CHAPMAN, Neb. (AP) — Whooping cranes are beginning to join around 450,000 migrating sandhill cranes that have flocked to central Nebraska.

Brice Krohn, president of the Crane Trust, said the arrival of the endangered whooping cranes is a big moment for researchers and fans from around the world who come to Nebraska for their annual migration, the Omaha World Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/whooping-cranes-are-joining-the-migration-show-in-central-nebraska/article_dbdbb2c2-c744-11ed-83a0-efd341b66be6.html#tncms-source=login">reports</a>.

There are only 543 in the wild migratory flock, of which fewer than 10 have been spotted so far this season in Nebraska.

“They are just now entering the southern plains and Platte River area,” Krohn said.

Those birds stay only two days to a week before heading to their primary breeding grounds at Wood Buffalo National Park of Canada.

The sandhill cranes, which are nesting in an 80-mile (128.75 kilometer) stretch from Chapman to Overton, stay about three weeks to feed in wet meadows and crop fields as the juveniles find a mate. Then they’ll head as far north as eastern Siberia.

New arrivals will replace the cranes as they leave the state, with their numbers diminishing throughout next month.

By Associated PressCHAPMAN, Neb. (AP) — Whooping cranes are beginning to join around 450,000 migrating sandhill cranes that have flocked to central Nebraska.Brice Krohn, president of the Crane Trust, said the arrival of the endangered whooping cranes is a big moment for researchers and fans from around the world who come to Nebraska for their annual migration, the Omaha World Herald&nbsp;<a href="https://omaha.com/news/state-and-regional/whooping-cranes-are-joining-the-migration-show-in-central-nebraska/article_dbdbb2c2-c744-11ed-83a0-efd341b66be6.html#tncms-source=login">reports</a>.There are only 543 in the wild migratory flock, of which fewer than 10 have been spotted so far this season in Nebraska.“They are just now entering the southern plains and Platte River area,” Krohn said.Those birds stay only two days to a week before heading to their primary breeding grounds at Wood Buffalo National Park of Canada.The sandhill cranes, which are nesting in an 80-mile (128.75 kilometer) stretch from Chapman to Overton, stay about three weeks to feed in wet meadows and crop fields as the juveniles find a mate. Then they’ll head as far north as eastern Siberia.New arrivals will replace the cranes as they leave the state, with their numbers diminishing throughout next month.

Migratory crane flocks draw birders from around the world

NORTH PLATTE — Former 4-H'er, and current 4-H Youth Development Specialist Caitlyn Jacobson has launched
<a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/lincolnmcpherson/4-h-project-podcasts/" target="_blank">Focus on 4-H</a>,
 a brand-new podcast featuring the vast array of 4-H projects youth in 
Lincoln, Logan and McPherson counties have participated in.
&nbsp;


4-H is America’s largest youth development organization,
&nbsp;in
 which clubs, camps, school enrichment, after-school, special interest 
and Clover Kid programs empower nearly six million young people across 
the U.S. and 140,000 across Nebraska with the skills to lead for a 
lifetime.&nbsp;


From
 the arts, to shooting sports, animal and plant science, engineering, 
technology, leadership and many other projects areas, there are dozens 
of projects
 for youth no matter their interests. &nbsp;


Each
 month, Jacobson features a 4-H'er project from Lincoln, Logan or 
McPherson counties with the goal of elevating the positive and impactful
 contributions
 they’re making in their communities, all while learning something new 
and enjoying the dedication it takes to complete their projects.
&nbsp;


“There
 are tons of learning opportunities within 4-H, and my goal with the 
podcast is to feature the various program areas,” said Jacobson.
&nbsp;


“If
 there is a 4-H'er that isn't sure where to start on a particular 
project, this podcast gives them a contact to hear about the project 
first-hand and
 learn from each other.”&nbsp;


Recently on the podcast, Jacobson featured
Cauy
 Robinson, an eighth-grade student from Wallace
 who hopes to continue the legacy of his family’s ranching operation one
 day. He says his involvement in the 4-H livestock judging team he is a 
part of has been a great learning experience that taught him how to 
better read and judge cattle.&nbsp;
Recently, Robinson and the rest of his judging team from Scottsbluff County placed 2nd
 overall at the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic in Kearney. &nbsp;


Jacobson
 launched the podcast in late 2022, just a few short months after she 
began her role with Nebraska 4-H in June. As a former 4-H'er, Jacobsen 
says
 it's important to her to feature current 4-H'ers to keep 4-H activities
 at the forefront for busy families and youth looking for opportunities 
to gain lifelong skills.&nbsp;


A
 Lincoln County native growing up in production agriculture, Jacobson 
fondly recalls her 4-H days at the Lincoln County Fair, starting as a 
Cloverbud showing
 her bucket calf, Alice. No stranger to the wide array of projects, 
Jacobson just about completed them all throughout the years from showing
 market and breeding heifers, lambs, baking, photography, public 
speaking, LifeSmarts, horse, and later working at a
 camp counselor at the former Halsey 4-H camp. &nbsp;

For more information about Lincoln, Logan and McPherson County 4-H visit the
<a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/lincolnmcpherson/" target="_blank">website</a>
 or find them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LLM4h" target="_blank">Facebook</a>
 or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/llm4hneb/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.
&nbsp;

IANR News Service
NORTH PLATTE — Former 4-H'er, and current 4-H Youth Development Specialist Caitlyn Jacobson has launched
<a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/lincolnmcpherson/4-h-project-podcasts/" target="_blank">Focus on 4-H</a>,
 a brand-new podcast featuring the vast array of 4-H projects youth in 
Lincoln, Logan and McPherson counties have participated in.
&nbsp;
4-H is America’s largest youth development organization,
&nbsp;in
 which clubs, camps, school enrichment, after-school, special interest 
and Clover Kid programs empower nearly six million young people across 
the U.S. and 140,000 across Nebraska with the skills to lead for a 
lifetime.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679323871355.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
From
 the arts, to shooting sports, animal and plant science, engineering, 
technology, leadership and many other projects areas, there are dozens 
of projects
 for youth no matter their interests. &nbsp;
Each
 month, Jacobson features a 4-H'er project from Lincoln, Logan or 
McPherson counties with the goal of elevating the positive and impactful
 contributions
 they’re making in their communities, all while learning something new 
and enjoying the dedication it takes to complete their projects.
&nbsp;
“There
 are tons of learning opportunities within 4-H, and my goal with the 
podcast is to feature the various program areas,” said Jacobson.
&nbsp;
“If
 there is a 4-H'er that isn't sure where to start on a particular 
project, this podcast gives them a contact to hear about the project 
first-hand and
 learn from each other.”&nbsp;
Recently on the podcast, Jacobson featured
Cauy
 Robinson, an eighth-grade student from Wallace
 who hopes to continue the legacy of his family’s ranching operation one
 day. He says his involvement in the 4-H livestock judging team he is a 
part of has been a great learning experience that taught him how to 
better read and judge cattle.&nbsp;
Recently, Robinson and the rest of his judging team from Scottsbluff County placed 2nd
 overall at the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic in Kearney. &nbsp;
Jacobson
 launched the podcast in late 2022, just a few short months after she 
began her role with Nebraska 4-H in June. As a former 4-H'er, Jacobsen 
says
 it's important to her to feature current 4-H'ers to keep 4-H activities
 at the forefront for busy families and youth looking for opportunities 
to gain lifelong skills.&nbsp;
A
 Lincoln County native growing up in production agriculture, Jacobson 
fondly recalls her 4-H days at the Lincoln County Fair, starting as a 
Cloverbud showing
 her bucket calf, Alice. No stranger to the wide array of projects, 
Jacobson just about completed them all throughout the years from showing
 market and breeding heifers, lambs, baking, photography, public 
speaking, LifeSmarts, horse, and later working at a
 camp counselor at the former Halsey 4-H camp. &nbsp;
For more information about Lincoln, Logan and McPherson County 4-H visit the
<a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/lincolnmcpherson/" target="_blank">website</a>
 or find them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LLM4h" target="_blank">Facebook</a>
 or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/llm4hneb/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.
&nbsp;

‘Focus on 4-H' podcast launches in Lincoln, Logan, McPherson counties

Laramie County (Wyo.) Community College

GILLETTE, Wyo. — The Laramie County Community College rodeo team hit 
the ground running on the men's side in their first competition of the 
spring, erupting for 680 team points on their way to their first team 
title of the 2022-23 season. The win is also the first win for the 
Golden Eagle men since Head Rodeo Coach Seth Glause has been involved 
with the program.

"Everything fell our way and we really capitalized on Sunday which is
 always good and helps on the team points some," Glause praised. "I was 
proud of our students. They all competed well and competed with a 
purpose and did a really great job."

The effort was led by senior <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/girard_bernard_oh5d">Bernard Girard</a>&nbsp;— of Alliance — who took home the All-Around title along with a championship in Tie-Down roping.

