P202500035 02:06 JUV : JUVENILE 14 year old female reported as a run away was later located and returned back home Closed - Juvenile / No Custody

P202500036 11:37 JUV : JUVENILE Officer dispatched to report of juvenile with THC vape. Supplier was identified and charges were recommended. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202500037 07:41 MVA : NON INJURY Closed - Resolved

P202500038 07:36 MVA : NON INJURY Closed - Resolved

P202500040 18:21 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Closed - Charges Recommended

P202500041 12:28 MVA : NON INJURY Inactive - Case Suspended

P202500042 15:15 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : officers responded to 1800 block of Alliance ST in reference to criminal mischief Closed - Resolved

P202500042 15:15 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : officers responded to 1800 block of Alliance ST in reference to criminal mischief Inactive - Case Suspended

P202500043 14:44 THEFT : THEFT Inactive - Case Suspended

P202500044 20:25 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Officers responded to Rainbow Motel for a suicidal female in room #18. Upon arrival, a female known to Officer Hoatson as Valerie Cerney was in the bathroom bleeding from her left forearm. EMS responded and transported her to BBGH. Closed - Resolved

P202500045 20:35 OFFICERS RESPONDED TO A CALL OF AN ASSAULT THAT TOOK PLACE IN TRAILER MEADOWS Closed - Charges Recommended

P202500046 07:03 DEATH : UNATTENDED Open - Under Investigation

P202500047 08:33 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS Officers dispatched to disturbance. Male was located and found to be under the influence of a controlled substance, the male fled. Officers were then able to subdue to suspect. Closed - Charges Recommended

By Alliance Police Department01/26/25P202500035 02:06 JUV : JUVENILE 14 year old female reported as a run away was later located and returned back home Closed - Juvenile / No Custody01/26/25 Total: 101/27/25P202500036 11:37 JUV : JUVENILE Officer dispatched to report of juvenile with THC vape. Supplier was identified and charges were recommended. Closed - Charges Recommended01/27/25 Total: 101/28/25P202500037 07:41 MVA : NON INJURY Closed - Resolved01/28/25 Total: 101/29/25P202500038 07:36 MVA : NON INJURY Closed - ResolvedP202500040 18:21 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Closed - Charges Recommended01/29/25 Total: 201/30/25P202500041 12:28 MVA : NON INJURY Inactive - Case SuspendedP202500042 15:15 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : officers responded to 1800 block of Alliance ST in reference to criminal mischief Closed - ResolvedP202500042 15:15 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : officers responded to 1800 block of Alliance ST in reference to criminal mischief Inactive - Case Suspended01/30/25 Total: 301/31/25P202500043 14:44 THEFT : THEFT Inactive - Case SuspendedP202500044 20:25 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Officers responded to Rainbow Motel for a suicidal female in room #18. Upon arrival, a female known to Officer Hoatson as Valerie Cerney was in the bathroom bleeding from her left forearm. EMS responded and transported her to BBGH. Closed - ResolvedP202500045 20:35 OFFICERS RESPONDED TO A CALL OF AN ASSAULT THAT TOOK PLACE IN TRAILER MEADOWS Closed - Charges Recommended01/31/25 Total: 302/01/25P202500046 07:03 DEATH : UNATTENDED Open - Under InvestigationP202500047 08:33 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS Officers dispatched to disturbance. Male was located and found to be under the influence of a controlled substance, the male fled. Officers were then able to subdue to suspect. Closed - Charges Recommended02/01/25 Total: 2Total Records: 13

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

Attorney General Mike Hilgers announced today that a Minatare woman who owns Campbell Pharmacy in Oshkosh, Nebraska, was sentenced to two years of probation and ordered to pay&nbsp;$76,963.90&nbsp;in restitution to Nebraska Medicaid after pleading guilty to one count of filing false Medicaid claims.

Joan Kicken, 65, was charged with one count of Fraudulently Obtaining a Payment on Behalf of a Recipient of Medical Assistance, a class IV felony. The maximum punishment for that crime is two years of imprisonment. There is no minimum. A second charge of forgery was dismissed in return for her guilty plea. Additionally, her pharmacist’s license has been revoked.

A joint investigation by state and federal officials found that Kicken submitted false claims to Nebraska Medicaid for prescription drugs that were not authorized by a medical practitioner. She was paid $76,963.90 for those false claims.

This case was investigated by the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.

By Nebraska Attorney GeneralAttorney General Mike Hilgers announced today that a Minatare woman who owns Campbell Pharmacy in Oshkosh, Nebraska, was sentenced to two years of probation and ordered to pay&nbsp;$76,963.90&nbsp;in restitution to Nebraska Medicaid after pleading guilty to one count of filing false Medicaid claims.Joan Kicken, 65, was charged with one count of Fraudulently Obtaining a Payment on Behalf of a Recipient of Medical Assistance, a class IV felony. The maximum punishment for that crime is two years of imprisonment. There is no minimum. A second charge of forgery was dismissed in return for her guilty plea. Additionally, her pharmacist’s license has been revoked.A joint investigation by state and federal officials found that Kicken submitted false claims to Nebraska Medicaid for prescription drugs that were not authorized by a medical practitioner. She was paid $76,963.90 for those false claims.This case was investigated by the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office.

Minatare woman sentenced to probation, restitution for medicaid fraud

Alliance, NE – Box Butte Development Corporation (BBDC) invites the community to its next Coffee &amp;amp; Conversation event on Tuesday, February 11, at 9:15 a.m., hosted by Bloedorn Lumber in Alliance. This monthly networking event provides an opportunity for businesses to share updates and connect with the community in an informal setting over coffee and snacks.

This month, attendees will hear directly from the team at Bloedorn Lumber about their major expansion and transformation, which turned an underutilized space into a state-of-the-art facility designed to better serve Alliance and the surrounding area. The project, which began in March 2023, has resulted in:

- A massive expansion from 9,600 to 37,000 square feet

- An inventory increase from 13,000 to 26,000 items

- New services, including a tool rental program and a drive-thru lumberyard

- A revitalized space, featuring modern upgrades such as a digital sign, fresh parking lot, fencing, and more

- Job creation, with 4-5 new hires and ongoing hiring efforts

The event is free and open to the public. Whether you’re a local business owner, contractor, or community member, this is a great opportunity to network, learn about a significant local investment, and see the transformation firsthand.

Join us for coffee, conversation, and community connection. No RSVP is required—just stop by and be part of the discussion! If you have questions about the event, please contact BBDC Executive Director Hannah Robinson at 308-762-1800.

