109, Sidney. Registration and refreshments will begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by a welcome from the event’s organizer, Bijesh Maharjan, UNL associate professor.

Following last year’s successful Soil Health School events across the state, this year, we plan to organize events specific to issues facing our growers in a given area, Maharjan said. The Nebraska Soil Health Schools are designed to build upon soil-related knowledge and practices for growers, crop consultants, ag professionals, and others. The HPAL event will focus on soil health topics in relation to dryland cropping systems with the following presentations:

We are fortunate to have two prominent keynote speakers at this event. Drs Nielsen and Peterson dedicated their careers to finding management solutions to address dryland cropping issues. They are well known among farmers, crop consultants and scientists throughout the Great Plains and other semi-arid regions of the world for their work on improving cropping system water use efficiency and profitability while protecting the soil resource.

“It is important for agricultural producers to understand the relationship between yield and available soil water at planting (AWP), and how to increase AWP with no-till management practices,” Nielsen commented. “This knowledge can aid in designing profitable crop rotations that are more intensive, lower fallow frequency than the wheat-fallow system.”

To attend the event, please pre-register&nbsp;here.

There is no fee to attend, and a full lunch will be provided. Certified crop advisor Continuing Education Units will be offered.

&nbsp; The full agenda of the school is&nbsp;here.&nbsp;For more information or questions, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nheldt@unl.edu">nheldt@unl.edu</a>&nbsp;or call (308) 632-1230.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710198089449.jpeg" alt="The Nebraska Soil Health School at UNL’s High Plains Ag Lab will include soil health demonstrations and the live rainfall simulator from USDA NRCS soil scientists. Photo by Nicole Heldt" />
 <figcaption>The Nebraska Soil Health School at UNL’s High Plains Ag Lab will include soil health demonstrations and the live rainfall simulator from USDA NRCS soil scientists. Photo by Nicole Heldt</figcaption>
 </figure>By Panhandle Research &amp; Education CenterThe University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) will host a Nebraska Soil Health School, sponsored by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), on Wednesday, April 24, at UNL’s High Plains Ag Lab (HPAL), 3257 Rd. 109, Sidney. Registration and refreshments will begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by a welcome from the event’s organizer, Bijesh Maharjan, UNL associate professor.Following last year’s successful Soil Health School events across the state, this year, we plan to organize events specific to issues facing our growers in a given area, Maharjan said. The Nebraska Soil Health Schools are designed to build upon soil-related knowledge and practices for growers, crop consultants, ag professionals, and others. The HPAL event will focus on soil health topics in relation to dryland cropping systems with the following presentations:<ul>
 <li>Soil Health – Byproduct of improved soil and crop management practices: Gary Peterson, CSU professor emeritus</li><li>Impact of tillage, biochar and cover crops on soils at the High Plains Ag Lab: Cody Creech, UNL associate professor and Fenster Professor of Dryland Agriculture</li><li>Soil health measurement and carbon market: Bijesh Maharjan with Jessica Groskopf, UNL extension educator economics</li><li>Impacts of tillage systems, crop residues and cover crops on soil water and yield in semi-arid dryland systems: David Nielsen, retired USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) research agronomist.</li><li>NRCS soil health demonstrations and live rainfall simulator: Carlos Villarreal, USDA-NRCS state soil scientist and Riley Hackbart, soil scientist, USDA-NRCS</li><li>High Plains Ag Lab research plot tours</li>
 </ul>We are fortunate to have two prominent keynote speakers at this event. Drs Nielsen and Peterson dedicated their careers to finding management solutions to address dryland cropping issues. They are well known among farmers, crop consultants and scientists throughout the Great Plains and other semi-arid regions of the world for their work on improving cropping system water use efficiency and profitability while protecting the soil resource.“It is important for agricultural producers to understand the relationship between yield and available soil water at planting (AWP), and how to increase AWP with no-till management practices,” Nielsen commented. “This knowledge can aid in designing profitable crop rotations that are more intensive, lower fallow frequency than the wheat-fallow system.”To attend the event, please pre-register&nbsp;here.There is no fee to attend, and a full lunch will be provided. Certified crop advisor Continuing Education Units will be offered.&nbsp; The full agenda of the school is&nbsp;here.&nbsp;For more information or questions, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nheldt@unl.edu">nheldt@unl.edu</a>&nbsp;or call (308) 632-1230.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Dryland Cropping System to be Focus of Upcoming Nebraska Soil Health School

By&nbsp;U.S. Senator &nbsp;Deb Fischer

Everyone hears about the controversial fights in Washington, but they don’t always know the untold stories of true legislating. Practical answers to real problems don’t make headlines, but those solutions make a difference in Americans’ lives. Last week, we made strides toward passing such a bill that would right a wrong done to thousands of Americans and Nebraskans: our railroaders. On Wednesday, the Senate Budget Committee held a markup to consider my bipartisan Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness (REEF) Act, and I was invited to introduce my bill to the committee. The Budget Committee rarely considers any bill other than the budget — so it was a unique and important opportunity to advocate for railroaders. The committee unanimously approved the REEF Act, another rare victory, and the bill is now ready for a full Senate vote. 

Once passed, the REEF Act will end cuts to railroad workers’ unemployment and sickness benefits. A law passed years ago mandates that the Railroad Retirement Board cut its Unemployment Insurance Account each year and use that money to offset the federal budget deficit. These cuts, 5.7 percent annually, are set to continue through 2031. That means the government will cut railroad employees’ benefits repeatedly over the next seven years. There’s a glaring problem with these cuts. The Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, which funds unemployment and sickness benefits for railroaders, is the only federal benefits program entirely funded by one industry: the railroad industry. There’s not one general taxpayer dollar in the fund. 

The government is essentially stealing money from railroad workers to offset federal debt. It’s a classic case of Washington meddling that punishes working people. I’ve heard from many railroad workers over the years. They all agree that these cuts are demoralizing, are unfair, and make them want to leave the industry. That’s a major problem. Railroaders keep our trains moving, whether to transport passengers or freight. In 2021, Nebraska freight rail alone employed 8,436 railroad workers. The same year, freight rail transported 34.5 million tons of products from Nebraska to other parts of the country. That included 19.1 million tons of farm products and 7.2 billion tons of food products. 

Nationally, corn is the highest-volume grain carried by railroads — and as one of Nebraska’s top exports, transporting corn is vital to our agriculture industry and our economy. If railroad workers suffer, railroads suffer. If workers and railroads suffer, Nebraska suffers. Railroad employees deserve the benefits they’ve earned by committing their careers to the railroad, in many cases for years or decades. They’ve paid into the Unemployment Insurance Account throughout their careers to contribute to their retirement and other benefits. 

It’s a question of fairness: that money should be used for its intended purpose rather than by the federal government. The REEF Act will right the wrong of unfair cuts, ensuring that the people who keep our trains moving receive the benefits they’ve earned. This is a common-sense bipartisan legislative change, and I applaud my colleagues on the Budget Committee for unanimously approving my bill. I look forward to passing it in the full Senate soon. Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.