Girard was also able to garner a third-place finish in Steer 
Wrestling on the way to tallying 255 points for the Golden Eagles team 
effort. He said the team has been using a variety of ways to get ready 
for the opening rodeo and it kept them all on their toes.

"The last three weeks, everyone has been getting ready to go," he 
said. "We had a steer wrestling jackpot Thursday night before we left to
 go to Gillette and got everybody in the zone to go. I went to a jackpot
 the weekend before and just having that good of a start was awesome and
 made me want to keep the ball rolling."

Girard was joined by a pair of other Golden Eagles who took home titles in their first goes of the spring.

Freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/tattrie_dixon_ij70">Dixon Tattrie</a>
 brought home the top spot in bull riding for his third rodeo win of the
 year going back to the fall and he continues to lead the Central Rocky 
Mountain Region (CRMR) standings with 360 points.

"I've started to ride really good this spring at practice and I feel 
more confident in what I was doing and how I was riding," Tattrie said 
about getting a good lead. "You try not to watch the standings as much 
as you can. The more you watch it the more pressure you put on yourself.
 If you take an eye off it and just go and ride bulls every weekend, 
it's a lot easier to do that than say 'I have to ride this bull so I 
stay here in the standings.'"

Tattrie also added a runner up in the first go of Saddle Bronc riding
 and finished fifth in the average to bring 80 more points for the team 
total there.

Fellow freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/pokorny_dane_zmt2">Dane Pokorny</a>&nbsp;of Thedford was another standout for LCCC, bringing home a tie for the title in 
Steer Wrestling after winning the first go with a time of 4.4 and adding
 a 4.7 in the short go to bring 140 more points to the team tally.

"We've got nine guys that can win any weekend (in steer wrestling) 
and they back into the box and they know they have an opportunity. We 
just missed having seven guys (in the short go)," Glause said. "I think 
they were 11th, 12th, and 14th so they bulldogged very well."

The win also moved Pokorny into a tie for second in the CRMR with 
Girard and putting both into position to qualify for the College 
National Finals Rodeo in June.

Other quality performances for the Golden Eagles included <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/derner_chance_x0qt">Chance Derner</a> taking the top spot in the first go in Tie-Down, although the South Dakota junior failed to record a time on his second head.

Freshman Bull Rider Griffin Koester picked up a round win on his 
second ride with a score of 67 to add to his CRMR total and move into 
second place behind Tattrie.

"Dixon is in a good spot, he kind of separated himself from the field
 this weekend," Glause said. "They both just need to continue to ride 
with confidence and continue to give themselves opportunities to win and
 they both have the opportunity to go to Casper."

The Golden Eagles packed in a few more individuals in Steer Wrestling with freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/ravenscroft_tucker_26c5">Tucker Ravenscroft</a>&nbsp;oif Nenzel and senior <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/pokorny_cauy_zssw">Cauy Pokorny</a>&nbsp;of Thedford both making the short go, and both put down times to finish fifth and sixth respectively in the average.

On the women's side, it wasn't a flashy rodeo for Laramie County. The
 team only had one make it to the short go in Wheatland freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/grant_rayne_fgpk">Rayne Grant</a>
 who picked up a sixth-place tie in the first go in breakaway and was 
able to make the top ten in barrels. Unfortunately, her rides in the 
short go were not enough to bring any points in to the team.&nbsp;

The Golden Eagle men remained in third place in the team standings, 
but picked up almost 300 points on region leading University of Wyoming 
and 465 points on second place Casper College. The team now sits just 
275 points out of second place with four rodeos' remaining.

"We need to keep the pressure on and continue to perform at a high 
level so that we have a opportunity come Laramie to go and compete in 
Casper as a team," Glause said.

The LCCC women remain in third place also, trailing the University of
 Wyoming by 580 points for the second spot in the team standings while 
Gillette College continues to dominate the region with wins in four of 
the six rodeos' so far.&nbsp;

Next week, the teams will be closer to home for action when they 
travel to Torrington, Wyoming for the EWC Lancer Rodeo at the Goshen 
County Fairgrounds March 24th through the 26th.

Details on the next rodeo can be found at <a href="http://www.golccc.com">www.golccc.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679433004600.jpeg" alt="Girard" />
 <figcaption>Girard</figcaption>
 </figure>Laramie County (Wyo.) Community CollegeGILLETTE, Wyo. — The Laramie County Community College rodeo team hit 
the ground running on the men's side in their first competition of the 
spring, erupting for 680 team points on their way to their first team 
title of the 2022-23 season. The win is also the first win for the 
Golden Eagle men since Head Rodeo Coach Seth Glause has been involved 
with the program."Everything fell our way and we really capitalized on Sunday which is
 always good and helps on the team points some," Glause praised. "I was 
proud of our students. They all competed well and competed with a 
purpose and did a really great job."The effort was led by senior <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/girard_bernard_oh5d">Bernard Girard</a>&nbsp;— of Alliance — who took home the All-Around title along with a championship in Tie-Down roping.Girard was also able to garner a third-place finish in Steer 
Wrestling on the way to tallying 255 points for the Golden Eagles team 
effort. He said the team has been using a variety of ways to get ready 
for the opening rodeo and it kept them all on their toes."The last three weeks, everyone has been getting ready to go," he 
said. "We had a steer wrestling jackpot Thursday night before we left to
 go to Gillette and got everybody in the zone to go. I went to a jackpot
 the weekend before and just having that good of a start was awesome and
 made me want to keep the ball rolling."Girard was joined by a pair of other Golden Eagles who took home titles in their first goes of the spring.Freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/tattrie_dixon_ij70">Dixon Tattrie</a>
 brought home the top spot in bull riding for his third rodeo win of the
 year going back to the fall and he continues to lead the Central Rocky 
Mountain Region (CRMR) standings with 360 points."I've started to ride really good this spring at practice and I feel 
more confident in what I was doing and how I was riding," Tattrie said 
about getting a good lead. "You try not to watch the standings as much 
as you can. The more you watch it the more pressure you put on yourself.
 If you take an eye off it and just go and ride bulls every weekend, 
it's a lot easier to do that than say 'I have to ride this bull so I 
stay here in the standings.'"Tattrie also added a runner up in the first go of Saddle Bronc riding
 and finished fifth in the average to bring 80 more points for the team 
total there.Fellow freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/pokorny_dane_zmt2">Dane Pokorny</a>&nbsp;of Thedford was another standout for LCCC, bringing home a tie for the title in 
Steer Wrestling after winning the first go with a time of 4.4 and adding
 a 4.7 in the short go to bring 140 more points to the team tally."We've got nine guys that can win any weekend (in steer wrestling) 
and they back into the box and they know they have an opportunity. We 
just missed having seven guys (in the short go)," Glause said. "I think 
they were 11th, 12th, and 14th so they bulldogged very well."The win also moved Pokorny into a tie for second in the CRMR with 
Girard and putting both into position to qualify for the College 
National Finals Rodeo in June.Other quality performances for the Golden Eagles included <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/derner_chance_x0qt">Chance Derner</a> taking the top spot in the first go in Tie-Down, although the South Dakota junior failed to record a time on his second head.Freshman Bull Rider Griffin Koester picked up a round win on his 
second ride with a score of 67 to add to his CRMR total and move into 
second place behind Tattrie."Dixon is in a good spot, he kind of separated himself from the field
 this weekend," Glause said. "They both just need to continue to ride 
with confidence and continue to give themselves opportunities to win and
 they both have the opportunity to go to Casper."The Golden Eagles packed in a few more individuals in Steer Wrestling with freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/ravenscroft_tucker_26c5">Tucker Ravenscroft</a>&nbsp;oif Nenzel and senior <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/pokorny_cauy_zssw">Cauy Pokorny</a>&nbsp;of Thedford both making the short go, and both put down times to finish fifth and sixth respectively in the average.On the women's side, it wasn't a flashy rodeo for Laramie County. The
 team only had one make it to the short go in Wheatland freshman <a href="https://golccc.com/sports/rodeo/2022-23/bios/grant_rayne_fgpk">Rayne Grant</a>
 who picked up a sixth-place tie in the first go in breakaway and was 
able to make the top ten in barrels. Unfortunately, her rides in the 
short go were not enough to bring any points in to the team.&nbsp;The Golden Eagle men remained in third place in the team standings, 
but picked up almost 300 points on region leading University of Wyoming 
and 465 points on second place Casper College. The team now sits just 
275 points out of second place with four rodeos' remaining."We need to keep the pressure on and continue to perform at a high 
level so that we have a opportunity come Laramie to go and compete in 
Casper as a team," Glause said.The LCCC women remain in third place also, trailing the University of
 Wyoming by 580 points for the second spot in the team standings while 
Gillette College continues to dominate the region with wins in four of 
the six rodeos' so far.&nbsp;Next week, the teams will be closer to home for action when they 
travel to Torrington, Wyoming for the EWC Lancer Rodeo at the Goshen 
County Fairgrounds March 24th through the 26th.Details on the next rodeo can be found at <a href="http://www.golccc.com">www.golccc.com</a>.

