POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Jumpin' Gas Gas

By&nbsp;Alliance Public Schools&nbsp;Superintendent&nbsp;Dr. Troy L. Unzicker

Out of an abundance of caution and as part of our ongoing commitment towards transparency, we are reaching out to let you know about a cyber security incident. We learned on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 via email that PowerSchool, a global student information system provider used by our school district and many others across the country, was the target of a cybersecurity incident discovered on Saturday, December 28, 2024. 

We have been informed that some student data from our district and other districts was downloaded by an unauthorized user, and an analysis is being done by PowerSchool on the type of information accessed.&nbsp;

PowerSchool has told us the situation has been contained, and they have taken actions to prevent the information from being used. We have reinforced to this vendor our expectations about upholding the highest data security standards. If there are any important updates, we will notify you.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Alliance Public Schools&nbsp;Superintendent&nbsp;Dr. Troy L. UnzickerDear Alliance Public School Families,Out of an abundance of caution and as part of our ongoing commitment towards transparency, we are reaching out to let you know about a cyber security incident. We learned on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 via email that PowerSchool, a global student information system provider used by our school district and many others across the country, was the target of a cybersecurity incident discovered on Saturday, December 28, 2024. We have been informed that some student data from our district and other districts was downloaded by an unauthorized user, and an analysis is being done by PowerSchool on the type of information accessed.&nbsp;PowerSchool has told us the situation has been contained, and they have taken actions to prevent the information from being used. We have reinforced to this vendor our expectations about upholding the highest data security standards. If there are any important updates, we will notify you.&nbsp;

Cyber security incident at Alliance Public Schools 

CHADRON – Chadron State College will host several events honoring Martin Luther King Jr. starting with an honorary march on Monday, Jan. 20, at 10 a.m. The march will begin at Common Cents at the intersection of Main Street and Third Street and proceed south on Main Street to CSC’s Student Center.

Following the march, the Belongingness and Inclusion (B&amp;I) Committee will host refreshments and a brief presentation by Dr. Kurt Kinbacher in the Student Center Ballroom.

At noon, the Chadron High School Cardinal Singers will present&nbsp;<a>Hamilton</a>&nbsp;in Memorial Hall. Ticket information is&nbsp;<a href="https://eaglescsc-my.sharepoint.com/personal/tcook_csc_edu/Documents/News%202025/CSC%20Presents:%20Chadron%20Cardinal%20Singers%20performing%20Hamilton%20The%20Musical%20%7C%20Chadron%20State%20College%20Box%20Office" target="_blank">online</a>.

Continuing the activities, music faculty and students will present a jazz concert Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom.

On Thursday, at 5 p.m. in the Chicoine Center, the campus and community are invited to watch the women’s and men’s basketball teams compete against Westminster.

Starting Jan. 13, the B&amp;I committee will partner with the CSC Food Pantry on a food drive. Those interested in donating can place non-perishable, non-expired food items in collection boxes and wagons in Sparks Hall, Crites Hall, Old Admin, the Chicoine Center, or the Math Science Center of Innovative Learning.

Food items requested during the food drive.

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College will host several events honoring Martin Luther King Jr. starting with an honorary march on Monday, Jan. 20, at 10 a.m. The march will begin at Common Cents at the intersection of Main Street and Third Street and proceed south on Main Street to CSC’s Student Center.Following the march, the Belongingness and Inclusion (B&amp;I) Committee will host refreshments and a brief presentation by Dr. Kurt Kinbacher in the Student Center Ballroom.At noon, the Chadron High School Cardinal Singers will present&nbsp;<a>Hamilton</a>&nbsp;in Memorial Hall. Ticket information is&nbsp;<a href="https://eaglescsc-my.sharepoint.com/personal/tcook_csc_edu/Documents/News%202025/CSC%20Presents:%20Chadron%20Cardinal%20Singers%20performing%20Hamilton%20The%20Musical%20%7C%20Chadron%20State%20College%20Box%20Office" target="_blank">online</a>.Continuing the activities, music faculty and students will present a jazz concert Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom.On Thursday, at 5 p.m. in the Chicoine Center, the campus and community are invited to watch the women’s and men’s basketball teams compete against Westminster.Starting Jan. 13, the B&amp;I committee will partner with the CSC Food Pantry on a food drive. Those interested in donating can place non-perishable, non-expired food items in collection boxes and wagons in Sparks Hall, Crites Hall, Old Admin, the Chicoine Center, or the Math Science Center of Innovative Learning.Food items requested during the food drive.Jan. 13: Bags of popcornJan. 14: Mac and cheese cupsJan. 15: Ramen noodle cupsJan. 16: Canned meat (chicken or tuna)Jan. 17: Instant riceJan. 20: Canned soupsJan. 21: Canned vegetablesJan. 22: Canned fruitsJan. 23: Applesauce pouchesJan. 24: Granola bars<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736450977506.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

CSC plans MLK Week events

Scottsbluff, Neb.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested three people following a pursuit in western Nebraska.

At approximately 7:50 p.m. MT Tuesday, a trooper observed a Ford F-150 driving with a license plate violation on Highway 385 near Bridgeport. As the trooper attempted a traffic stop, the driver accelerated and fled northbound on Highway 385. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The vehicle fled westbound on Link 62A, driving in the wrong lane of travel. After approximately two miles, the driver pulled into a residential driveway and came to a stop. The male driver then fled on foot and a female passenger remained in the vehicle. She was taken into custody without incident.

Additional troopers, Morrill County deputies, and a Gering Police Department K9 unit assisted in a search of the area. During the search, troopers located a man in the sleeper berth of a disabled semi cab. The man exited the sleeper, and the driver of the F-150 was located under the bed of the sleeper. Both men were taken into custody. Inside the F-150, troopers located two sets of brass knuckles and suspected methamphetamine.

The driver, Thomas Tagg, 42, of Denver, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, obstructing a peace officer, and numerous traffic offenses. The passenger, Corie Kolthoff, 36, of Brighton, Colorado, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed weapon with no disclosure, and obstructing a peace officer. The third person, Benjamin Franklin, 27, of Mitchell, Nebraska, was arrested for obstructing a peace officer and aiding and abetting a felony.

All three were lodged in Morrill County Jail.

By NSPScottsbluff, Neb.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested three people following a pursuit in western Nebraska.At approximately 7:50 p.m. MT Tuesday, a trooper observed a Ford F-150 driving with a license plate violation on Highway 385 near Bridgeport. As the trooper attempted a traffic stop, the driver accelerated and fled northbound on Highway 385. The trooper initiated a pursuit.The vehicle fled westbound on Link 62A, driving in the wrong lane of travel. After approximately two miles, the driver pulled into a residential driveway and came to a stop. The male driver then fled on foot and a female passenger remained in the vehicle. She was taken into custody without incident.Additional troopers, Morrill County deputies, and a Gering Police Department K9 unit assisted in a search of the area. During the search, troopers located a man in the sleeper berth of a disabled semi cab. The man exited the sleeper, and the driver of the F-150 was located under the bed of the sleeper. Both men were taken into custody. Inside the F-150, troopers located two sets of brass knuckles and suspected methamphetamine.The driver, Thomas Tagg, 42, of Denver, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, obstructing a peace officer, and numerous traffic offenses. The passenger, Corie Kolthoff, 36, of Brighton, Colorado, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed weapon with no disclosure, and obstructing a peace officer. The third person, Benjamin Franklin, 27, of Mitchell, Nebraska, was arrested for obstructing a peace officer and aiding and abetting a felony.All three were lodged in Morrill County Jail.

3 arrested after pursuit in Morrill County

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Kings Of The Road

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission conservation officers are investigating a Scotts Bluff County hunting incident in which a woman was shot by a firearm.