By&nbsp;U.S. Senator &nbsp;Deb FischerEveryone hears about the controversial fights in Washington, but they don’t always know the untold stories of true legislating. Practical answers to real problems don’t make headlines, but those solutions make a difference in Americans’ lives. Last week, we made strides toward passing such a bill that would right a wrong done to thousands of Americans and Nebraskans: our railroaders. On Wednesday, the Senate Budget Committee held a markup to consider my bipartisan Railroad Employee Equity and Fairness (REEF) Act, and I was invited to introduce my bill to the committee. The Budget Committee rarely considers any bill other than the budget — so it was a unique and important opportunity to advocate for railroaders. The committee unanimously approved the REEF Act, another rare victory, and the bill is now ready for a full Senate vote. Once passed, the REEF Act will end cuts to railroad workers’ unemployment and sickness benefits. A law passed years ago mandates that the Railroad Retirement Board cut its Unemployment Insurance Account each year and use that money to offset the federal budget deficit. These cuts, 5.7 percent annually, are set to continue through 2031. That means the government will cut railroad employees’ benefits repeatedly over the next seven years. There’s a glaring problem with these cuts. The Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, which funds unemployment and sickness benefits for railroaders, is the only federal benefits program entirely funded by one industry: the railroad industry. There’s not one general taxpayer dollar in the fund. The government is essentially stealing money from railroad workers to offset federal debt. It’s a classic case of Washington meddling that punishes working people. I’ve heard from many railroad workers over the years. They all agree that these cuts are demoralizing, are unfair, and make them want to leave the industry. That’s a major problem. Railroaders keep our trains moving, whether to transport passengers or freight. In 2021, Nebraska freight rail alone employed 8,436 railroad workers. The same year, freight rail transported 34.5 million tons of products from Nebraska to other parts of the country. That included 19.1 million tons of farm products and 7.2 billion tons of food products. Nationally, corn is the highest-volume grain carried by railroads — and as one of Nebraska’s top exports, transporting corn is vital to our agriculture industry and our economy. If railroad workers suffer, railroads suffer. If workers and railroads suffer, Nebraska suffers. Railroad employees deserve the benefits they’ve earned by committing their careers to the railroad, in many cases for years or decades. They’ve paid into the Unemployment Insurance Account throughout their careers to contribute to their retirement and other benefits. It’s a question of fairness: that money should be used for its intended purpose rather than by the federal government. The REEF Act will right the wrong of unfair cuts, ensuring that the people who keep our trains moving receive the benefits they’ve earned. This is a common-sense bipartisan legislative change, and I applaud my colleagues on the Budget Committee for unanimously approving my bill. I look forward to passing it in the full Senate soon. Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.

Sen. Fischer: Fairness for our Railroaders and the REEF Act

Manda Clarke has resigned as head volleyball coach.&nbsp; Coach Clarke led the Lady Bulldogs for two seasons, compiling 31 wins and one district final appearance.&nbsp;

Coach Clarke would like to express her sincere gratitude for the support, guidance, and appreciation provided to her during her time as a coach at AHS. It has been her pleasure working with a team dedicated to fostering growth and development in our student athletes.&nbsp;

Manda plans to continue at Alliance Public Schools as a school nurse.&nbsp; She recently accepted a Nurse Practitioner position that will bring about a change in her schedule that will not allow her the time nor the schedule flexibility to fulfill head coach responsibilities.&nbsp;

We thank Coach Manda Clarke for all she has done for our volleyball&nbsp; program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710197128189.jpeg" alt="Coach Clarke Coaching in a game last season. Photo by Teresa Sanders" />
 <figcaption>Coach Clarke Coaching in a game last season. Photo by Teresa Sanders</figcaption>
 </figure>By Alliance Public SchoolsManda Clarke has resigned as head volleyball coach.&nbsp; Coach Clarke led the Lady Bulldogs for two seasons, compiling 31 wins and one district final appearance.&nbsp;Coach Clarke would like to express her sincere gratitude for the support, guidance, and appreciation provided to her during her time as a coach at AHS. It has been her pleasure working with a team dedicated to fostering growth and development in our student athletes.&nbsp;Manda plans to continue at Alliance Public Schools as a school nurse.&nbsp; She recently accepted a Nurse Practitioner position that will bring about a change in her schedule that will not allow her the time nor the schedule flexibility to fulfill head coach responsibilities.&nbsp;We thank Coach Manda Clarke for all she has done for our volleyball&nbsp; program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Manda Clarke Resigns as Head Coach of Bulldogs Volleyball

By Daniella Akwanamnye CSC College Relations

CHADRON – The Chadron State College International Club will host its 39th&nbsp;Food Tasting Party March 23 at 6 p.m. in the CSC Student Center Ballroom. The dress code is formal attire, and the evening will include performances, a fashion show, and cuisine from different countries.

Members of the club will prepare dishes including Japanese Tsukune, Arepas, Nigerian jollof Rice, Ethiopian Tibs, and Discada. Vegetarian options will also be available.

The International Club has arranged for entertainment throughout the night including Chinese opera singer Yan Liu and the Los Guadaluponos dance group of Scottsbluff, Nebraska. CSC musicians will also provide live music. Club members and friends will present a fashion show with outfits from their respective countries reflecting the formal theme of the event.

“This year we’re going big. We’re going to be regal, classy, and fancy,” said International Club President, Emmanuella Tchona.

The dinner is sponsored by the International Club, Conferencing, Dining Services, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, the Maintenance Department, College Relations, and The Big Event.

Tickets are free for CSC students and children under the age of five. Adult tickets are $20 and tickets for Senior Citizens ages 55 and older and children ages 6-17 are $15. Tickets can be purchased at the Student Center or by contacting Jen Schaer at 308-432-6069 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jschaer@csc.edu">jschaer@csc.edu</a>.

By Daniella Akwanamnye CSC College RelationsCHADRON – The Chadron State College International Club will host its 39th&nbsp;Food Tasting Party March 23 at 6 p.m. in the CSC Student Center Ballroom. The dress code is formal attire, and the evening will include performances, a fashion show, and cuisine from different countries.Members of the club will prepare dishes including Japanese Tsukune, Arepas, Nigerian jollof Rice, Ethiopian Tibs, and Discada. Vegetarian options will also be available.The International Club has arranged for entertainment throughout the night including Chinese opera singer Yan Liu and the Los Guadaluponos dance group of Scottsbluff, Nebraska. CSC musicians will also provide live music. Club members and friends will present a fashion show with outfits from their respective countries reflecting the formal theme of the event.“This year we’re going big. We’re going to be regal, classy, and fancy,” said International Club President, Emmanuella Tchona.The dinner is sponsored by the International Club, Conferencing, Dining Services, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, the Maintenance Department, College Relations, and The Big Event.Tickets are free for CSC students and children under the age of five. Adult tickets are $20 and tickets for Senior Citizens ages 55 and older and children ages 6-17 are $15. Tickets can be purchased at the Student Center or by contacting Jen Schaer at 308-432-6069 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jschaer@csc.edu">jschaer@csc.edu</a>.

