LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen will hold town halls in Scottsbluff, North Platte and Kearney following the delivery of his annual State of the State Address on Thursday, Jan. 18 at 10 a.m. The fly around will happen on Friday, Jan. 19.

Events are open to the public and&nbsp;open to credentialed media.

The stops, times and locations are below:

7:30 a.m. (MT)&nbsp;SCOTTSBLUFF:&nbsp; Platte Valley Community Room, 1106 Platte Valley Drive

11:30 a.m. (CT)&nbsp;NORTH PLATTE: Lee Bird Regional Airport Conference Room, 5400 East Lee Bird Drive

2:30 p.m. (CT)&nbsp;KEARNEY: Younes Conference Center (South), 416 Talmadge Road

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen will hold town halls in Scottsbluff, North Platte and Kearney following the delivery of his annual State of the State Address on Thursday, Jan. 18 at 10 a.m. The fly around will happen on Friday, Jan. 19.Events are open to the public and&nbsp;open to credentialed media.The stops, times and locations are below:Friday, January 197:30 a.m. (MT)&nbsp;SCOTTSBLUFF:&nbsp; Platte Valley Community Room, 1106 Platte Valley Drive11:30 a.m. (CT)&nbsp;NORTH PLATTE: Lee Bird Regional Airport Conference Room, 5400 East Lee Bird Drive2:30 p.m. (CT)&nbsp;KEARNEY: Younes Conference Center (South), 416 Talmadge Road

Governor Pillen to speak in Scottsbluff on Friday

By Office of Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen

LINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;On Wednesday,&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen partnered with state senator Ben Hansen to introduce legislation aimed at making Nebraska more competitive in the name, image, and likeness (NIL) space.

“I am committed to making sure Nebraska has the tools it needs to win,” said Governor Pillen. “We need to encourage young athletes to move here. I appreciate the collaboration with Trev Alberts, his team at the University of Nebraska Athletic Department, and Senator Hansen to guarantee we are the most competitive and attractive state in this space.”

This legislation empowers our postsecondary institutions to utilize all the tools in their toolbox to attract the best talent. NIL is a billion-dollar industry, changing the landscape of college athletics. It will give postsecondary institutions the ability to work more closely with student-athletes allowing our universities and colleges to protect these young athletes and ensure they are not being misled. This legislation will make sure all participants in NIL are protected, especially the student-athletes.

“I applaud the Governor and University of Nebraska’s Athletic Department on seeing the competitive advantage to update these statues,” said Senator Hansen. “I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to ensure we have all the tools to recruit talent to Nebraska.”&nbsp;

“I appreciate the work by Senator Hansen and the Governor’s office to propose an update to the Name, Image, and Likeness bill for the State of Nebraska. We applaud any measures that streamline the NIL process and give greater flexibility to student-athletes and athletic departments in our state to efficiently navigate the space. Nebraska Athletics has a long history of supporting enhancements to student-athlete experience and this legislation would be another positive step in that direction.” Trev Alberts, University of Nebraska Athletic Director.

By Office of Nebraska Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;On Wednesday,&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen partnered with state senator Ben Hansen to introduce legislation aimed at making Nebraska more competitive in the name, image, and likeness (NIL) space.“I am committed to making sure Nebraska has the tools it needs to win,” said Governor Pillen. “We need to encourage young athletes to move here. I appreciate the collaboration with Trev Alberts, his team at the University of Nebraska Athletic Department, and Senator Hansen to guarantee we are the most competitive and attractive state in this space.”This legislation empowers our postsecondary institutions to utilize all the tools in their toolbox to attract the best talent. NIL is a billion-dollar industry, changing the landscape of college athletics. It will give postsecondary institutions the ability to work more closely with student-athletes allowing our universities and colleges to protect these young athletes and ensure they are not being misled. This legislation will make sure all participants in NIL are protected, especially the student-athletes.“I applaud the Governor and University of Nebraska’s Athletic Department on seeing the competitive advantage to update these statues,” said Senator Hansen. “I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to ensure we have all the tools to recruit talent to Nebraska.”&nbsp;“I appreciate the work by Senator Hansen and the Governor’s office to propose an update to the Name, Image, and Likeness bill for the State of Nebraska. We applaud any measures that streamline the NIL process and give greater flexibility to student-athletes and athletic departments in our state to efficiently navigate the space. Nebraska Athletics has a long history of supporting enhancements to student-athlete experience and this legislation would be another positive step in that direction.” Trev Alberts, University of Nebraska Athletic Director.

Governor Pillen & Senator Hansen Partner to Make Nebraska More Competitive on NIL

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 1/17/24

Author’s note: This is the first in a series.

“Do you have a lot?” “Yes,” I say 7 times out of 10 when carrying the first crate of donated food through the kitchen for Community Table. Whitney, the not-for-profit’s coordinator, and her daughter helped unload the Keep Alliance Beautiful pickup a week or so ago. We paused for a moment as Whitney showed me a green salad she had assembled for that day’s lunch. Yeah, it looked tasty, but the real significance came from the source of the lettuce – the initial harvest at St. John’s greenhouse.

Success of the Lutheran church’s indoor garden along Emerson Avenue, “St. John’s Greenhouse Coming Together After Delays”, published/posted in August, stirred memories of that project and other topics I wrote about for KAB throughout 2023. I decided to comb through those columns after Kathy Worley, our executive director, related another update concerning “AMS Student Creates Bags to Benefit KAB”, April. The student, Bayje Neal, had made another donation from sales of her upcycled accessories. Her latest contribution tallied $42 for the ongoing fundraiser.

People interviewed in both of the stories above shared expectations for how their efforts would make a difference.

Bayje, daughter of Jason and Destiny Neal, described support from her family as she honed sewing and entrepreneurship skills. What could have been a short-term effort has proved a lasting commitment, “. . . I thought it’d be good to give back to the community,” Bayje said this past spring.

Greenhouse committee members and volunteers looked ahead from the vantage point of late summer to envision a budding oasis as the chill would settle in. Potential produce would benefit the church and larger community while the 17 x 102-foot building promised involvement and education.

