National Nurses Week Contest 

LINCOLN, NEB. — Husker Saturday will be in full swing tomorrow with Nebraska football, Nebraska baseball, and Nebraska softball all in action in Lincoln, and Nebraska State Troopers will be working to keep all fans safe on the roadways around Lincoln.

“This is going to be a busy Saturday for Husker fans and we want everyone to stay safe on their way to and from the games,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Our troopers will be working on the road and in the air to keep traffic flowing before and after the Spring Game, as well as in the stadium assisting with safety operations.”

NSP works with several public safety partners, including UNL Police, the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln Police Department, and Nebraska Department of Transportation to maintain public safety in and around Memorial Stadium. The NSP Aviation Support Unit will be in the air to provide an eye in the sky to support traffic operations on the ground. Fans can also hear NSP pregame traffic reports on the Huskers Radio Network.

The motoring public is an important part of the team as well. With increased gameday traffic, all drivers should keep their focus on the road, watch their speed, drive sober, and buckle up. Any motorists who want to report a dangerous driver or need assistance on the road can call *55 to reach the NSP Highway Helpline.

By Nebraska State PatrolLINCOLN, NEB. — Husker Saturday will be in full swing tomorrow with Nebraska football, Nebraska baseball, and Nebraska softball all in action in Lincoln, and Nebraska State Troopers will be working to keep all fans safe on the roadways around Lincoln.“This is going to be a busy Saturday for Husker fans and we want everyone to stay safe on their way to and from the games,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Our troopers will be working on the road and in the air to keep traffic flowing before and after the Spring Game, as well as in the stadium assisting with safety operations.”NSP works with several public safety partners, including UNL Police, the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln Police Department, and Nebraska Department of Transportation to maintain public safety in and around Memorial Stadium. The NSP Aviation Support Unit will be in the air to provide an eye in the sky to support traffic operations on the ground. Fans can also hear NSP pregame traffic reports on the Huskers Radio Network.The motoring public is an important part of the team as well. With increased gameday traffic, all drivers should keep their focus on the road, watch their speed, drive sober, and buckle up. Any motorists who want to report a dangerous driver or need assistance on the road can call *55 to reach the NSP Highway Helpline.

Troopers ready for busy spring Husker Saturday

Alliance, NE – The City Council of Alliance, Nebraska, has officially declared Friday, April 26, 2024, as Arbor Day, reaffirming its commitment to environmental conservation and tree planting initiatives in the community.

Arbor Day holds significant importance as a day dedicated to the planting and preservation of trees. It is a tradition that originated in Nebraska and has since spread across the nation and the globe.

In a proclamation signed by Mayor Earl Jones, the City Council recognized the numerous benefits trees provide to both the environment and society. From combating climate change to enhancing property values and providing habitat for wildlife, trees play a vital role in sustaining healthy communities.

&amp;quot;The City of Alliance has a long-standing tradition of celebrating Arbor Day and prioritizing tree planting efforts," stated Mayor Earl Jones. "We are proud to be recognized as a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation, and we remain dedicated to preserving our urban forest for future generations"

As part of the proclamation, Mayor Jones urged all citizens to take part in tree planting activities and to support efforts aimed at protecting and preserving trees and woodlands in Alliance.

"We invite all citizens to join us in celebrating Arbor Day and contributing to the greening of our community," Mayor Jones continued. "By planting trees together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable environment for current and future generations to enjoy."

For more information on Arbor Day and how to get involved, please visit www.cityofalliance.net

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The City Council of Alliance, Nebraska, has officially declared Friday, April 26, 2024, as Arbor Day, reaffirming its commitment to environmental conservation and tree planting initiatives in the community.Arbor Day holds significant importance as a day dedicated to the planting and preservation of trees. It is a tradition that originated in Nebraska and has since spread across the nation and the globe.In a proclamation signed by Mayor Earl Jones, the City Council recognized the numerous benefits trees provide to both the environment and society. From combating climate change to enhancing property values and providing habitat for wildlife, trees play a vital role in sustaining healthy communities.&amp;quot;The City of Alliance has a long-standing tradition of celebrating Arbor Day and prioritizing tree planting efforts," stated Mayor Earl Jones. "We are proud to be recognized as a Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation, and we remain dedicated to preserving our urban forest for future generations"As part of the proclamation, Mayor Jones urged all citizens to take part in tree planting activities and to support efforts aimed at protecting and preserving trees and woodlands in Alliance."We invite all citizens to join us in celebrating Arbor Day and contributing to the greening of our community," Mayor Jones continued. "By planting trees together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable environment for current and future generations to enjoy."For more information on Arbor Day and how to get involved, please visit www.cityofalliance.net

City of Alliance Arbor Day Proclamation

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — BNSF will become the second major freight railroad to allow some of its employees to report safety concerns anonymously through a federal system without fear of discipline.

The Federal Railroad Administration announced Thursday that the railroad owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway had agreed to let its roughly 650 dispatchers participate in the program that all the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-ohio-derailment-hazardous-materials-74d7aec638500c52d1eb9fda0acf9f26">major railroads promised</a>&nbsp;to join after last year's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-pete-buttigieg-evacuations-ohio-explosions-64908a6416662b5866809387f210aee5">disastrous Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;in Ohio.

“Rail workers deserve to know they’re safe when they’re on the job — and if they experience anything that compromises their safety, they should be able to report it without worrying if their job is in jeopardy,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Buttigieg has been urging the railroads to improve safety ever since the February 2023 derailment.

“We hope this program will further empower our employees to provide confidential feedback on critical safety issues in an actionable, timely manner," BNSF CEO Katie Farmer said.

Until NS became the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norfolk-southern-railroad-safety-hotline-derailment-a28132466f11e25572b28f9c344a6b83">first railroad</a>&nbsp;to sign onto the anonymous reporting system in January, all the major freight railroads&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-anonymous-hotline-dc509efa21aa51554078998964ba4ea6">resisted joining</a>&nbsp;because they wanted the ability to discipline workers who use the hotline in certain circumstances. The Association of American Railroads trade group has said railroads were worried that the system could be abused by workers who try to avoid discipline by reporting situations a railroad already knows about.

But the idea of disciplining workers who report safety concerns undermines the entire purpose of such a hotline because workers won’t use it if they fear retribution, unions and workplace safety experts said. That's especially important on the railroads where there is a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/freight-railroad-whistleblowers-safety-derailments-3cd9619350bacc9c7c01c9a1910f3435">long history</a>&nbsp;of workers being fired for reporting safety violations or injuries.

The president of the American Train Dispatchers Association, Ed Dowell, said this move “marks a pivotal moment for rail safety.”

“As a program focused on proactive safety measures, it will serve as the new standard for reporting, understanding, and preventing rail incidents," Dowell said.

The Norfolk Southern program is also limited in scope. Only about 1,000 members of the two unions representing engineers and conductors who work in three locations on that railroad can participate. Besides Norfolk Southern and now BNSF, only Amtrak and several dozen small railroads use the government reporting program.

The big railroads — that also include Union Pacific, CSX, CPKC and Canadian National — all already have their own internal safety reporting hotlines. But railroad unions have consistently said workers are reluctant to use the railroads’ own safety hotlines because they fear retribution.

“Let’s be perfectly clear, railroads remain committed to joining the program and creating an additional trusted avenue for employees to report potential safety concerns,” said Association of American Railroads spokeswoman Jessica Kahanek.