Western Nebraskans get Wyo. CC rodeo team off to a clean start

The Stapleton Public Schools Board of Education president issued a statement Tuesday after reports that its superintendent is facing misdemeanor assault charges.

Nebraska TV reported Brian Redinger has been charged in Logan County Court in relation to a Jan. 31 incident. Read more <a href="https://nebraska.tv/news/local/stapleton-superintendent-brian-redinger-charged-with-assaulting-man-on-school-property">HERE</a>.

The board of education issued the following statement:

"The Board of Education is aware of the misdemeanor citation against Superintendent Redinger. Superintendent Redinger immediately reported this matter to the Board of Education, and the Board of Education worked with legal counsel to investigate the incident. After a thorough investigation, the Board of Education has determined that Superintendent Redinger acted lawfully and within the scope of his authority on January 31, 2023, when he requested that a disruptive patron leave the school building and sought assistance from law enforcement when the disruptive patron refused to do so. In light of the facts of the incident, the Board of Education is confident that Superintendent Redinger will be exonerated through the legal process and intends to support him throughout that process." — Franklin Kramer, President, Stapleton Board of Education

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679596471276.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Stapleton Public Schools Board of Education president issued a statement Tuesday after reports that its superintendent is facing misdemeanor assault charges.Nebraska TV reported Brian Redinger has been charged in Logan County Court in relation to a Jan. 31 incident. Read more <a href="https://nebraska.tv/news/local/stapleton-superintendent-brian-redinger-charged-with-assaulting-man-on-school-property">HERE</a>.The board of education issued the following statement:"The Board of Education is aware of the misdemeanor citation against Superintendent Redinger. Superintendent Redinger immediately reported this matter to the Board of Education, and the Board of Education worked with legal counsel to investigate the incident. After a thorough investigation, the Board of Education has determined that Superintendent Redinger acted lawfully and within the scope of his authority on January 31, 2023, when he requested that a disruptive patron leave the school building and sought assistance from law enforcement when the disruptive patron refused to do so. In light of the facts of the incident, the Board of Education is confident that Superintendent Redinger will be exonerated through the legal process and intends to support him throughout that process." — Franklin Kramer, President, Stapleton Board of Education

Stapleton school board reacts to superintendent's assault charge

Department of Justice news release

United States Attorney Steven Russell announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 16 unsealed indictments charging 16 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

*&nbsp; Angelica Agena,&nbsp;age 40, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about June 29, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than four years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;Victor Hugo Cansino Monzon, age 29, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Cansino Monzon with illegal reentry after deportation on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Cansino Monzon with resisting, opposing, impeding and interfering with an officer on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 1 year imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

* Estefan Bernardino Chavez, age 29, of Norfolk, Nebraska, is charged with production of child pornography beginning on or about January 31, 2023 and continuing to on or about February 28, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and not more than 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $55,100 in special assessments.&nbsp;

* Luis Duran, a/k/a Luis Duran-Salcedo, age 20, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged with assault of a dating partner by strangulation or suffocation on the Winnebago Indian Reservation on or about March 16, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

* Matthew McCann, age 35, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges McCann with distribution of child pornography with a prior conviction on or about January 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and not more than 40 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $40,100 in special assessments.&nbsp; Count II charges McCann with possession of child pornography with a prior conviction on or about January 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $22,100 in special assessments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp; Fernando Montoya-Amezcua,&nbsp;age 46, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 14, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency and property seized on or about March 14, 2023.

*&nbsp;Carmen Perez Catu a/k/a Jess Manuel Calvillo, age 39, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 9, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

* Edgar Ignacio Salas Zarate,&nbsp;age 30, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about December 7, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;Tobin R. Schaneman, age 45, is charged as a felon in possession of a firearm on or about March 25, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

* Adan Silva-Valencia, age 43, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony conviction beginning on or about September 11, 2022 and continuing to on or about March 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

* Juan Carlos Tapia-Torres,&nbsp;age 43, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 14, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

*&nbsp;David Valdez Ramirez, age 35, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Valdez Ramirez with illegal reentry after a felony conviction on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Valdez Ramirez with resisting, opposing, impeding and interfering with an officer on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 1 year imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

*&nbsp;Nicolas Vicente Lares, age 25, is charged with illegal reentry after being removed as an alien on or about March 1, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

* Steven Owen Watson,&nbsp;age 46, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (mix) on or about September 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than four years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;

* Cameron Woods,&nbsp;age 44, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) with prior drug felony on or about April 16, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, not less than ten years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

* Domingo Zetino Hernandez, age 20, of Norfolk, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Zetino Hernandez with false representation of a social security number with intent to deceive on or about December 5, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is a 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Zetino Hernandez with use of false immigration documents not lawfully issued on or December 5, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is a 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

Department of Justice news releaseUnited States Attorney Steven Russell announced the federal Grand Jury for the District of Nebraska has returned 16 unsealed indictments charging 16 defendants. Indictments are charging documents that contain one or more individual counts that are merely accusations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.*&nbsp; Angelica Agena,&nbsp;age 40, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) on or about June 29, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than four years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;Victor Hugo Cansino Monzon, age 29, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Cansino Monzon with illegal reentry after deportation on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Cansino Monzon with resisting, opposing, impeding and interfering with an officer on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 1 year imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.* Estefan Bernardino Chavez, age 29, of Norfolk, Nebraska, is charged with production of child pornography beginning on or about January 31, 2023 and continuing to on or about February 28, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and not more than 30 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $55,100 in special assessments.&nbsp;* Luis Duran, a/k/a Luis Duran-Salcedo, age 20, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged with assault of a dating partner by strangulation or suffocation on the Winnebago Indian Reservation on or about March 16, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;* Matthew McCann, age 35, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges McCann with distribution of child pornography with a prior conviction on or about January 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and not more than 40 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $40,100 in special assessments.&nbsp; Count II charges McCann with possession of child pornography with a prior conviction on or about January 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and not more than 20 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, not less than a five-year and up to life term of supervised release, and $22,100 in special assessments.&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp; Fernando Montoya-Amezcua,&nbsp;age 46, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 14, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is also an allegation to forfeit United States currency and property seized on or about March 14, 2023.*&nbsp;Carmen Perez Catu a/k/a Jess Manuel Calvillo, age 39, is charged with illegal reentry after deportation on or about May 9, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;* Edgar Ignacio Salas Zarate,&nbsp;age 30, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about December 7, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;Tobin R. Schaneman, age 45, is charged as a felon in possession of a firearm on or about March 25, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.* Adan Silva-Valencia, age 43, is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien after a felony conviction beginning on or about September 11, 2022 and continuing to on or about March 7, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;* Juan Carlos Tapia-Torres,&nbsp;age 43, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine on or about March 14, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 10 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than five years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;David Valdez Ramirez, age 35, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Valdez Ramirez with illegal reentry after a felony conviction on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 10 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Valdez Ramirez with resisting, opposing, impeding and interfering with an officer on or about March 6, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 1 year imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.*&nbsp;Nicolas Vicente Lares, age 25, is charged with illegal reentry after being removed as an alien on or about March 1, 2023.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a one-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;* Steven Owen Watson,&nbsp;age 46, of Lincoln, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (mix) on or about September 26, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 5 years’ and up to 40 years’ imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, not less than four years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;* Cameron Woods,&nbsp;age 44, of Omaha, Nebraska, is charged with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual) with prior drug felony on or about April 16, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;The penalty if convicted is not less than 15 years’ and up to life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, not less than ten years and up to a life term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;* Domingo Zetino Hernandez, age 20, of Norfolk, Nebraska, is charged in a two-count Indictment.&nbsp; Count I charges Zetino Hernandez with false representation of a social security number with intent to deceive on or about December 5, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is a 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.&nbsp; Count II charges Zetino Hernandez with use of false immigration documents not lawfully issued on or December 5, 2022.&nbsp; The maximum possible penalty if convicted is a 5 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

U.S. Attorney returns 16 federal grand jury indictments

GRAND ISLAND&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a David City man following a pursuit near Grand Island Wednesday morning.

At approximately 7:15 a.m. Wednesday, a trooper observed an eastbound Chevrolet Equinox traveling at over 100 mph on Interstate 80 near mile marker 296. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to yield and accelerated. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The vehicle continued eastbound, passing other vehicles on the shoulder at times, and exited I-80 at mile marker 314 and began traveling northbound toward Grand Island. The suspect vehicle then turned eastbound on Highway 34 and continued fleeing. The driver was observed throwing a bag out of the vehicle as it fled. The bag, which contained more than one pound of marijuana, was located by another trooper.&nbsp;

Another trooper was able to successfully deploy stop sticks at the intersection of Highway 34 and Highway 2. The vehicle then came to a stop and the driver was taken into custody without further incident.