Jeff Clauson, Game and Parks law enforcement administrator, said the 24-year-old woman was shot by another member of the hunting party and later treated for non-life-threatening injuries in Scottsbluff.

By Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska Game and Parks Commission conservation officers are investigating a Scotts Bluff County hunting incident in which a woman was shot by a firearm.Jeff Clauson, Game and Parks law enforcement administrator, said the 24-year-old woman was shot by another member of the hunting party and later treated for non-life-threatening injuries in Scottsbluff.

Panhandle woman shot during hunting incident

Kimball, Neb. - The Kimball Police Department is asking for the public's help in locating 17-year-old Kylie Osborn. Kylie was last seen late last night in her home, however, has not been seen since. Kylie is believed to be on her way to Kansas. Kylie is approximately 5' 4" and weighs roughly 95 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. Kylie was last seen wearing Tan in color sweats with presents and stuffed bears on them, along with a black crop top style shirt.

Kylie has left her home at her residence, and it is unknown what vehicle she may have left in or who she left with. If you have any information please notify the Kimball Police Department, or your local Law Enforcement agency.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736350659466.jpeg" alt="Kylie Osborne (Kimball Police Department Facebook page)" />
 <figcaption>Kylie Osborne (Kimball Police Department Facebook page)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kimball Police DepartmentKimball, Neb. - The Kimball Police Department is asking for the public's help in locating 17-year-old Kylie Osborn. Kylie was last seen late last night in her home, however, has not been seen since. Kylie is believed to be on her way to Kansas. Kylie is approximately 5' 4" and weighs roughly 95 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. Kylie was last seen wearing Tan in color sweats with presents and stuffed bears on them, along with a black crop top style shirt.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736350697907.jpeg" alt="Kyle Osborne (Kimball Police Department Facebook Page)" />
 <figcaption>Kyle Osborne (Kimball Police Department Facebook Page)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kylie has left her home at her residence, and it is unknown what vehicle she may have left in or who she left with. If you have any information please notify the Kimball Police Department, or your local Law Enforcement agency.

Kimball Police Department seeking Public Assistance in Locating 17-year-old Missing Juvenile 

CHADRON, Neb. – The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (NRD) will host its annual Range Day on Jan. 14, 2025, at Chadron State College's Student Center Ballroom. The event, supported by the Bill and Virginia Coffee Family Foundation, aims to bring together agricultural experts, ranchers, and conservationists for a day of education and networking.

The day begins at 8:30 a.m. with coffee and donuts, sponsored by Cogdill Feeds. Sessions will include a variety of topics such as generational transition planning, winter grazing strategies, and grass finishing techniques. Speakers include Pamela Olsen of Pamela Epp Olsen Law, Jerry D. Volesky from UNL Extension, and Carrie Balkcom of the American Grassfed Association.

At 12:15 p.m., attendees will enjoy a lunch and conservation awards ceremony, provided by the Bill and Virginia Coffee Family Foundation. The afternoon will feature presentations on pasture ground carbon credits by Sara Cover and a weather outlook by Don Day Jr. of Day Weather.

Admission includes lunch, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP by calling 308-432-6190.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736286159971.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON, Neb. – The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (NRD) will host its annual Range Day on Jan. 14, 2025, at Chadron State College's Student Center Ballroom. The event, supported by the Bill and Virginia Coffee Family Foundation, aims to bring together agricultural experts, ranchers, and conservationists for a day of education and networking.The day begins at 8:30 a.m. with coffee and donuts, sponsored by Cogdill Feeds. Sessions will include a variety of topics such as generational transition planning, winter grazing strategies, and grass finishing techniques. Speakers include Pamela Olsen of Pamela Epp Olsen Law, Jerry D. Volesky from UNL Extension, and Carrie Balkcom of the American Grassfed Association.At 12:15 p.m., attendees will enjoy a lunch and conservation awards ceremony, provided by the Bill and Virginia Coffee Family Foundation. The afternoon will feature presentations on pasture ground carbon credits by Sara Cover and a weather outlook by Don Day Jr. of Day Weather.Admission includes lunch, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP by calling 308-432-6190.

Upper Niobrara White NRD hosts annual Range Day at Chadron State College

By&nbsp;Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands - Pine Ridge Ranger District,&nbsp;Timothy Buskirk District Ranger

We will be burning slash piles around the Pine Ridge Job Corps Center today.

  Smoke will be visible from Highway 385 and the surrounding area for a couple of days.

By&nbsp;Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands - Pine Ridge Ranger District,&nbsp;Timothy Buskirk District RangerWe will be burning slash piles around the Pine Ridge Job Corps Center today. Smoke will be visible from Highway 385 and the surrounding area for a couple of days.

USFS burning slash piles in Dawes County 

Alliance, NE – The Alliance Landfill will open later than usual on Wednesday, January 8 th due to scheduled computer system replacement.

During this time, access to the landfill will be inaccessible to the public. In the event that the replacement process is completed ahead of schedule, the landfill will open at its regular time. We encourage you to call ahead to confirm operating hours before your visit.

We appreciate your understanding during this essential maintenance. For more information, please contact the Landfill at 308-762-2705.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The Alliance Landfill will open later than usual on Wednesday, January 8 th due to scheduled computer system replacement.During this time, access to the landfill will be inaccessible to the public. In the event that the replacement process is completed ahead of schedule, the landfill will open at its regular time. We encourage you to call ahead to confirm operating hours before your visit.We appreciate your understanding during this essential maintenance. For more information, please contact the Landfill at 308-762-2705.

Delayed opening of Alliance Landfill scheduled 

Americans are no strangers to larger than life numbers, just ask the recent winner of a more than $1 billion lottery jackpot in California. At Keep Alliance Beautiful we’ve known a million pounds is possible since third quarter volumes topped 200,000 pounds of material recycled in the third quarter of 2021. The final load that left the building this past month put KAB at a record 915,284 pounds for 2024. Less than a ton a week (1,630 pounds) and that million mark is in the bag!

Our most recent annual numbers show a second significant increase – a testament to our amazing employees and volunteers at KAB and dedicated recyclers in Box Butte County, the Panhandle and western Sandhills. Without an increase in manpower or equipment (two pickups, two forklifts and three balers) at the center our numbers jumped nearly 72.5 tons in two years. For 2024, KAB processed and shipped 65,990 pounds more than the previous year’s total of 849, 294. In turn, 2023 saw an even greater increase with 78,869 pounds more than what our recyclers contributed in 2022 (770,425 pounds).

What do all these numbers mean? In short, people and the places they spend their time (work, school, church) are increasingly seeing the value of recycling within the spectrum of waste management. Regular drive up customers often ask what else they can recycle. I may reply “no” to a query occasionally, but, for the most part the answer is “yes” and we see glass bottles, for example, in the trunk the next time. The two communities we serve outside the city limits – Hemingford and Chadron – have also grown in their respective tonnage in 2024.

What area residents and businesses recycle most is obvious to anyone who has visited the recycling center during business hours. Two of the machines keep in shape squeezing cardboard and fiberboard, popping out as many as five 850-1,000-pound bales a day. For the past six quarters cardboard and fiberboard have been combined and listed as cardboard in our volumes records. We sent out 544,865 pounds this past year, nearly 27 tons more than 2023, and 57.5 tons more than 2022. Though KAB has not added anything significant to process cardboard in the building, our storage capacity has increased with a horse trailer to supplement the green trailer for cardboard on the lot along Second Street and a two-axle flatbed trailer to serve one of our most prolific commercial customers.