CSC International Club presents the 39th annual Food Tasting Party

Before an inspiring charge to restore the former roar of Monarch butterfly wings brought my time at the Keep America Beautiful 2024 National Conference in San Diego to an end, I gained a new appreciation for moths’ role in the ecosystem. Entomologist and ecologist Doug Tallamy assured everyone in the packed ballroom that we were “nature’s best hope” in the effort to keep American ecology functional.

Keynote speaker on the second day of the conference, Doug focused on what people can change locally – commit to transform half their lawn to native vegetation. We must shrink the lawn, he emphasized, noting there is 40 million acres of lawn nationwide. “What if we cut it in half and put plants back? We could have a 20 million acre homegrown national park – get to experience the natural world alone. It’s important for kids (who often) experience nature deficit disorder.”

In addition to reducing the area of lawn, to achieve a homegrown national park, Doug said they are asking everyone to: plant more natives, remove invasives and protect natural areas of the property.

Doug, who lives in southeast Pennsylvania, showed how he and his wife transformed 10 acres of what had been farmland back to a natural setting within a few years. They planted oak trees that began attracting wildlife in the first few seasons of growth – no need to wait decades. However, he described what role acorns will play as ants, weevils, jays and a madrid of species depend on this tree. “Nature is a series of specialized relationships,” he said.

“We need to move beyond conservation to restoration – need to make functional ecosystems again,” Doug said. He said it cannot be done without flowering plants which attract invertebrates that many animals eat. Moths, specifically their caterpillars, are a barometer of a food chain’s health. “Even in winter chickadees eat 50 percent insects and spiders,” he said. “Think of caterpillars as soft little sausages worth 200 aphids. For most birds, caterpillars are essential for their diets. It takes six to nine thousand caterpillars for one clutch of chickadees. They only forage 50 meters from their nest.”

If everyone with control over a lawn was to till half of it under and start fresh with a native setting in mind, specific plant selection is vital to establish a food web. “It is not the presence of non-native plants that destroys food webs. It is the absence of native plants,” he said. To landscape for caterpillars, Doug said you have to be fussy about the plants you pick because so are caterpillars. “Plants don’t want to be eaten,” he said. “Ninety percent of insects that eat plants can only eat specific ones they’re adapted for.”

Doug listed three missteps that have contributed to an overall bent toward non-native and introduced plants:

&gt;We have assumed that humans and nature cannot co-exist.

&gt;Our third mis-step was to leave earth stewardship to a few specialists, not seeing it as an inherent responsibility of every human being.

It would be incredible to have 20 million more acres of native landscape. However, anyone who wants to claim an acre or a fraction thereof to the cause must be dedicated in doing the research (perhaps start with the local University of Nebraska Extension office) on how to best check off the four points mentioned above as well as devote the time and labor to make it happen. Anyone who is in the process of transforming their yard or has already had success, please spread the word so others can learn firsthand.

By JOHN E. WEARE KABBefore an inspiring charge to restore the former roar of Monarch butterfly wings brought my time at the Keep America Beautiful 2024 National Conference in San Diego to an end, I gained a new appreciation for moths’ role in the ecosystem. Entomologist and ecologist Doug Tallamy assured everyone in the packed ballroom that we were “nature’s best hope” in the effort to keep American ecology functional.Keynote speaker on the second day of the conference, Doug focused on what people can change locally – commit to transform half their lawn to native vegetation. We must shrink the lawn, he emphasized, noting there is 40 million acres of lawn nationwide. “What if we cut it in half and put plants back? We could have a 20 million acre homegrown national park – get to experience the natural world alone. It’s important for kids (who often) experience nature deficit disorder.”In addition to reducing the area of lawn, to achieve a homegrown national park, Doug said they are asking everyone to: plant more natives, remove invasives and protect natural areas of the property.Doug, who lives in southeast Pennsylvania, showed how he and his wife transformed 10 acres of what had been farmland back to a natural setting within a few years. They planted oak trees that began attracting wildlife in the first few seasons of growth – no need to wait decades. However, he described what role acorns will play as ants, weevils, jays and a madrid of species depend on this tree. “Nature is a series of specialized relationships,” he said.“We need to move beyond conservation to restoration – need to make functional ecosystems again,” Doug said. He said it cannot be done without flowering plants which attract invertebrates that many animals eat. Moths, specifically their caterpillars, are a barometer of a food chain’s health. “Even in winter chickadees eat 50 percent insects and spiders,” he said. “Think of caterpillars as soft little sausages worth 200 aphids. For most birds, caterpillars are essential for their diets. It takes six to nine thousand caterpillars for one clutch of chickadees. They only forage 50 meters from their nest.”If everyone with control over a lawn was to till half of it under and start fresh with a native setting in mind, specific plant selection is vital to establish a food web. “It is not the presence of non-native plants that destroys food webs. It is the absence of native plants,” he said. To landscape for caterpillars, Doug said you have to be fussy about the plants you pick because so are caterpillars. “Plants don’t want to be eaten,” he said. “Ninety percent of insects that eat plants can only eat specific ones they’re adapted for.”Doug listed three missteps that have contributed to an overall bent toward non-native and introduced plants:&gt;We think of nature as optional.&gt;We have assumed that humans and nature cannot co-exist.&gt;Our third mis-step was to leave earth stewardship to a few specialists, not seeing it as an inherent responsibility of every human being.It would be incredible to have 20 million more acres of native landscape. However, anyone who wants to claim an acre or a fraction thereof to the cause must be dedicated in doing the research (perhaps start with the local University of Nebraska Extension office) on how to best check off the four points mentioned above as well as devote the time and labor to make it happen. Anyone who is in the process of transforming their yard or has already had success, please spread the word so others can learn firsthand.

Keep America Beautiful Conference: ‘Homegrown National Park’

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Spring Forward!

By Chadron State College College Relations

CHADRON – Chadron State College has received official confirmation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) that the CSC master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling meets the rigorous standards set by the counseling profession.

This accreditation is a mark of excellence that affirms the CSC program teaches the necessary knowledge and skills, and that it is both stable and well-supported financially and professionally, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cacrep.org/" target="_blank">CACREP</a>&nbsp;website.

By attaining CACREP accreditation, CSC President Ron K. Patterson wrote in a message to campus that the Counseling program has demonstrated its commitment to enhancing the educational effectiveness of its Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. The accreditation also benefits CSC graduates by simplifying state licensure processes and opening additional career opportunities. For example, it enables alumni to work at Veteran’s Administrations, bill Tricare, and become Fully Functioning Army Substance Abuse Program Practitioners.

Patterson thanked Dr. Katy Woods, Counselor Education department chair, and Dr. Tara Wilson, CACREP liaison, along with past and current faculty and staff who helped achieve the goal.

“Overall, achieving CACREP accreditation is a crucial milestone in our efforts to attract and retain students, while also broadening the horizons for our graduates. Chadron State College would like to thank the Counselor Education department for their strong efforts in securing the CACREP accreditation for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program,” Patterson said.

