CHADRON, Neb. - Keep Chadron Beautiful will host its Second Annual Green Gala on March 21, celebrating the organization’s impact across the community and building on last year’s inaugural event's success. The 2025 gala brought together more than 120 community members who gathered to support Keep Chadron Beautiful’s mission of creating a cleaner, greener and more vibrant Chadron.

While some of the organization’s work happens quietly behind the scenes, its impact is felt throughout the community. Keep Chadron Beautiful hosts monthly recycling events on the third Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon in the Nebraska Bank parking lot, providing residents with a convenient way to recycle materials that might otherwise end up in the landfill. The organization also accepts electronic recycling throughout the year.

In 2025 alone, Keep Chadron Beautiful planted 9 trees in Chadron, continued beautification projects throughout town, and expanded its educational outreach. The organization hosted 42 youth programs in local schools and at the Chadron Public Library, reaching 1,382 students with lessons about recycling, sustainability and caring for the local environment. This nonprofit is also currently developing an education hub and community garden next to its office at 342 Main Street, a space shared with the Dawes County Veterans Service Office.

Funds raised through the Green Gala directly support Keep Chadron Beautiful’s recycling, beautification and environmental education efforts, with every dollar reinvested into programs that benefit the Chadron community.

This year’s gala, themed “The Giving Garden,” will take place on March 21 from 6–9 p.m. at the Chadron Arts Center at Fourth and King Street. Guests can expect an evening of food, music and community celebration. Catering will be provided by The Bean Broker Coffee House, which has created a menu inspired by spring. Wild’s Bar and Grill will provide beverage service with traditional spirits, mocktails and non-alcoholic options.

Each ticket includes a meal and two complimentary drink tickets. Guests are encouraged to attend in classic cocktail attire or whimsical outfits inspired by the Giving Garden theme.

The evening will feature live music from Jeremy Quick&nbsp;and Rayne Charging Thunder, followed by a closing set from Keith Reid of the Crazy Louie Band. A 50/50 raffle with second- and third-drawings for gift baskets, and a silent auction featuring locally donated items, including artwork, tools, kitchen goods, oil changes, acupuncture gift certificates and more, generously donated by local businesses.

Proceeds from the event will help expand Chadron’s recycling infrastructure, maintain recycling vehicles and trailers and grow youth education programs and partnerships with the Chadron Public Library.

Tickets are $40 for one, $75 for two, or $200 for a reserved table of six and are available now through KeepChadronBeautiful.org, the organization’s Facebook page, or at the Keep Chadron Beautiful office at 342 Main Street. Call Danny at 308-432-5959 for more info or to purchase tickets. Tickets are expected to sell out before the event.

Keep Chadron Beautiful Announces Second Annual Green Gala: “The Giving Garden”

Post Podcast: Kman's Concert Calendar, weekend of March 6 - March 10 

By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

LINCOLN, Neb. – During the month of March, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services encourages Nebraska residents age 45 and older to get screened for colon cancer. Both men and women over the age of 45 are at increased risk, and regular preventive health screenings save lives.

As part of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, the Nebraska Colon Cancer Screening program is offering Nebraskans free Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) kits to screen for colon cancer in the privacy of their home. FIT kits are effective, easy to complete and take only five minutes. There are no dietary restrictions, liquids, or prep to take before the test.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colon cancer is the fourth most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death. In Nebraska, the colon cancer incidence rate is 42.5 for males and 33.1 for females (per 100,000 residents). To put this into perspective, on football Saturday in Memorial Stadium, at least one of the individuals sitting in a row would be diagnosed with or die from colon cancer unless they prevent it with routine screening.

“Colon cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable through screening and early detection,” said Dr. Timothy Tesmer, DHHS Chief Medical Officer. “More Nebraskans are receiving colon cancer screenings than in years past, but we still have more progress to make and more lives to save. I encourage all Nebraskans over the age of 45 to get screened for colon cancer.”

To request a FREE at-home FIT Kit for colon cancer screening, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpmQT3RoTQJKev7MQaHcTOiUPtMMirpCj8zx68ftpoNAoK2dM_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80omUTH6ylkdzr7Skzi1U-2FnxhskQUlBy3mUfulr-2FbmOn1DAMhYe7gf-2B-2FEBmjb6n0KJBP3yAeT8BSmF-2FMZwfz-2BiGXwyYA-2BmL4mWZ72HEKDQ520Wa5ioMVkRXt19AtjN2Sqip7BG4pwjSDcUFwY4MXlXdnGNSm8NUUVfixiqNdKJ4NWDd05t16DygwO4CUJZWuhjGDdnD5ADrFUKiMY8Fed65IHmnWTYYlFTZB-2FwPYGYnUTvhDL6W3uFGCGeFitQXipu0zas-2Fsgf78IjWeq9y37p4FA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/FREEFITKit</a>