Other categories compared to 2023 (listed in pounds): Steel/tin cans 31,867 (+7,621), #1-7 Plastic 47,355 (-2,621), Mixed paper 134,411 (+11,948), Milk Jugs 19,605 (N/A, 14,030 in 2022), Aluminum cans 12,340 (-876), Ink Cartridges unavailable/est. +/- 200 (410 shipped in ‘23), Electronics 25,296 (+5,224), Other 8,999 (+7,517), Glass 69,651 (-14,556), Hefty bags 19,146 (+3,814), Paint 1,047 (-2,144), and Car parts 702 (-98).

Thank you to everyone who recycled with KAB in 2024! Let’s pass the million-pound threshold during 2025!

By JOHN E. WEARE KABAmericans are no strangers to larger than life numbers, just ask the recent winner of a more than $1 billion lottery jackpot in California. At Keep Alliance Beautiful we’ve known a million pounds is possible since third quarter volumes topped 200,000 pounds of material recycled in the third quarter of 2021. The final load that left the building this past month put KAB at a record 915,284 pounds for 2024. Less than a ton a week (1,630 pounds) and that million mark is in the bag!Our most recent annual numbers show a second significant increase – a testament to our amazing employees and volunteers at KAB and dedicated recyclers in Box Butte County, the Panhandle and western Sandhills. Without an increase in manpower or equipment (two pickups, two forklifts and three balers) at the center our numbers jumped nearly 72.5 tons in two years. For 2024, KAB processed and shipped 65,990 pounds more than the previous year’s total of 849, 294. In turn, 2023 saw an even greater increase with 78,869 pounds more than what our recyclers contributed in 2022 (770,425 pounds).What do all these numbers mean? In short, people and the places they spend their time (work, school, church) are increasingly seeing the value of recycling within the spectrum of waste management. Regular drive up customers often ask what else they can recycle. I may reply “no” to a query occasionally, but, for the most part the answer is “yes” and we see glass bottles, for example, in the trunk the next time. The two communities we serve outside the city limits – Hemingford and Chadron – have also grown in their respective tonnage in 2024.What area residents and businesses recycle most is obvious to anyone who has visited the recycling center during business hours. Two of the machines keep in shape squeezing cardboard and fiberboard, popping out as many as five 850-1,000-pound bales a day. For the past six quarters cardboard and fiberboard have been combined and listed as cardboard in our volumes records. We sent out 544,865 pounds this past year, nearly 27 tons more than 2023, and 57.5 tons more than 2022. Though KAB has not added anything significant to process cardboard in the building, our storage capacity has increased with a horse trailer to supplement the green trailer for cardboard on the lot along Second Street and a two-axle flatbed trailer to serve one of our most prolific commercial customers.Other categories compared to 2023 (listed in pounds): Steel/tin cans 31,867 (+7,621), #1-7 Plastic 47,355 (-2,621), Mixed paper 134,411 (+11,948), Milk Jugs 19,605 (N/A, 14,030 in 2022), Aluminum cans 12,340 (-876), Ink Cartridges unavailable/est. +/- 200 (410 shipped in ‘23), Electronics 25,296 (+5,224), Other 8,999 (+7,517), Glass 69,651 (-14,556), Hefty bags 19,146 (+3,814), Paint 1,047 (-2,144), and Car parts 702 (-98).Thank you to everyone who recycled with KAB in 2024! Let’s pass the million-pound threshold during 2025!

KAB Record: Recycling Edges Over 915K Pounds In 2024

January 6, 2025 (Grand Island, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The next class of Nebraska State Patrol recruits has started its journey to earning the title of Nebraska State Trooper. Fifteen new recruits began their training today at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island.

“These fifteen recruits have shown the character necessary to take on the mission of serving the people of Nebraska,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our training troopers will combine that strong character with the skills and abilities these recruits will need in order to serve with dedication, compassion, and integrity.”

“This is an important day for the agency,” said Captain Andy Ecklund, NSP Director of Training. “Over the next 22 weeks, going through the training academy process, we’re going to transform them from 15 civilian individuals into a team of trained troopers ready to hit the streets to protect the communities.”

The Nebraska State Patrol basic recruit camp consists of hundreds of hours of classroom and practical instruction, including life-like scenarios designed to simulate situations troopers encounter while serving Nebraska. Camp 71 is scheduled to graduate on June 13, 2025.

Applications to join the next NSP class will open in February. Interested candidates can get information about the hiring process at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskatroopers.com/" target="_blank">NebraskaTroopers.com</a>.

Cody ThomasNebraska State PatrolJanuary 6, 2025 (Grand Island, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The next class of Nebraska State Patrol recruits has started its journey to earning the title of Nebraska State Trooper. Fifteen new recruits began their training today at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island.“These fifteen recruits have shown the character necessary to take on the mission of serving the people of Nebraska,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Our training troopers will combine that strong character with the skills and abilities these recruits will need in order to serve with dedication, compassion, and integrity.”The recruits of Camp 71 are:<div><style type="text/css">
.tg {border-collapse:collapse;border-spacing:0;}
.tg td{border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;
 overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;word-break:normal;}
.tg th{border-color:black;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:14px;
 font-weight:normal;overflow:hidden;padding:10px 5px;word-break:normal;}
.tg .tg-0lax{text-align:left;vertical-align:top}
</style>
<table class="tg"><thead>
 <tr>
 <th class="tg-0lax">Joel Alarcon-Ortega – Imperial, NE</th>
 <th class="tg-0lax">Addison Mackling – Emerson, NE</th>
 </tr></thead>
<tbody>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Jennifer Alonso – Hastings, NE</td>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Ryan Painter – Springview, NE</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Alejandra Bautista Torres – Hastings, NE</td>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Jamie Shirley – Sioux Falls, SD</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Shania Daugherty – Hallam, NE</td>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Nickolas Sutton – San Antonio, TX</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Joseph Fausti – Clayton, WA</td>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Michael Vargas – Hershey, NE</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Gage Gonzales – Lincoln, NE</td>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Nathan Wamsley – Sidney, NE</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Aaron Krefft – Omaha, NE</td>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Kaidyn Whitmire – Kearney, NE</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-0lax">Jace Kremer – Seward, NE</td>
 <td class="tg-0lax"></td>
 </tr>
</tbody></table></div>“This is an important day for the agency,” said Captain Andy Ecklund, NSP Director of Training. “Over the next 22 weeks, going through the training academy process, we’re going to transform them from 15 civilian individuals into a team of trained troopers ready to hit the streets to protect the communities.”The Nebraska State Patrol basic recruit camp consists of hundreds of hours of classroom and practical instruction, including life-like scenarios designed to simulate situations troopers encounter while serving Nebraska. Camp 71 is scheduled to graduate on June 13, 2025.Applications to join the next NSP class will open in February. Interested candidates can get information about the hiring process at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nebraskatroopers.com/" target="_blank">NebraskaTroopers.com</a>.

15 Recruits Begin Training to Become Nebraska State Troopers

On Thursday, January 16th, the Alliance Police Department will host its next Community Forum at the Knight Museum. The forum will begin at 6pm and last for approximately one hour. 

Members of the Alliance community are encouraged to attend, On the agenda will be updates from the police department as well as an opportunity for citizens to share their concerns. Light refreshments will be provided.

By Alliance Police DepartmentOn Thursday, January 16th, the Alliance Police Department will host its next Community Forum at the Knight Museum. The forum will begin at 6pm and last for approximately one hour. Members of the Alliance community are encouraged to attend, On the agenda will be updates from the police department as well as an opportunity for citizens to share their concerns. Light refreshments will be provided.

Alliance Police Department to hold community forum 

By Box Butte County Clerk, Martie Burke

All Box Butte County facilities will be closed on January 9, 2025 for the National Day of Mourning of James Earl Carter, Jr. 

Normal business hours will resume January 10, 2025.

