ALLIANCE, Neb.&nbsp;– Alliance Public Transit will be holding a public hearing on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Alliance Learning Center Community Meeting Room, 1750 Sweetwater Avenue, Alliance, Nebraska. This hearing is for the purpose of receiving public input on proposed changes to fares for the City of Alliance Public Transit service.

Proposed fare changes include In-city boardings (one way) increasing from $1 to $2 per boarding; Airport boardings (one way) increasing from $5 to $7 per boarding.

City of Alliance Public Transit is open to the public. City of Alliance Public Transit will make every reasonable accommodation to provide an accessible meeting facility for all people. Appropriate provisions will be made for the hearing and visually challenged or persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). This project will continue to take into consideration the special needs of the elderly and/or persons with disabilities.

Written or verbal comments will be accepted during the public hearing or ten days following the hearing date, Feb. 23, 2026. During the hearing, interested individuals or agencies will be given the opportunity to present their views on the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the proposed fare changes. A copy of the proposed fare adjustment is available for public inspection at the City of Alliance Public Transit office, located at 106 Cody Avenue in Alliance, Nebraska.

Written comments or requests must be submitted to Megan Smith, Alliance Public Transit, PO Box D, Alliance, NE 69301, by email to msmith@cityofalliance.net, or via telephone at (308) 762-7433.

For more information, please contact the Public Transit office at (308) 762-7433.

City of Alliance Public Transit Notice of Public Hearing

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;- Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Breanna D. Flaherty of Columbus as county court judge in the Fifth Judicial District. That district includes Boone, Butler, Colfax, Hamilton, Merrick, Nance, Platte, Polk, Saunders, Seward and York counties. The vacancy is due to the retirement of Judge C. Jo Petersen.

Flaherty is presently the Platte County Attorney. She has been in that office since 2012, having also served as a deputy and chief deputy in that office. Flaherty is also an adjunct instructor at Central Community College where she has taught criminal law, criminal procedure and other related topics at the Columbus campus.

Flaherty is currently a board member of both the Centro Hispano Comunitario de Nebraska and the Columbus Optimist Club. She has served several state organizations including the Nebraska Coalition for Juvenile Justice, County Attorney Standards Advisory Council and the Nebraska Children’s Commission. Flaherty is also a mock trial attorney coach for Scotus Catholic School.

Flaherty received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Wayne State University, a master’s degree in forensic science from Nebraska Wesleyan University and her juris doctor from the University of Nebraska College of Law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Appoints Flaherty as County Court Judge in Fifth Judicial District

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Super Bowl Wager!

KEARNEY, Neb.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested one person after finding 12 pounds of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop on I-80.

Tuesday, at approximately 10:30 a.m., a trooper saw a Toyota Camry speeding at over 100 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Kearney. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.

A search of the vehicle revealed 12 pounds of suspected methamphetamine hidden inside the body of the car. The driver, George Watson, 50-years-old, of Poplar Grove, Illinois, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession with intent to deliver, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

Troopers Find Methamphetamine in I-80 Traffic Stop

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College celebrated the grand opening of its new Health Sciences facility with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Jan. 26, marking a major milestone in the college’s commitment to healthcare education and workforce development in western Nebraska.

College leadership, faculty, students, community partners and local officials gathered to commemorate the opening of the state-of-the-art facility, which will expand hands-on learning opportunities for students pursuing careers in healthcare.

"WNCC believes very strongly that we can help lead healthcare in this region," WNCC President Greg Dart said. "These students are the future of healthcare in this region. We wanted to give them a space that's just as magnificent as each of them."

The new Health Sciences facility features simulation labs, instructional classrooms and collaborative learning spaces, designed to support all of WNCC's Health Sciences programs, including nursing, emergency medical services, health information technology, medical laboratory technology and surgical technology. The space allows students to practice hands-on skills, while still in a learning environment, before entering the workforce.

"Having dedicated classrooms and lab spaces for each group allows us to learn in environments tailored to what we do best," Avery Davies, an Associate Degree Nursing student said. "It means more focused instruction, stronger collaboration within our cohorts and a deeper sense of belonging within our programs."

The project was largely funded by funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), totaling approximately $9 million. Wilkins ADP served the project as the lead architect and Beckenhauer Construction led as the contractor and construction manager at-risk.