FRA Administrator Amit Bose said it’s crucial to have a way for rail workers to use their experience and expertise to raise safety concerns that the railroads can address proactively.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714142269537.jpeg" alt="A BNSF locomotive heads south out of Oklahoma City, Sept. 14, 2022. BNSF will become the second major freight railroad to allow some of its employees to report safety concerns anonymously through a federal system without fear of discipline, the Federal Railroad Administration announced Thursday, April 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File)" />
 <figcaption>A BNSF locomotive heads south out of Oklahoma City, Sept. 14, 2022. BNSF will become the second major freight railroad to allow some of its employees to report safety concerns anonymously through a federal system without fear of discipline, the Federal Railroad Administration announced Thursday, April 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — BNSF will become the second major freight railroad to allow some of its employees to report safety concerns anonymously through a federal system without fear of discipline.The Federal Railroad Administration announced Thursday that the railroad owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway had agreed to let its roughly 650 dispatchers participate in the program that all the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-ohio-derailment-hazardous-materials-74d7aec638500c52d1eb9fda0acf9f26">major railroads promised</a>&nbsp;to join after last year's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-pete-buttigieg-evacuations-ohio-explosions-64908a6416662b5866809387f210aee5">disastrous Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;in Ohio.“Rail workers deserve to know they’re safe when they’re on the job — and if they experience anything that compromises their safety, they should be able to report it without worrying if their job is in jeopardy,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.Buttigieg has been urging the railroads to improve safety ever since the February 2023 derailment.“We hope this program will further empower our employees to provide confidential feedback on critical safety issues in an actionable, timely manner," BNSF CEO Katie Farmer said.Until NS became the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norfolk-southern-railroad-safety-hotline-derailment-a28132466f11e25572b28f9c344a6b83">first railroad</a>&nbsp;to sign onto the anonymous reporting system in January, all the major freight railroads&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-anonymous-hotline-dc509efa21aa51554078998964ba4ea6">resisted joining</a>&nbsp;because they wanted the ability to discipline workers who use the hotline in certain circumstances. The Association of American Railroads trade group has said railroads were worried that the system could be abused by workers who try to avoid discipline by reporting situations a railroad already knows about.But the idea of disciplining workers who report safety concerns undermines the entire purpose of such a hotline because workers won’t use it if they fear retribution, unions and workplace safety experts said. That's especially important on the railroads where there is a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/freight-railroad-whistleblowers-safety-derailments-3cd9619350bacc9c7c01c9a1910f3435">long history</a>&nbsp;of workers being fired for reporting safety violations or injuries.The president of the American Train Dispatchers Association, Ed Dowell, said this move “marks a pivotal moment for rail safety.”“As a program focused on proactive safety measures, it will serve as the new standard for reporting, understanding, and preventing rail incidents," Dowell said.The Norfolk Southern program is also limited in scope. Only about 1,000 members of the two unions representing engineers and conductors who work in three locations on that railroad can participate. Besides Norfolk Southern and now BNSF, only Amtrak and several dozen small railroads use the government reporting program.The big railroads — that also include Union Pacific, CSX, CPKC and Canadian National — all already have their own internal safety reporting hotlines. But railroad unions have consistently said workers are reluctant to use the railroads’ own safety hotlines because they fear retribution.“Let’s be perfectly clear, railroads remain committed to joining the program and creating an additional trusted avenue for employees to report potential safety concerns,” said Association of American Railroads spokeswoman Jessica Kahanek.FRA Administrator Amit Bose said it’s crucial to have a way for rail workers to use their experience and expertise to raise safety concerns that the railroads can address proactively.

BNSF becomes 2nd major railroad to sign on to anonymous federal safety hotline for some workers

Nothing extraordinary. A car stopped outside the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center several months ago, we toted the load inside. The woman looked familiar though the face I could not quite place. She was Flor Acosta (now Sheridan), one of many high-achieving AHS students that showed up in our APS coverage just over a decade ago when I worked for the paper. Turns out the Alliance native had moved back with her husband Fletcher and they were interested in recycling services for their new downtown business.Skip ahead to mid-April 2024. Anyone curious about the wood-smoked fare at Golden Hour Barbecue has likely stopped in and met the couple between the butcher block and cash register, or at least heard that Flor and Fletcher bought the historic Newberry Building. KAB provided a white tote in the alley weeks before the official opening on St. Patrick’s Day. Personally, I have missed Pigaro’s and looked forward to the incoming barbecue joint. My first trip came later rather than sooner on an afternoon date. I was glad to see a successful handoff from Newberry’s Common Grounds, also avid recyclers. The building itself has a presence and personality – one of a handful of my Box Butte Ave. rooftop photography vantage points over the years – with plenty of space and potential.Flor and Fletcher shared their story on a recent morning as the gray diffuse light of spring fell on a table at the restaurant. They met junior year while attending UNK “randomly walking on the Kearney bricks that night,” Fletcher reminisced. As to how they ended up business owners in Alliance, the path went right through the heart of barbecue country in Texas where Fletcher worked his way up in the business and Flor taught mathematics in a public charter school district. Our journey in life just clicked, this is why (we’ve) had to go through these experiences . . . We took the leap to do it, they explained. “Couldn’t have picked a better place to do it, it was meant to be,” Fletcher said.Everyone’s journey begins with the proverbial first step. Fletcher, who grew up just north of Austin, TX, coached tennis while living in Kearney. He graduated before Flor with a GIS degree working in Texas before moving back to be with her. After she earned a teaching degree they decided to settle in Houston. “Had fun while we were there,” she said. “Was a point in our journey where we were getting very settled and figured if we didn’t move in a year or two we’d be there (longterm).”The Sheridans spent five years in his home state as “(I) learned from the best BBQ’ers,” Fletcher said. Their trip back for Flor’s sister’s Quinceneria (at the Newberry) dropped a fork in the road this past June. They loved the setting and found out the property was for sale then “sat on it for a month” before returning during Heritage Days. “(We) got to see the building in full action,” Flor commented. “Downtown is so cute, classic – a place you would go and visit when you’re traveling.”Soon after that they put in an offer and found the pit (or smoker) could not be located in the desired spot – and the property lacked space outdoors. Fletcher said their real estate agent spoke to the owners of the lot to the north, Jerry Reynolds and Cindy Kusek. The west end of that property now hosts the pit (a metal roof over two smokers). “They came around and are super supportive,” Fletcher said. They closed the sale and Flor’s parents flew down to drive a massive U-Haul, pit in tow.Golden Hour BBQ joins dozens of Alliance businesses who take advantage of KAB’s free pick up service. Their bin, just north of West Fourth Street, contains mostly cardboard (corrugated and paperboard)  on average in addition to plastic and glass containers and a few miscellaneous items indicative of the business.“Why not (recycle)? It doesn’t take much time from our day and it’s the right thing to do,” Flor said. Fletcher said it keeps things out of the landfill as they have also repurposed other things. “With two types of meat (packaged in) heavy cardboard it’s awesome to have a recycling bin . . .”The BBQ is considering engaging customers with a bin where they can deposit used and opened plastic flatware. Convenience impressed Flor. “I was amazed by how easy it (recycling) was to do here,” she said. “I would have to drive to find dropoffs in Houston. . . . Even at the schools’ recycling bins were thrown into the trash.”Flor and Fletcher are also adamant about reducing food waste.“I have worked in restaurants for 10 years and have seen how much waste there is,” he said. “We take what we can to Community Table. We don’t serve anything but fresh food. The goal is not to have anything left – goes back into Community Table, back into beans or to our table (at home).”&nbsp;&nbsp;