By BBDCAlliance, NE – Box Butte Development Corporation (BBDC) invites the community to its next Coffee &amp;amp; Conversation event on Tuesday, February 11, at 9:15 a.m., hosted by Bloedorn Lumber in Alliance. This monthly networking event provides an opportunity for businesses to share updates and connect with the community in an informal setting over coffee and snacks.This month, attendees will hear directly from the team at Bloedorn Lumber about their major expansion and transformation, which turned an underutilized space into a state-of-the-art facility designed to better serve Alliance and the surrounding area. The project, which began in March 2023, has resulted in:- A massive expansion from 9,600 to 37,000 square feet- An inventory increase from 13,000 to 26,000 items- New services, including a tool rental program and a drive-thru lumberyard- A revitalized space, featuring modern upgrades such as a digital sign, fresh parking lot, fencing, and more- Job creation, with 4-5 new hires and ongoing hiring effortsThe event is free and open to the public. Whether you’re a local business owner, contractor, or community member, this is a great opportunity to network, learn about a significant local investment, and see the transformation firsthand.Join us for coffee, conversation, and community connection. No RSVP is required—just stop by and be part of the discussion! If you have questions about the event, please contact BBDC Executive Director Hannah Robinson at 308-762-1800.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738613790091.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Perfect Blend w/ BBDC with Bloedorns to be held Feb. 11

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: A Saucy Discussion

NORTH PLATTE, NEB. — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol SWAT Team have arrested one person following a standoff in Hitchcock County.

At approximately 5:15 p.m. Saturday, NSP received a request from the Hitchcock County Sheriff’s Office regarding an investigation in Stratton. The Sheriff’s Office had responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in which a subject had threatened a family member with a handgun. The victim was able to exit the residence and deputies determined that the subject was alone in the home, in the 800 block of Hamilton Street in Stratton.

The NSP SWAT Team was activated, along with NSP Crisis Negotiators and Drone Operators. Numerous attempts were made to communicate with the subject, but he did not respond. Troopers used drone and robot technology, as well as an NSP Police Service Dog, to determine the subject’s location inside the home.

Just after 3:00 a.m., troopers made entry into the home and located the subject hiding in the basement. He was taken into custody without incident. Keenan Jorschumb, 38, was arrested for making terroristic threats, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, and third-degree assault. He was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.

By NSPNORTH PLATTE, NEB. — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol SWAT Team have arrested one person following a standoff in Hitchcock County.At approximately 5:15 p.m. Saturday, NSP received a request from the Hitchcock County Sheriff’s Office regarding an investigation in Stratton. The Sheriff’s Office had responded to a report of a domestic disturbance in which a subject had threatened a family member with a handgun. The victim was able to exit the residence and deputies determined that the subject was alone in the home, in the 800 block of Hamilton Street in Stratton.The NSP SWAT Team was activated, along with NSP Crisis Negotiators and Drone Operators. Numerous attempts were made to communicate with the subject, but he did not respond. Troopers used drone and robot technology, as well as an NSP Police Service Dog, to determine the subject’s location inside the home.Just after 3:00 a.m., troopers made entry into the home and located the subject hiding in the basement. He was taken into custody without incident. Keenan Jorschumb, 38, was arrested for making terroristic threats, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, and third-degree assault. He was lodged in Lincoln County Jail.

NSP SWAT arrests subject after lengthy standoff in Stratton   

On February 1 st, 2025, at approximately 8:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to the Rainbow Motel for a complaint of a physical disturbance. The reporting party advised that a male, who appeared to be under the influence of drugs, was kicking on his door attempting to get in. Officers arrived on the scene and identified the male as George L Boyd III (I/M 04/13/1992). Boyd appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance, as he was making unusual gestures and statements, at one point claiming to be a “Federal Agent”. Officers also observed what appeared to be a marijuana blunt in the male’s hand.

Officers advised Boyd that he was going to be taken into custody, and Boyd resisted, eventually fleeing&nbsp;down an alley. Officers engaged in a foot pursuit to the 400 block of Toluca where an officer deployed a Bolawrap. After the deployment, the officer attempted to affect an arrest when Boyd swung at the officer with an object in his hand. Additional officers and troopers arrived on scene, and a second Bolawrap was deployed, which allowed officers to subdue Boyd. 

The Bolawrap is a handheld restraint tool that fires a Kevlar tether around a subjects arms or legs. This tool allows officers to manage non- compliant individuals without pain or injury and reduces the need to use higher levels of force. 

A search of Boyd was conducted which revealed several items including methamphetamine, marijuana paraphernalia and marijuana. Boyd was transported to the Box Butte County Jail where he is currently facing charges of:

• Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance

• Possession or use of Drug Paraphernalia

By Alliance Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738598762391.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On February 1 st, 2025, at approximately 8:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to the Rainbow Motel for a complaint of a physical disturbance. The reporting party advised that a male, who appeared to be under the influence of drugs, was kicking on his door attempting to get in. Officers arrived on the scene and identified the male as George L Boyd III (I/M 04/13/1992). Boyd appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance, as he was making unusual gestures and statements, at one point claiming to be a “Federal Agent”. Officers also observed what appeared to be a marijuana blunt in the male’s hand.Officers advised Boyd that he was going to be taken into custody, and Boyd resisted, eventually fleeing&nbsp;down an alley. Officers engaged in a foot pursuit to the 400 block of Toluca where an officer deployed a Bolawrap. After the deployment, the officer attempted to affect an arrest when Boyd swung at the officer with an object in his hand. Additional officers and troopers arrived on scene, and a second Bolawrap was deployed, which allowed officers to subdue Boyd. The Bolawrap is a handheld restraint tool that fires a Kevlar tether around a subjects arms or legs. This tool allows officers to manage non- compliant individuals without pain or injury and reduces the need to use higher levels of force. A search of Boyd was conducted which revealed several items including methamphetamine, marijuana paraphernalia and marijuana. Boyd was transported to the Box Butte County Jail where he is currently facing charges of:• Disturbing the Peace• Obstructing a Peace Officer• Resisting Arrest• Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance• Possession of Marijuana 1 oz or Less• Possession or use of Drug Paraphernalia

1 arrested following weekend altercation at Alliance hotel 

Nebraska Department of Transportation

&nbsp;(Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) announced a series of achievements recognizing excellence in aviation and transportation at the Nebraska Aviation Council’s annual symposium in Kearney on Jan. 29-30. Western Nebraska Regional Airport was named the 2024 Airport of the Year for its exceptional service, community engagement and regional impact. 

Central Nebraska Regional Airport’s recent series of airfield lighting and navigation upgrades was recognized as the 2024 Project of the Year, improving safety and operational efficiency. Additionally, NDOT celebrated the creativity of young Nebraskans through the 2025 Aviation Youth Art Contest. 

Western Nebraska Regional Airport (Scottsbluff) Named 2024 Airport of the Year

Western Nebraska Regional Airport (WNRA) was recognized as the 2024 Airport of the Year for its vital role in aviation, community engagement and regional development. It is a critical resource for Western Nebraska and Eastern Wyoming and provides key services, including fueling, maintenance, flight instruction and rental cars. A new partnership with Kimball County Transit Authority now offers affordable transportation to Denver International Airport, expanding travel options for residents, especially those in rural areas with limited transportation. 

The airport actively engages with the community through school tours, aviation events and collaborations with Western Nebraska Community College and local Experimental Aircraft Association chapters. WNRA supports economic growth through freight services, Air Med operations and agricultural partnerships. By maintaining these strong connections, WNRA ensures responsible development for the region. 