For more information about WNCC’s Health Sciences programs, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://wncc.edu/" target="_blank">wncc.edu</a>

WNCC Celebrates Health Sciences Project with Grand Opening

By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

LINCOLN, Neb. — The first pediatric influenza (flu)-related death in Nebraska has been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for the 2025 to 2026 season.

Nationally, there have been 52 additional pediatric flu-related deaths this season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of Jan. 30, 2026, there have been 22 additional flu-related deaths in Nebraska this season. &nbsp;

Antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) should be considered as early as possible for people with flu. For those who are not sick, common preventive measures, along with flu vaccination, can help reduce the risk of getting the flu and other winter illnesses. Tamiflu can safely treat symptoms in infants as young as two weeks old. It is very important for Nebraskans to discuss age-appropriate vaccination and treatment measures with their health care provider.

Protect yourself and loved ones from the flu by:

While flu can make anyone sick, certain people are at greater risk of serious complications:

For more flu information, visit the DHHS website at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpqnMDRrLWblbZqMJUxfWAj3Qqv0mDKlVzIbAQE7oPYwJVUtOUsu5a-2Bwc60L3KCeGg7SLd5OEqbOMwFH-2F5UAuUVk-3Dpw9f_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80oOSkWZxuPnxU0F5UXWf6ULszhwUi2361eYGlu-2B-2FyZXqZHoroL3-2FBAP0dzjtcCDxUUXxQ-2Fh1szT2w3hxnk1kyKAaK7rbCtn0yJeT7Zpf04mf4apj9FHlLtlkNa2WT9Y3f2D5Z2zR5eWmLHRhPyJLNWPtsinad3zdHqGfTaince9nCQV9RBUtVYsU0SgSmD3DdW8vHN6uITvtNnxp1IVNP5TMRvuwYEBQtU2pKUC-2B82nfuT8rIiZBSxz920yrXWiP8Uwg5wGjEtWcxl-2FXZAMCUkRQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Seasonal-Respiratory-Diseases.aspx</a>&nbsp;or the CDC website at&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.m5nsi0u-2FHRwC1fr1Ow4C8PmHPxVjBArNuZIp7wWa3so-3DVMz9_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80oOSkWZxuPnxU0F5UXWf6ULszhwUi2361eYGlu-2B-2FyZXqZHoroL3-2FBAP0dzjtcCDxUUXxQ-2Fh1szT2w3hxnk1kyKAaK7rbCtn0yJeT7Zpf04mf7vL1rJCyRNN6bTbXJ2Mo5rAGj-2Bv1XPGOm93oiLq2pkCMMgMd27VvXfmASbZOoFUVbLPkkn9S0oO1C8SwapNXjdFHFwPHEildWrm6KhN3zZH-2BjmPA7ZFcQmMmPdCnAaBIf43QRcQtT8VwGOrGx5gMNRLEifckWUQ9vKb9Cj-2FVUFuQ-3D-3D" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/flu</a>.

First Pediatric Influenza Death Reported in Nebraska

ALLIANCE, Neb. - In this week's episode of the Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show, presented by Harris Sales in Alliance, Jake Schrantz visits with head boys varsity basketball coach, Jordan Mills. They break down Alliance's performance in last week's Western Conference Tournament, as well as the upcoming weekend back-to-back against Scottsbluff and McCook.

Then, voice of Scottsbluff athletics, Chris Cottrell, joins the show to break down the Bearcats' tournament win in the Western Conference bracket ahead of the Friday night matchup against Alliance.

Alliance Bulldogs Coach's Show - 02/04/26 (Boys Hoops & Scottsbluff's Chris Cottrell)

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will certify Youth Fishing Instructors at five locations across the state this spring.

These instructors, who will become part of Game and Parks’ Youth Fishing Program, will receive training and tools to conduct youth fishing clinics. They will have access to Game and Parks’ loaner fishing equipment and educational materials for events and receive program incentives. Instructors also are encouraged to volunteer for such Game and Parks programs as Family Fishing Nights and the outdoor expos.

The Youth Fishing Instructor certification schedule is:

March 15 – Schramm Education Center Classroom, Gretna, 2-5 p.m.