For more information about the Nebraska Colon Cancer Screening Program, call 800-532-2227 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.GfuENRT80eFcHB0yCoTjpq9bq1mBF8zfD8rjO3sM6rAwVSbI1Uu4Uf6qkPIhXwecjkiq_tSBk32awJfOKdX0D104nM81D-2BXugulph99B3XnDoLR8mOZuPToN2fEBVwCTZH-2FOyDFUXts0PPRvJVwOzrZydJLyKHOwrfm-2FVnUnD7DxPTfciEORkT5FIOfxBj-2FE5p80omUTH6ylkdzr7Skzi1U-2FnxhskQUlBy3mUfulr-2FbmOn1DAMhYe7gf-2B-2FEBmjb6n0KJBP3yAeT8BSmF-2FMZwfz-2BiGXwyYA-2BmL4mWZ72HEKDQ520UtD2ka9TiBpDm6U6PTV7GA5wdfeu-2FTF6gsMWBgI0ulvsJct-2B0yMaakiludKkIPI1dqPU1U7Q6aeYuPFSIta2U0mPfEM-2B8uu8PwZcZDW3-2FpI-2Boq96WnYBK6o3rZns6F4sluSolh01IFy7WEkVPa7KtMthUNLJCZjDq2gyzGJop0Vg-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://dhhs.ne.gov/crc</a>.

Make Sure You Stay in the Game and Get Screened for Colon Cancer

BEVERAGES OF THE DAMNED: We Butter You Up

LINCOLN, Neb. – There are plenty of statistics that can be shared to highlight the impact of the University of Nebraska System.

Nearly 50,000 students are enrolled across its four campuses. The system graduates about 11,000 students each year and generates roughly $700 million in research activity annually. Altogether, the university contributes $6.4 billion to Nebraska’s economy and supports more than 52,000 jobs statewide.

For every $1 the state invests in the NU System, about $10 is returned to the Nebraska economy.

NU System President Dr. Jeffrey Gold loves to reference those numbers during conversations with the governor, state senators and “anybody else who will listen.”

“When economic times are tough, what do we do? We pull in risky investments, and we double down on solid investments that we know there’s an absolute return on,” he said Wednesday during the “I Love NU” Day celebration in Lincoln. “The university is just an absolutely rock-solid financial investment.”

Those figures are significant, but they only tell part of the story, Gold emphasized while addressing a room filled with NU supporters.

“A more important part of the story is what each of you has brought to the university,” he told the students in attendance. “And an even more important part of the story is what each of you will bring to the state of Nebraska.”

In its ninth year, “I Love NU” Day is an annual event that brings people from across the state together to celebrate the NU System and promote the critical role it plays in economic and workforce development. This year’s version started at the Cornhusker Hotel in downtown Lincoln and ended at the State Capitol, where students met with lawmakers and highlighted the university’s impact on their lives.

University of Nebraska at Kearney freshman Jodean Chesley was among the students who helped tell this story.

“UNK has presented me with some incredible opportunities,” she said. “I wanted to come today to show my support and also thank the lawmakers in our state who work tirelessly to advocate for those opportunities.”

A political science major from Chadron, Chesley chose UNK because she saw a chance to combine strong academic experiences with the kind of close-knit campus community where students are known as individuals.

“Kearney is a place where students can really build on their potential,” she said. “They give you the keys to open those doors, then provide the support you need to walk through them.”

Chesley is a member of the Kearney Law Opportunities Program (KLOP), a partnership with the University of Nebraska College of Law that prepares students for legal careers in rural communities. Participants receive financial assistance, academic support and numerous professional development opportunities, including undergraduate research, field study experiences and internships.

“Right now, Nebraska is facing a shortage of attorneys, especially in rural communities, so many people are underserved when it comes to legal representation,” Chesley said. “I want to provide those services so future generations can continue to thrive in our state.”

The future lawyer stressed the importance of continued investment in higher education.

“You’re not just throwing money at a problem,” Chesley said. “You’re supporting individuals who will eventually give back to rural communities, who will give back to the university system, who will give back to the state and who will give back to the country. It starts with making sure those educational opportunities and those investments are secure.”

State Sen. Stan Clouse of Kearney was among the lawmakers who met with UNK students during the event. He called education the “No. 1 priority” for Nebraska.

“The NU System is of utmost importance to our state for both the education it provides and the research conducted there,” he said.

Earlier Wednesday, Clouse met with a group of visiting fourth graders from Kearney and local high school students participating in a youth leadership program. Those interactions reinforce the need to invest in young people and create pathways that keep this talent in Nebraska.

“Education is an investment in yourself and it’s an investment in our state,” Clouse said. “That’s how we’re going to succeed.”

Speaker of the Legislature John Arch also addressed the “I Love NU” group, encouraging students to remain prepared for opportunities that lie ahead.