By JOHN E. WEARE, KAB<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714142144770.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nothing extraordinary. A car stopped outside the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center several months ago, we toted the load inside. The woman looked familiar though the face I could not quite place. She was Flor Acosta (now Sheridan), one of many high-achieving AHS students that showed up in our APS coverage just over a decade ago when I worked for the paper. Turns out the Alliance native had moved back with her husband Fletcher and they were interested in recycling services for their new downtown business.Skip ahead to mid-April 2024. Anyone curious about the wood-smoked fare at Golden Hour Barbecue has likely stopped in and met the couple between the butcher block and cash register, or at least heard that Flor and Fletcher bought the historic Newberry Building. KAB provided a white tote in the alley weeks before the official opening on St. Patrick’s Day. Personally, I have missed Pigaro’s and looked forward to the incoming barbecue joint. My first trip came later rather than sooner on an afternoon date. I was glad to see a successful handoff from Newberry’s Common Grounds, also avid recyclers. The building itself has a presence and personality – one of a handful of my Box Butte Ave. rooftop photography vantage points over the years – with plenty of space and potential.Flor and Fletcher shared their story on a recent morning as the gray diffuse light of spring fell on a table at the restaurant. They met junior year while attending UNK “randomly walking on the Kearney bricks that night,” Fletcher reminisced. As to how they ended up business owners in Alliance, the path went right through the heart of barbecue country in Texas where Fletcher worked his way up in the business and Flor taught mathematics in a public charter school district. Our journey in life just clicked, this is why (we’ve) had to go through these experiences . . . We took the leap to do it, they explained. “Couldn’t have picked a better place to do it, it was meant to be,” Fletcher said.Everyone’s journey begins with the proverbial first step. Fletcher, who grew up just north of Austin, TX, coached tennis while living in Kearney. He graduated before Flor with a GIS degree working in Texas before moving back to be with her. After she earned a teaching degree they decided to settle in Houston. “Had fun while we were there,” she said. “Was a point in our journey where we were getting very settled and figured if we didn’t move in a year or two we’d be there (longterm).”The Sheridans spent five years in his home state as “(I) learned from the best BBQ’ers,” Fletcher said. Their trip back for Flor’s sister’s Quinceneria (at the Newberry) dropped a fork in the road this past June. They loved the setting and found out the property was for sale then “sat on it for a month” before returning during Heritage Days. “(We) got to see the building in full action,” Flor commented. “Downtown is so cute, classic – a place you would go and visit when you’re traveling.”Soon after that they put in an offer and found the pit (or smoker) could not be located in the desired spot – and the property lacked space outdoors. Fletcher said their real estate agent spoke to the owners of the lot to the north, Jerry Reynolds and Cindy Kusek. The west end of that property now hosts the pit (a metal roof over two smokers). “They came around and are super supportive,” Fletcher said. They closed the sale and Flor’s parents flew down to drive a massive U-Haul, pit in tow.Golden Hour BBQ joins dozens of Alliance businesses who take advantage of KAB’s free pick up service. Their bin, just north of West Fourth Street, contains mostly cardboard (corrugated and paperboard) on average in addition to plastic and glass containers and a few miscellaneous items indicative of the business.“Why not (recycle)? It doesn’t take much time from our day and it’s the right thing to do,” Flor said. Fletcher said it keeps things out of the landfill as they have also repurposed other things. “With two types of meat (packaged in) heavy cardboard it’s awesome to have a recycling bin . . .”The BBQ is considering engaging customers with a bin where they can deposit used and opened plastic flatware. Convenience impressed Flor. “I was amazed by how easy it (recycling) was to do here,” she said. “I would have to drive to find dropoffs in Houston. . . . Even at the schools’ recycling bins were thrown into the trash.”Flor and Fletcher are also adamant about reducing food waste.“I have worked in restaurants for 10 years and have seen how much waste there is,” he said. “We take what we can to Community Table. We don’t serve anything but fresh food. The goal is not to have anything left – goes back into Community Table, back into beans or to our table (at home).”&nbsp;&nbsp;

KAB: Recycling comes easy at Golden Hour

The&nbsp;Nebraska Library Commission&nbsp;recently awarded&nbsp;Nebraska Library Internship Grants&nbsp;totaling $21,000 to eighteen Nebraska public libraries. These internship grants will support public library interns who will contribute to the scope and value of the diverse programs and activities in Nebraska’s public libraries.

“The internships are a great opportunity for students to get involved in library work. Beyond earning money and gaining valuable work experience, the student is exposed to the broad range of library services and programming. Internships provide an opportunity for the student to view the library as a viable and satisfying career choice. In addition, interns bring a fresh perspective and their own unique talents to the library,” said Nebraska Library Commission Director Rod Wagner.

Student interns will learn about library work as they shadow staff, assist with day-to-day library operations, and implement special projects. Some of the activities that students will participate in include:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Summer Reading Programs for youth, teens, and adults

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Help plan and conduct makerspace classes, STEAM activities, story time, computer classes, and Pioneer Days events

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Assist with library outreach at the Farmer's Market

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Partner with local historian to work in the Heritage Room

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Field trips to visit other public libraries

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Partnerships with the Community Club, Library Foundation, 4-H, FFA, and County Extension

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Basic library duties: circulation, shelving, weeding, attending library board and city/village council meetings, processing acquisitions

The following 18 Nebraska public libraries were awarded 2024 internship grant funding:

Loren Corey Eiseley Branch Library, Charles H. Gere Branch Library, Bennett Martin Public Library, Youth Services Outreach, Bess Dodson Walt Branch Library, Northeast Service Unit - Victor E. Anderson &amp; Bethany Branch Libraries

Nancy Fawcett Memorial Library, Lodgepole

Funding for the project is supported and administered by the Nebraska Library Commission, in partnership with the Nebraska Library Systems.

As the state library agency, the&nbsp;Nebraska Library Commission&nbsp;is an advocate for the library and information needs of all Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion, development, and coordination of library and information services, “bringing together people and information.”

Nebraska’s Regional Library Systems&nbsp;consist of four non-profit corporations governed by boards representative of libraries and citizens in the region. The four systems were established to provide access to improved library services through the cooperation of all types of libraries and media centers within the counties included in each System area.

Nebraska Library CommissionThe&nbsp;Nebraska Library Commission&nbsp;recently awarded&nbsp;Nebraska Library Internship Grants&nbsp;totaling $21,000 to eighteen Nebraska public libraries. These internship grants will support public library interns who will contribute to the scope and value of the diverse programs and activities in Nebraska’s public libraries.“The internships are a great opportunity for students to get involved in library work. Beyond earning money and gaining valuable work experience, the student is exposed to the broad range of library services and programming. Internships provide an opportunity for the student to view the library as a viable and satisfying career choice. In addition, interns bring a fresh perspective and their own unique talents to the library,” said Nebraska Library Commission Director Rod Wagner.Student interns will learn about library work as they shadow staff, assist with day-to-day library operations, and implement special projects. Some of the activities that students will participate in include:•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Summer Reading Programs for youth, teens, and adults•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Help plan and conduct makerspace classes, STEAM activities, story time, computer classes, and Pioneer Days events•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Assist with library outreach at the Farmer's Market•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Partner with local historian to work in the Heritage Room•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Field trips to visit other public libraries•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Partnerships with the Community Club, Library Foundation, 4-H, FFA, and County Extension•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Basic library duties: circulation, shelving, weeding, attending library board and city/village council meetings, processing acquisitionsThe following 18 Nebraska public libraries were awarded 2024 internship grant funding:Atkinson Public LibraryAxtell Public LibraryRock County Public Library, BassettBayard Public LibraryGarfield County Library, BurwellCentral City Public LibraryCeresco Community LibraryClearwater Public LibraryGrand Island Public LibraryHowells Public LibraryLincoln City Libraries –Loren Corey Eiseley Branch Library, Charles H. Gere Branch Library, Bennett Martin Public Library, Youth Services Outreach, Bess Dodson Walt Branch Library, Northeast Service Unit - Victor E. Anderson &amp; Bethany Branch LibrariesNancy Fawcett Memorial Library, LodgepoleOrchard Public LibraryOsmond Public LibraryPalisade Public LibraryPapillion Public LibraryStromsburg Public LibraryValley Public LibraryFunding for the project is supported and administered by the Nebraska Library Commission, in partnership with the Nebraska Library Systems.As the state library agency, the&nbsp;Nebraska Library Commission&nbsp;is an advocate for the library and information needs of all Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion, development, and coordination of library and information services, “bringing together people and information.”Nebraska’s Regional Library Systems&nbsp;consist of four non-profit corporations governed by boards representative of libraries and citizens in the region. The four systems were established to provide access to improved library services through the cooperation of all types of libraries and media centers within the counties included in each System area.

$21,000 in Internship Grants Awarded to Nebraska Public Libraries

LINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen has signed 10 bills into law and announced his veto of a bill he says would harm Nebraska taxpayers.&nbsp;

Legislative Bill 25 would make taxpayers financially liable for lawsuits filed against towns, cities, school districts, public power districts and other local government units. Taxpayers would also be liable for broad claims of abuse committed by employees and non-employees of those public entities.