The driver, James Speicher, 25, David City, was arrested for willful reckless driving, flight to avoid arrest, possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving under suspension. He was lodged in Hall County jail.

NSPGRAND ISLAND&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a David City man following a pursuit near Grand Island Wednesday morning.At approximately 7:15 a.m. Wednesday, a trooper observed an eastbound Chevrolet Equinox traveling at over 100 mph on Interstate 80 near mile marker 296. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to yield and accelerated. The trooper initiated a pursuit.The vehicle continued eastbound, passing other vehicles on the shoulder at times, and exited I-80 at mile marker 314 and began traveling northbound toward Grand Island. The suspect vehicle then turned eastbound on Highway 34 and continued fleeing. The driver was observed throwing a bag out of the vehicle as it fled. The bag, which contained more than one pound of marijuana, was located by another trooper.&nbsp;Another trooper was able to successfully deploy stop sticks at the intersection of Highway 34 and Highway 2. The vehicle then came to a stop and the driver was taken into custody without further incident.The driver, James Speicher, 25, David City, was arrested for willful reckless driving, flight to avoid arrest, possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving under suspension. He was lodged in Hall County jail.

Neb. man arrested after high-speed chase on Interstate 80

Ian Munsick, Megan Moroney, &amp; Black Stone Cherry to headline the Chase County Fair in Imperial this August.

Black Stone Cherry and The Read Southall Band will play the Chase County Fair &amp; Expo on Friday August 18 for a night of great southern rock music.

Kicking the door open into 2023, BLACK STONE CHERRY have revealed a brandnew song, "Out of Pocket." The song isout now via Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group and is available on all streaming platforms. The song drops in time for fans to get pumped up for their show in Imperial, NE. Black Stone Cherry have 2023 firmly in their sights and are taking it, lock, stock and barrel. Now it's time to rock the house at Chase County Fair and Expo!

READ SOUTHALL BAND captures vigorous, rock ‘n’ roll energy with elements of country and southern rock."There is a ton of excitement building around Read Southall Band at the moment." Riff Magazine notes, "Read Southall Band combines the heavy guitars of the late- and post-grunge era with southern rock vocals and a country music sensibility to create a sound outside the expectations of any of those genres by themselves." Southall is from Colby, Kansas.

Jacob Burke interview with North Platte Post's Derek Beck/<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Kubota Podcast</a>

IAN MUNSICK WITH SPECIAL GUEST MEGAN MORONEY SATURDAY AUGUST 19th, 2023

Breathing fresh Rocky Mountain air into the Nashville music scene, Ian Munsick is pioneering a new brand of country. The Wyoming-born singer / songwriter’s upbringing was a mix of working the ranch and working crowds. Under the tutelage of their fiddleplaying father, Munsick and his two older brothers grew up playing everything from bluegrass to The Beatles.&nbsp;

Captivated by traditional lyrical truth and the modern soundscape, Munsick followed his ear to Music City. Ian signed a major label record deal with Warner Music Nashville in 2020. Since then, he has accumulated more than 300 million global streams as well as accolades from Spotify (“Hot Country Artist to Watch”), MusicRow magazine (“Next Big Thing”) and more. “Long Haul” earned his second iHeartRadio Rocky Mountain Country Music Award for Song of the

Year. The recent releases of “Long Live Cowgirls” (with Cody Johnson), “More Than Me,” and “Horses &amp; Weed” are ushering in the next chapter of his musical saga... Fans are finding that, with Ian Munsick, western country is reborn.. 

Born and raised in Georgia, Megan Moroney was heavily influenced in classic country, southern rock, and americana. Megan is known for her distinctive voice and honest,conversational lyrics. 2022 brought the singer a breakout year with the release of her debut EP, Pistol Made of Roses,followed by her single “Tennessee Orange,” which put Megan on the map as Nashville’s most compelling new artist. The colossal buzz surrounding the track prompted her to perform it on ESPN’s College GameDay, while racking up an average of 5 million streams a week and over 70 million global streams to date. Currently, “Tennessee Orange” is the #1 weekly streamed song by a solo female country artist. 

Megan is set to kick off her sold out headlining PISTOL MADE OF ROSES tour this spring,then heading to Imperial, NE this summer. Pulling inspiration from artists such as Miranda Lambert and Kacey Musgraves, the “musical risktaker with powerhouse pipes” (CMT) and “2023 Artist to Watch” (Spotify, Pandora, Holler, The Nash News) is slated to become a household name in the years to come. Megan’s new album “Lucky” is set to release May 5th!

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT Tickets go on sale Thursday, March 23 2023 at 10:00 CST

*** For more event information and tickets visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chasecountyfair.com/">www.chascecountyfair.com </a>

<h2>Ian Munsick, Megan Moroney, &amp; Black Stone Cherry to headline the Chase County Fair in Imperial this August.</h2>Black Stone Cherry and The Read Southall Band will play the Chase County Fair &amp; Expo on Friday August 18 for a night of great southern rock music.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679514545957.jpeg" alt="Black Stone Cherry" />
 <figcaption>Black Stone Cherry</figcaption>
 </figure>Kicking the door open into 2023, BLACK STONE CHERRY have revealed a brandnew song, "Out of Pocket." The song isout now via Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group and is available on all streaming platforms. The song drops in time for fans to get pumped up for their show in Imperial, NE. Black Stone Cherry have 2023 firmly in their sights and are taking it, lock, stock and barrel. Now it's time to rock the house at Chase County Fair and Expo!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679514697347.jpeg" alt="Read Southall Band" />
 <figcaption>Read Southall Band</figcaption>
 </figure>READ SOUTHALL BAND captures vigorous, rock ‘n’ roll energy with elements of country and southern rock."There is a ton of excitement building around Read Southall Band at the moment." Riff Magazine notes, "Read Southall Band combines the heavy guitars of the late- and post-grunge era with southern rock vocals and a country music sensibility to create a sound outside the expectations of any of those genres by themselves." Southall is from Colby, Kansas.Jacob Burke interview with North Platte Post's Derek Beck/<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Kubota Podcast</a><div><iframe title="Chase County Fair in Imperial announces summer concert lineup" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=scftj-13c38e0-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>IAN MUNSICK WITH SPECIAL GUEST MEGAN MORONEY SATURDAY AUGUST 19th, 2023</h2>Breathing fresh Rocky Mountain air into the Nashville music scene, Ian Munsick is pioneering a new brand of country. The Wyoming-born singer / songwriter’s upbringing was a mix of working the ranch and working crowds. Under the tutelage of their fiddleplaying father, Munsick and his two older brothers grew up playing everything from bluegrass to The Beatles.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679514769483.jpeg" alt="Ian Munsick" />
 <figcaption>Ian Munsick</figcaption>
 </figure>Captivated by traditional lyrical truth and the modern soundscape, Munsick followed his ear to Music City. Ian signed a major label record deal with Warner Music Nashville in 2020. Since then, he has accumulated more than 300 million global streams as well as accolades from Spotify (“Hot Country Artist to Watch”), MusicRow magazine (“Next Big Thing”) and more. “Long Haul” earned his second iHeartRadio Rocky Mountain Country Music Award for Song of theYear. The recent releases of “Long Live Cowgirls” (with Cody Johnson), “More Than Me,” and “Horses &amp; Weed” are ushering in the next chapter of his musical saga... Fans are finding that, with Ian Munsick, western country is reborn.. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679514943809.png" alt="Megan Moroney" />
 <figcaption>Megan Moroney</figcaption>
 </figure>Born and raised in Georgia, Megan Moroney was heavily influenced in classic country, southern rock, and americana. Megan is known for her distinctive voice and honest,conversational lyrics. 2022 brought the singer a breakout year with the release of her debut EP, Pistol Made of Roses,followed by her single “Tennessee Orange,” which put Megan on the map as Nashville’s most compelling new artist. The colossal buzz surrounding the track prompted her to perform it on ESPN’s College GameDay, while racking up an average of 5 million streams a week and over 70 million global streams to date. Currently, “Tennessee Orange” is the #1 weekly streamed song by a solo female country artist. Megan is set to kick off her sold out headlining PISTOL MADE OF ROSES tour this spring,then heading to Imperial, NE this summer. Pulling inspiration from artists such as Miranda Lambert and Kacey Musgraves, the “musical risktaker with powerhouse pipes” (CMT) and “2023 Artist to Watch” (Spotify, Pandora, Holler, The Nash News) is slated to become a household name in the years to come. Megan’s new album “Lucky” is set to release May 5th!EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT Tickets go on sale Thursday, March 23 2023 at 10:00 CST*** For more event information and tickets visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chasecountyfair.com/">www.chascecountyfair.com </a>

Chase County Fair in Imperial announces summer concert lineup

🎙️ North Platte Post Outdoor Report with Julie Geiser (March 22, 2023)

HERSHEY — Hershey Public Schools announced the hiring of its 7-12 principal for the 2023-24 school year.&nbsp; Jordan Cudney has one year of experience at Hershey as the 7-12 assistant principal/AD along with five years of experience in administration at both Cozad High School and North Platte High School.