The CACREP accreditation team visited campus to conduct its formal review Oct. 23-25, 2023. The accreditation is effective until March 31, 2032.

CSC’s other specialized&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/about/mission-vision-and-accreditation/" target="_blank">accreditations</a>&nbsp;include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the&nbsp;National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE), and the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

By Chadron State College College RelationsCHADRON – Chadron State College has received official confirmation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) that the CSC master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling meets the rigorous standards set by the counseling profession.This accreditation is a mark of excellence that affirms the CSC program teaches the necessary knowledge and skills, and that it is both stable and well-supported financially and professionally, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cacrep.org/" target="_blank">CACREP</a>&nbsp;website.By attaining CACREP accreditation, CSC President Ron K. Patterson wrote in a message to campus that the Counseling program has demonstrated its commitment to enhancing the educational effectiveness of its Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. The accreditation also benefits CSC graduates by simplifying state licensure processes and opening additional career opportunities. For example, it enables alumni to work at Veteran’s Administrations, bill Tricare, and become Fully Functioning Army Substance Abuse Program Practitioners.Patterson thanked Dr. Katy Woods, Counselor Education department chair, and Dr. Tara Wilson, CACREP liaison, along with past and current faculty and staff who helped achieve the goal.“Overall, achieving CACREP accreditation is a crucial milestone in our efforts to attract and retain students, while also broadening the horizons for our graduates. Chadron State College would like to thank the Counselor Education department for their strong efforts in securing the CACREP accreditation for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program,” Patterson said.The CACREP accreditation team visited campus to conduct its formal review Oct. 23-25, 2023. The accreditation is effective until March 31, 2032.CSC’s other specialized&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/about/mission-vision-and-accreditation/" target="_blank">accreditations</a>&nbsp;include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the&nbsp;National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education (CASCE), and the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

 CSC Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s degree program earns accreditation

Agenda for Monday's Alliance Public Schools Board Meeting

1. Call to Order, Call Attention to Open Meetings Law

1. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve staff resignations.

2. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve the administrative hiring recommendations.

3. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve switchgear replacement bids.

4. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve St. Agnes bus usage request.

5. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve revision to Board Policy 5008 appendix Attendance Improvement Plan waiving first reading and approving on final reading.

1. Discuss bowling, soccer, lacrosse and rodeo

COPY OF OPEN MEETINGS ACT: The Board of Education makes available at least one current copy of the Open Meetings Act posted in the meeting room at a location accessible to members of the public. The Act is posted on the north wall of the meeting room.

NOTICE OF MEETING: Notice of the meeting was published according to Board Policy.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THOSE WHO WISH TO SPEAK DURING PUBLIC FORUM:

Getting Started: When it is your turn to speak during the public forum portion of the agenda, please come forward to the table situated immediately in front of the Board, sign your name and address on the sign-in sheet and state your name to the Board of Education.

Time Limit: You may speak only one time and must limit comments to 5 minutes or less. Public forum will not exceed 30 minutes.

Personnel or Student Topic: If you are planning to speak about a personnel or student matter involving an individual, please understand that our policies require that such concerns initially be directed to the administration for consideration. Board members will generally not respond to any questions you ask or comments you may make about individual staff members or students. You are cautioned that slanderous comments are not protected just because they are made at Board meeting.

General Rules: Please remember that this is a public meeting for the conduct of the business of the Board of Education. Offensive language, personal attacks and hostile conduct will not be tolerated.

CLOSED SESSIONS: Alliance Public Schools Board of Education reserves the right to go into closed session in accordance with 84-1410. BY: ALLIANCE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Agenda for Monday's Alliance Public Schools Board MeetingAlliance Public SchoolsBoard of EducationRegular Meeting7:00 P.M March 11, 2024Alliance Board of Education RoomI. Opening1. Call to Order, Call Attention to Open Meetings Law2. Pledge of Allegiance3. Roll Call4. Excuse Absent Board Members5. Approval of AgendaII. Information and Reports1. Student Council Report2. Pride in Excellence3. Board Committee Reports4. Director’s Reports5. Principal’s Reports6. Superintendent’s ReportIII. Public Comments on Agenda ItemsIV. Consent Agenda1. Minutes2. Bills3. Financial ReportsV. Action Items1. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve staff resignations.2. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve the administrative hiring recommendations.3. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve switchgear replacement bids.4. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve St. Agnes bus usage request.5. Consider, discuss, and take all necessary action to approve revision to Board Policy 5008 appendix Attendance Improvement Plan waiving first reading and approving on final reading.VI. Discussion Items1. Discuss bowling, soccer, lacrosse and rodeo2. Discuss Alternative SchoolVII. Next Meeting April 8, 2024VIII. AdjournNOTICES:COPY OF OPEN MEETINGS ACT: The Board of Education makes available at least one current copy of the Open Meetings Act posted in the meeting room at a location accessible to members of the public. The Act is posted on the north wall of the meeting room.NOTICE OF MEETING: Notice of the meeting was published according to Board Policy.INSTRUCTIONS FOR THOSE WHO WISH TO SPEAK DURING PUBLIC FORUM:Getting Started: When it is your turn to speak during the public forum portion of the agenda, please come forward to the table situated immediately in front of the Board, sign your name and address on the sign-in sheet and state your name to the Board of Education.Time Limit: You may speak only one time and must limit comments to 5 minutes or less. Public forum will not exceed 30 minutes.Personnel or Student Topic: If you are planning to speak about a personnel or student matter involving an individual, please understand that our policies require that such concerns initially be directed to the administration for consideration. Board members will generally not respond to any questions you ask or comments you may make about individual staff members or students. You are cautioned that slanderous comments are not protected just because they are made at Board meeting.General Rules: Please remember that this is a public meeting for the conduct of the business of the Board of Education. Offensive language, personal attacks and hostile conduct will not be tolerated.CLOSED SESSIONS: Alliance Public Schools Board of Education reserves the right to go into closed session in accordance with 84-1410. BY: ALLIANCE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Alliance Public Schools to discuss adding bowling, soccer, lacrosse and rodeo

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved 2024-2025 waterfowl hunting season recommendations at its March 8 meeting in Hastings.

Commissioners approved a staff recommendation to create a Veteran and Active-Duty Military waterfowl hunting season that will run concurrently with the Youth Hunting season. Participants will include veterans as defined in Section 101 of Title 38, United States Code, and members of the Armed Forces on active duty, including members of the National Guard and Reserves on active duty (other than for training).