“While opportunities do come to everybody, not everybody is prepared to take advantage of those opportunities,” Arch said.

As NU students committed to higher education, he added, “You are doing all the things that are required of you today to prepare for an opportunity to come in the future.”

For UNK senior Sam Schroeder, those opportunities have already begun to take shape. The political science major from Seward is in his second term as student body president and student regent. A KLOP member, he’ll graduate from UNK in May and begin classes at the Nebraska College of Law this fall.

“When I first came to UNK, it was a rough start,” he shared. “I’d never really been away from home, and I was in this new place that was two hours away. … But I quickly found myself surrounded by a tightly knit community, and everybody had my back and wanted me to grow both as a person and professionally.”

Faculty members played a major role in connecting him with internships, research opportunities and leadership experiences throughout his college career, including a summer position at the State Capitol.

Schroeder said “I Love NU” Day quickly became one of his favorite events. He first attended as a freshman and has since come to appreciate the chance to celebrate the university and share the student experience with lawmakers.

“UNK can offer a personalized, high-quality education that serves our students and greater Nebraska,” he said. “So, thank you. I really appreciate this opportunity and the opportunity to be here the last four years.”

Stories from students like Chesley and Schroeder show what those statistics really represent.

“There’s probably no Nebraskan in this state whose life is not touched by somebody or some program or something that the university does every single day,” Gold said.

UNK Students Share Their Stories During ‘I Love NU’ Day

By Tena L Cook, Marketing Coordinator, CSC

CHADRON, Neb. – In the first Graves Lecture of the spring semester, CSC alum and Nebraskaland Regional Editor Justin Haag spoke about the magazine’s 100th&nbsp;anniversary celebration.

He included a brief history of the natural conservation movement. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the United States experienced rapid growth that came at a steep environmental cost. Haag said an estimated 940 million acres of virgin forest were lost by 1850. White-tailed deer populations plummeted from roughly 30 million to just 300,000 by 1900. Canada geese neared extinction, and the American bison once numbering in the millions fell to fewer than 100 by 1902.

The conservation movement emerged in response to those losses. Naturalist John Muir, who guided President Roosevelt through what would become Yosemite National Park, said, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”

Haag said those words still resonate with him when he heads into the field with his camera.

Nebraskaland magazine launched in June 1926 as Outdoor Nebraska. Chadron State Park was five years old, and Haag said early issues of the quarterly publication repeatedly promoted the park to readers in eastern Nebraska, most who had never seen the Pine Ridge’s buttes and forests. The first issue was 16 pages and featured a cover image of a young person fishing.

The magazine was founded by Frank B. O’Connell, who later became director of the state agency now known as the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Haag said in the inaugural issue, O’Connell wrote, “The people of the Middle West are just now awakening to the fact that unless something is done and done quickly, the wildlife and natural beauty of this prairie will have vanished before the ever-grasping hand of commerce.”

From its earliest days, the magazine championed public lands, fish and wildlife. Haag said copies were distributed to members of the Isaac Walton League, a prominent conservation group whose projects included developing Walgren Lake between Hay Springs and Rushville. Early editions featured fish stocking reports, photos of anglers with their catches and assertive conservation messages.

In 1949, artist C.G. Bud Pritchard joined the staff, remaining until 1974. Before the era of large zoom lenses and a supply of wildlife photographs, Pritchard created detailed illustrations to accompany natural history stories. He often drew and painted animals from memory, producing covers that remain popular today, Haag said. Some of the vintage Pritchard covers are being reissued as prints to celebrate the magazine’s 100th anniversary.

The publication became monthly in 1958. Six years later, under Gov. Frank Morrison, the magazine changed its name to Nebraskaland and expanded to 60 pages as the agency assumed responsibility for tourism.

As photography replaced illustrations, landmarks such as Toadstool Geologic Park have appeared regularly in the publication.

“It’s a photographer’s wonderland,” Haag said of Toadstool Park.

Haag’s path to Nebraskaland was influenced by a presentation at CSC by conservation photographer Michael Forsberg. Haag was struck by Forsberg’s use of imagery to deliver a conservation message and later wrote a story about him. He credits his colleague and fellow CSC graduate Eric Fowler as a mentor who helped shape his career.

Photographing wildlife from a blind is Haag’s favorite assignment. Whether waiting on a lek for grouse, near a pond for waterfowl, or in grasslands for swift fox, Haag said he prefers to let animals come to him. He recently added a floating blind that allows him to stand in it and move quietly in shallow water.

During his presentation, he shared images he’s taken of osprey, northern shovelers, bighorn sheep, Blanding’s turtles, willets, swift foxes and rattlesnakes. One of his earliest milestones was seeing his first landscape photo published in the magazine. Since then, he said he has chased foggy Sandhills sunrises, northern lights over the Badlands in Sioux County, and lightning storms near Crescent Lake. Each moment, he said, is a reminder of the privilege of living in western Nebraska.