“We are excited to have Mr. Cudney in this new role, he will do an excellent job,"&nbsp;Superintendent Jane Davis said.

Prior to getting into education administration, Jordan spent 12 years as a physical education/strength and conditioning instructor, as well as football/track coach at both the high school (Crete, Omaha Benson, Ord) and collegiate (Morningside University and Midland University) levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jordan, his wife Kara and their four children, Hadlee, Henley, Maverick, and Maizey are excited about his new position. “We have appreciated the close-knit community that Hershey Public Schools has and look forward to continuing the strong culture and high level of excellence that Hershey Public Schools is known for.”&nbsp;

News releaseHERSHEY — Hershey Public Schools announced the hiring of its 7-12 principal for the 2023-24 school year.&nbsp; Jordan Cudney has one year of experience at Hershey as the 7-12 assistant principal/AD along with five years of experience in administration at both Cozad High School and North Platte High School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679500148851.jpeg" alt="Jordan Cudney / Hershey Public Schools" />
 <figcaption>Jordan Cudney / Hershey Public Schools</figcaption>
 </figure>“We are excited to have Mr. Cudney in this new role, he will do an excellent job,"&nbsp;Superintendent Jane Davis said.Prior to getting into education administration, Jordan spent 12 years as a physical education/strength and conditioning instructor, as well as football/track coach at both the high school (Crete, Omaha Benson, Ord) and collegiate (Morningside University and Midland University) levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jordan, his wife Kara and their four children, Hadlee, Henley, Maverick, and Maizey are excited about his new position. “We have appreciated the close-knit community that Hershey Public Schools has and look forward to continuing the strong culture and high level of excellence that Hershey Public Schools is known for.”&nbsp;

Hershey Public Schools name Cudney 7-12 principal for 2023-24 school year

At its meeting Tuesday, the North Platte City Council advanced the effort to remodel the Recreation Center and Cody Pool by choosing an architect to lead the project.

Omaha-based RDG Planning &amp; Design was chosen to lead the remodeling and expansion projects.

"RDG brings a wealth of expertise to the project, boasting 30 years of experience in the planning and design of sports and recreational facilities across the region, including facilities in Kearney and Omaha&lt;' the city said in a release Wednesday. "RDG recognizes the integral part that local architects and contractors&nbsp;play, and&nbsp;has assembled a project team with numerous North Platte businesses and connections."

“As the city reviewed the outstanding candidates that proposed to undertake this project, we were committed to making a decision that focused on three criteria,” said Mayor Brandon Kelliher. “First, we wanted to make the wisest use of funds. Next, we wanted to work with a firm who is a leader in sports and recreational facilities. Lastly, we wanted to ensure that our outstanding local businesses were utilized during the design and construction process. RDG has demonstrated that their vision and priorities for the execution of this project align with these criteria.”&nbsp;

RDG is partnering with local architects and contractors on the project team. North Platte Architects, Steele’s Roofing &amp; Construction, T.C. Engineering Inc., and Wayne&nbsp;Dowhower Construction Inc., are all on the project team, in addition to:

• Sampson Construction for cost estimating • Engineering Technologies Inc. for mechanical and electrical engineering • Performance Engineering for structural engineering •Aquatic Design Consultants Inc. for swimming pool consulting

Two of ETI’s engineers assigned to the project are North Platte natives.&nbsp;

The design process will continue through early 2024, with anticipated construction set to begin early in the second quarter of 2024.&nbsp;

The process of accepting bids for the project began in January of 2023, after North Platte voters approved a temporary half-cent sales tax increase in November of 2022. The additional sales tax will go into effect this&nbsp;spring and will help raise $52.5 million to make improvements at the Recreation Center and Cody Pool, as well as relocate the Skate Park.&nbsp;

North Platte PostAt its meeting Tuesday, the North Platte City Council advanced the effort to remodel the Recreation Center and Cody Pool by choosing an architect to lead the project.Omaha-based RDG Planning &amp; Design was chosen to lead the remodeling and expansion projects."RDG brings a wealth of expertise to the project, boasting 30 years of experience in the planning and design of sports and recreational facilities across the region, including facilities in Kearney and Omaha&lt;' the city said in a release Wednesday. "RDG recognizes the integral part that local architects and contractors&nbsp;play, and&nbsp;has assembled a project team with numerous North Platte businesses and connections."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1568208023300.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“As the city reviewed the outstanding candidates that proposed to undertake this project, we were committed to making a decision that focused on three criteria,” said Mayor Brandon Kelliher. “First, we wanted to make the wisest use of funds. Next, we wanted to work with a firm who is a leader in sports and recreational facilities. Lastly, we wanted to ensure that our outstanding local businesses were utilized during the design and construction process. RDG has demonstrated that their vision and priorities for the execution of this project align with these criteria.”&nbsp;<div><iframe title="North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher Recaps March 21 City Council Meeting" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hjkbt-13c322a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div>RDG is partnering with local architects and contractors on the project team. North Platte Architects, Steele’s Roofing &amp; Construction, T.C. Engineering Inc., and Wayne&nbsp;Dowhower Construction Inc., are all on the project team, in addition to:• Sampson Construction for cost estimating • Engineering Technologies Inc. for mechanical and electrical engineering • Performance Engineering for structural engineering •Aquatic Design Consultants Inc. for swimming pool consultingTwo of ETI’s engineers assigned to the project are North Platte natives.&nbsp;The design process will continue through early 2024, with anticipated construction set to begin early in the second quarter of 2024.&nbsp;The process of accepting bids for the project began in January of 2023, after North Platte voters approved a temporary half-cent sales tax increase in November of 2022. The additional sales tax will go into effect this&nbsp;spring and will help raise $52.5 million to make improvements at the Recreation Center and Cody Pool, as well as relocate the Skate Park.&nbsp;Cover image, City of North Platte

🎙️ Architect for rec center, pool revamp chosen by North Platte council

North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher Recaps March 21 City Council Meeting. Among the talking points he spoke about with North Platte Post's Derek Beck were new tree board members, contracts for city health insurance plans, which saw no increase this year. They also spoke about North Platte Police Department overtime campaings, ordinance 4116 about electric construction costs, the promotion of Lyle Minshull to Parks and Recreation Director, along with Steve Mentzer to Public Service Director, and finally Kelliher spoke about the RDG planning for the new North Platte Rec Center.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">North Platte Kubota Podcast</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">North Platte Kubota Podcast</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher Recaps March 21 City Council Meeting. Among the talking points he spoke about with North Platte Post's Derek Beck were new tree board members, contracts for city health insurance plans, which saw no increase this year. They also spoke about North Platte Police Department overtime campaings, ordinance 4116 about electric construction costs, the promotion of Lyle Minshull to Parks and Recreation Director, along with Steve Mentzer to Public Service Director, and finally Kelliher spoke about the RDG planning for the new North Platte Rec Center.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher Recaps March 21 City Council Meeting" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hjkbt-13c322a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div>

🎙️ North Platte Mayor recap of Tuesday night's City Council meeting

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679481599239.png" alt="Luke Jordan Cedillo-Ray - Cruelty Toward Child, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, Possession with Intent to Deliver" />
 <figcaption>Luke Jordan Cedillo-Ray - Cruelty Toward Child, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, Possession with Intent to Deliver</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679481613946.png" alt="Shannon Jeane Anderson - Safekeeper Keith County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Shannon Jeane Anderson - Safekeeper Keith County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679481644047.png" alt="Reasha Carmena Craig - Safekeeper Cheyanne County" />
 <figcaption>Reasha Carmena Craig - Safekeeper Cheyanne County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679481657179.png" alt="Scott Andrew Hacker - Fail to Register as a Sex Offender" />
 <figcaption>Scott Andrew Hacker - Fail to Register as a Sex Offender</figcaption>
 </figure>***KEITH COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679483452216.png" alt="Amber R Crocker - Assault, Minor in Possession (x2)" />
 <figcaption>Amber R Crocker - Assault, Minor in Possession (x2)</figcaption>
 </figure>***BUFFALO COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679482327729.png" alt="Justin Ray Sadd - Resisting Arrest 1st degree, Assault of an Officer or Health Care Professional 3rd Degree, Domestic Assault 3rd Degree" />
 <figcaption>Justin Ray Sadd - Resisting Arrest 1st degree, Assault of an Officer or Health Care Professional 3rd Degree, Domestic Assault 3rd Degree</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679482352586.png" alt="Virgil G Apodaca - Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Fugitive from Justice" />
 <figcaption>Virgil G Apodaca - Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Fugitive from Justice</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679482372643.png" alt="Guillermo Guevara - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Guillermo Guevara - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679482387444.png" alt="Steven Keith Massey - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Steven Keith Massey - Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679482399508.png" alt="Brandi Jo Lehman -&nbsp;DEL/DSP/DST/MAN/POS of Exceptionally Hazardous Drug" />
 <figcaption>Brandi Jo Lehman -&nbsp;DEL/DSP/DST/MAN/POS of Exceptionally Hazardous Drug</figcaption>
 </figure><div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2> 

This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte 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 to admin@northplattepost.com. </div>

The Hot Sheets: March 22, 2023

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-hospitals-struggling-financially-with-most-operating-in-the-red-last-year-officials-say/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Nebraska hospital 
leaders said Monday that a combination of increased costs of labor and 
supplies, and a failure of Medicaid and Medicare to fully reimburse 
services, is stressing the state’s health care system.