April 11 – Ponca State Park Visitors Center, Ponca, 5-8 p.m.

April 30 – Wildcat Hills Nature Center, Gering, 6-9 p.m.

May 5 – Fort Kearny State Historical Park Visitors Center, Kearney, 6-9 p.m.

May 10 – Turpin Outdoor Education Center, Lincoln, 2-5 p.m.

A park entry permit is required at Ponca, Wildcat Hills and Fort Kearny.

To reserve a spot in these free workshops, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.signupgenius.com%2Fgo%2F4090C4DAEAE2EA3FB6-61559512-2026%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery%23%2F/1/0100019c299ace70-bb12f310-7d62-42ae-bcd3-41dbdfa02fb0-000000/JDN1c0w4wxt-GtgpKFjrWR6pluJgDw_5cK2iEKclvgk=443" target="_blank">signupgenius.com/go/4090C4DAEAE2EA3FB6-61559512-2026</a>.

NGPC Announces Locations to Become a Certified Youth Fishing Instructor This Spring

HASTINGS, Neb.&nbsp; — Investigative efforts continue regarding the death investigation into the man who was found deceased in rural Adams County last week.&nbsp;

Tuesday morning, Jan. 27, Jeremy Trausch, 44-years-old, from Roseland, was located deceased in a ditch in rural Adams County, just north of Highway 6, west of Juniata. Trausch’s pickup was nearby.

An autopsy has been performed, with the results of the cause of death pending confirmation from toxicology testing. Trausch had superficial injuries, but there were no signs of significant trauma.&nbsp;

The investigation remains ongoing and there appears to be no apparent public safety threat. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call NSP Troop C investigators at 308-395-3713.

Adams County Death Investigation Continues

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Today, Governor Jim Pillen appointed Joel Makovicka of Omaha to fill the District 4 vacancy on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents. Makovicka will serve through Jan. 7, 2027. The seat will be up for election this year.

“I appreciate Joel’s willingness to step into this role, and I have great confidence that he will serve the Board well, and with the best interests of the University in mind,” said Gov. Pillen.

Makovicka received his bachelor’s degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, during which time he played football for the Huskers and was part of three national championship teams. His professional football career continued with the Arizona Cardinals. Following his retirement from the NFL, Makovicka coached at the University of Virginia.

Makovicka earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy from Creighton University and continues to serve today as president of his own practice, Makovicka Physical Therapy, which has locations in Omaha, Lincoln and surrounding areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. Pillen Appoints Makovicka as District 4 Representative to NU Board of Regents

By&nbsp;Tena L. Cook, Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON, Neb. — A Chadron State College biologist’s work on grasshoppers in both Wisconsin and Nebraska is reshaping what scientists know about insect biodiversity in the Midwest and revealing how much remains undocumented.

Dr. Mathew Brust, a Professor and Department Chair of Biological Sciences at CSC, is the lead or co-author of two papers published last year and this year in the Journal of Orthoptera Research. The paper updating county-level distribution records for Wisconsin short-horned grasshoppers published newly accumulated records since the late Kathy Kirk and Charles Bomar co-authored the 2005 guide. Brust worked with both authors during his undergraduate employment as an assistant field biologist in Wisconsin. Bomar is listed as a co-author for many reasons including his previous work, according to Brust.

The other paper documents the rediscovery of a cold-adapted grasshopper species in Nebraska that had not been recorded in the state for more than a century.

Together, the studies highlight major gaps in insect data, the value of long-term fieldwork and collections and the importance of overlooked habitats such as wetlands and woodlands.

Brust said the Wisconsin project grew out of years of informal fieldwork during summer visits to his home state, combined with advances in community science.

“Although I haven’t lived in Wisconsin for over 20 years, I remain the grasshopper authority for the region,” Brust said. “I photograph and collect grasshoppers when I visit family each summer, and over time we accumulated a significant number of new county records.”

Working with graduate student Alex Harman, Brust compiled those records with observations from online platforms such as BugGuide and iNaturalist. Those sites, he said, have transformed biodiversity research by making thousands of verified insect observations publicly available.

The updated survey revealed dramatic increases in the number of recorded locations for several woodland and wetland grasshopper species.

