Stories from Friday, May 3, 2024

‘Tis the season. It’s the time of year when we check the batteries in our radios and flashlights, listen for the howl of sirens, and scan the skies for funnel clouds. As residents of “Tornado Alley,” we are too familiar with our seasonal routine. The recent devastation in Elkhorn and surrounding areas reminds us of the potential devastation caused by tornadic activity and that it can just as easily happen to us. ...

LINCOLN, Neb. — Former Ericson State Bank President, Jack Poulsen, aged 71, pleaded guilty Thursday to bank fraud in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Jacqueline M. DeLuca. Poulsen, from Ericson, Neb., admitted guilt to charges brought forth by the United States Attorney Susan Lehr. The plea was made in response to an Information alleging bank fraud...

Scotlyn “Scotty” Jaymes Griffiths PEORIA, Ill. - Scotlyn “Scotty” Jaymes Griffiths entered the world on March 21, 2024 weighing 8 pounds, 13 ounces and measuring 20 inches long. She was born in Peoria, Ill. to proud parents, Kayla (Laird) Griffiths and Nathan Griffiths, both graduates of Hayes Center High School Class of 2004. The family resides in East Peoria, Ill. Welcoming Scotty home is her 7-year-old sister, Stormy...

am scores and all Gazette-area top six placers at Tuesday’s Oberlin (Kan.) Invitational. GIRLS Teams: 1. Norton, Kan., 113; 2. Holdrege 104, 3. Hoxie, Kan., 88; 4. St. Francis, Kan., 51; 5. Hays, Kan., 49; 6. Rawlins County, Kan., 43; 7. Oakley, Kan., 40; 8. Hitchcock County 32; 9. Phillipsburg, Kan., 16; 10. Decatur Community, Kan., 15...

The YMCA of McCook is happy to announce that registration is now open for the 2024 DHW Energy Youth Volleyball League. Divisions include K-1st, 2nd-3rd, and 4th-6th. The registration deadline is August 9. Practices will begin the week of August 19th with games beginning September 7...

McCOOK, Neb. — The McCook Community College Baseball team concluded the regular season home schedule Tuesday with a 10-8 win over Colby Community College. The Indians went 16-6 this season at the Jaycees Sports Complex. “It was good to go out on a win in our last game at home this year,” said MCC Coach Jon Olsen. “I’m happy for our sophomores that got to finish it off, they have had a good run.”...

ALMA, Neb. — Cambridge finished just three points from a team title sweep at Thursday’s Dale Harsin Invitational. The Trojan girls were rolling with Jolie Farr winning three events: 100 meters, 200 and as anchor leg on their 400-meter relay. Freshman Joslyn Holtze joined senior Jalen Kent, Rachel Harris and Farr in winning that race...

OGALLALA, Neb. — McCook junior Reid Loop shot 77 for third overall and led the Bison golfers into top four at Thursday’s Southwest Conference golf tourney., McCook fired 336, just three strokes behind Cozad and four short of runner-up Gothenburg. Ogallala’s 330 secured the title on its home course...

McCOOK, Neb. — The McCook Middle School Basketball Camp is set for June 17 and June 18 with entry deadline scheduled on Tuesday, May 14. This camp is open for all McCook boys entering third, fourth or fifth grade. It takes place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on June 17-18 in McCook High School...

McCOOK Neb. — Presenting to the City Council,  Sarah Schneider, director of the McCook Area Chamber of Commerce, will unveil the Chamber’s upcoming events. The meeting is 6 p.m. Monday. The public is encouraged to attend. Schneider’s insights will underscore the substantial role of the City of McCook’s ACE contributions in promoting these community events...

McCOOK, Neb. — The Red Willow County Fair Board will be recognized with a President’s Award for its support and commitment to Mid-Plains Community College in providing quality postsecondary educational opportunities. The award will be presented at McCook Community College’s Commencement May 10 at 10 a.m. at the Peter and Dolores Graff Events Center...

McCOOK Neb. - The 2024 Tree Rebate Program aims to foster a greener community by incentivizing property owners to plant trees. Spearheaded by the McCook Tree Advisory Board, this initiative offers rebates to individuals who adhere to specific guidelines when purchasing and planting trees within the city limits...

At the heart of the ongoing debate surrounding Nebraska’s educational policies lies a fundamental principle: the voice of the people must be heard. Legislative Bill 1402 (LB 1402), which introduces a scholarship or voucher program for K-12 students attending private schools, has sparked intense discussion and divided opinions. However, amidst the fervor, one thing remains clear: the decision on LB 1402 should ultimately rest in the hands of the voters...