More than half of the state’s hospitals operated in the red last 
year, they said, and 2023 is expected to be just as challenging 
financially.

Hospitals are cutting back, and in some cases eliminating, service, 
officials said. And at least five rural Nebraska hospitals are at risk 
of closing, according to a January report from the advocacy group, the 
Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform.

“This trend is 
very concerning. The current economic model for hospitals is simply not 
sustainable,” said Summer Owen, CEO of Great Plains Health in North 
Platte.

Bryce Brackle, vice president of finance for Nebraska Medicine in 
Omaha, said his hospital sustained an $18.6-million loss in 2022 and is 
projecting another year of red ink in 2023.

The two officials, along with Jeremy Nordquist, president of the 
Nebraska Hospital Association, said reimbursement for Medicaid and 
Medicare patients has failed to keep up with the costs of patient care 
that have risen 21.3% from 2020 to today.

They cited these factors during a press conference in contributing to a financial “crisis” in their industry:

The average operating margin for hospitals, the officials said, has 
dropped from 6.6% in 2021 to 1.8% last year, with 55% of the state’s 
hospitals reporting net losses.

“We anticipate that these challenges are not going away,” 
Nordquist said. “We continue to see tough decision made by hospital 
leaders to make ends meet.”

The hospital officials urged the Nebraska Legislature to take action.

Among the bills that would help, they said, would be Legislative Bill
 128, which seeks to increase the reimbursement rate for Medicaid, and 
LB 586, which would increase the clinical training sites for nurses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679405139007.png" alt="Interns tour a CHI Health facility to learn about different health care careers. (Courtesy of Latino Center of the Midlands)" />
 <figcaption>Interns tour a CHI Health facility to learn about different health care careers. (Courtesy of Latino Center of the Midlands)</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/nebraska-hospitals-struggling-financially-with-most-operating-in-the-red-last-year-officials-say/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Nebraska hospital 
leaders said Monday that a combination of increased costs of labor and 
supplies, and a failure of Medicaid and Medicare to fully reimburse 
services, is stressing the state’s health care system.More than half of the state’s hospitals operated in the red last 
year, they said, and 2023 is expected to be just as challenging 
financially.Hospitals are cutting back, and in some cases eliminating, service, 
officials said. And at least five rural Nebraska hospitals are at risk 
of closing, according to a January report from the advocacy group, the 
Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform.<h2>‘Very concerning’ trend</h2>“This trend is 
very concerning. The current economic model for hospitals is simply not 
sustainable,” said Summer Owen, CEO of Great Plains Health in North 
Platte.Bryce Brackle, vice president of finance for Nebraska Medicine in 
Omaha, said his hospital sustained an $18.6-million loss in 2022 and is 
projecting another year of red ink in 2023.The two officials, along with Jeremy Nordquist, president of the 
Nebraska Hospital Association, said reimbursement for Medicaid and 
Medicare patients has failed to keep up with the costs of patient care 
that have risen 21.3% from 2020 to today.They cited these factors during a press conference in contributing to a financial “crisis” in their industry:<ul>
 <li>Labor challenges, including an exodus of employees during the high 
stress of the COVID-19 pandemic. Workforce costs have risen 26.8% since 
2020.</li><li>Inflation. Medical supply costs are up 25.4%, and drug costs have risen 42.5%.</li><li>Reimbursement rates for patients on Medicaid and Medicare, which 
haven’t kept up, with the average loss for Medicaid care of 60%.</li>
 </ul><h2>55% of hospitals lost money</h2>The average operating margin for hospitals, the officials said, has 
dropped from 6.6% in 2021 to 1.8% last year, with 55% of the state’s 
hospitals reporting net losses.“We anticipate that these challenges are not going away,” 
Nordquist said. “We continue to see tough decision made by hospital 
leaders to make ends meet.”The hospital officials urged the Nebraska Legislature to take action.Among the bills that would help, they said, would be Legislative Bill
 128, which seeks to increase the reimbursement rate for Medicaid, and 
LB 586, which would increase the clinical training sites for nurses.

Neb. hospitals struggle financially; most operated in the red last year

The statewide tornado safety drill is scheduled for 10 a..m. Central on Wednesday, the National Weather Service reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679328035740.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The statewide tornado safety drill is scheduled for 10 a..m. Central on Wednesday, the National Weather Service reported.

Statewide tornado drill scheduled next week in Nebraska

Extension's five-part 'Growing for Markets' series scheduled

<a href="https://www.visitnorthplatte.com">Visit North Platte</a> is urging residents to vote for the Buffalo Bill Rodeo at Nebraskaland Days as the nation's best.

The North Platte rodeo is among the finalists in USA Today's 10 Best awards. Click <a href="https://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-rodeo-2023/?fbclid=IwAR3CHkokxCILKOGQF2GYrZbvCk4J9rgKFYVMeGEefXlpK4JTlYLeNjqO8zs">HERE</a> to view the other finalists or to vote.

<a href="https://www.visitnorthplatte.com">Visit North Platte</a> is urging residents to vote for the Buffalo Bill Rodeo at Nebraskaland Days as the nation's best.The North Platte rodeo is among the finalists in USA Today's 10 Best awards. Click <a href="https://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-rodeo-2023/?fbclid=IwAR3CHkokxCILKOGQF2GYrZbvCk4J9rgKFYVMeGEefXlpK4JTlYLeNjqO8zs">HERE</a> to view the other finalists or to vote.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FVisitNorthPlatte%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0tqg7S3UH9GkUmqqWXHRck4AL5iFP4j4mbX7pbNq8Zf7U2fi4f3aeNJzxsLKmqcBil&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="585" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Buffalo Bill Rodeo among finalists for USA Today's 10 Best

By MOLLY LANGHORST CSC College Relations

CHADRON — Makayla Denbo of Ogallala has been named the Project Strive Student of the Month for February. She is pursuing a major in General Business with a minor in Music.

Denbo, who describes herself as an avid animal lover, plans to use her business degree to open her own dog rehabilitation center one day.

“My main goal is to take aggressive, neglected, or homeless dogs and train them into support dogs for people,” Denbo said.

Originally a Music Education major, Denbo’s plan to own her own business developed during her time at college after changing her major and having to register her own dog as an Emotional Support Animal (ESA).

“I did a lot of research when I wanted to bring my dog to campus as an ESA and started thinking about ways I could help people in my future career,” Denbo said. “That’s when I realized I could put the two together and decided I wanted to open this type of rehabilitation center.”

According to Denbo, she has always wanted to help people. She views training service dogs as a way to indirectly help people for the rest of her life.

Between growing up around dogs and owning an ESA, Denbo feels comfortable training dogs for other people.

“I am very familiar with training animals to be ESAs, and training them yourself is definitely easier, but I understand that some people who really need an ESA may not have the time or emotional state to train one,” Denbo said.

After her time at CSC, Denbo plans to return home to expand her nursery while growing her dog training business, something she said she would be happy to fall back on if her rehabilitation center never comes to be. Denbo manages a small plant nursery from her childhood home in Ogallala that she started during the pandemic.

“I bought a bunch of plants during the pandemic and my mom told me I had to get rid of some,” Denbo said. “That’s kind of when it all started. Now, we sell them at farmers’ markets all over the place.”

Assistant Professor of Business Dr. Nicholas Fisher noticed Denbo’s leadership skills.

“Makayla takes the front and center seat in my class,” Fisher said. “She keeps producing excellent results. I see that in the way that she interacts with other students. She has tremendous leadership which has not been fully tapped. I think that she will go on to do great things as she continues to build her skill set and confidence."

When Denbo isn’t participating in school or school activities, she enjoys reading and writing short stories.

“Everyone should take advantage of every little possible thing we can because we never know when something we love might be gone,” she said.