The approved 2024-2025 Nebraska waterfowl season dates are:

Daily bag limit – six; Possession limit – 18

Daily bag – Tier 1: six ducks, with restrictions; Tier II: three ducks, any species, any sex; Possession limit – three times the daily bag limit

Zone 2 – Oct. 5-Dec. 17 and Jan. 8-29 (High Plains)

Zone 3 – Oct. 26-Jan. 7 and Jan. 8-29 (High Plains)

Daily bag limit – five; Possession limit – 15

Statewide – Oct. 12-Dec. 22 and Jan. 25-Feb. 9

Daily bag limit – two; Possession limit – six

Statewide – Oct. 12-Jan. 8 and Jan. 25-Feb. 9

Daily bag limit – 50; Possession limit – none

Statewide – Oct. 12-Dec. 12 and Jan. 11-March 13

Concurrent with teal, youth and regular duck season dates, plus,

Zone 2 – Low Plains: Feb. 25-March 10; High Plains: Concurrent with all duck season dates in High Plains Zone

Zone 3 – High Plains: Concurrent with all duck season dates in High Plains Zone

The commissioners also approved wildlife regulation changes regarding threatened and endangered species, to reflect the changes in federal listing status of the following:

Also, commissioners approved a Board Resolution to sign the project agreement for the Transportation Alternatives Program. This grant program through the Nebraska Department of Transportation will fund the surfacing of 24.6 miles of Cowboy Trail from Rushville in Sheridan County to mile marker 400 near Chadron.

In other business, the board approved the acquisition of 11 acres in Holt County as an addition to the O. Johnson Emerson Wildlife Management Area.

Commissioners also heard reports on a Lake McConaughy creel survey and Game and Parks permits system for 2023.

By Nebraska Game &amp; ParksThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved 2024-2025 waterfowl hunting season recommendations at its March 8 meeting in Hastings.Commissioners approved a staff recommendation to create a Veteran and Active-Duty Military waterfowl hunting season that will run concurrently with the Youth Hunting season. Participants will include veterans as defined in Section 101 of Title 38, United States Code, and members of the Armed Forces on active duty, including members of the National Guard and Reserves on active duty (other than for training).The approved 2024-2025 Nebraska waterfowl season dates are:Early Teal:Low Plains – Sept. 1-16High Plains – Sept. 1-9Daily bag limit – six; Possession limit – 18Youth Hunt:Zone 1 – Oct. 5-6Zone 2 – Sept. 28-29Zone 3 – Oct. 19-20Zone 4 – Oct. 19-20Daily bag – Tier 1: six ducks, with restrictions; Tier II: three ducks, any species, any sex; Possession limit – three times the daily bag limitVeteran and Active-Duty Military:Zone 1 – Oct. 5-6Zone 2 – Sept. 28-29Zone 3 – Oct. 19-20Zone 4 – Oct. 19-20Daily bag – Tier 1: six ducks, with restrictions; Tier II: three ducks, any species, any sex; Possession limit – three times the daily bag limitDuck and Coot:Zone 1 – Oct. 12-Dec. 24Zone 2 – Oct. 5-Dec. 17 and Jan. 8-29 (High Plains)Zone 3 – Oct. 26-Jan. 7 and Jan. 8-29 (High Plains)Zone 4 – Oct. 26-Jan. 7Daily bag – Tier 1: six ducks, with restrictions; Tier II: three ducks, any species, any sex; Possession limit – three times the daily bag limitDark Goose:Platte River Unit – Oct. 28-Feb. 9Niobrara Unit – Oct. 28-Feb. 9North Central Unit – Oct. 5-Jan. 17Daily bag limit – five; Possession limit – 15White-fronted Goose:Statewide – Oct. 12-Dec. 22 and Jan. 25-Feb. 9Daily bag limit – two; Possession limit – sixLight Goose Regular Season:Statewide – Oct. 12-Jan. 8 and Jan. 25-Feb. 9Daily bag limit – 50; Possession limit – noneLight Goose Conservation Order:East Zone – Feb. 10-April 15West Zone – Feb. 10-April 5Rainwater Basin Zone – Feb. 10-April 5Daily bag and possession limits – noneCrow:Statewide – Oct. 12-Dec. 12 and Jan. 11-March 13Daily bag and possession limits – noneFalconry:Concurrent with teal, youth and regular duck season dates, plus,Zone 1 – Feb. 25-March 10Zone 2 – Low Plains: Feb. 25-March 10; High Plains: Concurrent with all duck season dates in High Plains ZoneZone 3 – High Plains: Concurrent with all duck season dates in High Plains ZoneZone 4 – Feb. 25-March 10The commissioners also approved wildlife regulation changes regarding threatened and endangered species, to reflect the changes in federal listing status of the following:<ul>
 <li>The interior least tern was removed from the federal list but remains state-listed as endangered in Nebraska.</li><li>The northern long-eared bat was elevated from threatened to endangered.</li><li>The Colorado butterfly plant was removed from the federal list but remains state-listed as endangered in Nebraska.</li><li>The eastern black rail was federally listed as threatened, including in Nebraska.</li><li>The American burying beetle’s federal listing status was downgraded from endangered to threatened</li>
 </ul>Also, commissioners approved a Board Resolution to sign the project agreement for the Transportation Alternatives Program. This grant program through the Nebraska Department of Transportation will fund the surfacing of 24.6 miles of Cowboy Trail from Rushville in Sheridan County to mile marker 400 near Chadron.In other business, the board approved the acquisition of 11 acres in Holt County as an addition to the O. Johnson Emerson Wildlife Management Area.Commissioners also heard reports on a Lake McConaughy creel survey and Game and Parks permits system for 2023.

Nebraska Game & Parks approve 2024-2025 waterfowl recommendations

HOT SPRINGS, S.D. – Wind Cave will be closed to tours beginning May 1 while the elevator system is replaced and modernized. The elevator system provides access to the cave for approximately 130,000 visitors annually. Many repairs to the elevators have taken place over the years and the existing system includes parts dating back to the 1930s. This is the first time a complete rebuild has happened and the work is expected to continue into the fall. 

“We’re excited to finally be able to completely rebuild the old elevators, including replacement of the cabs, motors, cables, and electrical equipment,” said Park Superintendent Leigh Welling. “We appreciate everyone’s patience while we improve access to the cave and remind you that there are still many things to do at the park. In addition to ranger led talks and hikes, we have new exhibits being installed in the visitor center this spring that include several interactive stations, a walk-through cave, and a prairie diorama. These exhibits are truly beautiful and tell a more current and accurate story of this land.”

Rangers will also be offering virtual tours of the cave in the visitor center auditorium. The program uses LIDAR technology to give a tour of the Natural Entrance Tour route. The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage. Surface activities include talks about nature, culture, and history at the Natural Entrance and at the visitor center and hikes across the prairie. For more information, contact the park at 605-745-4600.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710116487384.jpeg" alt="Rangers at Wind Cave will be offering virtual tours of the cave this summer while the cave is closed for elevator modernization. (NPS Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Rangers at Wind Cave will be offering virtual tours of the cave this summer while the cave is closed for elevator modernization. (NPS Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Wind Cave National ParkHOT SPRINGS, S.D. – Wind Cave will be closed to tours beginning May 1 while the elevator system is replaced and modernized. The elevator system provides access to the cave for approximately 130,000 visitors annually. Many repairs to the elevators have taken place over the years and the existing system includes parts dating back to the 1930s. This is the first time a complete rebuild has happened and the work is expected to continue into the fall. “We’re excited to finally be able to completely rebuild the old elevators, including replacement of the cabs, motors, cables, and electrical equipment,” said Park Superintendent Leigh Welling. “We appreciate everyone’s patience while we improve access to the cave and remind you that there are still many things to do at the park. In addition to ranger led talks and hikes, we have new exhibits being installed in the visitor center this spring that include several interactive stations, a walk-through cave, and a prairie diorama. These exhibits are truly beautiful and tell a more current and accurate story of this land.”Rangers will also be offering virtual tours of the cave in the visitor center auditorium. The program uses LIDAR technology to give a tour of the Natural Entrance Tour route. The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage. Surface activities include talks about nature, culture, and history at the Natural Entrance and at the visitor center and hikes across the prairie. For more information, contact the park at 605-745-4600.