The south-facing structure, donated by Russ Finch of Greenhouse in the Snow, lived up to that moniker as I walked in today (Jan. 11) under a gray sky and flurries. Though not tropical, the temperature inside was a balmy 52 degrees compared to 5 above outside. Michele and Warner Schulze and Harold Roller were discussing the most efficient ways to employ supplemental heat sources that afternoon and evening. A built-in natural gas heater had yet to be connected by a local utility company.

Yet, prior to this season’s first deep freeze, dozens of plant varieties have taken hold in the past month or two with trees (including banana, orange and lime) planted during October. Pineapples are next on the list. Cacti and other exotic plants salvaged from when Russ’s greenhouse collapsed are found throughout the space. Every level holds carefully selected plants identified by species. Flowers were planted for pollinators. A tiger salamander or two have made themselves at home, eating some of the bugs. There is a compost pile started on the east end.

Radishes have been harvested in addition to lettuce. We will start by putting out vegetables on our table at church to take home, Michele said, and “Seeing what will grow and how well it will grow.”

Author’s note: This is the first in a series.By JOHN E. WEARE“Do you have a lot?” “Yes,” I say 7 times out of 10 when carrying the first crate of donated food through the kitchen for Community Table. Whitney, the not-for-profit’s coordinator, and her daughter helped unload the Keep Alliance Beautiful pickup a week or so ago. We paused for a moment as Whitney showed me a green salad she had assembled for that day’s lunch. Yeah, it looked tasty, but the real significance came from the source of the lettuce – the initial harvest at St. John’s greenhouse.Success of the Lutheran church’s indoor garden along Emerson Avenue, “St. John’s Greenhouse Coming Together After Delays”, published/posted in August, stirred memories of that project and other topics I wrote about for KAB throughout 2023. I decided to comb through those columns after Kathy Worley, our executive director, related another update concerning “AMS Student Creates Bags to Benefit KAB”, April. The student, Bayje Neal, had made another donation from sales of her upcycled accessories. Her latest contribution tallied $42 for the ongoing fundraiser.People interviewed in both of the stories above shared expectations for how their efforts would make a difference.Bayje, daughter of Jason and Destiny Neal, described support from her family as she honed sewing and entrepreneurship skills. What could have been a short-term effort has proved a lasting commitment, “. . . I thought it’d be good to give back to the community,” Bayje said this past spring.Greenhouse committee members and volunteers looked ahead from the vantage point of late summer to envision a budding oasis as the chill would settle in. Potential produce would benefit the church and larger community while the 17 x 102-foot building promised involvement and education.The south-facing structure, donated by Russ Finch of Greenhouse in the Snow, lived up to that moniker as I walked in today (Jan. 11) under a gray sky and flurries. Though not tropical, the temperature inside was a balmy 52 degrees compared to 5 above outside. Michele and Warner Schulze and Harold Roller were discussing the most efficient ways to employ supplemental heat sources that afternoon and evening. A built-in natural gas heater had yet to be connected by a local utility company.Yet, prior to this season’s first deep freeze, dozens of plant varieties have taken hold in the past month or two with trees (including banana, orange and lime) planted during October. Pineapples are next on the list. Cacti and other exotic plants salvaged from when Russ’s greenhouse collapsed are found throughout the space. Every level holds carefully selected plants identified by species. Flowers were planted for pollinators. A tiger salamander or two have made themselves at home, eating some of the bugs. There is a compost pile started on the east end.Radishes have been harvested in addition to lettuce. We will start by putting out vegetables on our table at church to take home, Michele said, and “Seeing what will grow and how well it will grow.”

Keep Alliance Beautiful: 2023 Post Script series

Nebraska Extension will host grain marketing workshops for farmers in Oshkosh and Crawford.

Do you ever wonder what analysts are really saying about the grain markets? Nebraska Extension Educator, Jessica Groskopf, will use real audio and video examples. This workshop will help you get the “market talk” decoded. She will discuss basis, bears, bulls, long, short, and more!

“With grain prices falling, it is time for farmers to sharpen their marketing skills,” Groskopf said. “This workshop is an opportunity to look at the coming year and the forces driving the current grain market conditions.”

The program is free to attend. Pre-registration is requested one week prior to each workshop.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705432978542.jpeg" alt="Cornfield in Western Nebraska. Photo by Chabella Guzman" />
 <figcaption>Cornfield in Western Nebraska. Photo by Chabella Guzman</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Extension will host grain marketing workshops for farmers in Oshkosh and Crawford.Do you ever wonder what analysts are really saying about the grain markets? Nebraska Extension Educator, Jessica Groskopf, will use real audio and video examples. This workshop will help you get the “market talk” decoded. She will discuss basis, bears, bulls, long, short, and more!“With grain prices falling, it is time for farmers to sharpen their marketing skills,” Groskopf said. “This workshop is an opportunity to look at the coming year and the forces driving the current grain market conditions.”The program is free to attend. Pre-registration is requested one week prior to each workshop.<ul>
 <li>Crawford – Jan. 31 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Crawford Fire Hall (3450 Hwy 20). To register, call Dawes County Extension Office at 308-432-3373</li><li>Oshkosh – Feb. 7 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Oshkosh Methodist Church (497 W 3rd St). To register, call the Garden County Extension Office at 308-772-3311.</li>
 </ul>

Nebraska Extension to host grain marketing workshops in Crawford and Oshkosh

Alliance City Council to proclaim Jordan Hooper Day, among other items

Alliance native Jordan Hopp talks transfer to Penn State volleyball after her career at Iowa State. Listen to the full conversation with KCOW Sports Director Alex Benzegala above.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Jordan Hopp talks transfering to Penn State Volleyball" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=8axhg-15503b1-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705422078041.jpeg" alt="Jordan Hopp Photo by dignittanyvolleyball.com (Co-publishers Ethan Kasales and Daniel Chun)" />
 <figcaption>Jordan Hopp Photo by dignittanyvolleyball.com (Co-publishers Ethan Kasales and Daniel Chun)</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance native Jordan Hopp talks transfer to Penn State volleyball after her career at Iowa State. Listen to the full conversation with KCOW Sports Director Alex Benzegala above.&nbsp;

POST PODCAST: Alliance's Jordan Hopp talks transfer to Penn State Volleyball

Alliance, NE – Due to weather conditions and technical difficulties with their heater, the Alliance Public Library will be closed today, Tuesday, January 16th.