“I’m very fortunate to live in a great place to do this sort of thing. The best way to get good pictures of wildlife is to be there early or late,” he said.

His family has occasionally shared the spotlight. A photo of his son, Sawyer, once appeared on the magazine cover and on the agency’s website for fishing license sales. His daughter, Kiera, has also been featured and accompanied him on assignments, including a hot air balloon ride to photograph a rally.

Haag’s work includes documenting conservation operations such as tagging wildlife for tracking and he writes about topics ranging from the history of the Cheyenne Breakout at Fort Robinson to disc golf leagues. For one project in the Soldier Creek Wilderness Area, he rode mules with his colleagues into terrain where vehicles are prohibited.

Technology has expanded his toolkit. Haag has taken aerial photos from airplanes and assisted with mule deer surveys from helicopters. He is one of three commercially licensed drone pilots in the agency’s communications division, capturing images and video of locations such as Saddle Rock at Fort Robinson.

Still, some of his most complex images come from the ground. Haag uses camera traps equipped with motion sensors and multiple flash units to photograph nocturnal wildlife. He describes the setup as a studio in the field, requiring patience and precision.

As Nebraskaland celebrates its centennial year, Haag reflected on the magazine’s enduring mission.

“I often count my blessings each time I get to point my camera at our wildlife and scenery with thanks to those who have worked to keep them around,” Haag said.

Haag Shares 100 Years of Nebraskaland

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Agronomy and Horticulture Department offers several scholarships for students pursuing studies in agriculture, crop, or plant sciences.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The following scholarships offer $1,000 for freshmen or sophomores and above pursuing agriculture, crop, or plant science studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Dennis Thompson Crop Improvement Scholarship – $1,000 for freshmen pursuing agriculture or crop science. Candidates must express an interest in or be majoring in Agronomy, CASNR, IANR, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Preference will be given to graduates of any Class B, C, or D high school located in any of the following counties in Nebraska: Arthur, Banner, Blaine, Boyd, Brown, Buffalo, Box Butte, Chase, Cherry, Cheyenne, Custer, Dawson, Dawes, Dundy, Franklin, Frontier, Furnas, Garden, Garfield, Gosper, Grant, Harlan, Hayes, Hitchcock, Hooker, Holt, Kearney, Keith, Keya Paha, Kimball, Lincoln, Logan, Loup, McPherson, Morrill, Perkins, Phelps, Red Willow, Rock, Scottsbluff, Sheridan, Sherman, Sioux, Thomas, Valley, or Deuel. High School classification will be based on the current classification system used by the Nebraska School Activities Association, or on the equivalent classes of any future system.

Nebraska Seed Trade Association (NSTA) Freshman Scholarship – $1,000 for incoming students planning studies in agriculture, crop, or plant sciences. Scholarship funds will be deposited directly into the student's UNL account for tuition or books. Deadline is March 13.&nbsp;New students enrolling at the University of Nebraska. They must possess a strong interest in the area of seed industry, crop production, seed technology, or plant breeding, and major in a degree program offered by the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska. Deadline is April 1.

Nebraska Seed Trade Association (NSTA) Upperclassman Scholarship – $1,000 for sophomores and above pursuing agriculture, crop, or plant science studies.&nbsp;Students must have sophomore class standing or above at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Candidates shall be pursuing any degree program in the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, or the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Deadline is April 1.

To apply for the above scholarships or for more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://necrop.org/resources/scholarships/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">NCIA Scholarships</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.neseedtrade.org/scholarships?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">NSTA Scholarships</a>

The scholarships are also listed on UNL’s Agronomy and Horticulture page under “scholarships with separate applications.”

Scholarships Offered for Students Going into Ag, Crop, or Plant Sciences

ALLIANCE, Neb. – At the Alliance March 3rd City Council meeting, a new Public Transit Rider Handbook was adopted, including a new $2 standard fare beginning April 1, 2026. These changes help keep services reliable and are better aligned with transit systems' fees from across the Nebraska Panhandle.

This increase is in part due to Federal transit funding reducing nationwide, making local funding updates necessary to support long term service sustainability of the Transit program. The City of Alliance continues to invest in safe vehicles and trained drivers as operating costs such as wages, fuel and insurance have increased in recent years.

To assist riders, the revised handbook includes a new discount BOGO program designed to keep frequent travel affordable.

For more information or to view the updated handbook, please visit<a href="https://www.cityofalliance.net/"> www.cityofalliance.net</a>.

Alliance Public Transit Updates Rider Handbook and Fare Structure

LINCOLN, Neb.&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen, a strong supporter of K-12 education in Nebraska, signed LB653 into law today to improve classroom environments. The new law will provide school districts the flexibility to work with students and their families to address disruptive behaviors, ensuring that our classrooms are a place for learning.