“We must hold perpetrators accountable and protect children from abuse by enforcing criminal laws that exist and by targeting wrong-doers, not taxpayers,” said Gov. Pillen. “There are civil remedies already available to children and their families that allow for compensation when harm results from abuse.”

Bills signed by the Governor include:&nbsp;LB126, LB126a, LB937, LB937a, LB1023, LB1023a, LB1317, LB1317a, LB1402, 1402a.&nbsp;

LB1317 and 1402 both have emergency clauses and are effective immediately.

The veto letter from Gov. Pillen for LB25 is attached.

<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/2024-LB-25-Veto-Letter.pdf">2024 LB 25 Veto Letter.pdf</a>

Office of Governor Jim PillenLINCOLN, NE –&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen has signed 10 bills into law and announced his veto of a bill he says would harm Nebraska taxpayers.&nbsp;Legislative Bill 25 would make taxpayers financially liable for lawsuits filed against towns, cities, school districts, public power districts and other local government units. Taxpayers would also be liable for broad claims of abuse committed by employees and non-employees of those public entities.“We must hold perpetrators accountable and protect children from abuse by enforcing criminal laws that exist and by targeting wrong-doers, not taxpayers,” said Gov. Pillen. “There are civil remedies already available to children and their families that allow for compensation when harm results from abuse.”Bills signed by the Governor include:&nbsp;LB126, LB126a, LB937, LB937a, LB1023, LB1023a, LB1317, LB1317a, LB1402, 1402a.&nbsp;LB1317 and 1402 both have emergency clauses and are effective immediately.The veto letter from Gov. Pillen for LB25 is attached.<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/sites/default/files/doc/press/2024-LB-25-Veto-Letter.pdf">2024 LB 25 Veto Letter.pdf</a>

Governor Pillen Signs 10 Bills into Law, Vetoes Another

The Dawes County Ag Committee is launching a new award recognizing the value of being a good neighbor.

The first awards will be presented during this year’s Dawes County Fair, in conjunction with the Dawes County Ag Hall of Fame awards.

Ak-sar-ben has traditionally solicited nominations for a Good Neighbor award in each county but has ceased doing so in recent years, said Ag Committee member Don Huls. He suggested the Ag Committee create its own Good Neighbor award in its absence and the committee enthusiastically agreed.

“The greatest asset of Northwest Nebraska is its people. Our residents care about each other and step forward to help one another in a variety of ways,” said Kerri Rempp, chair of the Good Neighbor sub-committee. “With Ak-sar-ben abandoning its award to recognize the spirit that drives rural communities, the Ag Committee wants to ensure our neighbors and their good deeds are honored.”

Though the Ag Committee is establishing the award, nominees do not have to be involved in agriculture to be considered.

“We want to recognize all Good Neighbors, regardless of where they live and work,” Rempp said.

Nomination forms for the award can be picked up at the Chadron Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, downloaded from the Chamber website at www.chadron.com or can be emailed upon request by calling 432- 4401. The forms are also available for download on the Dawes County Fair website at

www.dawescountyfair.com. Nominations are due JUNE 15 and can be turned in to Kerri Rempp at the Chadron Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, 706 W. 3 rd St., Chadron, NE, 69337.

By Dawes County Ag CommitteeThe Dawes County Ag Committee is launching a new award recognizing the value of being a good neighbor.The first awards will be presented during this year’s Dawes County Fair, in conjunction with the Dawes County Ag Hall of Fame awards.Ak-sar-ben has traditionally solicited nominations for a Good Neighbor award in each county but has ceased doing so in recent years, said Ag Committee member Don Huls. He suggested the Ag Committee create its own Good Neighbor award in its absence and the committee enthusiastically agreed.“The greatest asset of Northwest Nebraska is its people. Our residents care about each other and step forward to help one another in a variety of ways,” said Kerri Rempp, chair of the Good Neighbor sub-committee. “With Ak-sar-ben abandoning its award to recognize the spirit that drives rural communities, the Ag Committee wants to ensure our neighbors and their good deeds are honored.”Though the Ag Committee is establishing the award, nominees do not have to be involved in agriculture to be considered.“We want to recognize all Good Neighbors, regardless of where they live and work,” Rempp said.Nomination forms for the award can be picked up at the Chadron Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, downloaded from the Chamber website at www.chadron.com or can be emailed upon request by calling 432- 4401. The forms are also available for download on the Dawes County Fair website atwww.dawescountyfair.com. Nominations are due JUNE 15 and can be turned in to Kerri Rempp at the Chadron Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, 706 W. 3 rd St., Chadron, NE, 69337.

Dawes County Ag Committee establishes Good Neighbor Award

POST PODCAST: St. John's Lutheran Preschool Farmers Market

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Overpass Oversight

Community Cleanup Saturday, April 27, 2024 Dawes County Courthouse 9:00-12:00

Volunteers are needed for the annual Chadron Community Litter Cleanup. Join Keep Chadron Beautiful, Saturday, April 27, from 9:00 to 12:00 at the Dawes County Courthouse. Trash bags and gloves will be supplied.

If you are unable to participate the day of the Cleanup, contact Keep Chadron Beautiful and ask for a “raincheck”. We will deliver supplies to you personally so you can complete your cleanup at your convenience.

For more information contact Keep Chadron Beautiful at 432-5959.

By Keep Chadron BeautifulCommunity Cleanup Saturday, April 27, 2024 Dawes County Courthouse 9:00-12:00Volunteers are needed for the annual Chadron Community Litter Cleanup. Join Keep Chadron Beautiful, Saturday, April 27, from 9:00 to 12:00 at the Dawes County Courthouse. Trash bags and gloves will be supplied.If you are unable to participate the day of the Cleanup, contact Keep Chadron Beautiful and ask for a “raincheck”. We will deliver supplies to you personally so you can complete your cleanup at your convenience.For more information contact Keep Chadron Beautiful at 432-5959.

Chadron Community Litter Cleanup to be held this weekend 

The Alliance Chamber Board of Directors is excited to announce the hiring of Cassielien VanKerrebrook as the new Chamber Director. The Alliance Chamber of Commerce exists to provide leadership, promotion, and service for our members and the community as a whole. We are excited for the passion Cassielien has for the town of Alliance and we believe that she will do a wonderful job propelling the Chamber forward in accordance with our mission statement. The board would like to thank its members for being patient through this transition and for continued patience as Cassielien steps in to the position. Cassielien officially takes over at the Chamber Office on May 1st.

Here are a few words from Cassielien:My name is Cassielien Vankerrebrook, and I am extremely honored to be your New Executive Director for the Chamber of Commerce. For those of you whom do not know me, I moved to Alliance in the 2nd grade. My mom grew up in Scottsbluff, my dad and his parents come to Alliance in the 80’s. I’ve had plenty of opportunity to leave Alliance over the years, but Alliance will forever and always be my home.There’s no other community I would rather live along side with. I have a passion for small businesses and for organizing events. There’s nothing like our community joining together to laugh, have fun and make memories with. I know this position is extremely important to the people of Alliance, I take astounding pride in it, I don’t hold it lightly. I’m excited to listen, honor and serve the community of Alliance.