Wind Cave focus on surface programs during elevator modernization

P202400118 08:15 THEFT : THEFT Report of a stolen De Mar Inc utility trailer from 1st and Niobrara Avenue, last seen on the 28th of February 2024. Trailer was located in Alliance on 03/04/2024.

P202400118 08:15 THEFT : THEFT Report of a stolen De Mar Inc utility trailer from 1st and Niobrara Avenue, last seen on the 28th of February 2024. Trailer was located in Allaince on 03/04/2024.

P202400119 14:17 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Criminal mischief / 1000 block of Platte Ave /Destruction of fence panels

P202400121 09:09 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY Closed - Resolved

P202400123 23:28 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYVehicle was struck at 10th and Box Butte Avenue.&nbsp; The second vehicle left the scene without furnishing information. 

P202400125 14:51 THEFT : THEFT Officer was dispatched to 131 Missouri Avenue for a reported theft. Made contact with the victim who reported his aftermarket stereo was stolen out of a vehicle of his. The reporting party stated he did not know how long the stereo had been missing from the vehicle as he doesn't drive it due to mechanical issues. 

P202400126 16:46 ASSAULT : ASSAULT officers responded to the 700 block of Missouri Avenue in reference to an assault/ 

By Alliance Police Department03/03/24P202400118 08:15 THEFT : THEFT Report of a stolen De Mar Inc utility trailer from 1st and Niobrara Avenue, last seen on the 28th of February 2024. Trailer was located in Alliance on 03/04/2024.Closed - UnfoundedP202400118 08:15 THEFT : THEFT Report of a stolen De Mar Inc utility trailer from 1st and Niobrara Avenue, last seen on the 28th of February 2024. Trailer was located in Allaince on 03/04/2024.Inactive - Case Suspended03/03/24 Total: 203/06/24P202400119 14:17 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Criminal mischief / 1000 block of Platte Ave /Destruction of fence panelsInactive - Case Suspended03/06/24 Total: 103/08/24P202400121 09:09 10-44 : MVA NON INJURY Closed - ResolvedP202400123 23:28 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYVehicle was struck at 10th and Box Butte Avenue.&nbsp; The second vehicle left the scene without furnishing information. Inactive - CaseSuspended03/08/24 Total: 203/09/24P202400125 14:51 THEFT : THEFT Officer was dispatched to 131 Missouri Avenue for a reported theft. Made contact with the victim who reported his aftermarket stereo was stolen out of a vehicle of his. The reporting party stated he did not know how long the stereo had been missing from the vehicle as he doesn't drive it due to mechanical issues. Inactive - CaseSuspendedP202400126 16:46 ASSAULT : ASSAULT officers responded to the 700 block of Missouri Avenue in reference to an assault/ Open - UnderInvestigation03/09/24 Total: 2

Alliance Police Activity Log: 3/3- 3/9

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rRzLORiSwvM?si=gjhytMNkK585hsnD" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab.

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab

At the Alliance City Council meeting on Tuesday night, the city presented a certificate of appreciate to former Alliance City Council Member and Executive Director Mara Anderson. Alliance Mayor Earl Jones lauded her for her and her service to the youth and community during her time in town as Executive Director of the ARC and Council Member.

Also, Jones talked about the process of moving forward of filling her now vacant seat, and City Manager Seth Sorensen explained on an interview with KCOW about the open seat.

"There is a two-year spot for the City Council, and people can register with the Box Butte County Clerk with that up until August 1," Sorensen said.

Sorensen continued to say that anyone who is interested in that process and making a difference to apply, and that there are other City boards that citizen can get involved in like the Community Redevelopment Board including others.

While the City Council seat will not be on the ballot for the primary election, Mayor Jones stressed that it will be on the ballot in November.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAt the Alliance City Council meeting on Tuesday night, the city presented a certificate of appreciate to former Alliance City Council Member and Executive Director Mara Anderson. Alliance Mayor Earl Jones lauded her for her and her service to the youth and community during her time in town as Executive Director of the ARC and Council Member.Also, Jones talked about the process of moving forward of filling her now vacant seat, and City Manager Seth Sorensen explained on an interview with KCOW about the open seat."There is a two-year spot for the City Council, and people can register with the Box Butte County Clerk with that up until August 1," Sorensen said.Sorensen continued to say that anyone who is interested in that process and making a difference to apply, and that there are other City boards that citizen can get involved in like the Community Redevelopment Board including others.While the City Council seat will not be on the ballot for the primary election, Mayor Jones stressed that it will be on the ballot in November.

Alliance City Council Seat open to public after Anderson's departure

By Con Marshall, Chadron State College&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

A retired Chadron State College professor who was a world leader in range management, Dr. Jim O’Rourke, died early Tuesday, March 5 at the Chadron Community Hospital of a heart attack.  He was 81. A celebration of life will be in June at the family’s ranch south of Chadron.&nbsp;

 O’Rourke taught range management at Chadron State 14 years before retiring in 2002, but was deeply involved in range activities long after that and still had an office at the college.&nbsp; He had served as a range consultant in at least 25 nations and had worked with landowners to conduct rangeland health assessments and grazing management plans on more than 100 ranches in Nebraska.

He was a member of the Society of Range Management for nearly 60 years and was president of both the Nebraska and the international organizations. He received many SRM honors, such as the Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award and the Frederick G. Renner Award, its highest honor. When his term as the SRM president ended, he was one of three representatives from North America on the Continuing Committee for the International Rangeland Congress, a world-wide organization.

&nbsp;At that convention in Durbin, South Africa, in 2003 he anticipated he would be leaving the governing board because his eight-year term was expiring. &nbsp;But the Congress leaders voted to suspend the rules and elected him president. That put him in charge of the next convention, which was in Inner Mongolia in 2008.&nbsp;

He made trips to Mongolia annually prior to the convention to help with the arrangements. He also helped lead the 2011 convention in Argentina. O’Rourke also was instrumental in getting the United Nations to declare 2026 as the International Year of Rangeland and Pastoralists to stress that grasslands must be protected since they cover more than half of the earth’s surface.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;O’Rourke’s roots were deep into western Nebraska soil. While he was born in California and grew up at Buffalo, Wyo., both sets of grandparents, Frank and Jerene O’Rourke and Jack and Alice Moeller, lived most of their adult lives in Chadron. Both of his parents, Joe and Jean, attended Chadron State College.