Nebraska Department of Transportation&nbsp;(Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) announced a series of achievements recognizing excellence in aviation and transportation at the Nebraska Aviation Council’s annual symposium in Kearney on Jan. 29-30. Western Nebraska Regional Airport was named the 2024 Airport of the Year for its exceptional service, community engagement and regional impact. Central Nebraska Regional Airport’s recent series of airfield lighting and navigation upgrades was recognized as the 2024 Project of the Year, improving safety and operational efficiency. Additionally, NDOT celebrated the creativity of young Nebraskans through the 2025 Aviation Youth Art Contest. Western Nebraska Regional Airport (Scottsbluff) Named 2024 Airport of the Year Western Nebraska Regional Airport (WNRA) was recognized as the 2024 Airport of the Year for its vital role in aviation, community engagement and regional development. It is a critical resource for Western Nebraska and Eastern Wyoming and provides key services, including fueling, maintenance, flight instruction and rental cars. A new partnership with Kimball County Transit Authority now offers affordable transportation to Denver International Airport, expanding travel options for residents, especially those in rural areas with limited transportation. The airport actively engages with the community through school tours, aviation events and collaborations with Western Nebraska Community College and local Experimental Aircraft Association chapters. WNRA supports economic growth through freight services, Air Med operations and agricultural partnerships. By maintaining these strong connections, WNRA ensures responsible development for the region.

NDOT Division of Aeronautics Announces Annual Awards

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Football Follies

Alliance, NE – The City of Alliance is offering an updated cost sharing program to assist residents in the repair of sidewalks located in the municipal right of way. As stated in Resolution NO. 24-117, the City of Alliance agrees to pay the full quantity of sidewalk concrete toward the replaced sidewalk at residential locations and up to five cubic yards of sidewalk for commercial locations. The financial share shall be in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the trueand actual cost of&nbsp; concrete materials, as evidenced by a concrete batch plant invoice andcompared to actual measured quantities installed. The City’s&nbsp; payment will be paid directly to the licensed contractor without markup. The property owner or private entity shall be responsible for securing the services of a licensed contractor and for paying all other costs. Funding is limited and is available on a first come first served basis.

Please contact Whisper Coleman or Vickie Hielscher at 308-762-1907 to sign up for the program prior to any repairs being made.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The City of Alliance is offering an updated cost sharing program to assist residents in the repair of sidewalks located in the municipal right of way. As stated in Resolution NO. 24-117, the City of Alliance agrees to pay the full quantity of sidewalk concrete toward the replaced sidewalk at residential locations and up to five cubic yards of sidewalk for commercial locations. The financial share shall be in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the trueand actual cost of&nbsp; concrete materials, as evidenced by a concrete batch plant invoice andcompared to actual measured quantities installed. The City’s&nbsp; payment will be paid directly to the licensed contractor without markup. The property owner or private entity shall be responsible for securing the services of a licensed contractor and for paying all other costs. Funding is limited and is available on a first come first served basis.Please contact Whisper Coleman or Vickie Hielscher at 308-762-1907 to sign up for the program prior to any repairs being made.

City of Alliance offering sidewalk replacement program for residents 

Alliance, NE – The Alliance Public Library has a new book club for those interested in answering the question, “Was the book really better than the movie?” Book-to-Movie club will meet on the fourth Thursday of the month at 5:30pm to discuss the book and meet on the following Saturday at 11am to watch the movie. A brief discussion period will follow the showing of the movie.

The selection for February is The Help by Kathryn Stockett. The discussion of the book will be Thursday, February 27 th at 5:30pm in the APL Community Room. The movie showing and brief discussion will be Saturday, March 1 st at 11 am in the New Community Room. Books are available for check out at the Circulation desk for a $3 postage fee. For more information, call 308.762.1387 or email nstewart@cityofalliance.net.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The Alliance Public Library has a new book club for those interested in answering the question, “Was the book really better than the movie?” Book-to-Movie club will meet on the fourth Thursday of the month at 5:30pm to discuss the book and meet on the following Saturday at 11am to watch the movie. A brief discussion period will follow the showing of the movie.The selection for February is The Help by Kathryn Stockett. The discussion of the book will be Thursday, February 27 th at 5:30pm in the APL Community Room. The movie showing and brief discussion will be Saturday, March 1 st at 11 am in the New Community Room. Books are available for check out at the Circulation desk for a $3 postage fee. For more information, call 308.762.1387 or email nstewart@cityofalliance.net.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738256792197.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Book to Movie Club at Alliance Public Library

Lincoln, Ne - Four-time national champion Nebraska Volleyball Head Coach&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/staff/john-cook">John Cook</a>, who has won more matches than any Division I volleyball coach this century, announced his retirement on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch his retirement press conference here

Lincoln, Ne - Four-time national champion Nebraska Volleyball Head Coach&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/staff/john-cook">John Cook</a>, who has won more matches than any Division I volleyball coach this century, announced his retirement on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Watch his retirement press conference here<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/u4UP6hfi0Tg?si=KLJ7MsBJig8XS-b4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

John Cook Retirement Press Conference (LIVESTREAM)

By TENA L. COOK, CSC MARKETING COORDINATOR

CHADRON – Chadron State College Licensed Student Counselor and Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor Chelsea Turner led a December training session of 14 CSC employees who earned Mental Health First Aid certification.

“The training teaches them how to take care of themselves and how to take care of other people based on the most up-to-date research. I was impressed with the turnout,” she said. “The class represented a broad cross-section of campus.”

Two more sessions will be offered in the spring semester to interested employees and students.

Turner was certified as an instructor in October 2024 through an American Rescue Plan Act grant provided by the&nbsp;Behavior Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN) to support campus wellness. She said the primary goal of CSC Health Services and CSC Wellness in sponsoring her to become a certified instructor was to decrease the number of mental health crises on campus.

“The participants loved how interactive the training was, especially practicing the skills in the training instead of just listening to a presentation,” Turner said. “After the training, we received some incredible feedback about how applicable this is to the college student population we work with.”

According to Turner, Mental Health First Aid Training teaches participants how to recognize common signs of mental health and substance use challenges, assess the situation, and reach out to connect with individuals to offer the support they might need to mitigate concerns before the situation becomes a crisis.

The upcoming CSC training sessions on Feb. 24, and April 29, will consist of two hours of online pre-work followed by an in-person class with Turner from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided by BHECN Panhandle. Each session is limited to 15 registrants on a first-come, first-served basis. Online registration for the February training will be open to employees Feb.1-10 at&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/gbwYX3DsLZ" target="_blank">https://forms.office.com/r/gbwYX3DsLZ</a>. Registration for the April 29&nbsp;event&nbsp;will open later this semester for students and employees.

“This is a really exciting opportunity to reduce the mental health stigma and to recognize the warning signs of a mental health or substance use crisis,” said Dr. Brittany Helmbrecht, CSC Wellness Officer and Interim Dean of the School of Professional Studies and Applied Sciences.