For more information, please call Culture &amp; Leisure Services Director, Shana Brown at (308) 762-2384.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Due to weather conditions and technical difficulties with their heater, the Alliance Public Library will be closed today, Tuesday, January 16th.For more information, please call Culture &amp; Leisure Services Director, Shana Brown at (308) 762-2384.

Alliance Public Library Closed Today

Keep Chadron Beautiful will be collecting recycling, Saturday, January 20, from 9:00 – 12:00. Due to potential winter weather, the collection location will be moved from Nebraska Bank to the DAWES COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS. Monthly recycling collection will continue to be held on the third Saturday of each month.

Acceptable recyclables include Cardboard, Paperboard, Newspapers, Magazines, Tin &amp; Steel cans, Aluminum cans, Milk Jugs, #1 - #7 Plastics, Glass jars and bottles.

Please call Keep Chadron Beautiful at 432-5959 if you have questions or to volunteer.

By Keep Chadron BeautifulKeep Chadron Beautiful will be collecting recycling, Saturday, January 20, from 9:00 – 12:00. Due to potential winter weather, the collection location will be moved from Nebraska Bank to the DAWES COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS. Monthly recycling collection will continue to be held on the third Saturday of each month.Acceptable recyclables include Cardboard, Paperboard, Newspapers, Magazines, Tin &amp; Steel cans, Aluminum cans, Milk Jugs, #1 - #7 Plastics, Glass jars and bottles.Please call Keep Chadron Beautiful at 432-5959 if you have questions or to volunteer.

Recycling in Chadron on Saturday

&nbsp;Joint press release by Farmers Cooperative Elevator Co. &amp; Panhandle Coop Association

On January 11, 2024, during Special Membership Meetings of Farmers Cooperative Elevator Co. and Panhandle Coop, ballots were certified in favor of the merger between the two agriculture retail companies into Legacy Cooperative.

The unification votes of both cooperatives resulted in a member ballot return which exceeded the quorum requirement, and overall approval votes exceeded the majority threshold for the cooperative unification to pass. Both boards of directors are pleased with the results, indicating mutual support of members for future growth and opportunities.

“We are excited to bring these two great cooperatives together for the benefit of our patrons, employees, customers, and communities. Legacy will be a cooperative leader in our region as we continue to provide exceptional goods and services that all our patrons and customers need and want. Legacy Cooperative will build on the history of these two cooperatives to develop and grow a legacy for future generations of stockholders, employees, customers, and patrons,” states Douglas Olsen Panhandle Cooperative Board Chair

“The boards of both companies recognized the culture similarities of boards and management and the opportunities that a combined company could offer its members,” says John Haas, Chairman of the Farmers Coop board. “This merger strengthens the positions of both cooperatives into the future while continuing the support of our communities.”

Charlie Wright, current CEO of Panhandle Coop will serve as Legacy Cooperative’s CEO. Bart Moseman, current Farmers Coop CEO, will continue in a leadership role as Legacy Cooperative’s COO.

“I would like to thank the forward thinking members of both cooperatives that brought together two regional powerhouses known for their commitment to excellence and solutions. Legacy Cooperative will leverage the collective expertise, resources, and cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize service to our combined trade areas while offering solutions to feed the world,” says Wright.

Legacy Cooperative will begin conducting unified business effective March 1, 2024. Grain, Agronomy, Feed, Energy, and Grocery are the services offered throughout the panhandle of Nebraska as well as into southwest South Dakota, eastern Wyoming, and northeastern Colorado.

&nbsp;Joint press release by Farmers Cooperative Elevator Co. &amp; Panhandle Coop AssociationOn January 11, 2024, during Special Membership Meetings of Farmers Cooperative Elevator Co. and Panhandle Coop, ballots were certified in favor of the merger between the two agriculture retail companies into Legacy Cooperative.The unification votes of both cooperatives resulted in a member ballot return which exceeded the quorum requirement, and overall approval votes exceeded the majority threshold for the cooperative unification to pass. Both boards of directors are pleased with the results, indicating mutual support of members for future growth and opportunities.“We are excited to bring these two great cooperatives together for the benefit of our patrons, employees, customers, and communities. Legacy will be a cooperative leader in our region as we continue to provide exceptional goods and services that all our patrons and customers need and want. Legacy Cooperative will build on the history of these two cooperatives to develop and grow a legacy for future generations of stockholders, employees, customers, and patrons,” states Douglas Olsen Panhandle Cooperative Board Chair“The boards of both companies recognized the culture similarities of boards and management and the opportunities that a combined company could offer its members,” says John Haas, Chairman of the Farmers Coop board. “This merger strengthens the positions of both cooperatives into the future while continuing the support of our communities.”Charlie Wright, current CEO of Panhandle Coop will serve as Legacy Cooperative’s CEO. Bart Moseman, current Farmers Coop CEO, will continue in a leadership role as Legacy Cooperative’s COO.“I would like to thank the forward thinking members of both cooperatives that brought together two regional powerhouses known for their commitment to excellence and solutions. Legacy Cooperative will leverage the collective expertise, resources, and cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize service to our combined trade areas while offering solutions to feed the world,” says Wright.Legacy Cooperative will begin conducting unified business effective March 1, 2024. Grain, Agronomy, Feed, Energy, and Grocery are the services offered throughout the panhandle of Nebraska as well as into southwest South Dakota, eastern Wyoming, and northeastern Colorado.

Farmers Cooperative Elevator Co. and Panhandle Coop Approve Merge

&nbsp; By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

An Alliance woman who allegedly stabbed an intimate partner in July will be going to trial for attempted murder, according to Box Butte County District documents.&nbsp;

29-year-old Rebecca Ashing is accused of using a knife to stab her then partner Cody Dauel on the evening of July 13, 2023 on Potash Ave in Alliance. Dauel was transported to Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance, where he was deemed to be in stable condition.