“Woodlands and wetlands are often largely ignored in insect studies,” Brust said. “In some ways the results were surprising, but in others they weren’t.”

Brust’s long-term work in Nebraska played a key role in interpreting the Wisconsin data. The two states share more than half of their recorded grasshopper species, and Brust has spent two decades identifying specimens for both the CSC collection and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

That experience also fed into his second 2025 paper, which focuses on Melanoplus borealis, a grasshopper last recorded in Nebraska in the late 1800s. Brust and his co-author documented the species in multiple modern locations, confirming it still persists in the state.

Brust said his interest in the species began early in his career, when he was learning about Nebraska’s grasshoppers by collecting across the state.

“I quickly became familiar with most of the common species,” he said. “What interested me were the ones that were poorly known.”

Historical records suggested M. borealis was once widespread, despite few specimens ever being collected. Its disappearance from the scientific record for more than 100 years made the search both challenging and intriguing, Brust said.

The species is considered a glacial relict, meaning it is a remnant of colder climates that existed during the last Ice Age. As glaciers retreated and temperatures warmed, many cold-adapted species disappeared from the Great Plains. Others survived only in small pockets of cool habitat, such as fen wetlands and spring-fed creeks.

“These populations can be incredibly isolated,” Brust said. “Sometimes they occupy less than an acre.”

The rediscovery of M. borealis in multiple Nebraska counties suggests the species may be more widespread than previously thought, though Brust suspects many populations remain undocumented on private land.

He said small, isolated populations face growing risks. Climate change and land-use changes could threaten specialized species that depend on narrow habitat conditions, especially those with limited ability to disperse. Some M. borealis populations may consist of fewer than 50 individuals in a given year, making them vulnerable to local extinction, Brust said.

Despite their obscurity, Brust argues that grasshoppers like M. borealis matter.

“It’s easy to say, ‘It’s just a grasshopper,’ but that shows a lack of appreciation for biodiversity,” he said. “Nebraska alone has more than 100 grasshopper species, and only a small fraction are agricultural pests. These species interact with their environments in complex ways. They can teach us a great deal about the landscapes we live in, both past and present.”

Brust’s Work Contributes to Insect Biodiversity Knowledge Base

Details for March Fundraising Event for Pryor Family in Alliance

The first Alliance Arts Council event of 2026 will be a performance by Wendy Bantam from Lincoln, Nebraska on Friday, Jan. 30. Bantam will also be working as an artist in residence at the elementary schools the week of January 26-30.

A Nebraska native, Wendy Jane Bantam brings a pioneering sound to Americana Roots Music. With influences from old time country masters, and today’s Indie/world folk sound, Bantam’s ballads and melodies captivate people of all ages. A prolific songwriter and troubadour, Ms. Bantam spent her early childhood on a farm between Hay Springs and Chadron.

She studied performance at The University of Kansas in Lawrence, KS and received her Master of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. She’s appeared live on England’s BBC Radio and signed on with recording label, Tremulant Records; recently performing her original songs with the Missouri Symphony. Her album, Virga, was recorded with Merle Haggard’s longtime guitarist and Grammy winner, Redd Volkaert. She is currently with recording label state 51 in the United Kingdom.

Bantam will also include the 4th grade residency students as part of her program to allow them to share what they have worked on during the week. Business co-presenters for the school residency and the public performance are FNIC, FNBO, KCOW/Double Q Country Radio, Harris Sales and Western Nebraska Real Estate.

The programs are presented with the support of the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

Tickets for Friday night show are $15 Adult, $10 Senior, $5 Student (preschool admitted free). Tickets are available at Carnegie Arts Center, Chamber of Commerce and at the door. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Alliance Arts Council to Host Artist/Musician Wendy Bantam

Alliance City Council Meeting Agenda, Jan. 20

The Brothers Duo to play in Scottsbluff

Southern Fryed will perform at the Alliance Eagles Club for the annual Barn Dance on Saturday, Jan. 17 starting at 9pm. There is a cover charge to attend.&nbsp;

Southern Fryed to perform in Alliance 

Nebraska Extension Announes Dates for Pesticide License Trainings

The Greendales will perform at Flyover Brewery in Scottsbluff on Saturday, Jan. 8 from 6pm - 9pm.&nbsp;

The Greendales to play in Scottsbluff

Alliance, NE – The City of Alliance Landfill’s loose fill pit and construction/demolition area is pausing operations for January 6th, 2026, and is anticipating to be intermittently closed over the next few days – weeks due to dangerous wind speed. This is for safety measures to ensure no one is injured.