For more information, contact Turner at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cturner@csc.edu" target="_blank">cturner@csc.edu</a>.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC MARKETING COORDINATORCHADRON – Chadron State College Licensed Student Counselor and Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor Chelsea Turner led a December training session of 14 CSC employees who earned Mental Health First Aid certification.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738181699944.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Chelsea Turner, certified as a Mental Health First Aid Training instructor, will conduct two CSC training sessions on Feb. 24, and April 29, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Online registration for the February training will be open to employees Feb.1-10 at&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/gbwYX3DsLZ">https://forms.office.com/r/gbwYX3DsLZ</a>. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Chelsea Turner, certified as a Mental Health First Aid Training instructor, will conduct two CSC training sessions on Feb. 24, and April 29, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Online registration for the February training will be open to employees Feb.1-10 at&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/gbwYX3DsLZ">https://forms.office.com/r/gbwYX3DsLZ</a>. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“The training teaches them how to take care of themselves and how to take care of other people based on the most up-to-date research. I was impressed with the turnout,” she said. “The class represented a broad cross-section of campus.”Two more sessions will be offered in the spring semester to interested employees and students.Turner was certified as an instructor in October 2024 through an American Rescue Plan Act grant provided by the&nbsp;Behavior Health Education Center of Nebraska (BHECN) to support campus wellness. She said the primary goal of CSC Health Services and CSC Wellness in sponsoring her to become a certified instructor was to decrease the number of mental health crises on campus.“The participants loved how interactive the training was, especially practicing the skills in the training instead of just listening to a presentation,” Turner said. “After the training, we received some incredible feedback about how applicable this is to the college student population we work with.”According to Turner, Mental Health First Aid Training teaches participants how to recognize common signs of mental health and substance use challenges, assess the situation, and reach out to connect with individuals to offer the support they might need to mitigate concerns before the situation becomes a crisis.The upcoming CSC training sessions on Feb. 24, and April 29, will consist of two hours of online pre-work followed by an in-person class with Turner from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided by BHECN Panhandle. Each session is limited to 15 registrants on a first-come, first-served basis. Online registration for the February training will be open to employees Feb.1-10 at&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/gbwYX3DsLZ" target="_blank">https://forms.office.com/r/gbwYX3DsLZ</a>. Registration for the April 29&nbsp;event&nbsp;will open later this semester for students and employees.“This is a really exciting opportunity to reduce the mental health stigma and to recognize the warning signs of a mental health or substance use crisis,” said Dr. Brittany Helmbrecht, CSC Wellness Officer and Interim Dean of the School of Professional Studies and Applied Sciences.For more information, contact Turner at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cturner@csc.edu" target="_blank">cturner@csc.edu</a>.

14 CSC employees certified in Mental Health First Aid

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

-Haley Jacobs, Class 2 Felony, DUI (4 + prior conv.)

-Gordon W Brave, Class 3 Felony, Possess deadly weapon-prohibited person, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance

-Christopher Wingard,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, DUS, Traffic X2

-Carlos Trejo,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Halie Smith,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Tampering w. evidence

-Juan Contreras,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, DUS, vandalism

-Royel Palomo,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Jose De Los Santos Jr,&nbsp;DV Assault - 3rd/ Child Abuse

-Summer Lone Dog,&nbsp;Poss cont, sub, Disorderly Conduct

-Nicole Mata,&nbsp;Poss deadly weapon by prohibited&nbsp;person, Poss marijuana &lt; 10z., Child&nbsp;abuse, Obstruction, Tampoering w/&nbsp;evidence, Defaced firearm

-Gustavo Villalobos-Pica,&nbsp;Defaced firearm, Tampering w/&nbsp;evidence, Obstructing, Child abuse,&nbsp;Poss marijuana &lt; 1oz, Concealed weapon

-Ryan L Graham, Class 2A Felony, Theft-rcv stolen prop $5,000+, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance

-Melinda M Spencer, Class 2A Felony, Theft-rcv stolen prop $5,000+, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance

-Tanner Bingaman, Class 2A Felony, Theft-rcv stolen prop $5,000+, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.Box Butte Co:-Haley Jacobs, Class 2 Felony, DUI (4 + prior conv.)-Gordon W Brave, Class 3 Felony, Possess deadly weapon-prohibited person, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substanceScotts Bluff Co:&nbsp;-Rachel Stuckey,&nbsp;Poss cont sub-Christopher Wingard,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, DUS, Traffic X2-Carlos Trejo,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Halie Smith,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Tampering w. evidence-Juan Contreras,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, DUS, vandalism-Royel Palomo,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Jose De Los Santos Jr,&nbsp;DV Assault - 3rd/ Child Abuse-Summer Lone Dog,&nbsp;Poss cont, sub, Disorderly Conduct-Nicole Mata,&nbsp;Poss deadly weapon by prohibited&nbsp;person, Poss marijuana &lt; 10z., Child&nbsp;abuse, Obstruction, Tampoering w/&nbsp;evidence, Defaced firearm-Gustavo Villalobos-Pica,&nbsp;Defaced firearm, Tampering w/&nbsp;evidence, Obstructing, Child abuse,&nbsp;Poss marijuana &lt; 1oz, Concealed weaponDawes Co:&nbsp;-Ryan L Graham, Class 2A Felony, Theft-rcv stolen prop $5,000+, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance-Melinda M Spencer, Class 2A Felony, Theft-rcv stolen prop $5,000+, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance-Tanner Bingaman, Class 2A Felony, Theft-rcv stolen prop $5,000+, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance

Panhandle police activity, Jan. 16 - Jan. 29 

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Brrrr - It’s cold outside! It’s been too cold for so many of our regular outdoor activities. But we have enjoyed the birds in our backyard.

We have feeders with birdseed and with sunflower seeds. Suet feeders attract woodpeckers. All those pumpkins and squash we bought in October have been stored in our garage. Now we bring them out, one at a time, and cut a hole in the side to allow access to seeds and flesh.

What kinds of birds hang around Alliance in the winter?

Our ground is covered with dark-eyed juncos. They are beautiful sparrow-sized birds with black heads and gray and white bodies that fly from the north to our area to overwinter.

We see other small birds too. Chickadees, pine siskin, sparrows and finches. House finches are the ones with red heads and chests. Goldfinches hang out in our yard too, but they don’t turn yellow until the spring. Now they are olive green, but the black stripes are the same.

Blue jays, pigeons, and doves are here all year. The mourning doves seem to be losing out to the larger Eurasian collared doves, a relative newcomer to North America.

Occasional visitors might include crossbills or pine grosbeaks, whose orange colors are delightful.

So many woodpeckers, large and small. We are always excited to watch nuthatches climbing up and down the ash tree. Flickers are eating from the suet feeders. Downy woodpeckers are frequent visitors. Their larger lookalikes, the hairy woodpeckers, are not as common in our yard but show up occasionally. (They are apparently not closely related.) A rare visitor is a red-bellied woodpecker, also a beauty.

Our feeders and trees are also full of those furry brown birds with the big fluffy tails. They love the pumpkins and sunflower seeds too.

We don’t have any pine trees in our yard. If we did, we could enjoy cedar waxwings with their black masks and the yellow stripe on the end of their tails.