Ashing faces one count of Attempted First Degree Murder, a Class II Felony. Other charges include Use of a Deadly Weapon to Commit a Felony, a Class IIA Felony, and Domestic Assault in the 2nd degree, a Class IIA Felony.

Her trial is slated for April 15th – 17th with her pretrial conference scheduled for March 13th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705340431058.jpeg" alt="Rebecca Ashing" />
 <figcaption>Rebecca Ashing</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAn Alliance woman who allegedly stabbed an intimate partner in July will be going to trial for attempted murder, according to Box Butte County District documents.&nbsp;29-year-old Rebecca Ashing is accused of using a knife to stab her then partner Cody Dauel on the evening of July 13, 2023 on Potash Ave in Alliance. Dauel was transported to Box Butte General Hospital in Alliance, where he was deemed to be in stable condition.Ashing faces one count of Attempted First Degree Murder, a Class II Felony. Other charges include Use of a Deadly Weapon to Commit a Felony, a Class IIA Felony, and Domestic Assault in the 2nd degree, a Class IIA Felony.Her trial is slated for April 15th – 17th with her pretrial conference scheduled for March 13th.

Alliance woman who allegedly stabbed partner faces April trial

&nbsp; The Sidney Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a semi-trailer fire. Department responded with One Engine, One Heavy Rescue, and Two Command. The fire was under control within 5 minutes of arrival. The lone operator of the vehicle was asleep in the tractor at the time of the fire and was alerted by someone pulling in for fuel. 

Together the two were able to disconnect the trailer as well as alert operators of nearby vehicles to get moved before the fire could spread. Temperature at the time of the fire was -7°. Crews returned to the station at 04:29.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705337731639.jpeg" alt="Sindey FF&nbsp; working on putting out the semi-trailer fire. Photo from SVFD" />
 <figcaption>Sindey FF&nbsp; working on putting out the semi-trailer fire. Photo from SVFD</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; The Sidney Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a semi-trailer fire. Department responded with One Engine, One Heavy Rescue, and Two Command. The fire was under control within 5 minutes of arrival. The lone operator of the vehicle was asleep in the tractor at the time of the fire and was alerted by someone pulling in for fuel. Together the two were able to disconnect the trailer as well as alert operators of nearby vehicles to get moved before the fire could spread. Temperature at the time of the fire was -7°. Crews returned to the station at 04:29.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid0WvCeMdW9sqSLUdFzGAADctbb4n2hSwuPzc5JN8vGDt2b8PNHfSohdtZ4fv467F5Al%26id%3D100064878333132&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="799" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Sidney Fire Fighters battled semi-trailer fire early Sunday morning

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

&nbsp; The City of Chadron issued statement that there was a water main break on Cedar St on Monday morning, close to the Middle School.

This created issues on Cedar for several blocks, and crews have spent the morning fixing the leak, though weather conditions have made it difficult.

The public is advised to avoid the area until the water main break is fixed.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post&nbsp; The City of Chadron issued statement that there was a water main break on Cedar St on Monday morning, close to the Middle School.This created issues on Cedar for several blocks, and crews have spent the morning fixing the leak, though weather conditions have made it difficult.The public is advised to avoid the area until the water main break is fixed.

Water main break in Chadron causes issues 

With Alliance Public Schools canceling school on Monday, Alliance's basketball double-header against Rapid City Christian on Monday has also been postponed.&nbsp;

As of this release, the Alliance vs. Gordon-Rushville basketball double header in Alliance on Tuesday night will go on as scheduled starting at 6 p.m.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostWith Alliance Public Schools canceling school on Monday, Alliance's basketball double-header against Rapid City Christian on Monday has also been postponed.&nbsp;As of this release, the Alliance vs. Gordon-Rushville basketball double header in Alliance on Tuesday night will go on as scheduled starting at 6 p.m.

APS cancels school Monday, basketball doubleheader vs. Rapid City Christian postponed.

Alliance, NE – Due to weather conditions, the Senior Center and Nutrition Site will be closed today, Monday, January 15th. Nutrition Site meals will not be delivered today.

All previously scheduled RSVP volunteering services have been cancelled for today, Monday, January 15th.

For more information, please call Angie Flesner (308) 762-1293.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Due to weather conditions, the Senior Center and Nutrition Site will be closed today, Monday, January 15th. Nutrition Site meals will not be delivered today.All previously scheduled RSVP volunteering services have been cancelled for today, Monday, January 15th.For more information, please call Angie Flesner (308) 762-1293.

Alliance Senior Center Closed

By&nbsp;<a href="https://dignittanyvolleyball.com/author/ethank/">Ethan Kasales</a> DigNittanyVolleyball.com

Story originally published by DigNittanyVolleyball.com. All credit in this story goes to them.

Jordan Hopp, a 6-foot-2 middle blocker from Alliance, Nebraska, announced her transfer from Iowa State to Penn State women’s volleyball Saturday evening on her Instagram account and will join the program after her graduation this spring.

Hopp, a member of the 2020 recruiting class, is technically a redshirt junior with two years of eligibility remaining due to her bonus season granted by the NCAA in the wake of COVID-19. She had 199 kills and led the Cyclones with a .325 hitting percentage in 2023, which&nbsp;<a href="https://big12sports.com/stats.aspx?path=vb&amp;year=2023" target="_blank">ranked ninth</a>&nbsp;among Big 12 players, and added a team-high 104 total blocks.

“I am excited to announce my commitment to Penn State,” Hopp wrote on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2DgRZBOHjM/?igsh=cWdoZ3VxNnU0OHk2" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. “Thank you Cyclone nation for the opportunities, love, and support. See you soon, Happy Valley.”

Hopp visited Penn State’s campus last Wednesday and Thursday, touring the facilities with the coaching staff and attending the men’s volleyball team’s sweep of Lees-McRae at Rec Hall. Hopp will join Penn State middle blockers Taylor Trammell, Maggie Mendelson, and Catherine Burke on the program’s 2024 roster. Hopp wore No. 5 in her photoshoot donning a couple different Penn State uniforms.