In choosing range management as a career, O’Rourke was following the footsteps of his grandfather and father. His grandfather O’Rourke was a cowboy on the famed Spade Ranch in the Nebraska Sandhills dating back to 1908 and later wrote magazine columns and a book called “Retracing Old Trails” about those experiences. Jim’s father was a range specialist for the U.S. Forest Service for nearly 40 years, mostly in Wyoming.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;O’Rourke received his bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University and his master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Arizona.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Prior to joining the Chadron State faculty in 1988, he had spent eight years as a range management specialist in several African countries.&nbsp; After arriving at CSC, he led the way making range management the primary focus of the college’s agricultural curriculum.&nbsp; For more than a decade, CSC’s number of rangeland management majors has been among the nation’s top five.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;O’Rourke also was a member of the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education in the early 2000s.&nbsp; He received CSC’s Teaching Excellence Award in 1996. O’Rourke’s wife, Lora, also was a rangeland management specialist and worked out of the Nebraska National Forest Service office in Chadron for 23 years.&nbsp; She was president of the Nebraska Section of the Society of Range Management in 2001. The couple had lived in Nigeria two years before coming to Chadron.&nbsp; The couple’s twins, Shannon and Seth, are among his survivors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709917931843.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Con Marshall, Chadron State College&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;A retired Chadron State College professor who was a world leader in range management, Dr. Jim O’Rourke, died early Tuesday, March 5 at the Chadron Community Hospital of a heart attack. He was 81. A celebration of life will be in June at the family’s ranch south of Chadron.&nbsp; O’Rourke taught range management at Chadron State 14 years before retiring in 2002, but was deeply involved in range activities long after that and still had an office at the college.&nbsp; He had served as a range consultant in at least 25 nations and had worked with landowners to conduct rangeland health assessments and grazing management plans on more than 100 ranches in Nebraska.He was a member of the Society of Range Management for nearly 60 years and was president of both the Nebraska and the international organizations. He received many SRM honors, such as the Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award and the Frederick G. Renner Award, its highest honor. When his term as the SRM president ended, he was one of three representatives from North America on the Continuing Committee for the International Rangeland Congress, a world-wide organization.&nbsp;At that convention in Durbin, South Africa, in 2003 he anticipated he would be leaving the governing board because his eight-year term was expiring. &nbsp;But the Congress leaders voted to suspend the rules and elected him president. That put him in charge of the next convention, which was in Inner Mongolia in 2008.&nbsp;He made trips to Mongolia annually prior to the convention to help with the arrangements. He also helped lead the 2011 convention in Argentina. O’Rourke also was instrumental in getting the United Nations to declare 2026 as the International Year of Rangeland and Pastoralists to stress that grasslands must be protected since they cover more than half of the earth’s surface.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;O’Rourke’s roots were deep into western Nebraska soil. While he was born in California and grew up at Buffalo, Wyo., both sets of grandparents, Frank and Jerene O’Rourke and Jack and Alice Moeller, lived most of their adult lives in Chadron. Both of his parents, Joe and Jean, attended Chadron State College.In choosing range management as a career, O’Rourke was following the footsteps of his grandfather and father. His grandfather O’Rourke was a cowboy on the famed Spade Ranch in the Nebraska Sandhills dating back to 1908 and later wrote magazine columns and a book called “Retracing Old Trails” about those experiences. Jim’s father was a range specialist for the U.S. Forest Service for nearly 40 years, mostly in Wyoming.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;O’Rourke received his bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University and his master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Arizona.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Prior to joining the Chadron State faculty in 1988, he had spent eight years as a range management specialist in several African countries.&nbsp; After arriving at CSC, he led the way making range management the primary focus of the college’s agricultural curriculum.&nbsp; For more than a decade, CSC’s number of rangeland management majors has been among the nation’s top five.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O’Rourke also was a member of the Nebraska Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education in the early 2000s.&nbsp; He received CSC’s Teaching Excellence Award in 1996. O’Rourke’s wife, Lora, also was a rangeland management specialist and worked out of the Nebraska National Forest Service office in Chadron for 23 years.&nbsp; She was president of the Nebraska Section of the Society of Range Management in 2001. The couple had lived in Nigeria two years before coming to Chadron.&nbsp; The couple’s twins, Shannon and Seth, are among his survivors.

Longtime CSC professor and Rangeland leader dies

American ways of life and values are under attack.

President Biden has sent swarms of bureaucrats to harass Americans at every turn. His Department of Justice labelled parents potential domestic terrorists for speaking up for their children. His Environmental Protection Agency tried to expand its power by regulating roadside ditches and farm ponds as “navigable waters.” His Department of Energy attacked gas stoves. He’s pushed unworkable and expensive electric vehicle mandates. His reckless spending created historic inflation. It’s costing a typical family $11,400 more a year to maintain their quality of life. His foreign policy of appeasement has emboldened our adversaries and made Americans less safe.

We’re also seeing attacks on American values and ideals that make our country great. They’re not just coming from the Biden administration, but the media as well. Last week,&nbsp;Politico’s National Investigative Correspondent was a guest on MSNBC. She attacked Christians who are close to Donald Trump, calling them “Christian Nationalists.” Her supposed proof was their belief in the founding idea of America.

Here’s what she said: “The thing that unites them as Christian nationalists—not Christians by the way, because Christian nationalist is very different—is that they believe that our rights as Americans, as all human beings, don't come from any earthly authority, they don't come from Congress, they don't come from the Supreme Court; they come from God.”

According to this&nbsp;reporter,&nbsp;those who&nbsp;recognize that our rights come from God instead of government&nbsp;are&nbsp;radical “Christian Nationalists.”&nbsp;That is a truly stunning smear of the majority of our country, past and present. It’s ignorant. It’s bigoted. It’s simply un-American.&nbsp;It’s also wrong.

The idea that our rights come from God is an American idea. It doesn’t belong to a specific religion or Party. It’s in our Declaration of Independence!&nbsp;“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights.”

Our rights come to us from God, not a king&nbsp;or President. They’re endowments from God, not concessions from government.&nbsp;Government exists to secure those rights, not provide them.&nbsp;Abraham Lincoln called this idea the “philosophical cause” of our country. It informed George Washington and Thomas Jefferson’s support for religious freedom. It inspired Frederick Douglass and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s powerful appeals for racial equality.

We all have a responsibility to fight back against rhetoric that tries to erase history and attack the core of what America is. Attacks on our ways of life and our values cannot go unchallenged. I’m committed to fighting these attacks every day as your Senator.

My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>.