For any questions, please contact the City of Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

Alliance Landfill Intermittently Pausing Specific Operations Due to Wind 

Box Butte Commissioners Meeting Jan. 7 Agenda

By Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District

The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) is seeking a director to fill a vacancy on the board. The position will represent subdistrict 5 which encompasses western Dawes and northern Sioux Counties and was previously held by Al Rasmussen who passed away Dec. 12, 2025. The appointed applicant will serve until January 2027. The position will be up for election in 2026 and again in 2028.

Written letters of interest will serve as the application and must be submitted by January 15, 2026. Applicants must reside in the subdistrict as well as being a registered voter.

The UNWNRD is an eleven-person board serving Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan and the northern 2/3rds of Sioux Counties. The district is made up of five election subdistricts with two representatives and one at-large director. Directors typically serve four-year terms. Board meetings are held in Chadron on the second Thursday of the month. Directors receive $70 per diem and reimbursement of mileage and other expenses while conducting NRD business.

Interested individuals should submit the letter of application to Patrick O’Brien, General Manager, Upper Niobrara White NRD, 430 East 2 nd Street, Chadron, NE 69337. For more information feel free to contact the UNWNRD at 308-432-6190.

Subdistrict 5 Vacancy Announcement

Reward increased in search for 'Today' show host's missing mother

Carbon monoxide is often called a silent killer — and for good reason. The colorless, odorless gas cannot be seen or smelled, yet exposure can be deadly. The good news: carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable.

Each year in the United States, carbon monoxide poisoning sends tens of thousands of people to emergency rooms and claims hundreds of lives. Older adults, especially those age 65 and over, face the highest risk of serious illness or death from exposure.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is frequently mistaken for the flu, especially in its early stages. Symptoms may include headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness or fatigue, and confusion. Severe exposure can lead to loss of consciousness and can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Because symptoms can come on gradually, many people don’t realize they’re in danger until it’s too late.

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels do not burn completely. Common household and everyday sources include furnaces, fireplaces and space heaters, water heaters, gas clothes dryers, and stoves. Grills, generators, power tools, and vehicles that burn fossil fuels can also produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, especially when used improperly or in enclosed spaces.

If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, get to fresh air immediately. Call 911 or seek emergency medical care right away.

Poison Center healthcare professionals are available around the clock to help manage carbon monoxide exposures and determine whether emergency services are needed.

Simple precautions can dramatically reduce the risk of exposure. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and replace batteries every six months. Learn to recognize early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and have all fuel-burning appliances inspected and maintained regularly.

Make sure heaters and appliances are properly vented to the outside. Never use charcoal grills, hibachis, or generators indoors. Do not use gas ovens or ranges to heat your home. Never leave a vehicle running in an attached garage — even with the garage door open — and avoid sitting in a running vehicle if snow or mud is blocking the exhaust pipe. Generators should always be run outdoors and far away from windows and doors.

The Nebraska Poison Center provides education, safety tips, and expert guidance on carbon monoxide exposure and poison prevention.

When you call 1-800-222-1222, you’ll be connected immediately with a registered nurse or pharmacist — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. Awareness saves lives.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Know the Danger, Prevent the Risk

DAMASCUS – U.S. forces conducted five strikes against multiple ISIS targets across Syria, Jan. 27 – Feb. 2, as partner forces continue to apply military pressure to ensure the enduring defeat of the terrorist network, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

CENTCOM forces located and destroyed an ISIS communication site, critical logistics node, and weapons storage facilities with 50 precision munitions delivered by fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and unmanned aircraft.

“Striking these targets demonstrates our continued focus and resolve for preventing an ISIS resurgence in Syria,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “Operating in coordination with coalition and partner forces to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS makes America, the region and the world safer.”

U.S. and partner forces launched Operation Hawkeye Strike in response to a Dec. 13 attack on U.S. and Syrian forces in Palmyra. The ISIS ambush resulted in the death of two U.S. service members and an American interpreter.