“We’re investing in Nebraska’s kids while ensuring classrooms are safe and great learning environments,” said Governor Pillen. “Today, I signed LB653 into law and I’m grateful for the legislature’s work – especially Sen. Murman for carrying this legislation on my behalf – to get this to my desk to provide teachers and school administrators the tools they need to discipline and assist young students who engage in violent behavior in the classroom.”

Earlier this year during the Governor’s State of the State Address, Gov. Pillen highlighted pieces of this legislation as a priority initiative to help address issues teachers have faced with violent or disruptive students in classroom settings.

The legislation allows school districts to suspend Pre-K through 2nd grade students who exhibit violent behavior and protect the students right to be heard by the administration. While this legislation was not a full repeal of the existing prohibition, it will help schools to regain control in their classrooms.

This is win for Nebraska teachers, students, families and learning.

Gov. Pillen Signs Classroom Improvement Legislation into Law

ALLIANCE, Neb. – The City of Alliance is urging residents to be cautious after receiving a report of a scammer calling a local customer and threatening to disconnect their electricity unless immediate payment was made.

The caller did not represent the City of Alliance.

The City reminds all residents of the following important information regarding legitimate utility contact:

1. If the City of Alliance contacts you about an account that is up for disconnection, the call will come from our official number: 308-313-2036.

2. City offices cannot accept payments over the phone. The only way to make a payment by phone is by calling Payment Service Network (PSN) directly.

Any caller demanding immediate payment, requesting personal financial information, or threatening disconnection should be considered suspicious.

Residents who receive a call of this nature should hang up immediately and contact the City of Alliance Utility Office at 308-762-5075 to verify the status of their account.

The City of Alliance encourages everyone to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

If you have any questions, please call the Utility Department at (308) 762-5075.

Scam Phone Calls Regarding Utility Accounts

ALLIANCE, Neb. – The City of Alliance is pleased to announce that JD Cox will be returning to Alliance to serve as City Manager, bringing with him a strong record of municipal leadership, organizational development and community focused service.

Cox previously served as the Alliance City Manager 10 years ago, and his return showcases his dedication to the Alliance Community. He will work to enhance city operations, strengthen local and regional partnerships and support long term community goals. His experience in local government and previous experience with the Alliance community make him exceptionally well suited to step into this role.

“We are excited to welcome JD back to Alliance” said Mayor John McGhehey. “His familiarity with our community and proven leadership will help continue the momentum of key City projects while fostering positive engagements with residents and local businesses.”

Cox expressed enthusiasm about rejoining the organization and serving the people of Alliance. “Tonya and I are grateful and excited to return to Alliance! This is home to us, and for years we’ve hoped for the opportunity to return, to give back and to be part of the community we’ve always loved! Even our children, who are now adults living their own lives, are over the moon that we’re coming home to Alliance. Professionally, I’m honored to serve again and to bring back ten years of experience, working closely with Council, our directors and staff, and the community to keep the focus on practical progress. I’m truly thankful for this opportunity, and I’m committed to work hard every day to earn trust through steady service and accountable leadership.”

Cox is expected to begin his role as City Manager on April 6, 2026. For more information, please contact City Hall at (308) 762-5400.

JD Cox Returns to the City of Alliance as City Manager

Victory Underground to play in Alliance

Bex Marshall will perform at Take Shelter in Sidney on Tuesday, March 10 starting at 8:30pm.&nbsp;

Bex Marshall to perform in Sidney 

Avid to play in Scottsbluff

Kalin Krohe Reference, That One Guy to play in Sidney 

Jay and Amanda Music will be performing today, Thursday at Roberta Barnes, Where I Hang my Heart from 5pm – 7pm at West Nebraska Arts Center.&nbsp;

Jay and Amanda to perform in Scottsbluff 

Jessi Laine to perform in Kimball 

SKYWARN Spotter Training Coming to Hemingford on April 22

NEBRASKA PANHANDLE — Panhandle Frontier Finds is a regional event that will highlight western Nebraska’s businesses and people. Panhandle Frontier Finds (PFF) will debut June 5–7, 2026, bringing together communities, vendors, and travelers for a three-day, multi-county celebration of the region.

Communities across 11 counties are working together to bring visitors and residents out for community-wide garage sales, barn sales, antique shopping, crafters and more. But time slips away quickly, so grab your listing in the official Panhandle Frontier Finds Trail Guide and advertise your sale or business to those hunting for bargains and vintage treasures.

Interested vendors can secure a listing in the sales booklet for $25-45 based on the type of listing. Panhandle businesses and organizations can advertise in the guide to drive business to their locations for $50-200 for display advertising, which must be camera ready and in black and white. There are also sponsorship and merchandising opportunities available for those interested in partnering with the event.