Hopp is the third player to join the Nittany Lions via the transfer portal this offseason, as they also landed&nbsp;<a href="https://dignittanyvolleyball.com/maggie-mendelson-transfers-to-penn-state-volleyball/" target="_blank">Mendelson</a>&nbsp;and pin hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://dignittanyvolleyball.com/caroline-jurevicius-transfers-to-penn-state-volleyball/" target="_blank">Caroline Jurevicius</a>&nbsp;from Nebraska, both of whom are enrolled in classes at Penn State for the spring semester. After finishing up her undergraduate degree at Iowa State, Hopp will likely arrive in University Park sometime in May.

Hopp was a three-sport athlete at Alliance High School, also lettering all four years in basketball and track and field, but given her hometown’s lack of proximity to a club program (the closest being four hours away in Denver, Colorado, or six hours away in Lincoln, Nebraska), she did not play club volleyball growing up. Hopp had 623 kills and 407 total blocks for the Bulldogs, per&nbsp;<a href="https://www.maxpreps.com/ne/alliance/alliance-bulldogs/athletes/jordan-hopp/volleyball/stats/?careerid=mc3tciv070f44" target="_blank">MaxPreps</a>, recording 100-plus blocks each of her final three varsity seasons.

“Because of where I lived, there was no national club around, so I decided to continue to play three sports in high school,” Hopp said in a November 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://cyclones.com/news/2023/11/6/volleyball-breakout-season-jordan-hopps-iowa-state-journey.aspx" target="_blank">article</a>. “During the summertime, I would sign up for the elite camps at Division I colleges and play with top recruits around the country. In between each camp, I participated in high school team camps for volleyball and basketball. It was always my goal to play Division I sports, but not until the high school level is when I truly found the passion for volleyball.”

Hopp took two swings in her collegiate debut as a true freshman in 2020 against Wayne State, then didn’t see any action the following season, but made solid strides as a junior in 2022, with her best performance coming against Penn State in LSU’s Tiger Challenge on September 2 in Baton Rouge. Hopp had a season-high 12 kills, hit .409, and added two total blocks and an ace in Penn State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://dignittanyvolleyball.com/penn-state-volleyball-beats-iowa-state-troy-in-doubleheader/" target="_blank">3-1 win</a>&nbsp;over the Cyclones, finishing the year with 35 kills and 22 total blocks.

“When you haven’t played club, it can be hard to catch up on all those reps, and that’s what Jordan was facing her first couple of years,” Iowa State head coach Christy Johnson-Lynch said in the same in-house article in which Hopp was quoted. “She was trying to catch up compared to other middles who came in who had so many more repetitions over the years.”

Hopp started all 30 matches for Iowa State in 2023, putting together by far her best collegiate season so far. Hopp had a career-high 14 kills in a pair of 3-2 road wins over Iowa and Houston, which eventually took No. 1 seed Stanford to five sets in the second round of the NCAA tournament. Hopp had seven total blocks against the Cougars and a career-high nine in a 3-2 road win over Grand Canyon on September 2, 2023.

Hopp will now have the chance to continue improving her game under the tutelage of Katie Schumacher-Cawley and her staff in the highly competitive environment of practice in South Gym at Rec Hall. She will compete with Trammell, Mendelson, and Burke for playing time.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://dignittanyvolleyball.com/author/ethank/">Ethan Kasales</a> DigNittanyVolleyball.com Story originally published by DigNittanyVolleyball.com. All credit in this story goes to them.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705288114881.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Photo by dignittanyvolleyball.com&nbsp; (Co-publishers Ethan Kasales and Daniel Chun)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Photo by dignittanyvolleyball.com&nbsp; (Co-publishers Ethan Kasales and Daniel Chun)</figcaption>
 </figure>Jordan Hopp, a 6-foot-2 middle blocker from Alliance, Nebraska, announced her transfer from Iowa State to Penn State women’s volleyball Saturday evening on her Instagram account and will join the program after her graduation this spring.Hopp, a member of the 2020 recruiting class, is technically a redshirt junior with two years of eligibility remaining due to her bonus season granted by the NCAA in the wake of COVID-19. She had 199 kills and led the Cyclones with a .325 hitting percentage in 2023, which&nbsp;<a href="https://big12sports.com/stats.aspx?path=vb&amp;year=2023" target="_blank">ranked ninth</a>&nbsp;among Big 12 players, and added a team-high 104 total blocks.“I am excited to announce my commitment to Penn State,” Hopp wrote on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2DgRZBOHjM/?igsh=cWdoZ3VxNnU0OHk2" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. “Thank you Cyclone nation for the opportunities, love, and support. See you soon, Happy Valley.”Hopp visited Penn State’s campus last Wednesday and Thursday, touring the facilities with the coaching staff and attending the men’s volleyball team’s sweep of Lees-McRae at Rec Hall. Hopp will join Penn State middle blockers Taylor Trammell, Maggie Mendelson, and Catherine Burke on the program’s 2024 roster. Hopp wore No. 5 in her photoshoot donning a couple different Penn State uniforms.Hopp is the third player to join the Nittany Lions via the transfer portal this offseason, as they also landed&nbsp;<a href="https://dignittanyvolleyball.com/maggie-mendelson-transfers-to-penn-state-volleyball/" target="_blank">Mendelson</a>&nbsp;and pin hitter&nbsp;<a href="https://dignittanyvolleyball.com/caroline-jurevicius-transfers-to-penn-state-volleyball/" target="_blank">Caroline Jurevicius</a>&nbsp;from Nebraska, both of whom are enrolled in classes at Penn State for the spring semester. After finishing up her undergraduate degree at Iowa State, Hopp will likely arrive in University Park sometime in May.Hopp was a three-sport athlete at Alliance High School, also lettering all four years in basketball and track and field, but given her hometown’s lack of proximity to a club program (the closest being four hours away in Denver, Colorado, or six hours away in Lincoln, Nebraska), she did not play club volleyball growing up. Hopp had 623 kills and 407 total blocks for the Bulldogs, per&nbsp;<a href="https://www.maxpreps.com/ne/alliance/alliance-bulldogs/athletes/jordan-hopp/volleyball/stats/?careerid=mc3tciv070f44" target="_blank">MaxPreps</a>, recording 100-plus blocks each of her final three varsity seasons.“Because of where I lived, there was no national club around, so I decided to continue to play three sports in high school,” Hopp said in a November 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://cyclones.com/news/2023/11/6/volleyball-breakout-season-jordan-hopps-iowa-state-journey.aspx" target="_blank">article</a>. “During the summertime, I would sign up for the elite camps at Division I colleges and play with top recruits around the country. In between each camp, I participated in high school team camps for volleyball and basketball. It was always my goal to play Division I sports, but not until the high school level is when I truly found the passion for volleyball.”Hopp took two swings in her collegiate debut as a true freshman in 2020 against Wayne State, then didn’t see any action the following season, but made solid strides as a junior in 2022, with her best performance coming against Penn State in LSU’s Tiger Challenge on September 2 in Baton Rouge. Hopp had a season-high 12 kills, hit .409, and added two total blocks and an ace in Penn State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://dignittanyvolleyball.com/penn-state-volleyball-beats-iowa-state-troy-in-doubleheader/" target="_blank">3-1 win</a>&nbsp;over the Cyclones, finishing the year with 35 kills and 22 total blocks.“When you haven’t played club, it can be hard to catch up on all those reps, and that’s what Jordan was facing her first couple of years,” Iowa State head coach Christy Johnson-Lynch said in the same in-house article in which Hopp was quoted. “She was trying to catch up compared to other middles who came in who had so many more repetitions over the years.”Hopp started all 30 matches for Iowa State in 2023, putting together by far her best collegiate season so far. Hopp had a career-high 14 kills in a pair of 3-2 road wins over Iowa and Houston, which eventually took No. 1 seed Stanford to five sets in the second round of the NCAA tournament. Hopp had seven total blocks against the Cougars and a career-high nine in a 3-2 road win over Grand Canyon on September 2, 2023.Hopp will now have the chance to continue improving her game under the tutelage of Katie Schumacher-Cawley and her staff in the highly competitive environment of practice in South Gym at Rec Hall. She will compete with Trammell, Mendelson, and Burke for playing time.