After nearly two months of targeted operations, more than 50 ISIS terrorists have been killed or captured. CENTCOM forces killed Bilal Hasan al-Jasim during a deliberate strike in northwest Syria on Jan. 16. The terrorist leader was directly connected with the ISIS gunman responsible for the Dec. 13 attack.

U.S. forces strike more ISIS targets in Syria

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — A federal judge this week closed the lawsuit Planned Parenthood filed last summer after Republicans’ “big, beautiful” law blocked Medicaid patients from visiting its clinics for any health care appointments for one year.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood filed notice with the court Friday that it had dismissed “without prejudice all claims against” the Trump administration in the case. Massachusetts District Court Judge Indira Talwani issued an electronic order Monday closing the case “Pursuant to Plaintiffs’ Notice of Voluntary Dismissal without Prejudice.”

The law prevents people on Medicaid from being seen at Planned Parenthood facilities through early July, when the one-year period would expire.

Planned Parenthood Federation of America President and CEO Alexis McGill Johnson wrote in a statement released last week that President Donald Trump “and his allies in Congress have weaponized the federal government to target Planned Parenthood at the expense of patients —&nbsp; stripping people of the care they rely on.&nbsp;

“Through every attack, Planned Parenthood has never lost sight of its focus: ensuring patients can get the care they need from the provider they trust. That will never change. Care continues, as does our commitment to fighting for everyone’s freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies, lives, and futures.”

The Department of Justice did not immediately respond to a request for comment from States Newsroom.&nbsp;

Talwani&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/one-big-beautiful-law-provision-planned-parenthood-funding-partly-blocked-judge" target="_blank">originally ruled for Planned Parenthood</a>&nbsp;in the case, temporarily blocking the defunding provision from taking effect. But an appeals court&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/appeals-court-allows-provision-freezing-medicaid-funding-planned-parenthood" target="_blank">later overturned that decision</a>, allowing the Trump administration to legally withhold Medicaid funding from going to Planned Parenthood.&nbsp;

Talwani was nominated by former President Barack Obama.

The provision in Republicans’ “big, beautiful” law that blocks all Medicaid funding from going to Planned Parenthood was originally slated to last for a decade, but the final version covered one year.&nbsp;

Federal law for decades has barred spending from covering abortions with limited exceptions for rape, incest, or the woman’s life.&nbsp;

So the new language prevented Medicaid patients from scheduling appointments at Planned Parenthood for other types of health care, like annual physicals, cancer screenings, or birth control appointments.&nbsp;

Shireen Ghorbani, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Association of Utah, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/planned-parenthood-sues-trump-administration-officials-over-defunding-provision-budget-bill" target="_blank">filed the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;along with Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts and Planned Parenthood Federation of America, wrote in a statement that its health care providers would “continue to see patients and deliver on our mission to provide high-quality care and education to everyone who needs it, no matter where they live or how much money they make.”&nbsp;

A Planned Parenthood spokesperson, who did not want to comment on the record, said that certain clinics may choose to cover the cost of treating Medicaid patients, even though the clinic will not receive reimbursement from the federal government under the law.&nbsp;

Angela Vasquez-Giroux, vice president of communications at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, wrote in a statement that the organization’s “health centers initially shielded the overwhelming majority of patients who rely on Medicaid from the harm of this cruel law. Unfortunately, the consequences for patients will worsen considerably over time as health centers close, costs rise, and access to their trusted provider is pushed further out of reach.”

Planned Parenthood ends suit against Trump admin. over serving Medicaid patients

🎥'Today' show host asks kidnapper to provide proof mother is alive

Port-au-Prince —At the direction of the Secretary of War, three U.S. warships including the USS Stockdale, USCGC Stone and USCGC Diligence have arrived in the Bay of Port-au-Prince as part of Operation Southern Spear, according to a statement from the U.S. Embassy Haiti.

"Their presence reflects the United States’ unwavering commitment to the security, stability, and a brighter future for the Republic of Haiti. The U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard reaffirm their partnership and support to ensure a safer and more prosperous Haiti."