By Box Butte County Clerk, Martie BurkeAll Box Butte County facilities will be closed on January 9, 2025 for the National Day of Mourning of James Earl Carter, Jr. Normal business hours will resume January 10, 2025.

Box Butte Co. Courthouse to close during 'Presidential Proclamation'

Tue 1-7 9th grade basketball at Scottsbluff - girls&nbsp;at 4:00, boys at 5:30W 

Wed 1-8 FFA at Districts CDE&nbsp;@ WNCCTh 

TH 1-9 girls and boys wrestling at home vs Chadron 6:00&nbsp;

F 1-10 girls wrestling at Sidney Invite 2:00

F 1-10 girls basketball at Lakota Tech - reserve game 4:00, JV game 5:30, varsity game 7:00

F 1-10 boys wrestling at Douglas, WY Invite 10:00 am

Sat 1-11 girls and boys basketball at home vs Bridgeport - JV games at 2:00 (boys game at middle school), girls varsity game at 3:30, boys varsity game at 5:00&nbsp;

Sat 1-11 boys wrestling at Douglas, WY Invite 9:00 am&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alliance Public SchoolsACTIVITIES THIS WEEKTue 1-7 9th grade basketball at Scottsbluff - girls&nbsp;at 4:00, boys at 5:30W Wed 1-8 FFA at Districts CDE&nbsp;@ WNCCTh TH 1-9 girls and boys wrestling at home vs Chadron 6:00&nbsp;F 1-10 girls wrestling at Sidney Invite 2:00F 1-10 girls basketball at Lakota Tech - reserve game 4:00, JV game 5:30, varsity game 7:00F 1-10 boys wrestling at Douglas, WY Invite 10:00 amSat 1-11 girls and boys basketball at home vs Bridgeport - JV games at 2:00 (boys game at middle school), girls varsity game at 3:30, boys varsity game at 5:00&nbsp;Sat 1-11 boys wrestling at Douglas, WY Invite 9:00 am&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alliance Public Schools: Activities this week (Week of January 6th)

&nbsp; Check out this week's KCOW Sports schedule for Bulldog athletics. Contest can be heard on KCOW FM 92.5/AM 1400 or listen to the online stream by&nbsp;<a href="https://kcowradio.com/">clicking here.</a>

Tuesday, Jan 7: 5pm Husker Mens Basketball at Iowa

Wednesday, Jan 8: 5:30pm Husker Womens Basketball vs. Michigan State&nbsp;

Jan 11: Alliance vs. Bridgeport Basketball. Girls at 3:30pm followed by boys. Join "Voice of the Bulldogs" <a href="https://x.com/Canon_K9_Sports">Canon Rath</a> for all the action!&nbsp;

&nbsp; Check out this week's KCOW Sports schedule for Bulldog athletics. Contest can be heard on KCOW FM 92.5/AM 1400 or listen to the online stream by&nbsp;<a href="https://kcowradio.com/">clicking here.</a>Tuesday, Jan 7: 5pm Husker Mens Basketball at IowaWednesday, Jan 8: 5:30pm Husker Womens Basketball vs. Michigan State&nbsp;Jan 11: Alliance vs. Bridgeport Basketball. Girls at 3:30pm followed by boys. Join "Voice of the Bulldogs" <a href="https://x.com/Canon_K9_Sports">Canon Rath</a> for all the action!&nbsp;

KCOW Radio Sports Schedule (Week of January 6th)

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the names of the Nebraskans she is nominating for U.S. service academies.

“All of these students have proven themselves to be dedicated leaders, excelling within their classrooms and communities. It is my pleasure to nominate this impressive group of students for our nation’s prestigious military academies. I know they will go far and serve Nebraska and the United States with honor,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

Below are Senator Fischer’s nominees for the Class of 2029:

Office of U.S. Senator Deb FischerWASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the names of the Nebraskans she is nominating for U.S. service academies.“All of these students have proven themselves to be dedicated leaders, excelling within their classrooms and communities. It is my pleasure to nominate this impressive group of students for our nation’s prestigious military academies. I know they will go far and serve Nebraska and the United States with honor,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.Below are Senator Fischer’s nominees for the Class of 2029:<ul>
 <li>William Berol&nbsp;of North Platte to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Patrick Bursaw&nbsp;of Ravenna to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Andrew Calub&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy</li><li>Mason Curtis&nbsp;of Bellevue to U.S. Air Force Academy</li><li>Amelia Engle&nbsp;of Bennington to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Jaxson Gates&nbsp;of Lincoln to U.S. Air Force Academy</li><li>Leo Geck&nbsp;of La Vista to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Military Academy</li><li>Chloe Grabenbauer&nbsp;of Bellevue to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Piper Hagen&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Henry Hansen&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Colson Hazen&nbsp;of Fremont to U.S. Merchant Marine Academy</li><li>George Ivanov&nbsp;of Lincoln to U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Ayla Janssen&nbsp;of Columbus to U.S. Air Force Academy</li><li>Adrian Lauer&nbsp;of Lincoln to U.S. Air Force Academy</li><li>Grace Leininger&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy</li><li>William McDermott&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Zander Miller&nbsp;of Elkhorn to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Military Academy</li><li>Christian Mundt&nbsp;of La Vista to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Julian Newbauer&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Casey Olson&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>John O’Neill&nbsp;of Papillion to U.S. Air Force Academy</li><li>Hayden Overgaard&nbsp;of Dakota City to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Nicholas Phelan&nbsp;of Lincoln to&nbsp;U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy</li><li>Alexander Poole&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Adam Pugh&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Aiden Robertson&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy</li><li>Cohen Sand&nbsp;of Lincoln to U.S. Merchant Marine Academy</li><li>Elijah Sharrar&nbsp;of Gering to U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Ayden Shook&nbsp;of Milford to U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy</li><li>Hendrick Shradar&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Military Academy</li><li>Virginia Skybo&nbsp;of Omaha to U.S. Air Force Academy&nbsp;and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Teagen Smith&nbsp;of Bloomfield to&nbsp;U.S. Military Academy and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Sarah Spahr&nbsp;of Milford to U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Lydia Stewart&nbsp;of Springfield to&nbsp;U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li><li>Justin Wenzel&nbsp;of Arthur to U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy</li>
 </ul>

 Fischer Announces Military Academy Nominations for Class of 2029 Which Features Area Students

The 2025 mountain lion hunting season in Nebraska’s Wildcat Hills Unit closed Jan. 5 after three mountain lions, two males and one female, were harvested.

Regulations require the unit to be closed once the annual harvest limit of three mountain lions — with a sublimit of two females — is reached.

The Pine Ridge Unit remains open, with three mountain lions harvested as of Jan. 5; they include two females and one male. The harvest limit for the unit is 12 mountain lions with a sublimit of six females.

The Niobrara Unit met its harvest limit Jan. 2 and closed on that date.

An auxiliary season would be March 15-31 for the Pine Ridge should the harvest limit or female sublimit not be reached during Season 1.

The limits for Nebraska’s three mountain lion hunting units were set to meet the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s objective to maintain resilient, healthy and socially acceptable mountain lion populations that are in balance with available habitat and other wildlife species over the long term.

The Wildcat Hills Unit was added to the mountain lion hunting season for the first time during the 2025 season. It encompasses parts of Scotts Bluff, Banner, Kimball, Morrill, Cheyenne and Garden counties.

This is the state’s eighth mountain lion harvest season; the first was in 2014.

Mountain lions are native to Nebraska but were extirpated from the state in the early 1900s. They moved back into the state from South Dakota, Wyoming and Colorado as populations of prey species increased. Mountain lion presence in Nebraska was confirmed in the early 1990s, and in 1995 the state legislature classified them as game animals.