The Alliance Chamber of Commerce has some very exciting things on the horizon for our membership and for the town of Alliance. We are excited for what the future has in store for the Chamber, its members, and our new director. Follow us on Facebook to stay informed on all of the new things coming as well as Chamber Events!&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Alliance Chamber of Commerce<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714056453351.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Chamber Board of Directors is excited to announce the hiring of Cassielien VanKerrebrook as the new Chamber Director. The Alliance Chamber of Commerce exists to provide leadership, promotion, and service for our members and the community as a whole. We are excited for the passion Cassielien has for the town of Alliance and we believe that she will do a wonderful job propelling the Chamber forward in accordance with our mission statement. The board would like to thank its members for being patient through this transition and for continued patience as Cassielien steps in to the position. Cassielien officially takes over at the Chamber Office on May 1st.Here are a few words from Cassielien:My name is Cassielien Vankerrebrook, and I am extremely honored to be your New Executive Director for the Chamber of Commerce. For those of you whom do not know me, I moved to Alliance in the 2nd grade. My mom grew up in Scottsbluff, my dad and his parents come to Alliance in the 80’s. I’ve had plenty of opportunity to leave Alliance over the years, but Alliance will forever and always be my home.There’s no other community I would rather live along side with. I have a passion for small businesses and for organizing events. There’s nothing like our community joining together to laugh, have fun and make memories with. I know this position is extremely important to the people of Alliance, I take astounding pride in it, I don’t hold it lightly. I’m excited to listen, honor and serve the community of Alliance.The Alliance Chamber of Commerce has some very exciting things on the horizon for our membership and for the town of Alliance. We are excited for what the future has in store for the Chamber, its members, and our new director. Follow us on Facebook to stay informed on all of the new things coming as well as Chamber Events!&nbsp;&nbsp;

New Alliance Chamber Director announced 

Nebraska Public Transit Week (NPTW), proclaimed as April 21-27, 2024, by Governor Jim Pillen, aims to highlight the pivotal role of public transit in fostering accessibility, sustainability, and community connectivity across the state. The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), in collaboration with public transit providers throughout the state, will provide a showcase of the benefits and opportunities in embracing public transportation. In 2023, Nebraska’s rural transit drivers traveled over 4 million miles with over 600,000 passenger boardings. Public transit options, in both rural and urban communities, are vital to those who do not own or cannot use a personal vehicle.

Open Plains Transit (OPT) operated by Senior Services, Inc. based in Alliance, NE, offers either intercity bus, local transit, non-emergency medical transportation, Medicaid transportation services or all of these, to a service area that encompasses the Nebraska Panhandle region, includes the recent expansion of county-wide services to the 6,000 square miles of Cherry County, the City of Valentine and other communities located within its borders. Intercity bus services operate on regularly scheduled routes along major Nebraska highway corridors, between Panhandle communities to outer region destinations of Hyannis on NE HWY 2 and Valentine on U.S. HWY 20. Currently, OPT offers transportation to select locations in South Dakota and Wyoming. Allowing for additional access to healthcare or regional transportation connections in Cheyenne, WY. Connections to Pine Ridge, SD for Indian Health Services, conducting business at the Bureau of Indian Affairs, connecting with Oglala Sioux Transit or visiting family and friends. In 2023, OPT transported over 7,200 passengers and traveled over 238,281 miles.

OPT Director of Transportation, Jonnie Kusek, believes in working together with those that have a common goal. “We can achieve so much more by working together, pooling our resources, analyzing the logistics and data and creating a greater collective impact for our region and for those we are here to serve.” By working with likeminded partners, such as Christy Warner, Transit Administrator for Kimball County Transit, mutual passengers are able to travel between the Panhandle region to Colorado front range communities and the Denver International Airport (DIA) or from the Union Station/Amtrak (Denver) and DIA, all the way to Rapid City, SD. The Panhandle portion of this route transpired after a two-year pilot project conducted by OPT. OPT officially kicked off this route from Scottsbluff, NE to Rapid City, SD, earlier this year. This route currently operates Tuesday through Friday. It departs early, includes a stop in Hot Springs, SD, Monument Health, intercity bus and airport connections in Rapid City, SD, returning by 2:15 p.m.

OPT is collaborating with partners based in South Dakota, on a Highly Rural Transportation Grant (HRTG). This grant-based program helps Veterans in highly rural areas travel to VA or VA-authorized health care facilities. This program provides grant funding for transportation services in eligible counties. Nebraska currently has 37 eligible counties. OPT would be the transportation service provider for trips that originate or end within their service areas in Nebraska. “We need to find additional ways for our Veterans to access needed healthcare,” states Kusek. “Logistics and distances are already barriers enough. Let’s at least try to take advantage of funding and partnerships that are out there to pay for the transportation. Then all we have to do is find vehicles and qualified staff,” she says with a smile. “We can do that! Right?” Always the optimist.

For many in the Open Plains Transit service area, public transit is a lifeline to medical care, groceries, food subsidies, senior and veteran services, education, jobs, and mobility in their day-to-day lives.

By Open Plains Transit<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713987665542.png" alt="Open Plains Transit.PNG" />
 <figcaption>Open Plains Transit.PNG</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Public Transit Week (NPTW), proclaimed as April 21-27, 2024, by Governor Jim Pillen, aims to highlight the pivotal role of public transit in fostering accessibility, sustainability, and community connectivity across the state. The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), in collaboration with public transit providers throughout the state, will provide a showcase of the benefits and opportunities in embracing public transportation. In 2023, Nebraska’s rural transit drivers traveled over 4 million miles with over 600,000 passenger boardings. Public transit options, in both rural and urban communities, are vital to those who do not own or cannot use a personal vehicle.Open Plains Transit (OPT) operated by Senior Services, Inc. based in Alliance, NE, offers either intercity bus, local transit, non-emergency medical transportation, Medicaid transportation services or all of these, to a service area that encompasses the Nebraska Panhandle region, includes the recent expansion of county-wide services to the 6,000 square miles of Cherry County, the City of Valentine and other communities located within its borders. Intercity bus services operate on regularly scheduled routes along major Nebraska highway corridors, between Panhandle communities to outer region destinations of Hyannis on NE HWY 2 and Valentine on U.S. HWY 20. Currently, OPT offers transportation to select locations in South Dakota and Wyoming. Allowing for additional access to healthcare or regional transportation connections in Cheyenne, WY. Connections to Pine Ridge, SD for Indian Health Services, conducting business at the Bureau of Indian Affairs, connecting with Oglala Sioux Transit or visiting family and friends. In 2023, OPT transported over 7,200 passengers and traveled over 238,281 miles.OPT Director of Transportation, Jonnie Kusek, believes in working together with those that have a common goal. “We can achieve so much more by working together, pooling our resources, analyzing the logistics and data and creating a greater collective impact for our region and for those we are here to serve.” By working with likeminded partners, such as Christy Warner, Transit Administrator for Kimball County Transit, mutual passengers are able to travel between the Panhandle region to Colorado front range communities and the Denver International Airport (DIA) or from the Union Station/Amtrak (Denver) and DIA, all the way to Rapid City, SD. The Panhandle portion of this route transpired after a two-year pilot project conducted by OPT. OPT officially kicked off this route from Scottsbluff, NE to Rapid City, SD, earlier this year. This route currently operates Tuesday through Friday. It departs early, includes a stop in Hot Springs, SD, Monument Health, intercity bus and airport connections in Rapid City, SD, returning by 2:15 p.m.OPT is collaborating with partners based in South Dakota, on a Highly Rural Transportation Grant (HRTG). This grant-based program helps Veterans in highly rural areas travel to VA or VA-authorized health care facilities. This program provides grant funding for transportation services in eligible counties. Nebraska currently has 37 eligible counties. OPT would be the transportation service provider for trips that originate or end within their service areas in Nebraska. “We need to find additional ways for our Veterans to access needed healthcare,” states Kusek. “Logistics and distances are already barriers enough. Let’s at least try to take advantage of funding and partnerships that are out there to pay for the transportation. Then all we have to do is find vehicles and qualified staff,” she says with a smile. “We can do that! Right?” Always the optimist.For many in the Open Plains Transit service area, public transit is a lifeline to medical care, groceries, food subsidies, senior and veteran services, education, jobs, and mobility in their day-to-day lives.

Open Plains Transit announces new services during Nebraska Public Transit Week

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Dental Days 2024 will be held on Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1. Free dental care for children age 3 to 21 who live in the Nebraska Panhandle will be available in Gordon and Sidney. Dental Days are organized every year by Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD).

Students from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene will be participating in the annual event.&nbsp;They work under the supervision of UNMC Dental College faculty and area dentists.

Families must schedule an appointment – Contact PPHD's Janelle Visser at 308-760-6493 or Gordon's Ashlei Tausan at 605-786-6147. At this time, the available dental appointment slots in Sidney have all been filled. There are still some times available in Gordon.