Pines are also the preferred home of that most gorgeous of winter birds, the northern cardinal.&nbsp; If you live near a park, watch for that splash of bright red. The female doesn’t share the bright red coloration, but is every bit as beautiful as the male cardinal with her shades of brown and her bright orange beak.

Sometimes we’ve been feeding birds for a while, but they suddenly disappear. Then it’s time to look up for a hawk. Or maybe an owl or falcon. There are lots of birds of prey in our area year-round, and they occasionally visit our yard.

We still hear geese honking as they fly overhead to warmer areas south of us. We can also enjoy watching them at Laing Lake.

Most winters we make a day trip to Lake Ogallala, just east of Lake McConaughy. The trees to the south of the dam are filled with glorious bald eagles. Last year we saw about sixty of our majestic national bird! Not only did they sit in the trees, they would dive for fish. We could get fairly close to ones sitting on the ice. Last week Earl saw two bald eagles perched at the pool when he went to the dog park.

Lake Ogallala also treated us to a few ospreys, the greatest fishing birds of all! Avocets, birds with the upturned bills that we see in Sandhill lakes, change color in the winter. The orange heads and necks become silver. Bodies are still white, and wings have black stripes.

In February we begin to see birds migrating again. All along the Platte, from Ogallala to Grand Island, Sandhill cranes will be stopping for their annual visit. They will be feeding in fields, fattening up to prepare for their journey north.

Birding can be a fun hobby for all ages. I’d like to say it is inexpensive, and it can be. But then you’ll begin buying binoculars, cameras, bird books, and so much seed…

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityBrrrr - It’s cold outside! It’s been too cold for so many of our regular outdoor activities. But we have enjoyed the birds in our backyard.We have feeders with birdseed and with sunflower seeds. Suet feeders attract woodpeckers. All those pumpkins and squash we bought in October have been stored in our garage. Now we bring them out, one at a time, and cut a hole in the side to allow access to seeds and flesh.What kinds of birds hang around Alliance in the winter?Our ground is covered with dark-eyed juncos. They are beautiful sparrow-sized birds with black heads and gray and white bodies that fly from the north to our area to overwinter.We see other small birds too. Chickadees, pine siskin, sparrows and finches. House finches are the ones with red heads and chests. Goldfinches hang out in our yard too, but they don’t turn yellow until the spring. Now they are olive green, but the black stripes are the same.Blue jays, pigeons, and doves are here all year. The mourning doves seem to be losing out to the larger Eurasian collared doves, a relative newcomer to North America.Occasional visitors might include crossbills or pine grosbeaks, whose orange colors are delightful.So many woodpeckers, large and small. We are always excited to watch nuthatches climbing up and down the ash tree. Flickers are eating from the suet feeders. Downy woodpeckers are frequent visitors. Their larger lookalikes, the hairy woodpeckers, are not as common in our yard but show up occasionally. (They are apparently not closely related.) A rare visitor is a red-bellied woodpecker, also a beauty.Our feeders and trees are also full of those furry brown birds with the big fluffy tails. They love the pumpkins and sunflower seeds too.We don’t have any pine trees in our yard. If we did, we could enjoy cedar waxwings with their black masks and the yellow stripe on the end of their tails.Pines are also the preferred home of that most gorgeous of winter birds, the northern cardinal.&nbsp; If you live near a park, watch for that splash of bright red. The female doesn’t share the bright red coloration, but is every bit as beautiful as the male cardinal with her shades of brown and her bright orange beak.Sometimes we’ve been feeding birds for a while, but they suddenly disappear. Then it’s time to look up for a hawk. Or maybe an owl or falcon. There are lots of birds of prey in our area year-round, and they occasionally visit our yard.We still hear geese honking as they fly overhead to warmer areas south of us. We can also enjoy watching them at Laing Lake.Most winters we make a day trip to Lake Ogallala, just east of Lake McConaughy. The trees to the south of the dam are filled with glorious bald eagles. Last year we saw about sixty of our majestic national bird! Not only did they sit in the trees, they would dive for fish. We could get fairly close to ones sitting on the ice. Last week Earl saw two bald eagles perched at the pool when he went to the dog park.Lake Ogallala also treated us to a few ospreys, the greatest fishing birds of all! Avocets, birds with the upturned bills that we see in Sandhill lakes, change color in the winter. The orange heads and necks become silver. Bodies are still white, and wings have black stripes.In February we begin to see birds migrating again. All along the Platte, from Ogallala to Grand Island, Sandhill cranes will be stopping for their annual visit. They will be feeding in fields, fattening up to prepare for their journey north.Birding can be a fun hobby for all ages. I’d like to say it is inexpensive, and it can be. But then you’ll begin buying binoculars, cameras, bird books, and so much seed…

Getting Ahead: Winter birding 

Alliance, NE – Upcoming Story Time themes for ages 3-6 at Alliance Public Library include Quest for Q on February 4 and 6, Be My Valentine on February 11 and 13, Racing with R on February 18 and 20 then Splendid S on February 25 and 27.&nbsp; Story Time meets in the Children’s Room on Tuesdays at 10 am and Thursdays at 1 pm with several stories, birthdays, puppets, music and craft.&nbsp;

Preschool through second grade are invited to Search for Sherbet Unicorn during library hours with one search per day and one prize per child from January 27 through February 14.

LEGO Club for grades K-3 meets on Tuesdays, February 4 and 18 from 4-5 pm in the APL Community Room for preregistered participants.

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

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Upcoming Story Time themes for ages 3-6 at Alliance Public Library include Quest for Q on February 4 and 6, Be My Valentine on February 11 and 13, Racing with R on February 18 and 20 then Splendid S on February 25 and 27.&nbsp; Story Time meets in the Children’s Room on Tuesdays at 10 am and Thursdays at 1 pm with several stories, birthdays, puppets, music and craft.&nbsp;Preschool through second grade are invited to Search for Sherbet Unicorn during library hours with one search per day and one prize per child from January 27 through February 14.LEGO Club for grades K-3 meets on Tuesdays, February 4 and 18 from 4-5 pm in the APL Community Room for preregistered participants.For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

Story Time, Searchers and LEGO Club at Alliance Public Library

KEARNEY – Clayton Moore’s teammates call him a “country boy.”

His older sister Samantha Moore often hears a similar term – “ranch tough.”

They’re both references to the siblings’ blue-collar upbringing and the work ethic, determination and discipline they display as University of Nebraska at Kearney basketball players.

“Where we grew up, there’s not much to do but work,” said Clayton, a redshirt freshman at UNK. “And competitiveness kind of comes along with that. Growing up, all you could really do for fun was compete with each other. It was either that or go outside and work. And competing with each other was more enjoyable than throwing hay bales around or fixing windmills.”

Raised on a ranch in the heart of the Nebraska Sandhills, the Moores have never known a life that didn’t revolve around hard work, humility and sports.

Their parents, Rusty and Jennifer, instilled those values.

They were both standout athletes at Nebraska Wesleyan University, where Jennifer was a volleyball player and five-time All-American in track and field. Rusty also competed in track, earning All-American honors and winning two national championships in the 4×400 relay.

He coached basketball at Mullen High School for 14 years, leading the boys team to its first-ever state title in 2017. Rusty passed away in February 2020 following a two-year battle with brain cancer.