Since then, the cats have established reproducing populations in Nebraska’s most rugged terrain: the Pine Ridge, Wildcat Hills and Niobrara Valley with occasional confirmed presence in other parts of the state.

By Nebraska Game and Parks<h2></h2>The 2025 mountain lion hunting season in Nebraska’s Wildcat Hills Unit closed Jan. 5 after three mountain lions, two males and one female, were harvested.Regulations require the unit to be closed once the annual harvest limit of three mountain lions — with a sublimit of two females — is reached.The Pine Ridge Unit remains open, with three mountain lions harvested as of Jan. 5; they include two females and one male. The harvest limit for the unit is 12 mountain lions with a sublimit of six females.The Niobrara Unit met its harvest limit Jan. 2 and closed on that date.An auxiliary season would be March 15-31 for the Pine Ridge should the harvest limit or female sublimit not be reached during Season 1.The limits for Nebraska’s three mountain lion hunting units were set to meet the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s objective to maintain resilient, healthy and socially acceptable mountain lion populations that are in balance with available habitat and other wildlife species over the long term.The Wildcat Hills Unit was added to the mountain lion hunting season for the first time during the 2025 season. It encompasses parts of Scotts Bluff, Banner, Kimball, Morrill, Cheyenne and Garden counties.This is the state’s eighth mountain lion harvest season; the first was in 2014.Mountain lions are native to Nebraska but were extirpated from the state in the early 1900s. They moved back into the state from South Dakota, Wyoming and Colorado as populations of prey species increased. Mountain lion presence in Nebraska was confirmed in the early 1990s, and in 1995 the state legislature classified them as game animals.Since then, the cats have established reproducing populations in Nebraska’s most rugged terrain: the Pine Ridge, Wildcat Hills and Niobrara Valley with occasional confirmed presence in other parts of the state.

Wildcat Hills mountain lion season closes

P202400712 09:03 MVA : NON INJURY Officers were dispatched to a MVA that occurred at the southwest corner of the Grocery Kart parking lot. A motorist had turned to soon and hit the curb and light pole when trying to pull into the parking lot. Closed - Resolved

P202400714 10:34 TRAFFIC STOP : Officers were alerted to the oder of marijuana during a traffic stop. A search was conducted in which reveled a small quantity of marijuana in the vehicle. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400713 10:34 TRAFFIC STOP : Officer conducted traffic stop on vehicle, detected the odor of marijuana. Probable cause search was conducted and located approximately 10 grams of marijuana as well as misc. drug paraphernalia. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400715 20:34 DEATH : UNATTENDED Officers responded to the E row of meadows for an unattended death. Closed - Resolved

P202400716 05:35 THEFT : THEFT Report of the theft of a landline phone from the Alliance Inn and Suites Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400717 14:34 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Officers were dispatched to a possible child abuse case and an investigation was conducted. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400718 08:21 ERROR : INCIDENT CALL Closed - Resolved

P202400719 13:13 TRAFFIC STOP : Report of shoplifting, officers located male, citation issued. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400720 15:44 MVA : NON INJURY Officers responded to motor vehicle accident that took place at F8 Tower Plz Closed - Resolved

P202400721 16:54 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to BBGH in reference to a reported animal bite. Closed - Resolved

P202500001 07:07 MVA : NON INJURY Closed - Resolved

P202500002 08:56 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Report of an assault on January 2 2025 / Unknown suspect Inactive - Case Suspended

P202500003 12:41 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Case for criminal mischief regarding two juveniles Closed - Charges Recommended

P202500004 19:34 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Open - Under Investigation

P202500005 22:21 WARRANT : ARREST Closed - Resolved

P202500006 09:34 MISSING : MISSING Officers notified of missing male, was later located. Closed - Resolved

By Alliance Police Department12/29/24P202400712 09:03 MVA : NON INJURY Officers were dispatched to a MVA that occurred at the southwest corner of the Grocery Kart parking lot. A motorist had turned to soon and hit the curb and light pole when trying to pull into the parking lot. Closed - ResolvedP202400714 10:34 TRAFFIC STOP : Officers were alerted to the oder of marijuana during a traffic stop. A search was conducted in which reveled a small quantity of marijuana in the vehicle. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202400713 10:34 TRAFFIC STOP : Officer conducted traffic stop on vehicle, detected the odor of marijuana. Probable cause search was conducted and located approximately 10 grams of marijuana as well as misc. drug paraphernalia. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202400715 20:34 DEATH : UNATTENDED Officers responded to the E row of meadows for an unattended death. Closed - Resolved12/29/24 Total: 412/30/24P202400716 05:35 THEFT : THEFT Report of the theft of a landline phone from the Alliance Inn and Suites Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400717 14:34 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Officers were dispatched to a possible child abuse case and an investigation was conducted. Closed - Charges Recommended12/30/24 Total: 212/31/24P202400718 08:21 ERROR : INCIDENT CALL Closed - ResolvedP202400719 13:13 TRAFFIC STOP : Report of shoplifting, officers located male, citation issued. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202400720 15:44 MVA : NON INJURY Officers responded to motor vehicle accident that took place at F8 Tower Plz Closed - ResolvedP202400721 16:54 BITE : ANIMAL BITE Officers responded to BBGH in reference to a reported animal bite. Closed - Resolved12/31/24 Total: 401/01/25P202500001 07:07 MVA : NON INJURY Closed - Resolved01/01/25 Total: 101/02/25P202500002 08:56 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Report of an assault on January 2 2025 / Unknown suspect Inactive - Case Suspended01/02/25 Total: 101/03/25P202500003 12:41 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Case for criminal mischief regarding two juveniles Closed - Charges RecommendedP202500004 19:34 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Open - Under InvestigationP202500005 22:21 WARRANT : ARREST Closed - Resolved01/03/25 Total: 301/04/25P202500006 09:34 MISSING : MISSING Officers notified of missing male, was later located. Closed - Resolved01/04/25 Total: 1Total Records: 16

Alliance Police Department: The media report 

Anglers can learn the basics of ice-fishing or pick up a few new tips from experienced anglers at Discover Ice-Fishing clinics in January.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Youth Fishing Program will host three on-ice events and one classroom event.

From 9 a.m.-noon Mountain Time Jan. 11, the Nebraska Fish and Game Association will host a classroom clinic at the Alliance Eagles Club, 1520 W. 3 rd St. This will feature presentations by some of Nebraska’s top ice fishermen. Registration is suggested by emailing Harold@nefga.org.

From 2-4 p.m. Jan. 11, anglers can head to Laing Lake in Alliance to Discover Ice-Fishing with volunteer instructors helping you learn while on the ice.

The other on-ice events will be from 2-4 p.m. Jan. 19 at Lincoln’s Holmes Lake (located about mid-lake along the north shoreline drive), and 2-4 p.m. Jan. 25 at Norfolk’s Skyview Lake.

To get a reminder for the on-ice events or notification in case of cancellation, visit the calendar event entries at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov.

Limited loaner equipment will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bait and instruction will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment.

All fishing regulations and permit requirements apply.

A lack of safe ice will force the cancellation of the on-ice events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735924923102.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Anglers can learn the basics of ice-fishing or pick up a few new tips from experienced anglers at Discover Ice-Fishing clinics in January.The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Youth Fishing Program will host three on-ice events and one classroom event.From 9 a.m.-noon Mountain Time Jan. 11, the Nebraska Fish and Game Association will host a classroom clinic at the Alliance Eagles Club, 1520 W. 3 rd St. This will feature presentations by some of Nebraska’s top ice fishermen. Registration is suggested by emailing Harold@nefga.org.From 2-4 p.m. Jan. 11, anglers can head to Laing Lake in Alliance to Discover Ice-Fishing with volunteer instructors helping you learn while on the ice.The other on-ice events will be from 2-4 p.m. Jan. 19 at Lincoln’s Holmes Lake (located about mid-lake along the north shoreline drive), and 2-4 p.m. Jan. 25 at Norfolk’s Skyview Lake.To get a reminder for the on-ice events or notification in case of cancellation, visit the calendar event entries at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov.Limited loaner equipment will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Bait and instruction will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment.All fishing regulations and permit requirements apply.A lack of safe ice will force the cancellation of the on-ice events.