By U.S Senator Pete Ricketts, NEAmerican ways of life and values are under attack.President Biden has sent swarms of bureaucrats to harass Americans at every turn. His Department of Justice labelled parents potential domestic terrorists for speaking up for their children. His Environmental Protection Agency tried to expand its power by regulating roadside ditches and farm ponds as “navigable waters.” His Department of Energy attacked gas stoves. He’s pushed unworkable and expensive electric vehicle mandates. His reckless spending created historic inflation. It’s costing a typical family $11,400 more a year to maintain their quality of life. His foreign policy of appeasement has emboldened our adversaries and made Americans less safe.We’re also seeing attacks on American values and ideals that make our country great. They’re not just coming from the Biden administration, but the media as well. Last week,&nbsp;Politico’s National Investigative Correspondent was a guest on MSNBC. She attacked Christians who are close to Donald Trump, calling them “Christian Nationalists.” Her supposed proof was their belief in the founding idea of America.Here’s what she said: “The thing that unites them as Christian nationalists—not Christians by the way, because Christian nationalist is very different—is that they believe that our rights as Americans, as all human beings, don't come from any earthly authority, they don't come from Congress, they don't come from the Supreme Court; they come from God.”According to this&nbsp;reporter,&nbsp;those who&nbsp;recognize that our rights come from God instead of government&nbsp;are&nbsp;radical “Christian Nationalists.”&nbsp;That is a truly stunning smear of the majority of our country, past and present. It’s ignorant. It’s bigoted. It’s simply un-American.&nbsp;It’s also wrong.The idea that our rights come from God is an American idea. It doesn’t belong to a specific religion or Party. It’s in our Declaration of Independence!&nbsp;“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights.”Our rights come to us from God, not a king&nbsp;or President. They’re endowments from God, not concessions from government.&nbsp;Government exists to secure those rights, not provide them.&nbsp;Abraham Lincoln called this idea the “philosophical cause” of our country. It informed George Washington and Thomas Jefferson’s support for religious freedom. It inspired Frederick Douglass and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s powerful appeals for racial equality.We all have a responsibility to fight back against rhetoric that tries to erase history and attack the core of what America is. Attacks on our ways of life and our values cannot go unchallenged. I’m committed to fighting these attacks every day as your Senator.My team and I are here to serve you. Contact us anytime by phone at 202-224-4224 or on my website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact" target="_blank">www.ricketts.senate.gov/contact</a>.

Senator Ricketts’ Weekly Column: Shutting Down The Far-Left’s Hate

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

You might get a letter in the mail that tells you that you have been turned over to a debt collector. What does this mean? A debt collector might be a person, collection agency, or even a lawyer who is trying to collect a debt owed to someone else. They are trying to contact you because a creditor believes you are past due on the payments you owe.

Collection agencies are companies that buy past-due debts from creditors or other businesses and then try to collect them.

Medical bills are the most common collections items and show up on 43 million credit reports as unpaid, past due debts. One in five households in America have unpaid medical bills, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In 2022, this amounted to $88 billion. And these bills commonly have errors.

Not all collections are for large amounts. A few weeks ago, Flatwater Free Press ran a story about schools in Nebraska that turned unpaid lunch bills over to collection agencies. Four Class A schools, Lincoln, Kearney, Columbus, and Scottsbluff, use debt collectors.

Lincoln Public Schools indicated the average of the 1700 debts they sent to collections was $67. Only one bill was over $200. The district got back less than a quarter of what was owed. The collection agency received 40% of the amounts they collected. Since the article, Lincoln Public Schools has stopped the practice of using agencies to collect school lunch debt.

According to Flatwater Free Press, Scottsbluff Public Schools sent about 50 debts to collections last school year and all were over $100. The district recouped 9% of the roughly $12,500 it was owed. Kearney Public Schools referred nearly 60 debts averaging $500 in the last year. The collector has gotten back less than 2% of the $29,500 owed.

What should you do if you are contacted by a debt collector?

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, there is certain information they must give you, either in the initial communication or within five days.

A statement that the communication is from a debt collector

&nbsp;Your name and mailing information, along with the name and mailing information of the debt collector

The name of the creditor or creditors you owe the debt to

&nbsp;The account number associated with the debt (if any)

&nbsp;An itemization of the current amount of the debt that reflects interest, fees, payments, and credits since a particular date

&nbsp;The current amount of the debt when the notice is provided

&nbsp;Information you can use to reply to the debt collector, such as if you believe the debt is not yours or if the amount is wrong

&nbsp;An end date for a 30-day period when you can dispute the debt

If you don’t believe you owe the debt or believe the amount is wrong, you can ask for more information. You can dispute the bill. This must be in writing and within 30 days. If you don't send a written letter to the debt collector, you may lose your rights.

Getting Ahead:By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityYou might get a letter in the mail that tells you that you have been turned over to a debt collector. What does this mean? A debt collector might be a person, collection agency, or even a lawyer who is trying to collect a debt owed to someone else. They are trying to contact you because a creditor believes you are past due on the payments you owe.Collection agencies are companies that buy past-due debts from creditors or other businesses and then try to collect them.Medical bills are the most common collections items and show up on 43 million credit reports as unpaid, past due debts. One in five households in America have unpaid medical bills, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In 2022, this amounted to $88 billion. And these bills commonly have errors.Not all collections are for large amounts. A few weeks ago, Flatwater Free Press ran a story about schools in Nebraska that turned unpaid lunch bills over to collection agencies. Four Class A schools, Lincoln, Kearney, Columbus, and Scottsbluff, use debt collectors.Lincoln Public Schools indicated the average of the 1700 debts they sent to collections was $67. Only one bill was over $200. The district got back less than a quarter of what was owed. The collection agency received 40% of the amounts they collected. Since the article, Lincoln Public Schools has stopped the practice of using agencies to collect school lunch debt.According to Flatwater Free Press, Scottsbluff Public Schools sent about 50 debts to collections last school year and all were over $100. The district recouped 9% of the roughly $12,500 it was owed. Kearney Public Schools referred nearly 60 debts averaging $500 in the last year. The collector has gotten back less than 2% of the $29,500 owed.What should you do if you are contacted by a debt collector?According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, there is certain information they must give you, either in the initial communication or within five days.A statement that the communication is from a debt collector&nbsp;Your name and mailing information, along with the name and mailing information of the debt collectorThe name of the creditor or creditors you owe the debt to&nbsp;The account number associated with the debt (if any)&nbsp;An itemization of the current amount of the debt that reflects interest, fees, payments, and credits since a particular date&nbsp;The current amount of the debt when the notice is provided&nbsp;Information you can use to reply to the debt collector, such as if you believe the debt is not yours or if the amount is wrong&nbsp;An end date for a 30-day period when you can dispute the debtIf you don’t believe you owe the debt or believe the amount is wrong, you can ask for more information. You can dispute the bill. This must be in writing and within 30 days. If you don't send a written letter to the debt collector, you may lose your rights.After receiving your letter, the debt collector must pause trying to collect the debt until they've investigated your concern and verified that you owe the money.Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, there are certain things a debt collection agency may not do. They cannot contact you before 8:00 am or after 9:00 pm. They cannot contact you at work unless your business allows personal contacts. They may not post your debt publicly on social media. If they've contacted you via email, text, or private message on social media, they must explain that you can opt out of that communication method. They may not harass you. If you have an attorney, they must go through the attorney.If you need more information, go online to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, consumerfinance.gov.

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