Children who have appointments at Life Smiles in Sidney should have scheduled a prescreening appointment with an area dental office. For the Gordon site, Gordon Memorial Hospital, all screenings will be done at their appointment time on May 31 or June 1.

Transportation is available at no cost. Contact Open Plains Transit by calling 308-761-8747 before May 17 if you need a ride.

PPHD recognizes that very few dentists accept Medicaid. The Community Action Partnership Dental Clinics in Chadron and Gering are always busy. In fact, Chadron doesn&amp;#39;t have available appointments for a year! Dental Days gives families the opportunity to receive this much needed health care for their children.

Why this focus on dental care for children? Oral problems such as cavities can impact a child's ability to learn and a child&amp;#39;s overall health, both now and in the future.

Children in low-income families who don't have access to dental care miss three times as many school days due to oral health problems. These children often have decreased appetite, depression, and are unable to focus attention – all of which can lead to a risk of lower school attendance and learning.

Regular preventive dental care can lessen the health risks these children will face as adults, including heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications. Good dental care can help improve self-esteem because&nbsp;healthy teeth and gums are important to our feelings about ourselves.&nbsp;

Preventive dental health care for children is vital. If you have children who may qualify, please call PPHD, 308-487-3600, or visit the website, pphd.ne.gov for more information. Contact Janelle Visser at 308-760-6493 or Ashlei Tausan at 605-786-6147 and get your appointment scheduled. &nbsp;

Don't miss this opportunity for children ages 3 to 21 to receive dental care at no cost, even though their family has very little or no dental insurance.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityDental Days 2024 will be held on Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1. Free dental care for children age 3 to 21 who live in the Nebraska Panhandle will be available in Gordon and Sidney. Dental Days are organized every year by Panhandle Public Health District (PPHD).Students from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene will be participating in the annual event.&nbsp;They work under the supervision of UNMC Dental College faculty and area dentists.Families must schedule an appointment – Contact PPHD's Janelle Visser at 308-760-6493 or Gordon's Ashlei Tausan at 605-786-6147. At this time, the available dental appointment slots in Sidney have all been filled. There are still some times available in Gordon.Children who have appointments at Life Smiles in Sidney should have scheduled a prescreening appointment with an area dental office. For the Gordon site, Gordon Memorial Hospital, all screenings will be done at their appointment time on May 31 or June 1.Transportation is available at no cost. Contact Open Plains Transit by calling 308-761-8747 before May 17 if you need a ride.PPHD recognizes that very few dentists accept Medicaid. The Community Action Partnership Dental Clinics in Chadron and Gering are always busy. In fact, Chadron doesn&amp;#39;t have available appointments for a year! Dental Days gives families the opportunity to receive this much needed health care for their children.Why this focus on dental care for children? Oral problems such as cavities can impact a child's ability to learn and a child&amp;#39;s overall health, both now and in the future.Children in low-income families who don't have access to dental care miss three times as many school days due to oral health problems. These children often have decreased appetite, depression, and are unable to focus attention – all of which can lead to a risk of lower school attendance and learning.Regular preventive dental care can lessen the health risks these children will face as adults, including heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications. Good dental care can help improve self-esteem because&nbsp;healthy teeth and gums are important to our feelings about ourselves.&nbsp;Preventive dental health care for children is vital. If you have children who may qualify, please call PPHD, 308-487-3600, or visit the website, pphd.ne.gov for more information. Contact Janelle Visser at 308-760-6493 or Ashlei Tausan at 605-786-6147 and get your appointment scheduled. &nbsp;Don't miss this opportunity for children ages 3 to 21 to receive dental care at no cost, even though their family has very little or no dental insurance.

Getting Ahead: Dental Days 2024

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: Four Days A Week?

This Saturday at Carnegie Arts Center we will be celebrating 31 years of business with our 31st Anniversary Show Champagne Artist Reception.

 Visitors are welcome to visit the gallery between 5 and 7 p.m. 

The Best of Show and First Place Awards in each category will be announced.

 Visitors are encouraged to socialize with artists and check out their favorite pieces. 

There is no cost to attend.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By Carnegie Arts Center<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713972433355.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This Saturday at Carnegie Arts Center we will be celebrating 31 years of business with our 31st Anniversary Show Champagne Artist Reception. Visitors are welcome to visit the gallery between 5 and 7 p.m. The Best of Show and First Place Awards in each category will be announced. Visitors are encouraged to socialize with artists and check out their favorite pieces. There is no cost to attend.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Carnegie Arts Center Anniversary Show Reception opening soon

Alliance, NE – The City of Alliance is excited to announce the commencement of a milling and overlay project on 8 th street, spanning from Dakota to Mississippi Avenue, scheduled to begin soon.

In preparation for the upcoming construction activities, the City of Alliance kindly requests that residents residing along 8 th Street trim their trees to a height of 14 feet. This proactive measure will facilitate the passage of construction equipment without complications, ensuring the project proceeds efficiently and safely.

The construction schedule for the milling and overlay project will be announced as soon as it becomes available. The City of Alliance is committed to keeping residents informed about project updates, timeliness, and any potential impacts on traffic or accessibility.

For more information please contact Public Works Director, Ross Grant at (308) 762-1907.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The City of Alliance is excited to announce the commencement of a milling and overlay project on 8 th street, spanning from Dakota to Mississippi Avenue, scheduled to begin soon.In preparation for the upcoming construction activities, the City of Alliance kindly requests that residents residing along 8 th Street trim their trees to a height of 14 feet. This proactive measure will facilitate the passage of construction equipment without complications, ensuring the project proceeds efficiently and safely.The construction schedule for the milling and overlay project will be announced as soon as it becomes available. The City of Alliance is committed to keeping residents informed about project updates, timeliness, and any potential impacts on traffic or accessibility.For more information please contact Public Works Director, Ross Grant at (308) 762-1907.

City of Alliance announces milling, overlay project on 8th street 

Alliance, NE – Due to high winds, the Alliance Public Landfill construction and demo area, and loose fill area, are closed to the public. Operations in these areas will resume once the wind gust lowers to 25 mph or less.

For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Due to high winds, the Alliance Public Landfill construction and demo area, and loose fill area, are closed to the public. Operations in these areas will resume once the wind gust lowers to 25 mph or less.For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

Alliance Landfill announce partial closure 

On April 22, Alliance police officers responded to an motor vehicle accident at 5: 27 a.m. at 402 Mississippi Avenue.&nbsp;

"The driver of a silver Buick struck two parked cars for unknown reasons causing severe damage to all three vehicles," said Alliance Police Chief David Leavitt. "The driver was evaluated at Box Butte General Hospital for minor injuries and cited for careless driving and no proof of insurance."

By Panhandle PostOn April 22, Alliance police officers responded to an motor vehicle accident at 5: 27 a.m. at 402 Mississippi Avenue.&nbsp;"The driver of a silver Buick struck two parked cars for unknown reasons causing severe damage to all three vehicles," said Alliance Police Chief David Leavitt. "The driver was evaluated at Box Butte General Hospital for minor injuries and cited for careless driving and no proof of insurance."

Alliance police respond to vehicle accident 

POST PODCAST: APS Superintendent On 4-Day Week Forum

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp;

Fly over the Sandhills in a plane to check cattle and peer below. If you are along for the ride ask the pilot/rancher to gain a bit of altitude and tack on several miles before landing in the pasture by his shop. The dunes, stabilized by grass and other vegetation, resemble green waves on the ocean at just the right phase of spring. Taking the comparison further, windmills look like buoys in the semi-arid “sea”.

James Girard, of Alliance-based Girard Well Service, usually maintains a more typical vantage point while installing and maintaining windmills in the area. Though many landowners have added or converted stock wells to solar power he expects the workhorses of the west to remain.

“A lot of guys will triage,” he explained. “They may take a windmill out and use parts. May like to have both (wind and solar) in one pasture. With basic maintenance, windmills will last a long time . . . simple effective design.”