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help 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="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679416618300.jpeg" alt="Makayla Denbo is the Chadron State College Project Strive Student of the Month for February 2023. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Makayla Denbo is the Chadron State College Project Strive Student of the Month for February 2023. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MOLLY LANGHORST CSC College RelationsCHADRON — Makayla Denbo of Ogallala has been named the Project Strive Student of the Month for February. She is pursuing a major in General Business with a minor in Music.Denbo, who describes herself as an avid animal lover, plans to use her business degree to open her own dog rehabilitation center one day.“My main goal is to take aggressive, neglected, or homeless dogs and train them into support dogs for people,” Denbo said.Originally a Music Education major, Denbo’s plan to own her own business developed during her time at college after changing her major and having to register her own dog as an Emotional Support Animal (ESA).“I did a lot of research when I wanted to bring my dog to campus as an ESA and started thinking about ways I could help people in my future career,” Denbo said. “That’s when I realized I could put the two together and decided I wanted to open this type of rehabilitation center.”According to Denbo, she has always wanted to help people. She views training service dogs as a way to indirectly help people for the rest of her life.Between growing up around dogs and owning an ESA, Denbo feels comfortable training dogs for other people.“I am very familiar with training animals to be ESAs, and training them yourself is definitely easier, but I understand that some people who really need an ESA may not have the time or emotional state to train one,” Denbo said.After her time at CSC, Denbo plans to return home to expand her nursery while growing her dog training business, something she said she would be happy to fall back on if her rehabilitation center never comes to be. Denbo manages a small plant nursery from her childhood home in Ogallala that she started during the pandemic.“I bought a bunch of plants during the pandemic and my mom told me I had to get rid of some,” Denbo said. “That’s kind of when it all started. Now, we sell them at farmers’ markets all over the place.”Assistant Professor of Business Dr. Nicholas Fisher noticed Denbo’s leadership skills.“Makayla takes the front and center seat in my class,” Fisher said. “She keeps producing excellent results. I see that in the way that she interacts with other students. She has tremendous leadership which has not been fully tapped. I think that she will go on to do great things as she continues to build her skill set and confidence."When Denbo isn’t participating in school or school activities, she enjoys reading and writing short stories.Denbo believes life is too short.“Everyone should take advantage of every little possible thing we can because we never know when something we love might be gone,” she said.Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help 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="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/</a>.

Ogallala's Denbo named Chadron State Student of the Month

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming has pushed to the front of state efforts to prohibit the most common type of abortion by instituting the nation’s first explicit ban on pills that terminate pregnancies.

Medication abortions, which usually involve taking two prescription medications days apart at home or in a clinic, became the preferred method for ending pregnancy in the U.S. even before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade - and now account for more than half of all abortions according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights.

More than a dozen states now effectively ban abortion pills by prohibiting all forms of abortion, moves made after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned its landmark Roe v. Wade ruling last year.

Fifteen states restrict access to the pills. Of those, six — Arizona, Indiana, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota and South Carolina — require a doctor to administer them in person. Arizona also bans mailing abortion pills.

But before a law signed Friday by Wyoming Republican Gov. Mark Gordon, no state specifically banned abortion pills. The law passed alongside a new abortion ban that seeks to sidestep issues with an earlier state ban that’s been held up in court.

With two new abortion laws, the Wyoming Legislature was “kind of trying to cover all its bases” to prohibit abortions, said Elizabeth Nash with the Guttmacher Institute.

Gordon allowed the new broad abortion ban to take effect Sunday without his signature. Whether the abortion pill ban he signed takes effect July 1 as planned remains to be seen. It could be delayed in the courts if an abortion provider in the state sues over it. Meanwhile, a federal judge in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/5306714113f3be4233a9e11a84a992aa">Texas</a>&nbsp;is considering a case with implications for abortion pill access nationwide

Here’s a look at where abortion stands in Wyoming and elsewhere:

Yes. As of Sunday, abortions in all forms are illegal.

The state’s lone clinic providing abortions until the ban was in the tourist mountain town of Jackson. Another clinic in Casper was set to open last year before an arson delayed plans. The clinic, Wellspring Health Access, was hoping to open next month but those plans are now uncertain.

Even before the ban, many women in Wyoming drove to Colorado and elsewhere to get abortions because it was more convenient. There’s no prohibition on women in Wyoming continuing to go out of state to seek abortions.

WHY DID WYOMING TAKE SUCH AGGRESSIVE ACTION?

Wyoming has long been a deeply conservative state but one that often avoided weighing in on social matters — live and let live is a credo of rural life in the West.

That’s changing. With a state Legislature more dominated by Republicans than at any point in a century, leaders are able to delve into culture-war issues with hardly any opposition.

Last year, Gordon signed an abortion ban that took effect a month after the Supreme Court overturned Roe. Within hours, Teton County District Judge Melissa Owens suspended the ban, ruling that a lawsuit’s claim it would harm pregnant women and their doctors could have merit.

The two nonprofits and four women, including two obstetricians, who sued also argued that the ban violated a 2012 state constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to make one’s own healthcare decisions.

Attorneys for the state said that wasn’t the intent — the amendment passed in response to the Affordable Care Act seeking to expand healthcare coverage nationwide.

This year, Wyoming lawmakers did an end-run around the lawsuit with a new, blanket abortion ban that specifies abortion is not healthcare and therefore not protected by the state constitution.

WHAT ARE LAWMAKERS IN OTHER STATES DOING?

Most Republican-controlled states adopted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">abortion bans or tighter restrictions</a>&nbsp;in anticipation that Roe v. Wade would be overturned eventually.

And last year, several Democrat-controlled states adopted protections for abortion access.

But that didn’t end the legislative battles.

This month,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-abortion-clinic-ban-roe-wade-access-99f3133f39d60b21a4badbefef302295">Utah</a>&nbsp;passed a law to ban abortion clinics, making it the first state to take that action. It came as the state’s ban on abortions at all stages of pregnancies is held up by a legal challenge.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ban-florida-desantis-six-weeks-b5ccc8e49d00ff3b17b44a2bd533d35b">Florida</a>, lawmakers are trying to figure out what bans to put into place. Florida previously put into place a ban after 15 weeks of pregnancy, which is much looser than what other GOP-controlled states have done; a new measure to ban them after six weeks has been advancing through the Legislature. Gov. Ron DeSantis, a possible 2024 presidential candidate, is expected to sign it if it gets to him.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-politics-south-carolina-state-government-health-5d0e6e63c15173db4c82f15fbd9a0540">South Carolina</a>, also GOP-dominated, lawmakers are debating what kind of ban to try next after a ban on abortions after six weeks was rejected by the state’s top court.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-politics-minnesota-state-government-timothy-walz-11c3b1d5269c929e442b979ff1bac73b">Minnesota</a>, a state where last year’s election gave Democrats full control of the government, the governor this year signed into law additional protections for abortion access.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679410182730.jpeg" alt="Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon gives the State of the State address to the Wyoming Legislature on March 2, 2021, inside the state Capitol in Cheyenne, Wy. Late Friday, March 17, 2023, Gordon signed a bill prohibiting abortion pills in the state and also allowed a separate measure restricting abortion to become law without his signature. (Michael Cummo/The Wyoming Tribune Eagle via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon gives the State of the State address to the Wyoming Legislature on March 2, 2021, inside the state Capitol in Cheyenne, Wy. Late Friday, March 17, 2023, Gordon signed a bill prohibiting abortion pills in the state and also allowed a separate measure restricting abortion to become law without his signature. (Michael Cummo/The Wyoming Tribune Eagle via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming has pushed to the front of state efforts to prohibit the most common type of abortion by instituting the nation’s first explicit ban on pills that terminate pregnancies.Medication abortions, which usually involve taking two prescription medications days apart at home or in a clinic, became the preferred method for ending pregnancy in the U.S. even before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade - and now account for more than half of all abortions according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights.More than a dozen states now effectively ban abortion pills by prohibiting all forms of abortion, moves made after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned its landmark Roe v. Wade ruling last year.Fifteen states restrict access to the pills. Of those, six — Arizona, Indiana, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota and South Carolina — require a doctor to administer them in person. Arizona also bans mailing abortion pills.But before a law signed Friday by Wyoming Republican Gov. Mark Gordon, no state specifically banned abortion pills. The law passed alongside a new abortion ban that seeks to sidestep issues with an earlier state ban that’s been held up in court.With two new abortion laws, the Wyoming Legislature was “kind of trying to cover all its bases” to prohibit abortions, said Elizabeth Nash with the Guttmacher Institute.Gordon allowed the new broad abortion ban to take effect Sunday without his signature. Whether the abortion pill ban he signed takes effect July 1 as planned remains to be seen. It could be delayed in the courts if an abortion provider in the state sues over it. Meanwhile, a federal judge in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/5306714113f3be4233a9e11a84a992aa">Texas</a>&nbsp;is considering a case with implications for abortion pill access nationwideHere’s a look at where abortion stands in Wyoming and elsewhere:IS ABORTION NOW ILLEGAL IN WYOMING?Yes. As of Sunday, abortions in all forms are illegal.The state’s lone clinic providing abortions until the ban was in the tourist mountain town of Jackson. Another clinic in Casper was set to open last year before an arson delayed plans. The clinic, Wellspring Health Access, was hoping to open next month but those plans are now uncertain.Even before the ban, many women in Wyoming drove to Colorado and elsewhere to get abortions because it was more convenient. There’s no prohibition on women in Wyoming continuing to go out of state to seek abortions.____WHY DID WYOMING TAKE SUCH AGGRESSIVE ACTION?Wyoming has long been a deeply conservative state but one that often avoided weighing in on social matters — live and let live is a credo of rural life in the West.That’s changing. With a state Legislature more dominated by Republicans than at any point in a century, leaders are able to delve into culture-war issues with hardly any opposition.Last year, Gordon signed an abortion ban that took effect a month after the Supreme Court overturned Roe. Within hours, Teton County District Judge Melissa Owens suspended the ban, ruling that a lawsuit’s claim it would harm pregnant women and their doctors could have merit.The two nonprofits and four women, including two obstetricians, who sued also argued that the ban violated a 2012 state constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to make one’s own healthcare decisions.Attorneys for the state said that wasn’t the intent — the amendment passed in response to the Affordable Care Act seeking to expand healthcare coverage nationwide.This year, Wyoming lawmakers did an end-run around the lawsuit with a new, blanket abortion ban that specifies abortion is not healthcare and therefore not protected by the state constitution.____WHAT ARE LAWMAKERS IN OTHER STATES DOING?Most Republican-controlled states adopted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">abortion bans or tighter restrictions</a>&nbsp;in anticipation that Roe v. Wade would be overturned eventually.And last year, several Democrat-controlled states adopted protections for abortion access.But that didn’t end the legislative battles.This month,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-abortion-clinic-ban-roe-wade-access-99f3133f39d60b21a4badbefef302295">Utah</a>&nbsp;passed a law to ban abortion clinics, making it the first state to take that action. It came as the state’s ban on abortions at all stages of pregnancies is held up by a legal challenge.In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ban-florida-desantis-six-weeks-b5ccc8e49d00ff3b17b44a2bd533d35b">Florida</a>, lawmakers are trying to figure out what bans to put into place. Florida previously put into place a ban after 15 weeks of pregnancy, which is much looser than what other GOP-controlled states have done; a new measure to ban them after six weeks has been advancing through the Legislature. Gov. Ron DeSantis, a possible 2024 presidential candidate, is expected to sign it if it gets to him.In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-politics-south-carolina-state-government-health-5d0e6e63c15173db4c82f15fbd9a0540">South Carolina</a>, also GOP-dominated, lawmakers are debating what kind of ban to try next after a ban on abortions after six weeks was rejected by the state’s top court.In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-politics-minnesota-state-government-timothy-walz-11c3b1d5269c929e442b979ff1bac73b">Minnesota</a>, a state where last year’s election gave Democrats full control of the government, the governor this year signed into law additional protections for abortion access.