Ice fishing clinics coming to Alliance 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Best Coffee Talk EVER!

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

"On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me..." Yeah, we all know the song&nbsp;The 12 Days of Christmas&nbsp;and we are probably so sick of hearing it by December 25 that we want to run screaming from the room when it begins to play. No one wants twelve partridges in pear trees.

The twelve days of Christmas don't end on Christmas Day; that is when they begin. In the church year the four weeks before Christmas are Advent. Christmas begins on December 25 and lasts until Epiphany, January 6. That is when we celebrate the Magi, also called the Three Kings or the Wise Men.

Many cultures around the world have Twelfth Night celebrations, either on January 5 or 6, to celebrate Epiphany. In some countries this is when gifts are given, because that is when Jesus was given the gold, frankincense, and myrrh by the Magi.

Have you eaten King Cake, or Roscon de Reyes? The special cakes, perhaps called different names in different nations, are usually baked on the night of January 5 and eaten on Epiphany. These yeast cakes are baked in a circle and beautifully decorated, to represent a royal crown. Usually a plastic baby, a bean, or a pea is hidden inside, and the person whose slice has that treasure is king or queen for the day of Epiphany. If you've been to New Orleans, you may have eaten King Cake. This treat is served from Epiphany through Mardi Gras, often at weekly parties or after parades. Then Lent and the time of fasting begins.

British people make a special punch called Wassail for their Twelfth Night celebration, Wassail is made from hot mulled cider or wine and spices.&nbsp;In some communities wassailing involves door-to-door charity-giving. Some towns have orchard wassailing parties to ensure a good harvest the following year. According to Wikipedia, the villagers form a circle around the largest apple tree, hang pieces of toast soaked in cider in the branches for the robins, who represent the 'good spirits' of the tree. Then they sing. They believe this ensures a good apple harvest the next Autumn.

Many people believe&nbsp;The 12 Days of Christmas&nbsp;song represents different aspects of Christianity, but there isn't any evidence to support this. Instead, the rhyme was written centuries ago as a memory game. When I was a child, I learned&nbsp;This Is the House that Jack Built. Many of us sang&nbsp;There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly&nbsp;with our children. (If you aren't familiar with these memory games, check them out on Google or YouTube.)

In the United States, our culture has become so commercialized that our stores, and many of our homes, begin to decorate for Christmas November 1, when Halloween comes down. Most families set up their trees the weekend after Thanksgiving. The tree and decorations are put away the day after Christmas.

I grew up in a family that got our tree in mid-December, and the tree and decorations came down on Epiphany. Now that we have artificial trees, Earl and I put ours up the beginning of December. And our home stays decorated until Epiphany, January 6, the 12th Day of Christmas.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity"On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me..." Yeah, we all know the song&nbsp;The 12 Days of Christmas&nbsp;and we are probably so sick of hearing it by December 25 that we want to run screaming from the room when it begins to play. No one wants twelve partridges in pear trees.What are the twelve days of Christmas?The twelve days of Christmas don't end on Christmas Day; that is when they begin. In the church year the four weeks before Christmas are Advent. Christmas begins on December 25 and lasts until Epiphany, January 6. That is when we celebrate the Magi, also called the Three Kings or the Wise Men.Many cultures around the world have Twelfth Night celebrations, either on January 5 or 6, to celebrate Epiphany. In some countries this is when gifts are given, because that is when Jesus was given the gold, frankincense, and myrrh by the Magi.Have you eaten King Cake, or Roscon de Reyes? The special cakes, perhaps called different names in different nations, are usually baked on the night of January 5 and eaten on Epiphany. These yeast cakes are baked in a circle and beautifully decorated, to represent a royal crown. Usually a plastic baby, a bean, or a pea is hidden inside, and the person whose slice has that treasure is king or queen for the day of Epiphany. If you've been to New Orleans, you may have eaten King Cake. This treat is served from Epiphany through Mardi Gras, often at weekly parties or after parades. Then Lent and the time of fasting begins.British people make a special punch called Wassail for their Twelfth Night celebration, Wassail is made from hot mulled cider or wine and spices.&nbsp;In some communities wassailing involves door-to-door charity-giving. Some towns have orchard wassailing parties to ensure a good harvest the following year. According to Wikipedia, the villagers form a circle around the largest apple tree, hang pieces of toast soaked in cider in the branches for the robins, who represent the 'good spirits' of the tree. Then they sing. They believe this ensures a good apple harvest the next Autumn.Many people believe&nbsp;The 12 Days of Christmas&nbsp;song represents different aspects of Christianity, but there isn't any evidence to support this. Instead, the rhyme was written centuries ago as a memory game. When I was a child, I learned&nbsp;This Is the House that Jack Built. Many of us sang&nbsp;There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly&nbsp;with our children. (If you aren't familiar with these memory games, check them out on Google or YouTube.)In the United States, our culture has become so commercialized that our stores, and many of our homes, begin to decorate for Christmas November 1, when Halloween comes down. Most families set up their trees the weekend after Thanksgiving. The tree and decorations are put away the day after Christmas.I grew up in a family that got our tree in mid-December, and the tree and decorations came down on Epiphany. Now that we have artificial trees, Earl and I put ours up the beginning of December. And our home stays decorated until Epiphany, January 6, the 12th Day of Christmas.

Getting Ahead: 12 Days of Christmas 

By Shaun Friedrichsen, Co-Publisher

Pictured are, front row, from left to right: Josie Otto, Rich Otto and Charlie Otto; back row: Charlana Hjersman, Carla Forgey and Robi Heldenbrand, the team at Edward Jones, Otto Wealth Management Team.

Returning to Alliance following their stints at college, Charlie and Josie Otto are excited to join their father, Rich Otto, in his practice, serving clients at Edward Jones as part of the Otto Wealth Management Team.

Rich, who started by following in his father’s footsteps at Edward Jones, is grateful for the opportunity to have Charlie and Josie return to their hometown. He explained his beginnings in the practice are rooted in family and the community, and a passion for helping others. “My father was with Edward Jones for 28 years in Kearney,” Rich said. “I have two brothers with a firm in Kearney as well. I have a brother-in-law in Omaha with Edward Jones. Growing up with Edward Jones, I always saw dad at our sporting events and always a part of the community, always giving back, so it’s something that attracted me to Edward Jones as well. I started with a firm in 1992. I did an internship with Edward Jones, then I had the opportunity to move to Alliance.

“I always wanted to raise my family in a small town,” Rich said. “That’s what attracted me to Alliance, but in terms of having been here for over 30 years, I’m only 55, I have no intentions of retiring. My dream when I built this building was always to have, hopefully, someone in the office with me—my dream was to have one of my kids—but I’ve been blessed to have two in part of our practice here, so I’m excited for the next chapter in our lives.”

Charlie, who graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln recently, chose to return to Alliance so that he can grow strong roots in the community.

“I enjoyed what I learned there (at UNL), but I kind of never really felt, necessarily as at home as I did being in Alliance,” Charlie said. “I like the community aspect and the kindness people show you in a smaller town. I think that’s something, Lincoln had those aspects, but not quite as well as Alliance had it. I kind of missed that and having that sense of belonging and sense of purpose in Alliance. I’d like to make a bigger impact in the community, not only with Edward Jones, but through church, and eventually, maybe schools and things of that nature. Right now I’m just getting my feet wet and getting settled back in.”