Jennifer taught and coached at Mullen and McPherson County high schools before moving to Alma, where she’s the head volleyball coach and an assistant track coach.

To nobody’s surprise, their children followed in those footsteps.

If they weren’t assisting with chores, the Moore kids were likely challenging each other in some sort of activity.

As youngsters, they played basketball in the house, using tape stuck to the basement wall as a hoop. Later on, those games moved to the driveway, where Clayton and Samantha battled their older brother Lance.

“You can kind of imagine how that went,” Clayton said with a smirk. “Sometimes it got a little rough. I mean, there were no referees out there.”

“I think that’s really where our competitiveness started to grow,” he added.

Although Clayton and Samantha both admit they could have been nicer to each other growing up, that passion and intensity helped fuel their success.

“Over the last couple years, from high school to college, I feel like we’ve grown our friendship,” said Samantha, a senior at UNK. “We’re still competitive, but I feel like we’ve gotten closer.”

Now, if you ask the siblings who the better athlete is, neither will claim that distinction.

Instead, they talk about each other’s accomplishments.

Samantha was a three-sport star at Mullen High School, scoring 1,550 career points in basketball and helping the Broncos finish third in the 2021 Class D2 state tournament. She also led the volleyball team in kills and blocks as a senior and qualified for the Class D state track and field championships in three events, including a runner-up finish in the 100-meter hurdles.

Clayton was equally successful. He averaged 18.1 points and 10.5 rebounds as a senior, earning Class D2 First-Team All-State honors in 2023. Also a three-sport standout, he played quarterback and defensive back for the football team and was a state champion in the 300-meter hurdles and state runner-up in the 110 hurdles, 300 hurdles, long jump and 4×400 relay.

When the time came to select a college, Samantha was the first family member to break the Wesleyan connection.

“I can be the guilty one,” she said with a laugh. “I’ll take the blame for that.”

Samantha was recruited by former UNK coach Carrie Eighmey, who now leads the women’s basketball program at the University of South Dakota.

“Right when I stepped on campus, I knew this was my place,” Samantha said.

The 6-foot guard/forward battled injuries early in her UNK career and played behind some experienced starters. She appeared in eight games as a freshman and 26 as a sophomore. The Lopers reached the NCAA Division II national tournament both seasons.

Eighmey and her staff left the program in spring 2023, but Samantha remained committed to UNK.

“At the end of the day, I wanted to play somewhere where I felt like I was in a sisterhood and a family,” she explained. “I loved my teammates so much that I didn’t want to leave.”

Drew Johnson, who was hired to replace Eighmey, gives Samantha a lot of credit for embracing the new coaching staff with open arms and creating a positive culture that continues to define the team. He calls her a hardworking, high-octane player.

“Sam is someone who brings a lot of energy to the team, whether she’s on or off the court,” Johnson said. “When she’s playing her best basketball, she’s really energetic and engaged, having fun and cracking jokes. That energy really resonates with our team. It’s a lot of fun to be able to coach her because of that.”

After an injury forced her to miss the early part of the season, Samantha came back strong for the Lopers as a junior. She played in 21 games and started 16 of them, averaging 6.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per contest.

Those numbers are even better this season. Samantha has started all 18 games for the Lopers, who are 15-3 overall and 8-1 in the MIAA. She averages 10 points and a team-leading 7.9 rebounds per game while shooting 37% from 3-point range. Her 60 assists and 10 blocks both rank second on the team.

Samantha recorded what was likely the first triple-double in program history on Dec. 16, when she scored 16 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and dished out 10 assists in a 95-26 victory over York University.

“She’s been really dynamic for us,” Johnson said. “She shoots the 3 at a high percentage. She’s able to post up smaller guards. And she’s a great defender.

“It doesn’t get a lot better in this world than Sam Moore, and I’m thankful to have gotten a chance to coach her.”

Clayton joined his older sister at UNK in fall 2023.

He liked the location and smaller, close-knit community – “I’m not a big-city guy,” he firmly declared – as well as the opportunity play against top-notch teams.

“As athletes, you want to compete at the highest level you possibly can,” Clayton said. “We were given the chance to compete here at UNK, a Division II university in one of the best conferences in the country.”

Like his sister, Clayton stuck with his commitment after a coaching change. That was good news for first-year head coach Marty Levinson, who was hired by his alma mater in April 2024.

He describes Clayton as hardworking, humble, attentive and selfless – “pretty much all the qualities you would want in a teammate.”

“Even though he’s so young and he doesn’t have a ton of on-court playing experience at the college level, he’s already been a leader for us because of those characteristics,” Levinson said.

Following a redshirt season, Clayton is now an important contributor for Levinson and the Loper men, who are 6-11 overall and 4-5 in the conference. He’s played in all 17 games, starting six of them. The 6-foot-4 guard/forward averages 20 minutes, 5.2 points and 4.7 rebounds per contest.

Calling him a “pusher” who’s always looking to learn and grow, Levinson expects Clayton’s role to continue to expand.

“He’s going to be a difference maker by the time he’s a junior or senior, even by next year,” the UNK coach said. “He’s been a blessing to have, not just on the floor but because of who he is every day.

“Clayton is much more than just a basketball player. He’s an amazing human being. That doesn’t always show up in the box score, but he’s a big part of our recent success.”

Now that they’re 20 and 22 years old, Clayton and Samantha can fully appreciate their relationship and the benefits of having a sibling to lean on.

They live in the same apartment complex, just south of the Health and Sports Center, and often get together to watch sports or play video games.

“Who wouldn’t want to attend the same school as their sibling, hang out and play the same sport?” Samantha said. “It’s so awesome. When we travel on the road, I get to watch my brother play right after us and he gets to watch me play. I’m beyond grateful. It’s such a blessing.”

“I can’t imagine it any other way now,” Clayton added.

Both recognized on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll, Samantha is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/ted/elementary-education.php">studying elementary education</a>&nbsp;and Clayton is an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/agribusiness/index.php">agribusiness major</a>. She wants to teach in a small town in Nebraska and he plans to return to the family ranch near Tryon.