Despite being a dependable, green machine windmills have taken a hit in rural America before. According to “Windmills on the American Plains,” an article posted on the Homestead National Historical Park site of the National Park Service, the 1935 Rural Electrification Act allowed more farms to have electricity, using the power source to pump water. “By the 1960’s, most windmills were sold to developing nations around the world or to three specific cattle ranching regions of the Plains . . . the sandhills of western Nebraska, the panhandle of Oklahoma and Texas, and southwestern Texas,” the article says.

Anyone who works on windmills may deal with equipment and parts around a century old at times. Pointing out an Aermotor-made gearbox in his inventory, James said that particular design was made prior to 1933 – the last time the company changed its basic design. “Some parts have been on 60 years or better,” he commented. “We’re lucky enough our inventory of used windmill parts is probably the biggest in the Panhandle. . . . They’re like the Chevy engine of the world. . . . Because there’s no foundries they’ve become very recycled. You can take four or five that are busted up and make two or three windmill heads.”

Though windmills are durable, working on “all the stuff down the hole is pricey.” Minimum maintenance is usually around $1,000. “If you spread the cost of solar over five years versus pulling a windmill twice over that time it’s hard not to go with solar.”

“I’d say it’s plateaued as far as changing/converting,” James said. “All the new wells are almost all solar for livestock. (We) don’t move windmills (much) anymore. We did have government funding to change from windmills to solar. All the government equipment programs are solar – all the cost-share is solar and pipeline (share with one well to other tanks). Some places (such as Lusk, Wyo., or Whitney, Neb.) it’s more efficient to run pipeline instead of more wells.”

Manpower has become a greater factor when considering ranch infrastructure. James pointed out that more cattle in one area served by a solar well means moving those animals less often. “Now you have a fraction of the employees to do everything.”

Just as Aermotor became a lasting and preferred brand, James said the solar market is dominated by two major brands and a “knock-off of one”. New owners of a system benefit from

a 5-year warranty though “I have (had) some in for 12-15 years and haven’t touched panels or pumps. Had a 6-panel system that wasn’t scratched in the big hail storm a few years ago,” he said. The panels, all from China after an Oklahoma company went out of business, are rated at 60 miles per hour/1.5-inch hail.

Technology continues to advance with solar pumping systems. James described one 110 volt AC/DC design where you can plug a generator in. A new model is expected to pump from depths up to 400 feet and the same pumping power is possible with fewer panels in an array.

Technology or tradition, the cattle on a thousand hills drink their fill.

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713919699451.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fly over the Sandhills in a plane to check cattle and peer below. If you are along for the ride ask the pilot/rancher to gain a bit of altitude and tack on several miles before landing in the pasture by his shop. The dunes, stabilized by grass and other vegetation, resemble green waves on the ocean at just the right phase of spring. Taking the comparison further, windmills look like buoys in the semi-arid “sea”.James Girard, of Alliance-based Girard Well Service, usually maintains a more typical vantage point while installing and maintaining windmills in the area. Though many landowners have added or converted stock wells to solar power he expects the workhorses of the west to remain.“A lot of guys will triage,” he explained. “They may take a windmill out and use parts. May like to have both (wind and solar) in one pasture. With basic maintenance, windmills will last a long time . . . simple effective design.”Despite being a dependable, green machine windmills have taken a hit in rural America before. According to “Windmills on the American Plains,” an article posted on the Homestead National Historical Park site of the National Park Service, the 1935 Rural Electrification Act allowed more farms to have electricity, using the power source to pump water. “By the 1960’s, most windmills were sold to developing nations around the world or to three specific cattle ranching regions of the Plains . . . the sandhills of western Nebraska, the panhandle of Oklahoma and Texas, and southwestern Texas,” the article says.Anyone who works on windmills may deal with equipment and parts around a century old at times. Pointing out an Aermotor-made gearbox in his inventory, James said that particular design was made prior to 1933 – the last time the company changed its basic design. “Some parts have been on 60 years or better,” he commented. “We’re lucky enough our inventory of used windmill parts is probably the biggest in the Panhandle. . . . They’re like the Chevy engine of the world. . . . Because there’s no foundries they’ve become very recycled. You can take four or five that are busted up and make two or three windmill heads.”Though windmills are durable, working on “all the stuff down the hole is pricey.” Minimum maintenance is usually around $1,000. “If you spread the cost of solar over five years versus pulling a windmill twice over that time it’s hard not to go with solar.”“I’d say it’s plateaued as far as changing/converting,” James said. “All the new wells are almost all solar for livestock. (We) don’t move windmills (much) anymore. We did have government funding to change from windmills to solar. All the government equipment programs are solar – all the cost-share is solar and pipeline (share with one well to other tanks). Some places (such as Lusk, Wyo., or Whitney, Neb.) it’s more efficient to run pipeline instead of more wells.”Manpower has become a greater factor when considering ranch infrastructure. James pointed out that more cattle in one area served by a solar well means moving those animals less often. “Now you have a fraction of the employees to do everything.”Just as Aermotor became a lasting and preferred brand, James said the solar market is dominated by two major brands and a “knock-off of one”. New owners of a system benefit froma 5-year warranty though “I have (had) some in for 12-15 years and haven’t touched panels or pumps. Had a 6-panel system that wasn’t scratched in the big hail storm a few years ago,” he said. The panels, all from China after an Oklahoma company went out of business, are rated at 60 miles per hour/1.5-inch hail.Technology continues to advance with solar pumping systems. James described one 110 volt AC/DC design where you can plug a generator in. A new model is expected to pump from depths up to 400 feet and the same pumping power is possible with fewer panels in an array.Technology or tradition, the cattle on a thousand hills drink their fill.

Keep Alliance Beautiful: Windmills will endure on Nebraska’s dune sea

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle 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 via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.

-Harley A Salway III, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Violate protection order

-Steven E Kaiser, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI

-Carlos Lone Wolf, Class 2 Felony, Del/dsp/dst/man/pos except haz drug

-Mathew W Landreth, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance

-Abby N Ord, Class 1 Misdemeanor, DUI (1 prior)

-Armando M Moreno, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI

-Christian Mundt, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Class 1 Misdemeanor, False reporting

-Lucas J Hood, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Refuse to submit to test, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Refuse to submit to pretest, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Carry Cncld handgun under influence

-Alicia M Leisy, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Theft-unlawful taking $501-1,499

-Amanda C Elgin, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Class 3 Misdemeanor, No license on person

-Danielle Kaiser, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI-drug-1st offense

-Jacob Adamson, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Refuse to submit to test, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Refuse to submit to pretest, Class 2 Misdemeanor, No proof of insurance

-Ralph Mandan,&nbsp;Trespassing x2, Poss drug para, Poss&nbsp;cont sub

-Charles Garnette,&nbsp;DUI, MIP, Open container

-Edwin Santos Bautista,&nbsp;DUI, No proof of insurance

-Jesse Sicocan,&nbsp;DUI, Refusal to submit test, Open container

-Milana Baltzell,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss of marijuana, Poss&nbsp;of para

-Mitzi Cosme-Dubray,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Abigail Bordeaux,&nbsp;DUS, Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-David Young,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Rodney Stone,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Tamerping w. evidence,&nbsp;Poss drug para, Open Container

-Kaleb Leonhardt,&nbsp;DUI/ Refusal Chemical Test/ Minor&nbsp;Poss. Alcohol/ Open Container/ Drug para

-Lukas Camacho,&nbsp;Cont. Sub/ Drug Para/ Open Alcohol

-Daniel Espinoza,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss marijuana &lt; 10z.

-Michael Ippolito,&nbsp;DUI, Poss marijuana

-Michael Ippolito,&nbsp;DUI 2nd, Poss of marijuana

-Kyah Cordell,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Melissa Brungard, Poss cont sub, Poss drug para

-Dreshawn Croskey,&nbsp;DUI, Refuse Chem test

-Joseph Harden,&nbsp;Dui 3rd, Open Container

-Brittney Dalton,&nbsp;DUI, Poss drug, para, reckless driving&nbsp;tinted windows, No proof of insurance

-Dessire Lerma,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss marijuana &lt;10z,&nbsp;Poss drug para.