Josie, before graduating from college, helped her father with on-call work at his practice in 2019. She said she chose to return to Alliance to be near her family and to start her own family here.

“I grew up here, my fiancé is from here,” Josie said. “Being near family really pulled me back. I’m getting married next summer, and part of my goal is to hopefully have a family some day. I think that’s the nice thing about doing this group effort: when we can all service all clients, if I need to take a minute because my child is sick, they can still help the people who will need it. Some of my other goals are to start getting more involved in the community. It’s just finding those right things that I’m passionate about.”

Josie was inspired to join Edward Jones because of the impact she saw her father had on people in the community.

“I had grown up seeing all of these people who were impacted so greatly by my dad,” Josie said. “You’d be in the grocery store, and it would be like, ‘Tell your dad thank you,’ or ‘Tell him hello, Merry Christmas,’ things like that. It was just something when I decided to go the finance route, I was like I know I want to be at Edward Jones because he’s not only making an impact in the clients’ lives, but the way Edward Jones works as a whole, just the culture, it’s so nice. It’s not competitive between advisors. It’s always build each other up. I can call any advisor and they’ll give me advice.”

Being in practice as a family is a new experience to navigate, Rich explained, though he is hopeful for the future and the resources they can work together to offer clients.

“We’re kind of finding our way,” Rich said. “We all have our own skillsets, and more importantly, we’re bringing those together to help our clients. Instead of each of us working individually with somebody, we’re going to work collectively as a team. So, you get three heads for the price of one. Just to be able to have that camaraderie together, and just to be able to bounce ideas off each other, and share thoughts for what’s best for our clients. It’s a group effort, and I enjoy that. Our firm has been in a pilot in this type of teaming program. We’re excited to be able to be a part of this extension of the pilot, and grateful to Edward Jones to not only be able to have my kids be with us, but, more importantly, to be able to work collectively for our clients and what’s best for them.”

Charlie emphasized he is not working for his dad; he is working with his dad, which offers many exciting opportunities to learn from his experience.

“We’re a team, and we’re all working together to help our clients,” Charlie said. Josie is thrilled for the opportunity to work together with her family and to draw on each other’s strengths.

“Sometimes a client’s situation, I might not have come across, but Rich being in the business the last 30 years, I can come to him and be like, ‘Hey, this is the situation, can you help me out?’ and try to find the best solution for the client and what’s best for them,” Josie said.

Josie and Charlie have already learned many lessons from the practice, and hope to learn many more as they continue down this path.

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that it’s okay to take a minute if you need to find the right answers,” Josie said. “People are more appreciative to know that you’re going to do what’s best for them, not necessarily that you’re going to do it right this minute. It’s okay to be learning.”

“I would say doing what’s right for people, even if it’s not benefitting to you,” Charlie said. “I think what you put out into the world comes back to you.”

Rich emphasized that, as a firm, Edward Jones is a privately-held partnership, with the focus being on the client first.

“When we make investments in people, it’s an investment, whereas some companies look at investment in people as an expense,” Rich said. “So, when things get lean, they cut the expense, but we’re making an investment in the people, to help the community, to help our individual clients and make sure their goals are met. That’s what drew me to Edward Jones was the focus on the client. I enjoy helping people, and that gives me purpose. Our mission statement is, ‘Partnering together, our family helping your family.’ It gives me great joy to wake up every day and help people to achieve their goals.”

By Shaun Friedrichsen, Co-Publisher<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735920041067.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Pictured are, front row, from left to right: Josie Otto, Rich Otto and Charlie Otto; back row: Charlana Hjersman, Carla Forgey and Robi Heldenbrand, the team at Edward Jones, Otto Wealth Management Team.Returning to Alliance following their stints at college, Charlie and Josie Otto are excited to join their father, Rich Otto, in his practice, serving clients at Edward Jones as part of the Otto Wealth Management Team.Rich, who started by following in his father’s footsteps at Edward Jones, is grateful for the opportunity to have Charlie and Josie return to their hometown. He explained his beginnings in the practice are rooted in family and the community, and a passion for helping others. “My father was with Edward Jones for 28 years in Kearney,” Rich said. “I have two brothers with a firm in Kearney as well. I have a brother-in-law in Omaha with Edward Jones. Growing up with Edward Jones, I always saw dad at our sporting events and always a part of the community, always giving back, so it’s something that attracted me to Edward Jones as well. I started with a firm in 1992. I did an internship with Edward Jones, then I had the opportunity to move to Alliance.“I always wanted to raise my family in a small town,” Rich said. “That’s what attracted me to Alliance, but in terms of having been here for over 30 years, I’m only 55, I have no intentions of retiring. My dream when I built this building was always to have, hopefully, someone in the office with me—my dream was to have one of my kids—but I’ve been blessed to have two in part of our practice here, so I’m excited for the next chapter in our lives.”Charlie, who graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln recently, chose to return to Alliance so that he can grow strong roots in the community.“I enjoyed what I learned there (at UNL), but I kind of never really felt, necessarily as at home as I did being in Alliance,” Charlie said. “I like the community aspect and the kindness people show you in a smaller town. I think that’s something, Lincoln had those aspects, but not quite as well as Alliance had it. I kind of missed that and having that sense of belonging and sense of purpose in Alliance. I’d like to make a bigger impact in the community, not only with Edward Jones, but through church, and eventually, maybe schools and things of that nature. Right now I’m just getting my feet wet and getting settled back in.”Josie, before graduating from college, helped her father with on-call work at his practice in 2019. She said she chose to return to Alliance to be near her family and to start her own family here.“I grew up here, my fiancé is from here,” Josie said. “Being near family really pulled me back. I’m getting married next summer, and part of my goal is to hopefully have a family some day. I think that’s the nice thing about doing this group effort: when we can all service all clients, if I need to take a minute because my child is sick, they can still help the people who will need it. Some of my other goals are to start getting more involved in the community. It’s just finding those right things that I’m passionate about.”Josie was inspired to join Edward Jones because of the impact she saw her father had on people in the community.“I had grown up seeing all of these people who were impacted so greatly by my dad,” Josie said. “You’d be in the grocery store, and it would be like, ‘Tell your dad thank you,’ or ‘Tell him hello, Merry Christmas,’ things like that. It was just something when I decided to go the finance route, I was like I know I want to be at Edward Jones because he’s not only making an impact in the clients’ lives, but the way Edward Jones works as a whole, just the culture, it’s so nice. It’s not competitive between advisors. It’s always build each other up. I can call any advisor and they’ll give me advice.”Being in practice as a family is a new experience to navigate, Rich explained, though he is hopeful for the future and the resources they can work together to offer clients.“We’re kind of finding our way,” Rich said. “We all have our own skillsets, and more importantly, we’re bringing those together to help our clients. Instead of each of us working individually with somebody, we’re going to work collectively as a team. So, you get three heads for the price of one. Just to be able to have that camaraderie together, and just to be able to bounce ideas off each other, and share thoughts for what’s best for our clients. It’s a group effort, and I enjoy that. Our firm has been in a pilot in this type of teaming program. We’re excited to be able to be a part of this extension of the pilot, and grateful to Edward Jones to not only be able to have my kids be with us, but, more importantly, to be able to work collectively for our clients and what’s best for them.”Charlie emphasized he is not working for his dad; he is working with his dad, which offers many exciting opportunities to learn from his experience.“We’re a team, and we’re all working together to help our clients,” Charlie said. Josie is thrilled for the opportunity to work together with her family and to draw on each other’s strengths.“Sometimes a client’s situation, I might not have come across, but Rich being in the business the last 30 years, I can come to him and be like, ‘Hey, this is the situation, can you help me out?’ and try to find the best solution for the client and what’s best for them,” Josie said.Josie and Charlie have already learned many lessons from the practice, and hope to learn many more as they continue down this path.“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that it’s okay to take a minute if you need to find the right answers,” Josie said. “People are more appreciative to know that you’re going to do what’s best for them, not necessarily that you’re going to do it right this minute. It’s okay to be learning.”“I would say doing what’s right for people, even if it’s not benefitting to you,” Charlie said. “I think what you put out into the world comes back to you.”Rich emphasized that, as a firm, Edward Jones is a privately-held partnership, with the focus being on the client first.“When we make investments in people, it’s an investment, whereas some companies look at investment in people as an expense,” Rich said. “So, when things get lean, they cut the expense, but we’re making an investment in the people, to help the community, to help our individual clients and make sure their goals are met. That’s what drew me to Edward Jones was the focus on the client. I enjoy helping people, and that gives me purpose. Our mission statement is, ‘Partnering together, our family helping your family.’ It gives me great joy to wake up every day and help people to achieve their goals.”