New law puts Wyoming at forefront of abortion pill bans

While a winter weather advisory remains in effect for areas north of Lincoln County, the National Weather Service in North Platte is expecting skies to begin to clear through Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning.

There is a 20 percent to 40 percent chance of rain again beginning Wednesday afternoon, possibly changing to a wintry mix as temperatures fall. The overnight low Wednesday will be in the mid-20s, the NWS said.

The highs through Saturday are expected to be in the upper-40s to mid-50s.

More precipitation could be on the way starting Friday night at and least through Monday, the NWS predicted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679408760467.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While a winter weather advisory remains in effect for areas north of Lincoln County, the National Weather Service in North Platte is expecting skies to begin to clear through Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning.There is a 20 percent to 40 percent chance of rain again beginning Wednesday afternoon, possibly changing to a wintry mix as temperatures fall. The overnight low Wednesday will be in the mid-20s, the NWS said.The highs through Saturday are expected to be in the upper-40s to mid-50s.More precipitation could be on the way starting Friday night at and least through Monday, the NWS predicted.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect into this aftn, with wintry precip expected along/north of HWY 92 this morning. A glaze of ice is possible, leading to slick conditions on elevated/untreated surfaces. Conditions improve this aftn as temps climb above freezing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NEwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NEwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/50a40UpzpW">pic.twitter.com/50a40UpzpW</a>&mdash; NWS North Platte (@NWSNorthPlatte) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSNorthPlatte/status/1638133351310852096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Mild temperatures through the week, but a chance of more rain

Taking advantage of all the tax deductions and credits that you're eligible for is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your tax bill. Some of the most common deductions and credits include the standard deduction, charitable contributions, and education expenses.

The standard deduction is a set amount that you can deduct from your taxable income without having to itemize your deductions. The amount of the standard deduction varies depending on your filing status, but it can be a significant amount of money. In some cases, it may be more beneficial to itemize your deductions, such as if you have a large amount of medical expenses or mortgage interest.

Charitable contributions are another popular tax deduction. If you donate money or goods to a qualified charity, you may be able to deduct the value of your donation from your taxable income. It's important to keep accurate records of your charitable contributions and to make sure that you're donating to a qualified charity in order to claim the deduction.

Finally, education expenses can also be tax deductible. If you're paying for higher education, such as college tuition or textbooks, you may be able to claim a tax credit or deduction. There are several different tax credits and deductions available for education expenses, so it's important to research which ones you may be eligible for and keep accurate records of your expenses. By taking advantage of these and other deductions and credits, you can lower your tax bill and keep more of your hard-earned money.

Office hours Monday through Friday 10am-4pm Saturday and Sunday by appointment

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677593534030.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="🎙️ H&R Block of North Platte and Ogallala Tax Tip (Week of Mar.21th)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=fp47p-13adf1e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div><h2>Taking advantage of Tax Deductions</h2>Taking advantage of all the tax deductions and credits that you're eligible for is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your tax bill. Some of the most common deductions and credits include the standard deduction, charitable contributions, and education expenses.The standard deduction is a set amount that you can deduct from your taxable income without having to itemize your deductions. The amount of the standard deduction varies depending on your filing status, but it can be a significant amount of money. In some cases, it may be more beneficial to itemize your deductions, such as if you have a large amount of medical expenses or mortgage interest.Charitable contributions are another popular tax deduction. If you donate money or goods to a qualified charity, you may be able to deduct the value of your donation from your taxable income. It's important to keep accurate records of your charitable contributions and to make sure that you're donating to a qualified charity in order to claim the deduction.Finally, education expenses can also be tax deductible. If you're paying for higher education, such as college tuition or textbooks, you may be able to claim a tax credit or deduction. There are several different tax credits and deductions available for education expenses, so it's important to research which ones you may be eligible for and keep accurate records of your expenses. By taking advantage of these and other deductions and credits, you can lower your tax bill and keep more of your hard-earned money.<h2>Office hours Monday through Friday 10am-4pm Saturday and Sunday by appointment</h2>

🎙️ H&R Block of North Platte and Ogallala Tax Tip (Week of Mar.21th)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394320713.png" alt="Jose Dolores Buenrostro -Trespassing 2nd degree, Carrying Concealed Weapon" />
 <figcaption>Jose Dolores Buenrostro -Trespassing 2nd degree, Carrying Concealed Weapon</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394339763.png" alt="Drake Justin Kelso - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Drake Justin Kelso - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394357362.png" alt="Lizeth Shields - Safekeeper Frontier County" />
 <figcaption>Lizeth Shields - Safekeeper Frontier County</figcaption>
 </figure>***KEITH COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394409535.png" alt="Molly K McCroden - DUI Liquor .15+" />
 <figcaption>Molly K McCroden - DUI Liquor .15+</figcaption>
 </figure>***BUFFALO COUNTY JAIL<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394502487.png" alt="Reed Arthur Anderson -&nbsp; Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Reed Arthur Anderson -&nbsp; Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394516801.png" alt="Lori Michelle Sechtem - Possession of Controlled Substance, Attempt of a Class 1 Misdemeanor" />
 <figcaption>Lori Michelle Sechtem - Possession of Controlled Substance, Attempt of a Class 1 Misdemeanor</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394531402.png" alt="Brandon Michael Pendergast - Contempt of Court (x4)" />
 <figcaption>Brandon Michael Pendergast - Contempt of Court (x4)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394545815.png" alt="Charles Barry Hamilton Jr. - Contempt of Court" />
 <figcaption>Charles Barry Hamilton Jr. - Contempt of Court</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394558054.png" alt="Dafa Mohamed Abdi - 3rd Degree Assault, Hold for Outside Agency" />
 <figcaption>Dafa Mohamed Abdi - 3rd Degree Assault, Hold for Outside Agency</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394570349.png" alt="Alex Bogroff - Probation Sanction (x2)" />
 <figcaption>Alex Bogroff - Probation Sanction (x2)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679394582239.png" alt="Jasmine Arredondo - Minor in Possession Ages 19/20" />
 <figcaption>Jasmine Arredondo - Minor in Possession Ages 19/20</figcaption>
 </figure><div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2> 

This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte 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 to admin@northplattepost.com. </div>

Local