US Warships arrive off Haiti in campaign against drug traffickers

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>

WASHINGTON — The partial government shutdown that began this weekend ended Tuesday when President Donald Trump signed the funding package that both chambers of Congress approved within the last week.&nbsp;

“We’ve succeeded in passing a fiscally reasonable package that actually cuts wasteful federal spending while supporting critical programs for the safety, security and prosperity for the American people,” Trump said in the Oval Office.

The House&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/202653" target="_blank">voted 217-214</a>&nbsp;earlier in the day to clear the package for Trump following a tumultuous couple of weeks on Capitol Hill after it had stalled in the Senate. Democrats demanded additional restraints on immigration enforcement in reaction to the shooting death of a second U.S. citizen in Minneapolis.&nbsp;

Trump and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., reached agreement last week to pull the full-year appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security and replace it with a two-week stopgap measure.

That is supposed to give leaders in Congress and the administration a bit of time to find consensus on changes to how immigration officers operate.

Trump did not say if he agreed with any of the proposed changes to immigration enforcement floated by Democrats.&nbsp;

“I haven’t even thought about it,” Trump said.&nbsp;

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said during a morning press conference he wants negotiations to address local and state governments that don’t cooperate with federal immigration enforcement activities, often called sanctuary cities.&nbsp;

“What must be a part of that discussion is the participation of blue cities in federal immigration enforcement,” he said. “You can’t go to a sanctuary city and pretend like the law doesn’t apply there. It does and so we are going to be working through all that.”&nbsp;

Johnson said GOP lawmakers would not agree to require federal immigration agents to secure judicial warrants in order to detain people, one of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-dems-demand-mask-ban-body-camera-requirement-ids-immigration-agents" target="_blank">several proposals Democrats have put forward</a>.

“We are never going to go along with adding an entirely new layer of judicial warrants because it is unimplementable,” he said. “It cannot be done and it should not be done and it’s not necessary.”&nbsp;

Johnson, a constitutional lawyer, said those administrative warrants are “sufficient legal authority to go and apprehend someone.”

When pressed if that type of warrant is enough to enter someone’s home without violating the Fourth Amendment, Johnson said that a “controversy has erupted” over what immigration agents should do when someone they’re trying to detain enters a private residence.&nbsp;

“What is Immigration and Customs Enforcement supposed to do at that point? ‘Oh gee whiz, they locked the door. I guess we’ll just go on.’ So there is some logic and reason that is to be applied here,” Johnson said. “Some have complained that the force has been excessive or what have you. I don’t know. We’re going to figure that out. It’s part of the discussion over the next couple weeks.”

Johnson said GOP negotiators will also make sure Congress maintains “important parameters” on immigration law and enforcement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We can’t go down the road of amnesty, you can’t in any way lighten the enforcement requirement of federal immigration law,” he said. “That’s what the American people demand and deserve.”

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said during an afternoon press conference that Alabama Sen. Katie Britt, chairwoman of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, would lead negotiations for Republicans in that chamber.&nbsp;

“Katie Britt will lead that on our side, but ultimately, that’s going to be a conversation between the President of the United States and (Senate) Democrats,” Thune, a South Dakota Republican, said.&nbsp;

During an afternoon press conference, Schumer said that “Thune has to be a part of these negotiations.”&nbsp;

Schumer said that Democrats are going to detail their proposals to Republicans in the House, Senate and White House.

“If Leader Thune negotiates in good faith, we can get it done,” Schumer said of the Homeland Security funding bill.&nbsp;

Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., who serves as ranking member on the Senate Committee on Appropriations, said Senate Democrats are “ready to work.”

“We have a proposal ready. We’re going to start moving no matter who they (pick) at the end of the day, and the White House needs to be involved,” Murray said.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, said there are “a whole bunch” of proposals.

“The House had to do what they had to do … which is great. And what we now have to do is figure out what’s this universe of reforms that we can come to consensus on,” said Murkowski, who issued a statement last week declaring her support for “<a href="https://x.com/lisamurkowski/status/2017401976233853031?s=20" target="_blank">meaningful reforms</a>” for ICE.

Connecticut Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, said during floor debate on the government spending package that clearing the legislation was the best way to move into negotiations about immigration enforcement.

“We will be in the strongest possible position to fight for and win the drastic changes we all know are needed to protect our communities — judicial warrant requirements, no more detentions or deportations of United States citizens, an enforceable code of conduct, taking off the masks, putting the badges on, requiring the body cameras, real accountability for the egregious abuses we have seen,” she said.