Those rural roots run too deep to change.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738095362821.jpeg" alt="Mullen natives Samantha and Clayton Moore (UNK Communications)" />
 <figcaption>Mullen natives Samantha and Clayton Moore (UNK Communications)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TYLER ELLYSONUNK CommunicationsKEARNEY – Clayton Moore’s teammates call him a “country boy.”His older sister Samantha Moore often hears a similar term – “ranch tough.”They’re both references to the siblings’ blue-collar upbringing and the work ethic, determination and discipline they display as University of Nebraska at Kearney basketball players.“Where we grew up, there’s not much to do but work,” said Clayton, a redshirt freshman at UNK. “And competitiveness kind of comes along with that. Growing up, all you could really do for fun was compete with each other. It was either that or go outside and work. And competing with each other was more enjoyable than throwing hay bales around or fixing windmills.”Raised on a ranch in the heart of the Nebraska Sandhills, the Moores have never known a life that didn’t revolve around hard work, humility and sports.Their parents, Rusty and Jennifer, instilled those values.They were both standout athletes at Nebraska Wesleyan University, where Jennifer was a volleyball player and five-time All-American in track and field. Rusty also competed in track, earning All-American honors and winning two national championships in the 4×400 relay.He coached basketball at Mullen High School for 14 years, leading the boys team to its first-ever state title in 2017. Rusty passed away in February 2020 following a two-year battle with brain cancer.Jennifer taught and coached at Mullen and McPherson County high schools before moving to Alma, where she’s the head volleyball coach and an assistant track coach.To nobody’s surprise, their children followed in those footsteps.<h2>SIBLING RIVALRY</h2>If they weren’t assisting with chores, the Moore kids were likely challenging each other in some sort of activity.As youngsters, they played basketball in the house, using tape stuck to the basement wall as a hoop. Later on, those games moved to the driveway, where Clayton and Samantha battled their older brother Lance.“You can kind of imagine how that went,” Clayton said with a smirk. “Sometimes it got a little rough. I mean, there were no referees out there.”“I think that’s really where our competitiveness started to grow,” he added.Although Clayton and Samantha both admit they could have been nicer to each other growing up, that passion and intensity helped fuel their success.“Over the last couple years, from high school to college, I feel like we’ve grown our friendship,” said Samantha, a senior at UNK. “We’re still competitive, but I feel like we’ve gotten closer.”Now, if you ask the siblings who the better athlete is, neither will claim that distinction.Instead, they talk about each other’s accomplishments.Samantha was a three-sport star at Mullen High School, scoring 1,550 career points in basketball and helping the Broncos finish third in the 2021 Class D2 state tournament. She also led the volleyball team in kills and blocks as a senior and qualified for the Class D state track and field championships in three events, including a runner-up finish in the 100-meter hurdles.Clayton was equally successful. He averaged 18.1 points and 10.5 rebounds as a senior, earning Class D2 First-Team All-State honors in 2023. Also a three-sport standout, he played quarterback and defensive back for the football team and was a state champion in the 300-meter hurdles and state runner-up in the 110 hurdles, 300 hurdles, long jump and 4×400 relay.<h2>VERSATILE VETERAN</h2>When the time came to select a college, Samantha was the first family member to break the Wesleyan connection.“I can be the guilty one,” she said with a laugh. “I’ll take the blame for that.”Samantha was recruited by former UNK coach Carrie Eighmey, who now leads the women’s basketball program at the University of South Dakota.“Right when I stepped on campus, I knew this was my place,” Samantha said.The 6-foot guard/forward battled injuries early in her UNK career and played behind some experienced starters. She appeared in eight games as a freshman and 26 as a sophomore. The Lopers reached the NCAA Division II national tournament both seasons.Eighmey and her staff left the program in spring 2023, but Samantha remained committed to UNK.“At the end of the day, I wanted to play somewhere where I felt like I was in a sisterhood and a family,” she explained. “I loved my teammates so much that I didn’t want to leave.”Drew Johnson, who was hired to replace Eighmey, gives Samantha a lot of credit for embracing the new coaching staff with open arms and creating a positive culture that continues to define the team. He calls her a hardworking, high-octane player.“Sam is someone who brings a lot of energy to the team, whether she’s on or off the court,” Johnson said. “When she’s playing her best basketball, she’s really energetic and engaged, having fun and cracking jokes. That energy really resonates with our team. It’s a lot of fun to be able to coach her because of that.”She’s also very versatile.After an injury forced her to miss the early part of the season, Samantha came back strong for the Lopers as a junior. She played in 21 games and started 16 of them, averaging 6.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per contest.Those numbers are even better this season. Samantha has started all 18 games for the Lopers, who are 15-3 overall and 8-1 in the MIAA. She averages 10 points and a team-leading 7.9 rebounds per game while shooting 37% from 3-point range. Her 60 assists and 10 blocks both rank second on the team.Samantha recorded what was likely the first triple-double in program history on Dec. 16, when she scored 16 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and dished out 10 assists in a 95-26 victory over York University.“She’s been really dynamic for us,” Johnson said. “She shoots the 3 at a high percentage. She’s able to post up smaller guards. And she’s a great defender.“It doesn’t get a lot better in this world than Sam Moore, and I’m thankful to have gotten a chance to coach her.”<h2>YOUNG LEADER</h2>Clayton joined his older sister at UNK in fall 2023.He liked the location and smaller, close-knit community – “I’m not a big-city guy,” he firmly declared – as well as the opportunity play against top-notch teams.“As athletes, you want to compete at the highest level you possibly can,” Clayton said. “We were given the chance to compete here at UNK, a Division II university in one of the best conferences in the country.”Like his sister, Clayton stuck with his commitment after a coaching change. That was good news for first-year head coach Marty Levinson, who was hired by his alma mater in April 2024.He describes Clayton as hardworking, humble, attentive and selfless – “pretty much all the qualities you would want in a teammate.”“Even though he’s so young and he doesn’t have a ton of on-court playing experience at the college level, he’s already been a leader for us because of those characteristics,” Levinson said.Following a redshirt season, Clayton is now an important contributor for Levinson and the Loper men, who are 6-11 overall and 4-5 in the conference. He’s played in all 17 games, starting six of them. The 6-foot-4 guard/forward averages 20 minutes, 5.2 points and 4.7 rebounds per contest.Calling him a “pusher” who’s always looking to learn and grow, Levinson expects Clayton’s role to continue to expand.“He’s going to be a difference maker by the time he’s a junior or senior, even by next year,” the UNK coach said. “He’s been a blessing to have, not just on the floor but because of who he is every day.“Clayton is much more than just a basketball player. He’s an amazing human being. That doesn’t always show up in the box score, but he’s a big part of our recent success.”<h2>STRONG BONDS</h2>Now that they’re 20 and 22 years old, Clayton and Samantha can fully appreciate their relationship and the benefits of having a sibling to lean on.They live in the same apartment complex, just south of the Health and Sports Center, and often get together to watch sports or play video games.“Who wouldn’t want to attend the same school as their sibling, hang out and play the same sport?” Samantha said. “It’s so awesome. When we travel on the road, I get to watch my brother play right after us and he gets to watch me play. I’m beyond grateful. It’s such a blessing.”“I can’t imagine it any other way now,” Clayton added.Both recognized on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll, Samantha is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/ted/elementary-education.php">studying elementary education</a>&nbsp;and Clayton is an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unk.edu/academics/agribusiness/index.php">agribusiness major</a>. She wants to teach in a small town in Nebraska and he plans to return to the family ranch near Tryon.Those rural roots run too deep to change.

Mullen siblings bring competitive nature, ‘ranch toughness’ to UNK basketball

By McAYE FEGLER, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON – Piper Ryschon of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, is Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for January.

Ryschon is a sophomore majoring in molecular biology.

“I really like science, and I want to help make a difference either through a biomedical approach or an environmental one. I have always felt a deep connection to the environment and&nbsp;<a>nature, and</a>&nbsp;want to help in any way I can whether through animals or people,” Ryschon said.