-Santos Gutierrez,&nbsp;No proof of insurance, tinted windows,&nbsp;Poss drug para, Poss cont sub X2,

-Kighler Hoffman,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss of marijuana, Poss&nbsp;of drug para, False reporting

-Shawn Cyr,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss marijuana &lt;10z,&nbsp;Poss drug para.

-Thomas Mendoza,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para,&nbsp;trespassing

-San Juanita Sterkel,&nbsp;Assault, 3rd degree sexual assault, Disturbing the peace

-Jonathan Peterson,&nbsp;Poss firearm by prohibted person x2,&nbsp;Poss of drug para, Poss of marijuana

-Ramon Enriquez,&nbsp;DUI, MIP, No operators license, Poss&nbsp;drug para, poss marijuana &lt; 1oz, Open&nbsp;Container, Refusal

-Kighler Hoffman,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss drug para

-Wyatt Marquardt, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Leave accident-fail to furnish info

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle 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 via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.Box Butte County:-Harley A Salway III, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Violate protection order-Steven E Kaiser, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI-Carlos Lone Wolf, Class 2 Felony, Del/dsp/dst/man/pos except haz drug-Mathew W Landreth, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance-Abby N Ord, Class 1 Misdemeanor, DUI (1 prior)-Armando M Moreno, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI-Christian Mundt, Class 4 Felony, Possess controlled substance, Class 1 Misdemeanor, False reporting-John E Boone, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI-Lucas J Hood, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Refuse to submit to test, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Refuse to submit to pretest, Class 3 Misdemeanor, Carry Cncld handgun under influence-Alicia M Leisy, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Theft-unlawful taking $501-1,499-Amanda C Elgin, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Class 3 Misdemeanor, No license on person-Danielle Kaiser, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI-drug-1st offense-Jacob Adamson, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Refuse to submit to test, Class 5 Misdemeanor, Refuse to submit to pretest, Class 2 Misdemeanor, No proof of insuranceScotts Bluff Co:-Ralph Mandan,&nbsp;Trespassing x2, Poss drug para, Poss&nbsp;cont sub-Charles Garnette,&nbsp;DUI, MIP, Open container-Edwin Santos Bautista,&nbsp;DUI, No proof of insurance-Jesse Sicocan,&nbsp;DUI, Refusal to submit test, Open container-Milana Baltzell,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss of marijuana, Poss&nbsp;of para-Krista Hernandez,&nbsp;Poss cont sub-Mitzi Cosme-Dubray,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Abigail Bordeaux,&nbsp;DUS, Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Christopher Keith,&nbsp;Poss cont sub-David Young,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Rodney Stone,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Tamerping w. evidence,&nbsp;Poss drug para, Open Container-Tina Sanchez,&nbsp;Poss cont sub.-Kaleb Leonhardt,&nbsp;DUI/ Refusal Chemical Test/ Minor&nbsp;Poss. Alcohol/ Open Container/ Drug para-Lukas Camacho,&nbsp;Cont. Sub/ Drug Para/ Open Alcohol-Daniel Espinoza,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss marijuana &lt; 10z.-Michael Ippolito,&nbsp;DUI, Poss marijuana-Enriques Martinez, DUI-Michael Ippolito,&nbsp;DUI 2nd, Poss of marijuana-Kyah Cordell,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Melissa Brungard, Poss cont sub, Poss drug para-Dreshawn Croskey,&nbsp;DUI, Refuse Chem test-Rocky Hall,&nbsp;Poss Cont Sub (Meth)-Jessica Perez,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X4-Joseph Harden,&nbsp;Dui 3rd, Open Container-Brittney Dalton,&nbsp;DUI, Poss drug, para, reckless driving&nbsp;tinted windows, No proof of insurance-Dessire Lerma,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss marijuana &lt;10z,&nbsp;Poss drug para.-Santos Gutierrez,&nbsp;No proof of insurance, tinted windows,&nbsp;Poss drug para, Poss cont sub X2,-Kighler Hoffman,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss of marijuana, Poss&nbsp;of drug para, False reporting-Shawn Cyr,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss marijuana &lt;10z,&nbsp;Poss drug para.-Thomas Mendoza,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para,&nbsp;trespassing-San Juanita Sterkel,&nbsp;Assault, 3rd degree sexual assault, Disturbing the peace-Jonathan Peterson,&nbsp;Poss firearm by prohibted person x2,&nbsp;Poss of drug para, Poss of marijuana-Ramon Enriquez,&nbsp;DUI, MIP, No operators license, Poss&nbsp;drug para, poss marijuana &lt; 1oz, Open&nbsp;Container, Refusal-Kighler Hoffman,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss drug paraDawes Co:-Wyatt Marquardt, Class W Misdemeanor, DUI, Class 2 Misdemeanor, Leave accident-fail to furnish info

Panhandle police activity, April 15 - April 23 

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/21/regents-could-take-final-vote-friday-to-confirm-next-university-of-nebraska-president/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;The University of Nebraska Board of Regents is poised to meet Friday and could consider the final candidacy of Dr. Jeffrey Gold as NU’s ninth system president.

Phil Bakken, the board’s corporation secretary, announced late Sunday that Gold’s appointment could be considered this week at a 1 p.m. meeting Friday, if all feedback is reviewed in time. The announcement comes just in time for regents to meet under the Nebraska Open Meetings Act, which requires five days’ public notice.

Last week, Gold visited&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/17/you-can-make-magic-happen-university-of-nebraska-presidential-finalist-makes-pitch-to-campuses/">each of NU’s campuses across nine forums</a>&nbsp;and will visit Curtis, North Platte and Scottsbluff for three more forums this Wednesday as follows:

“While today’s notice allows for the consideration of the President Priority Candidate’s appointment, no action will be taken until all feedback received (has) been reviewed,” Bakken wrote Sunday.

The review must include the Wednesday forums and online comments at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://nebraska.edu/president-search">nebraska.edu/president-search</a>. Feedback can be submitted through Thursday.

Friday’s meeting agenda includes Gold’s proposed contract of employment. A university spokesperson said the contract might not be available until Thursday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713885938131.jpeg" alt="r. Jeffrey Gold meets with workers in Varner Hall, which includes NU’s Office of the President. April 15, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>r. Jeffrey Gold meets with workers in Varner Hall, which includes NU’s Office of the President. April 15, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/21/regents-could-take-final-vote-friday-to-confirm-next-university-of-nebraska-president/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;The University of Nebraska Board of Regents is poised to meet Friday and could consider the final candidacy of Dr. Jeffrey Gold as NU’s ninth system president.Phil Bakken, the board’s corporation secretary, announced late Sunday that Gold’s appointment could be considered this week at a 1 p.m. meeting Friday, if all feedback is reviewed in time. The announcement comes just in time for regents to meet under the Nebraska Open Meetings Act, which requires five days’ public notice.Last week, Gold visited&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/17/you-can-make-magic-happen-university-of-nebraska-presidential-finalist-makes-pitch-to-campuses/">each of NU’s campuses across nine forums</a>&nbsp;and will visit Curtis, North Platte and Scottsbluff for three more forums this Wednesday as follows:<ul>
 <li>10:30 a.m. Central time, Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture Ag Industry Education Center auditorium, 404 E. Seventh St., Curtis.</li><li>1:30 p.m. Central time, West Central Research, Extension and Education Center, 402 W. State Farm Rd., North Platte.</li><li>3 p.m. Mountain time, Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center, 4502 Ave. I, Scottsbluff.</li>
 </ul>“While today’s notice allows for the consideration of the President Priority Candidate’s appointment, no action will be taken until all feedback received (has) been reviewed,” Bakken wrote Sunday.The review must include the Wednesday forums and online comments at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://nebraska.edu/president-search">nebraska.edu/president-search</a>. Feedback can be submitted through Thursday.Friday’s meeting agenda includes Gold’s proposed contract of employment. A university spokesperson said the contract might not be available until Thursday.&nbsp;

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