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, R-Okla., said funding the government “is not an optional exercise, it’s the most basic duty we have in Congress.”

“Shutdowns are never the answer, they don’t work,” he said. “They only hurt the American people. So today lawmakers in this chamber have an opportunity to avoid repeating past mistakes.”

In addition to providing two more weeks of funding for the Department of Homeland Security, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7148/text" target="_blank">$1.2 trillion spending package</a>&nbsp;holds full-year appropriations bills for the departments of Defense, Education, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Labor, State, Transportation and Treasury. The Senate voted 71-29 on Friday evening&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/partial-federal-government-shutdown-begins-amid-hopes-it-wont-last-long" target="_blank">to send the package</a>&nbsp;to the House.

Congress had already approved half of the dozen annual appropriations bills for the fiscal year that began back on Oct. 1.&nbsp;

Trump signs funding bill, setting up immigration enforcement debate

TUCSON, AZ.—The Pima County Sheriff’s Department is asking for the community’s help in locating Nancy Guthrie.

If you have any information, including photos or video that may help with this investigation, please submit it through our Tip Line QR code. This allows information to be shared directly &amp; securely with investigators.

Every detail matters. Even small tips could make a difference.

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Reward offered:  “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie's mom still missing

KANSAS CITY—Kansas City, Missouri mayor Quinton Lucas joined CBS Face The Nation on Sunday to discuss critical issues facing American cities. From immigration policy and housing affordability to crime reduction and preparing for the 2026 World Cup.

On the proposed federal detention center for the region, Mayor Lucas said, "Converting a gigantic distribution facility into a warehouse for 10,000 people for which it was never designed is not right, and it is fundamentally something that is inhumane."

ICE was given $45 billion for detention centers in the tax and spending bill that President Trump signed last year.

🎥KCMO Mayor talks proposed federal detention center on Face The Nation

LINCOLN —&nbsp;State Treasurer Joey Spellerberg is making a push to connect Nebraskans with their “lost cash.”

The effort marks National Unclaimed Property Day on Feb. 1, also recognized in Nebraska via a Gov. Jim Pillen proclamation Spellerberg requested.

The proclamation says Nebraska currently holds more than $250 million in unclaimed property that includes uncashed checks, insurance proceeds and other financial assets considered lost or abandoned when an owner can not be found. Spellerberg urged Nebraskans to search&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskalostcash.gov/" target="_blank">NebraskaLostCash.gov</a>.

“You might just find a surprise waiting for you,” said Meaghan Aguirre, Nebraska’s unclaimed property director. Aguirre was recently elected president of the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators.

Nebraskans who have lived in multiple states can check the national database,&nbsp;<a href="http://missingmoney.com/" target="_blank">MissingMoney.com</a>. Searches on both sites are free of charge.

Nebraska for more than five decades has received millions of dollars annually turned over by entities that can not find the owners, according to the proclamation. The state has returned more than $300 million to rightful owners since implementation of its Unclaimed Property Program.

In 2025, the state returned nearly $20 million through 19,952 claims.

“Nebraska has streamlined the claims process, because we want these unclaimed dollars back in our local economies,” Spellerberg said.&nbsp;

He said unclaimed property exists in all of the state’s 93 counties, including $96 million in assets in the Omaha metro area, $28.6 million in Lincoln, $7 million in Bellevue, $5.1 million in Grand Island and $3.7 million in Kearney.

Nebraska treasurer wants to find owners of ‘lost cash,’ unclaimed assets

🏀 High School Basketball Scoreboard - 1/29

🏀 High School Basketball Scoreboard - 1/29

By: Paxton Ritchie CSC Sports Information Director

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Chadron State scored its third-highest point total of the season and freshman Ella Moser poured in a career-high 20 points, but South Dakota Mines made 13 three-pointers as the Hardrockers defeated the Eagles 76-59 on Thursday evening in Rapid City. 

South Dakota Mines (7-12, 5-6 RMAC) shot 48 percent from the field (26-54, its second-best percentage of the season) and 46 percent from three-point range (13-28, its best percentage of the season) against the Eagles (1-15, 1-11 RMAC). 

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