All vendor listings and ad space must be reserved by March 1 to be included in the printed Trail Guide. A limited quantity of Trail Guides will be made available throughout the Panhandle for free, or can be mailed for $5 shipping and handling.

Digital versions for viewing or download will be available at https://panhandlefrontierfinds.com/.

Additional information can be requested by emailing info@panhandlefrontierfinds.com.

Panhandle Frontier Finds Trail Guide deadline coming soon

Country Music Jamboree to be held in Chadron 

Spencer Gonzalez to play in Kimball 

CHICAGO (AP) — From former presidents to an NBA Hall of Famer to prominent pastors, stories of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jesse-jackson-dies-43abb84d2ffc76d967f9a5596ebd0be1">the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.’s</a>&nbsp;influence on politics, corporate boardrooms and picket lines loomed large Friday at a celebration honoring the late civil rights leader.

🎥Biden, Obama, Harris remember the late Rev. Jesse Jackson 

On Thursday, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby testified on the U.S. National Defense Strategy before the House Armed Services Committee.

During questioning, Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon said about President Trump. "He treats Putin with velvet gloves, but he gives Zelensky the old boxing glove treatment, and I don't get it. There's like a moral blindness in this administration when it comes to Russia."

🎥Neb. Congressman slams President Trump on treatment of Russia

<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/" target="_blank">BUSINESS WIRE</a>

KANSAS CITY—-EPR Properties announced Thursday that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a portfolio of seven regional parks from Six Flags Entertainment Corporation for a gross transactional value of $342 million, of which the Company provided approximately $315 million and our operating tenants provided the balance, including funds for working capital and capital improvements. This transaction significantly expands the Company's attractions portfolio and represents its largest acquisition since 2017.

<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/blog/looking-forward-a-new-chapter-for-six-flags?fbclid=IwY2xjawQWihBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFsYzZtakF3WTVuRkxQZXZac3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkaAETJ4zMV0das0yoP6MkXkVMOgW3h5bzqF6ejIleo_FtIJzLiF41qZtpNt_aem_so5pEBI0IvQUgjNyUMGUwA">Click here for more detail</a>s on what the sale means for park guests

The seven parks comprise over 1,600 acres, featuring 418 attractions across five states and Canada, and drawing approximately 4.5 million annual attendees. The six regional parks that are located throughout the U.S. will be leased to and operated by Enchanted Parks (formerly Innovative Attraction Management) pursuant to a long-term master lease, and the one park located in Canada will be leased to and operated by La Ronde Operations, Inc. following the completion of the transaction. Both entities are proven operators with which the Company has an existing relationship.

"This strategic acquisition represents a compelling opportunity to expand our attractions portfolio with high-quality experiential real estate assets in established regional markets," said Gregory K. Silvers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EPR Properties. "These properties embody the essential characteristics we seek: delivering stable, long-term cash flows, strong drive-to accessibility, multi-generational appeal, and significant underlying land value. This transaction aligns with our disciplined investment criteria and accelerates our strategic expansion into experiential properties that create enduring value for our shareholders.”

Properties Included In Transaction

The company has acquired the non-Six Flags branded property names as part of the transaction and acquired rights to the Six Flags brand through 2026. The transaction is expected to close toward the end of the first quarter or beginning of the second quarter, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions and third-party approvals. No significant impact on guests is expected during this transition. The parks will continue their regular operating schedules, and all season passes sold will be recognized through the 2026 operating season.

Worlds of Fun sold as part of $342 million deal

On Wednesday, a Department of State charter flight of American citizens departed the Middle East in route to the United States, as part of our ongoing efforts to assist Americans return home.


Additional flights will be surged across the region and American citizens in UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel interested in the Department's charter flight or ground transportation options, should complete the Crisis Intake Form at <a href="https://t.co/ZUvr9gptAQ" target="_blank">http://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake</a> or contact the State Department's 24/7 Task Force at +1-202-501-4444.

US begins charter flights for stranded Americans wanting to leave the Middle East

The Department of War announced the death of two more Army Reserve Soldiers who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, 54, of Sacramento, Calif., was at the scene of the incident on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, and is believed to be the individual who perished at the scene, according to a statement from the DOW.

 Positive identification of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan will be completed by the medical examiner.  The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Maj. Jeffrey R. O'Brien, 45, of Indianola, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Pentagon releases names of 2 more U.S. soldiers killed in Iran conflict

On their social media page the University of Notre Dame&nbsp; President Rev. Robert A. Dowd wrote, “Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather.

"Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime. In the years since leaving the head football coach position, Lou, together with his beloved wife, Beth, supported Notre Dame in innumerable ways, among them making possible the refurbishment of four residence hall chapels and the construction of the Beth and Lou Holtz Grand Reading Room on the first floor of Hesburgh Library — tangible signs of their great love for their Catholic faith and the mission of Our Lady’s University. Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered with his characteristic generosity, and he will be sorely missed. The prayers of the entire Notre Dame community are with his family and many friends in this time of sorrow. May he rest in the peace and love of Christ.”