Ryschon has been a member of Project Strive since she arrived at Chadron State College as a freshman in the Fall of 2023.

Project Strive Retention Specialist Amanda Lewin said Ryschon has consistently demonstrated outstanding academic performance and has been highly active in Project Strive and on campus.

“I always look forward to seeing her in our offices, as her positive energy and warm personality brightens our day. I am excited to celebrate her achievements and can’t wait to see all the great things she will continue to accomplish,” Lewin said.

Ryschon has qualified for the President’s List each semester and she has been involved in multiple clubs and organizations including Student Senate, Chemistry Club, and Tri Beta.

Ryschon enjoys being a voice for the student body through her position on Student Senate. She enjoys hearing what her peers have to say about campus and being able to make changes that will better the school community.

She is the secretary for Chemistry Club and has participated in multiple trips to teach children and other students about science. Ryschon said she thoroughly enjoyed a Multicultural Outreach trip the club took to Gering, Nebraska, during her first semester. The club presents information and experiments to students to enlighten them on the basics of chemistry.

Ryschon was recently elected president of Tri Beta, a club that hosts informational science seminars and professional nights throughout the school year. The club works to help students build resumes and explore potential job opportunities. Ryschon enjoys listening to presenters the club invites to campus and was especially impressed by and FBI agent’s presentation. This semester, Tri Beta and the Sports Medicine Club plan to bring in a speaker who practices wilderness medicine.

Ryschon chose to attend CSC because of its affordability, proximity to her hometown, well-renowned science program, and her brother attended CSC.

Assistant Professor of Physics and Chemistry Dr. Clint Evrard has many positive remarks regarding Ryschon.

“She is one of those students that makes every day great. Piper is someone who is exceedingly intelligent while still being humble. Piper has&nbsp;<a>a real</a>&nbsp;tenacity. It’s been my experience that she finds time to keep up with more than a full load of credit hours and she does it with exceedingly high grades. She holds herself to the highest level and succeeds in extraordinary ways. It isn’t often that you see talent like Piper’s combined with a will to dig in and do the work for success,” Evrard said.

Evrard also mentioned how inclusive Ryschon is. She works well with her classmates, studies often with her peers, and brings joy to the people around her. He is glad that Ryschon is being recognized for this award, and all that she does, because Evrard said Ryschon is not the kind of person to seek recognition for her achievements.

Ryschon has received multiple awards during her short time at CSC. She was one of the Unsung Heroes acknowledged at the Rising Sophomore ceremony in 2024. This award is for students who work behind the scenes and go above and beyond the call of duty. She also received an award from the science department at the ceremony.

Ryschon has been accepted into Institutional Development Award Program (IDeA) Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE). She will receive a two-year scholarship to complete biomedical research for the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, University of Nebraska-Omaha, and the University of Nebraska Medical Center during the next two summers. Ryschon will also be able to use the scholarship during the school year by completing biomedical research for CSC.

Ryschon has enjoyed learning about genetics during her time at Chadron State.

“I think genetics is very interesting, and it relates to the career I am pursuing. I can&nbsp;<a>definitely see</a>&nbsp;myself researching topics regarding genetics in the future,” Ryschon said.

When Ryschon has free time, she enjoys fishing, hiking, hanging out with friends, and reading.

After Ryschon graduates in May 2027, she plans to attend graduate school and specialize in either environmental remediation or biomedicine.

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to helping students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first-generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low-income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/" target="_blank">https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/</a>.

By McAYE FEGLER, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Piper Ryschon of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, is Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for January.Ryschon is a sophomore majoring in molecular biology.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738085414587.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“I really like science, and I want to help make a difference either through a biomedical approach or an environmental one. I have always felt a deep connection to the environment and&nbsp;<a>nature, and</a>&nbsp;want to help in any way I can whether through animals or people,” Ryschon said.Ryschon has been a member of Project Strive since she arrived at Chadron State College as a freshman in the Fall of 2023.Project Strive Retention Specialist Amanda Lewin said Ryschon has consistently demonstrated outstanding academic performance and has been highly active in Project Strive and on campus.“I always look forward to seeing her in our offices, as her positive energy and warm personality brightens our day. I am excited to celebrate her achievements and can’t wait to see all the great things she will continue to accomplish,” Lewin said.Ryschon has qualified for the President’s List each semester and she has been involved in multiple clubs and organizations including Student Senate, Chemistry Club, and Tri Beta.Ryschon enjoys being a voice for the student body through her position on Student Senate. She enjoys hearing what her peers have to say about campus and being able to make changes that will better the school community.She is the secretary for Chemistry Club and has participated in multiple trips to teach children and other students about science. Ryschon said she thoroughly enjoyed a Multicultural Outreach trip the club took to Gering, Nebraska, during her first semester. The club presents information and experiments to students to enlighten them on the basics of chemistry.Ryschon was recently elected president of Tri Beta, a club that hosts informational science seminars and professional nights throughout the school year. The club works to help students build resumes and explore potential job opportunities. Ryschon enjoys listening to presenters the club invites to campus and was especially impressed by and FBI agent’s presentation. This semester, Tri Beta and the Sports Medicine Club plan to bring in a speaker who practices wilderness medicine.Ryschon chose to attend CSC because of its affordability, proximity to her hometown, well-renowned science program, and her brother attended CSC.Assistant Professor of Physics and Chemistry Dr. Clint Evrard has many positive remarks regarding Ryschon.“She is one of those students that makes every day great. Piper is someone who is exceedingly intelligent while still being humble. Piper has&nbsp;<a>a real</a>&nbsp;tenacity. It’s been my experience that she finds time to keep up with more than a full load of credit hours and she does it with exceedingly high grades. She holds herself to the highest level and succeeds in extraordinary ways. It isn’t often that you see talent like Piper’s combined with a will to dig in and do the work for success,” Evrard said.Evrard also mentioned how inclusive Ryschon is. She works well with her classmates, studies often with her peers, and brings joy to the people around her. He is glad that Ryschon is being recognized for this award, and all that she does, because Evrard said Ryschon is not the kind of person to seek recognition for her achievements.Ryschon has received multiple awards during her short time at CSC. She was one of the Unsung Heroes acknowledged at the Rising Sophomore ceremony in 2024. This award is for students who work behind the scenes and go above and beyond the call of duty. She also received an award from the science department at the ceremony.Ryschon has been accepted into Institutional Development Award Program (IDeA) Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE). She will receive a two-year scholarship to complete biomedical research for the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, University of Nebraska-Omaha, and the University of Nebraska Medical Center during the next two summers. Ryschon will also be able to use the scholarship during the school year by completing biomedical research for CSC.Ryschon has enjoyed learning about genetics during her time at Chadron State.“I think genetics is very interesting, and it relates to the career I am pursuing. I can&nbsp;<a>definitely see</a>&nbsp;myself researching topics regarding genetics in the future,” Ryschon said.When Ryschon has free time, she enjoys fishing, hiking, hanging out with friends, and reading.After Ryschon graduates in May 2027, she plans to attend graduate school and specialize in either environmental remediation or biomedicine.Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to helping students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first-generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low-income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/" target="_blank">https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/</a>.

Local