 Alliance's Jordan Hopp Transfers To Penn State Volleyball

CHADRON – Chadron State College is closing its campus Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, because of winter weather conditions. The residence halls and dining services will remain open.

Extremely cold temperatures are forecast for Chadron and the surrounding area. Due to these frigid temperatures, the National Weather Service is issuing a wind chill warning for Chadron that remains in effect until Monday at 11 a.m. The National Weather Service is predicting dangerously cold wind chills that could be as low as 45 to 55 degrees below zero.&nbsp;

Extremely cold temperatures are forecast for Chadron and the surrounding area. Due to these frigid temperatures, the National Weather Service is issuing a wind chill warning for Chadron that remains in effect until Monday at 11 a.m. The National Weather Service is predicting dangerously cold wind chills that could be as low as 45 to 55 degrees below zero. &nbsp;

The college’s events to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday have been postponed. College officials continue to monitor the winter storm, and if conditions persist, information about a late start or closure will be communicated in the future.

By Chadron State CollegeCHADRON – Chadron State College is closing its campus Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, because of winter weather conditions. The residence halls and dining services will remain open.Extremely cold temperatures are forecast for Chadron and the surrounding area. Due to these frigid temperatures, the National Weather Service is issuing a wind chill warning for Chadron that remains in effect until Monday at 11 a.m. The National Weather Service is predicting dangerously cold wind chills that could be as low as 45 to 55 degrees below zero.&nbsp;Extremely cold temperatures are forecast for Chadron and the surrounding area. Due to these frigid temperatures, the National Weather Service is issuing a wind chill warning for Chadron that remains in effect until Monday at 11 a.m. The National Weather Service is predicting dangerously cold wind chills that could be as low as 45 to 55 degrees below zero. &nbsp;The college’s events to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday have been postponed. College officials continue to monitor the winter storm, and if conditions persist, information about a late start or closure will be communicated in the future.

CSC closed Monday

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Friday, Governor Jim Pillen announced the retirement of Chief Information Officer Ed Toner. His last day with the OCIO will be February 16.

Mark Neemann, a deputy with the OCIO, will serve as interim CIO during the transition and until Gov. Pillen appoints a new chief information officer.

Gov. Pillen thanked Toner for his years of service to the people of the State of Nebraska and wished him well in future endeavors.

A national search, undertaken by the executive search firm Ford Webb Associates, will begin immediately for a new CIO.

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Friday, Governor Jim Pillen announced the retirement of Chief Information Officer Ed Toner. His last day with the OCIO will be February 16.Mark Neemann, a deputy with the OCIO, will serve as interim CIO during the transition and until Gov. Pillen appoints a new chief information officer.Gov. Pillen thanked Toner for his years of service to the people of the State of Nebraska and wished him well in future endeavors.A national search, undertaken by the executive search firm Ford Webb Associates, will begin immediately for a new CIO.

Gov. Pillen Announces Retirement of State Chief Information Officer

The week of January 21-28, 2024 is recognized as School Board Recognition Week in Nebraska to honor those individuals who go above and beyond for all Nebraska public schools, Educational Service Units (ESU) and their students. The local board of education is a uniquely American institution that has made the public schools and ESUs flexible, responsible and accountable to the needs of the local communities, our state, and our nation.&nbsp;

ESU and school board members are extraordinary people who voluntarily tackle the enormous job of governance and do so in a manner that illustrates what it means to be an advocate for our students. While they all come from different backgrounds and live different lives, these individuals come together on their school board with the common goal of helping students grow, learn, and enjoy their educational experiences. More than half of Nebraska school board members are serving in the district they graduated from. These dedicated board members work closely with parents, education professionals and other local citizens to create the educational vision for our communities. They take time away from their jobs and families to participate in monthly meetings and continuing education opportunities.&nbsp;

The board of ESU 13 consists of 12 election districts that cover over 14,000 miles in the Nebraska Panhandle. These members bring the voice of their communities, to each meeting and decision. ESU 13 is fortunate to have the following elected individuals represent their areas on our board:&nbsp;