- University of Notre Dame President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz dead at 89

🎥 Details on US submarine torpedo attack on Iranian warship

The Department of War on Tuesday announced the names of four Army Reserve Soldiers who were supporting Operation Epic Fury, according to a media release.

Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Neb.; Capt. Cody A. Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Fla.; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minn.; and Sgt. Declan J. Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. 

All Soldiers were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa. The incident is under investigation.

Soldier from Nebraska among those killed in Iran conflict 

Subject: Security Alert - Shelter in Place - U.S. Mission to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, (Mar. 3, 2026)

Avoid the Embassy until further notice due to an attack on the facility. We continue to limit non-essential travel to any military installations in the region.

The U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia has issued a shelter in place notification for Jeddah, Riyadh and Dhahran and are limiting non-essential travel to any military installations in the region – we recommend American citizens in the Kingdom to shelter in place immediately.

The U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia continues to monitor the regional situation.

We encourage all travelers to review our most recentSecurity Alerts, review any travel plans in case of disruptions, and make appropriate decisions to keep themselves and their families safe.

We advise all U.S. citizens to maintain a personal safety plan. Crises can happen unexpectedly while traveling or living abroad, and a good plan helps you think through potential scenarios and determine in advance the best course of action.

·      Refer to our website for the latest Security Alerts.

·      Enroll or re-enroll in the Department of State’sSmart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) . STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.

·      Ensure you have a valid U.S. passport for short-notice travel; visit our website to schedule a passport appointment.

·      Avoid any demonstrations and large gatherings, and areas where there is a heavy police presence.

·      Monitor official information sources.

·      Follow the instructions of local authorities.

Iranian drones hit US Embassy in Saudi Arabia

The U.S. Department of State urges Americans to depart now from the countries below using available commercial transportation, due to serious safety risks. 

Americans who need State Department assistance arranging to depart via commercial means, CALL US 24/7 at +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad) and +1-888-407-4747 (from the U.S. and Canada). ENROLL in <a href="https://t.co/tn90vcTuHc" target="_blank">http://step.state.gov</a> to get the latest security updates from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Americans urged to leave more than a dozen Middle Eastern countries

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information

CHADRON, Neb. – The Chadron State men's basketball team ended its season on a high note Saturday afternoon by pulling a 107-95 victory out of the fire in overtime versus the Westminster Griffins in the Chicoine Center.

In short, the Eagles dominated the first half by a 50-30 margin and the Griffins dominated the second half 56-36, thus tying the score 86-86 at the end of regulation. But the Eagles led all the way in overtime while outscoring the visitors 21-9 in the extra period. 

Both teams lived and died by the three-pointer. Chadron State was 11 of 18 from three-point range in the first half while Westminster was 1 of 15. The shoe was on the other foot in the second half when the Griffins were 7 of 16 from behind the arc and the Eagles were 2 of 14. Neither team made a trey in overtime, when CSC was 0-2 and the visitors 0-8 from long range.

Chadron State's three seniors who were saluted prior to the game were among the Eagles' heroes.  They joined forces to tally 64 points. 

Zach Smith nailed five of six three-point shots to lead the Eagles in the opening half when they built their 20-point intermission lead. He didn't make any three-pointers in the second half, but added a dunk and finished with a career-high 24 points.

Isaiah Randolph was the game's leading scorer with 25 points, including nine in overtime when he made seven of eight free throws, several of them when he was fouled while relentlessly driving to the basket. Overall, Randolph was 13-17 at the line.  

Blessing Adesipe ended with 15 points that included six crucial points from CSC's only second half treys after Westminster had fought its way back into the game.

The Eagles had another double-digit scorer in junior Jadon Cool. He finished with 19 points that included a driving layup and a putback in the space of 23 seconds to give CSC some breathing room in overtime.

After Chadron State jumped out to leads of 8-0 and 13-2, Westminster was never in contention in the first half. Slowly but surely, the Griffins whittled on what had seemed to be the Eagles' insurmountable lead and went ahead for the first time at 74-73 with seven minutes left to play.

Cool's layup and Adesipe's second trey of the half reclaimed the lead, but the Griffins soon scored five straight points to go ahead again 81-78 with 2:44 remaining.

After the Eagles regained the lead on a layup by Luka Djurovic and Smith's two free throws, the Utah team was never ahead again, but with 18 seconds left the Griffins' leading scorer with 20 points, 5-10 sophomore Nick Holland, tied the count at 86 with an off-balance field goal and a free throw that he was awarded for being fouled on the shot.

Chadron State ran the clock down and launched a 3-pointer at the buzzer, but it failed to connect. A basket by Smith on the Eagles' opening possession in OT gave them the lead and they never relinquished it.