Continuing the Family Business: Charlie, Josie Otto Return to Alliance to Join Family Firm

By Sheridan County Sheriff's Office

On December 31, 2024 around 6:30 pm, deputies were advised of a pursuit entering Sheridan County from South Dakota. The occupants were reported to have firearms and narcotics. 

Deputies caught up to and continued the pursuit down multiple county roads, attempting to "spike" the vehicle and end the pursuit safely. The driver continued to elude law enforcement,  with the pursuit eventually ending up on Highway 20 outside of Rushville.

 The pursuit continued through Hay Springs and into Box Butte County, where the vehicle ultimately was stopped. 

One male driver was subsequently taken into custody on multiple felony charges. Two passengers were detained, interviewed, and ultimately released with minor unrelated charges. 

We would like to extend a thank you to the Nebraska State Patrol and Box Butte County Sheriff's Office for helping bring this incident to a safe conclusion.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Sheridan County Sheriff's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735833285891.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>On December 31, 2024 around 6:30 pm, deputies were advised of a pursuit entering Sheridan County from South Dakota. The occupants were reported to have firearms and narcotics. Deputies caught up to and continued the pursuit down multiple county roads, attempting to "spike" the vehicle and end the pursuit safely. The driver continued to elude law enforcement, with the pursuit eventually ending up on Highway 20 outside of Rushville. The pursuit continued through Hay Springs and into Box Butte County, where the vehicle ultimately was stopped. One male driver was subsequently taken into custody on multiple felony charges. Two passengers were detained, interviewed, and ultimately released with minor unrelated charges. We would like to extend a thank you to the Nebraska State Patrol and Box Butte County Sheriff's Office for helping bring this incident to a safe conclusion.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Highway pursuit ends near Rushville 

Nebraska anglers should be aware of fishing regulation changes that took in effect on Jan. 1, 2025.&nbsp;

The changes to fishing rules, approved by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission during meetings in 2024, are:

Black Bass (largemouth, smallmouth and spotted) –&nbsp;At Frye Lake Wildlife Management Area, there will be no minimum length limit with no more than one fish 18 inches or longer allowed in the five-fish daily bag limit.

At Prairie View Lake, Wagon Train State Recreation Area/WMA, Duck Creek Recreation Area and Prairie Queen Recreation Area, the five-fish bag limit has a protected slot of 15-18 inches, with no more than one fish 18 inches or longer in the daily bag.

Patriot Park Lake was added to the list of water bodies that have a 21-inch minimum length limit.

Pawnee SRA/WMA was removed from the list of water bodies that have a 21-inch minimum length limit.

Two Rivers State Recreation Area Trout Lake (Lake No. 5) –&nbsp;Anglers will be allowed to practice catch and release on trout if they choose, and the start date when anglers will be allowed to fish the lake without a trout tag is June 1.

Channel Catfish –&nbsp;The “one-over” size restriction on channel catfish from the Missouri River is removed.

Walleye, Sauger and Saugeye –&nbsp;Branched Oak Lake reverts to statewide restrictions of daily bag limit of four, possession limit of eight and 15-inch minimum length limit, with one over 22 inches or longer allowed in the daily bag.

Northern Pike –&nbsp;At Clear Lake, Dewey Lake, Hackberry Lake and Pelican Lake, the three-fish daily bag limit has a protected slot of 24-34 inches, with no more than one fish 34 inches or longer in the bag.

Smith Lake WMA is added to the lakes that have a daily bag limit of 10 pike of which only three can be over 22 inches and only one of these can be over 34 inches.&nbsp;

Lake Wanahoo reverts to statewide restrictions of daily bag limit of three, possession limit of 10, no minimum length limit and one fish 34 inches or longer allowed in the daily bag.

Striped Bass, White Bass and Wiper –&nbsp;The statewide “one-over” size restriction is changed, increasing the length limit to 18 inches or longer in which the daily bag limit may include one fish, in inland waters.

Bait –&nbsp;The no-live-baitfish restriction was removed at Lake Wanahoo.

More fishing information can be found in the 2025 Fishing Guide, which will be available in January at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.outdoornebraska.org/">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and where 2025 fishing permits are sold.

Jerry KaneNebraska Game and ParksNebraska anglers should be aware of fishing regulation changes that took in effect on Jan. 1, 2025.&nbsp;The changes to fishing rules, approved by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission during meetings in 2024, are:Black Bass (largemouth, smallmouth and spotted) –&nbsp;At Frye Lake Wildlife Management Area, there will be no minimum length limit with no more than one fish 18 inches or longer allowed in the five-fish daily bag limit.At Prairie View Lake, Wagon Train State Recreation Area/WMA, Duck Creek Recreation Area and Prairie Queen Recreation Area, the five-fish bag limit has a protected slot of 15-18 inches, with no more than one fish 18 inches or longer in the daily bag.Patriot Park Lake was added to the list of water bodies that have a 21-inch minimum length limit.Pawnee SRA/WMA was removed from the list of water bodies that have a 21-inch minimum length limit.Two Rivers State Recreation Area Trout Lake (Lake No. 5) –&nbsp;Anglers will be allowed to practice catch and release on trout if they choose, and the start date when anglers will be allowed to fish the lake without a trout tag is June 1.Channel Catfish –&nbsp;The “one-over” size restriction on channel catfish from the Missouri River is removed.Walleye, Sauger and Saugeye –&nbsp;Branched Oak Lake reverts to statewide restrictions of daily bag limit of four, possession limit of eight and 15-inch minimum length limit, with one over 22 inches or longer allowed in the daily bag.Northern Pike –&nbsp;At Clear Lake, Dewey Lake, Hackberry Lake and Pelican Lake, the three-fish daily bag limit has a protected slot of 24-34 inches, with no more than one fish 34 inches or longer in the bag.Smith Lake WMA is added to the lakes that have a daily bag limit of 10 pike of which only three can be over 22 inches and only one of these can be over 34 inches.&nbsp;Lake Wanahoo reverts to statewide restrictions of daily bag limit of three, possession limit of 10, no minimum length limit and one fish 34 inches or longer allowed in the daily bag.Striped Bass, White Bass and Wiper –&nbsp;The statewide “one-over” size restriction is changed, increasing the length limit to 18 inches or longer in which the daily bag limit may include one fish, in inland waters.Bait –&nbsp;The no-live-baitfish restriction was removed at Lake Wanahoo.More fishing information can be found in the 2025 Fishing Guide, which will be available in January at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.outdoornebraska.org/">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and where 2025 fishing permits are sold.

Local