School and ESU board members exemplify local citizen control and decision-making in education. The ESU 13 staff sends a grateful thanks to the 1,700 locally elected volunteers who make up the Board of Education for Nebraska's Public Schools and ESUs. I hope you’ll take this opportunity to acknowledge the board members in your community who make the time to share their leadership and voice about the future of Nebraska students.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe week of January 21-28, 2024 is recognized as School Board Recognition Week in Nebraska to honor those individuals who go above and beyond for all Nebraska public schools, Educational Service Units (ESU) and their students. The local board of education is a uniquely American institution that has made the public schools and ESUs flexible, responsible and accountable to the needs of the local communities, our state, and our nation.&nbsp;ESU and school board members are extraordinary people who voluntarily tackle the enormous job of governance and do so in a manner that illustrates what it means to be an advocate for our students. While they all come from different backgrounds and live different lives, these individuals come together on their school board with the common goal of helping students grow, learn, and enjoy their educational experiences. More than half of Nebraska school board members are serving in the district they graduated from. These dedicated board members work closely with parents, education professionals and other local citizens to create the educational vision for our communities. They take time away from their jobs and families to participate in monthly meetings and continuing education opportunities.&nbsp;The board of ESU 13 consists of 12 election districts that cover over 14,000 miles in the Nebraska Panhandle. These members bring the voice of their communities, to each meeting and decision. ESU 13 is fortunate to have the following elected individuals represent their areas on our board:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Mark Sinner (President) - Scottsbluff</li><li>Kim Marx (Vice President) - Hay Springs</li><li>Thomas Millette (Secretary) - Bridgeport</li><li>Tim Horn - Hemingford</li><li>Patricia Jones - Alliance</li><li>Dr. Caroline Winchester - Chadron</li><li>Raymond Richards - Scottsbluff</li><li>Dr. Ronda Kinsey - Scottsbluff</li><li>Scott Marsh - Gering</li><li>Diane Coon - Bayard</li><li>Casper Ningen - Sidney</li><li>Steve Diemoz - Kimball </li>
 </ul>School and ESU board members exemplify local citizen control and decision-making in education. The ESU 13 staff sends a grateful thanks to the 1,700 locally elected volunteers who make up the Board of Education for Nebraska's Public Schools and ESUs. I hope you’ll take this opportunity to acknowledge the board members in your community who make the time to share their leadership and voice about the future of Nebraska students.

Alliance's Patricia Jones, Hemingford's Tim Horn among School Board Members recognized by ESU 13

The Alliance Recreation Center announces current operations director, Revé Fries as Interim Executive Director. Revé brings more than 20 years of nonprofit experience serving the communities of Holdrege, Kearney, and Alliance, most recently as the Operations Director at the Alliance Rec Center. &nbsp;

Revé’s term as Interim Executive Director will begin January 15, 2024. “We are thrilled to have Revé as our interim executive director,” said Sean Ridgeway, Alliance Recreation Center’s Board President. “Revé has a blend of experience across recreation, wellness, nonprofit service, and leadership, all of which will help us expand our offerings and increase value for our community.” &nbsp;

As Interim Executive Director of the Alliance Recreation Center, Revé will oversee the ARC which is dedicated to unifying and strengthening the community of Alliance. “The Alliance Recreation Center has a significant community role in supporting health and wellbeing for all, and our organization’s future is bright. We have many community partnerships, members, programs, opportunities, and projects that will address some of our community’s most pressing issues. I look forward to applying my passion for community and experience to help the ARC continue to lead positive change,” shares Fries.&nbsp;

Revé has over 20 years’ experience in the recreation, wellness, and nonprofit sector. For the past six years, she has served as the Operations Director for the Alliance Recreation Center. In this role, she has been an integral part of facility and weight room remodels, as well as developing critical programs like ARC AfterSchool, Summer Camp, and sports programs including youth basketball, futsal, and football. Her expertise led to the redesign of the group exercise and childcare components of the organization and helped drive sustainable membership growth. Revé is also a Girls Basketball Coach at Alliance Public Schools. Prior to her service at the Alliance Recreation Center, she worked as the Health and Wellness Manager for YMCA of the Prairie in Holdrege, Nebraska as well as the Group Fitness Manager at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Together with her husband, Revé has two children. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705081976406.jpeg" alt="Revé Fries&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Revé Fries&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Alliance Recreation CenterThe Alliance Recreation Center announces current operations director, Revé Fries as Interim Executive Director. Revé brings more than 20 years of nonprofit experience serving the communities of Holdrege, Kearney, and Alliance, most recently as the Operations Director at the Alliance Rec Center. &nbsp;Revé’s term as Interim Executive Director will begin January 15, 2024. “We are thrilled to have Revé as our interim executive director,” said Sean Ridgeway, Alliance Recreation Center’s Board President. “Revé has a blend of experience across recreation, wellness, nonprofit service, and leadership, all of which will help us expand our offerings and increase value for our community.” &nbsp;As Interim Executive Director of the Alliance Recreation Center, Revé will oversee the ARC which is dedicated to unifying and strengthening the community of Alliance. “The Alliance Recreation Center has a significant community role in supporting health and wellbeing for all, and our organization’s future is bright. We have many community partnerships, members, programs, opportunities, and projects that will address some of our community’s most pressing issues. I look forward to applying my passion for community and experience to help the ARC continue to lead positive change,” shares Fries.&nbsp;Revé has over 20 years’ experience in the recreation, wellness, and nonprofit sector. For the past six years, she has served as the Operations Director for the Alliance Recreation Center. In this role, she has been an integral part of facility and weight room remodels, as well as developing critical programs like ARC AfterSchool, Summer Camp, and sports programs including youth basketball, futsal, and football. Her expertise led to the redesign of the group exercise and childcare components of the organization and helped drive sustainable membership growth. Revé is also a Girls Basketball Coach at Alliance Public Schools. Prior to her service at the Alliance Recreation Center, she worked as the Health and Wellness Manager for YMCA of the Prairie in Holdrege, Nebraska as well as the Group Fitness Manager at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Together with her husband, Revé has two children. &nbsp;

Revé Fries named Interim Executive Director for the Alliance Recreation Center  

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 1/12/24

Guests from Alliance Head Start discuss the Pancake Feed fundraiser on January 13th.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alliance Head Start" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=33jyi-154a18b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Guests from Alliance Head Start discuss the Pancake Feed fundraiser on January 13th.