Saturday marked the Eagles' only overtime game this season. They finished with a 7-21 record and a 5-15 RMAC mark. They also topped the Griffins 73-67 in Salt Lake City on January 22. Westminster ends its schedule at 12-16 overall and 7-13 in the RMAC. 

Westminster—Nick Holland 20, Michael Frazier 18, Cole Kadoguchi 18, Cameron Kohn 12, Colin Hayes 11, Jonah El-Farra 8, Jack Mamele 6, Boston Painter 2. Totals: 32-69 FG, (8-39 3PT), 23-30 FT, 95 points, 48 rebounds, 15 assists, 5 turnovers. 

CSC finishes season with OT win over Westminster (UT)

🏀 Boys Subdistrict Match-Ups; Local Girls B Subdistricts &amp; C/D District Finals Details &amp; Scoreboards

Boys District Finals - February 28 &amp; March 2, 3 FINAL | C1-1 #1 Ogallala 90,&nbsp;#16 Columbus Lakeview 32 FINAL | C1-5 #12 Lincoln Christian 65 Bridgeport 55 C2-3: #14 Hemingford at #3 Valentine - 5:00 MT C2-6: #11 Pender at #6 Kimball - 5:00 MT FINAL | D2-1:&nbsp; Elgin Public/Pope John 77, Potter-Dix 54 D2-2: #15 Mullen at #2 Archangels Catholic D2-8: #9 Leyton at #8 Falls City Sacred Heart - 4:00 MT&nbsp;&nbsp;

Girls C/D District Championships - Friday, February 27 FINAL |C1-7: #7 Fort Calhoun 60,&nbsp;#10 Bridgeport 51 FINAL |C1-4: #4 Ogallala 62,&nbsp;#13 Louisville 43 FINAL |D2-1: #1 Dundy County-Stratton 71,&nbsp;#16 Potter-Dix 15 FINAL |D2-4: #13 Loomis 55, #4 Mullen 48 FINAL |D2-8: #9 Archangels Catholic 58, Hay Springs 32

Girls B-5 District FINAL | FEB 23: #4 Omaha Mercy 70,&nbsp;#5 Ralston 29 FINAL | FEB 25: #1 Sidney 57, Omaha Mercy 36 FINAL | Championship: Sidney 75, Gretna 71 OT

Girls B-7 District FINAL |FEB 25: #1 Scottsbluff 58,&nbsp;#4 McCook 35 FINAL |FEB 25: #2 Blair 54,&nbsp;#3 Lincoln Standing Bear 33 FINAL | Championship: Scottsbluff 51, Blair 47

Boys C1-10 Subdistrict at Ogallala FINAL | FEB 23: #4 Sidney 61,&nbsp;#5 Mitchell 27 FINAL | FEB 23: #3 Chase County 59, #6 Chadron 45 FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Ogallala 83, Sidney 52 FINAL | FEB 24: #2 Bridgeport 54, Chase County 50 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship Ogallala 85, Bridgeport 44

Boys C2-10 Subdistrict at Kimball FINAL | FEB 23: #5 Perkins County 48, #4 Dundy County-Stratton 46 FINAL | FEB 23: #3 Hemingford 49,&nbsp;#6 Gordon-Rushville 41 FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Kimball 81, Perkins County 48 FINAL | FEB 24: #2 Valentine 85, Hemingford 61 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - Valentine 69,&nbsp;Kimball&nbsp; 66

Boys D1-12 Subdistrict at McDaid Elementary in North Platte FINAL | FEB 23: #4 Maxwell 66,&nbsp;#5 Morrill vs 8 FINAL | FEB 24: #1 North Platte St. Pat's 71, Maxwell 41 FINAL | FEB 24: #2 Maywood-Hayes Center 62, #3 Hitchcock County 45 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - M-HC 58,&nbsp;NPSP 53

Boys D2-12 Subdistrict at Mullen FINAL | FEB 23: #4 Crawford 50,&nbsp;#5 Hay Springs 48 FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Mullen 69, Crawford 47 FINAL | FEB 24: #3 Cody-Kilgore 58, Hyannis 47 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - Mullen 53, Cody-Kilgore 51

Boys D2-11 Subdistrict at Bayard FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Bayard 53,&nbsp;#4 Banner County 24 FINAL | FEB 24: #2 Potter-Dix 63,&nbsp;#3 Minatare 36 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - Potter-Dix 43,&nbsp;Bayard 39

Boys D2-10 Subdistrict at Leyton FINAL | FEB 24: #1 Leyton 69,&nbsp;#4 Creek Valley 33 FINAL | FEB 24:#2 Garden County 75,&nbsp; #3 South Platte 34 FINAL |&nbsp;FEB 26: Championship - Leyton 45, Garden County 43

Local

Region

Sports

Announcements