POST PODCAST: Alliance Head Start leaders talk pancake feed in Alliance

By Office of Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Jacqueline Russell to the state’s Tax Equalization and Review Commission (TERC). Russell, who currently serves as the Adams County Assessor, will start Jan. 29.

“Jackie has over a decade of real-world experience in ensuring statutory obligations are met for property valuations,” said Gov. Pillen. “Her knowledge makes her a great fit for the commission as they review property valuations in Nebraska.”

Prior to her role as county assessor, Russell served as an appraiser, also in Adams County. Before that, she was a real estate agent. Russell received her bachelor’s degree in finance at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.

By Office of Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Jacqueline Russell to the state’s Tax Equalization and Review Commission (TERC). Russell, who currently serves as the Adams County Assessor, will start Jan. 29.“Jackie has over a decade of real-world experience in ensuring statutory obligations are met for property valuations,” said Gov. Pillen. “Her knowledge makes her a great fit for the commission as they review property valuations in Nebraska.”Prior to her role as county assessor, Russell served as an appraiser, also in Adams County. Before that, she was a real estate agent. Russell received her bachelor’s degree in finance at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.###

Gov. Pillen Appoints Jacqueline Russell to the Nebraska Tax Equalization and Review Commission  

By Cody Thomas Nebraska State Patrol

JANUARY 11, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol and Nebraska Department of Transportation are urging caution in extremely cold temperatures throughout the state for the remainder of this week and into next week. Any motorist who becomes stranded during this winter storm should stay with their vehicle and call for help.

“While this storm brings another blast of snow for most of Nebraska, an added danger comes from the extremely cold temperatures we’re expecting,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “If you’re traveling during this storm or over the next several days, it’s critical to be prepared in the event you become stranded.”

Much of the state is expected to receive new snowfall, with several inches possible in some areas. The snowfall will be coupled with strong winds, creating near blizzard conditions. This storm also brings extremely cold temperatures with bitter wind chills predicted through early next week. Wind Chill Warnings, Advisories, and Watches are already in place.

Motorists should always check the Nebraska 511 system for updated travel conditions throughout the state before attempting to travel in winter weather. Any motorist who becomes stranded can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555 and speak directly with an NSP dispatcher. If you become stranded on the road, stay with your vehicle and call for help. The vehicle is the best shelter from the elements and is the easiest thing for emergency personnel to spot while looking for a stranded motorist.

Motorists are encouraged to locate your local Emergency Management Agency to stay up to date on the latest information and access to vital resources.&nbsp;

All travelers are urged to&nbsp;keep a winter weather survival kit in their vehicle. Some basic items to include are: First Aid Kit, phone charger, ice scraper, shovel, small bag of sand, flashlight, blankets or sleeping bags, extra clothing and winter accessories, jumper cables, tow rope, tool kit, red flag or bandana, high energy or dehydrated foods, and bottled water.

So far this week, troopers responded to well over 550 weather-related incidents on the road. Troopers have performed 451 motorist assists, responded to 57 crashes, and assisted other agencies with 68 incidents.

By Cody Thomas Nebraska State PatrolJANUARY 11, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol and Nebraska Department of Transportation are urging caution in extremely cold temperatures throughout the state for the remainder of this week and into next week. Any motorist who becomes stranded during this winter storm should stay with their vehicle and call for help.“While this storm brings another blast of snow for most of Nebraska, an added danger comes from the extremely cold temperatures we’re expecting,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “If you’re traveling during this storm or over the next several days, it’s critical to be prepared in the event you become stranded.”Much of the state is expected to receive new snowfall, with several inches possible in some areas. The snowfall will be coupled with strong winds, creating near blizzard conditions. This storm also brings extremely cold temperatures with bitter wind chills predicted through early next week. Wind Chill Warnings, Advisories, and Watches are already in place.Motorists should always check the Nebraska 511 system for updated travel conditions throughout the state before attempting to travel in winter weather. Any motorist who becomes stranded can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555 and speak directly with an NSP dispatcher. If you become stranded on the road, stay with your vehicle and call for help. The vehicle is the best shelter from the elements and is the easiest thing for emergency personnel to spot while looking for a stranded motorist.Motorists are encouraged to locate your local Emergency Management Agency to stay up to date on the latest information and access to vital resources.&nbsp;All travelers are urged to&nbsp;keep a winter weather survival kit in their vehicle. Some basic items to include are: First Aid Kit, phone charger, ice scraper, shovel, small bag of sand, flashlight, blankets or sleeping bags, extra clothing and winter accessories, jumper cables, tow rope, tool kit, red flag or bandana, high energy or dehydrated foods, and bottled water.So far this week, troopers responded to well over 550 weather-related incidents on the road. Troopers have performed 451 motorist assists, responded to 57 crashes, and assisted other agencies with 68 incidents.

NSP RELEASE - Cold Temps Bring Additional Risk in 2nd Winter Storm This Week

By Chadron State College&nbsp; By College Relations

CHADRON – Chadron State College is closing its campus Friday, Jan. 12, 2024, because of winter weather conditions. The residence halls and dining services will remain open.

Extremely cold temperatures are forecast for Chadron and the surrounding area beginning Friday. Due to these frigid temperatures, the National Weather Service is issuing a wind chill warning for Chadron that begins Friday at 5 p.m. and remains in effect until Monday at 6 a.m. The National Weather Service is predicting dangerously cold wind chills that could be as low as 50 degrees below zero. &nbsp;

By Chadron State College&nbsp; By College RelationsCHADRON – Chadron State College is closing its campus Friday, Jan. 12, 2024, because of winter weather conditions. The residence halls and dining services will remain open.Extremely cold temperatures are forecast for Chadron and the surrounding area beginning Friday. Due to these frigid temperatures, the National Weather Service is issuing a wind chill warning for Chadron that begins Friday at 5 p.m. and remains in effect until Monday at 6 a.m. The National Weather Service is predicting dangerously cold wind chills that could be as low as 50 degrees below zero. &nbsp;

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