Building Blocks Playschool held their ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday. Their mission is to provide a safe, loving, fun, and accepting environment for the future leaders of our community; and its vision is to be the greatest place to learn, play and grow. Parents can expect children to learn through a play-based curriculum. 

In a previous article CEO Lori Mazanec said, “Box Butte General Hospital has been exploring options for adding a childcare center to help combat the healthcare workforce shortage, so the opportunity to collaborate with Shannon and Lighthouse Christian Daycare along with the grant award will allow for a fast track to expand childcare options for our team. 

Adding childcare services to our organization allows us to provide another rung for staff retention and recruitment of essential healthcare workers, additionally expanding employment opportunities at BBGH. The Trustees have been completely supportive and understand the impact this will have.”

By Box Butte General Hospital<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706647260283.jpeg" alt="CQO Jim Bargen, CEO Lori Mazanec, Childcare Center Director Shannon Seidler, Lead Teachers Hillary Hunter &amp; Lauren Moller, Board Treasurer Randy Langemeier, CFO Mike O’Dell, Board President Dr. Tom Furman" />
 <figcaption>CQO Jim Bargen, CEO Lori Mazanec, Childcare Center Director Shannon Seidler, Lead Teachers Hillary Hunter &amp; Lauren Moller, Board Treasurer Randy Langemeier, CFO Mike O’Dell, Board President Dr. Tom Furman</figcaption>
 </figure>Building Blocks Playschool held their ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday. Their mission is to provide a safe, loving, fun, and accepting environment for the future leaders of our community; and its vision is to be the greatest place to learn, play and grow. Parents can expect children to learn through a play-based curriculum. In a previous article CEO Lori Mazanec said, “Box Butte General Hospital has been exploring options for adding a childcare center to help combat the healthcare workforce shortage, so the opportunity to collaborate with Shannon and Lighthouse Christian Daycare along with the grant award will allow for a fast track to expand childcare options for our team. Adding childcare services to our organization allows us to provide another rung for staff retention and recruitment of essential healthcare workers, additionally expanding employment opportunities at BBGH. The Trustees have been completely supportive and understand the impact this will have.”

Building Blocks Playschool provides needed childcare center to Alliance

Five University of Nebraska/Lincoln students from Alliance were recognized by the University by being named Dean's List for Fall Semester of 2023-24.

Freshman John Kollars, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, forensic science

Junior Shelbee Burke, College of Education and Human Sciences, child youth and family studies, and work-based learning (K-12)

Junior Crystal Garza, College of Education and Human Services, elementary education.

Senior Elise Stoike, senior Dean's List, College of Education and College of Education and Human sciences child, youth and family studies, and work-based learning (9-12)

Mayce Quick, Graduate Student, College of Business, Master of Business Administration.

Information provided by UNLFive University of Nebraska/Lincoln students from Alliance were recognized by the University by being named Dean's List for Fall Semester of 2023-24.Freshman John Kollars, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, forensic scienceJunior Shelbee Burke, College of Education and Human Sciences, child youth and family studies, and work-based learning (K-12)Junior Crystal Garza, College of Education and Human Services, elementary education.Senior Elise Stoike, senior Dean's List, College of Education and College of Education and Human sciences child, youth and family studies, and work-based learning (9-12)Mayce Quick, Graduate Student, College of Business, Master of Business Administration.

Five students from Alliance named to Dean's list at UNL

In early 1949, two noteworthy events took place.&nbsp; One: The Blizzard Of '49.&nbsp; Two: The first broadcast of AM 1400 KCOW.&nbsp; The radio station signed on February 15, 1949--earlier than expected, to allow for news updates related to the blizzard.

In the 75 years that followed, KCOW experienced a variety of changes. In 1955, a relocation to the studio building on West 10th Street; in 1966, the transfer of ownership from Sandhills Broadcasting Corporation to KLOE, Inc. (now Eagle Communications); in 2018, the addition of an FM translator at 92.5FM, among many other changes in technology, programming and operations.

Over the years, KCOW has celebrated milestone anniversaries in a variety of ways.&nbsp; The 50th and 65th anniversaries were celebrated with live music performances at the Heartland Aviation hangar.&nbsp; Other anniversaries were celebrated with on-air interviews with former staffers.

Perhaps the most unique celebration of a KCOW anniversary was the KCOW Memory Quilt in 2009.&nbsp; The idea to create a quilt featuring blocks depicting memorable aspects of the station was devised by then-station manager Mike Fell.&nbsp; The quilt blocks were created by stitchers&nbsp; throughout the panhandle.&nbsp; The quilt was displayed in multiple locations including the KCOW Studios.

This year, as KCOW celebrates its 75th Diamond Anniversary, the quilt has been brought out of the closet to once again bring back fond memories of everything from Mike Glesinger's "Oh my!" to the adventures of the Cinnamon Bear.

The quilt, along with historic documents related to KCOW,&nbsp; will be displayed throughout the month of February at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, where the history of the sandhills comes alive.&nbsp; KCOW would like to thank Becci Thomas and her staff at the Knight Museum for their support in bringing back this unique memento of KCOW's legacy as The Voice Of Box Butte County.

By Jason WentworthIn early 1949, two noteworthy events took place.&nbsp; One: The Blizzard Of '49.&nbsp; Two: The first broadcast of AM 1400 KCOW.&nbsp; The radio station signed on February 15, 1949--earlier than expected, to allow for news updates related to the blizzard.In the 75 years that followed, KCOW experienced a variety of changes. In 1955, a relocation to the studio building on West 10th Street; in 1966, the transfer of ownership from Sandhills Broadcasting Corporation to KLOE, Inc. (now Eagle Communications); in 2018, the addition of an FM translator at 92.5FM, among many other changes in technology, programming and operations.Over the years, KCOW has celebrated milestone anniversaries in a variety of ways.&nbsp; The 50th and 65th anniversaries were celebrated with live music performances at the Heartland Aviation hangar.&nbsp; Other anniversaries were celebrated with on-air interviews with former staffers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706648198072.jpeg" alt="KCOW's Jason Wentworth (left) and Kalin Krohe pose with the memory quilt in front of Newberry the Horse at Alliance's Knight Museum." />
 <figcaption>KCOW's Jason Wentworth (left) and Kalin Krohe pose with the memory quilt in front of Newberry the Horse at Alliance's Knight Museum.</figcaption>
 </figure>Perhaps the most unique celebration of a KCOW anniversary was the KCOW Memory Quilt in 2009.&nbsp; The idea to create a quilt featuring blocks depicting memorable aspects of the station was devised by then-station manager Mike Fell.&nbsp; The quilt blocks were created by stitchers&nbsp; throughout the panhandle.&nbsp; The quilt was displayed in multiple locations including the KCOW Studios.This year, as KCOW celebrates its 75th Diamond Anniversary, the quilt has been brought out of the closet to once again bring back fond memories of everything from Mike Glesinger's "Oh my!" to the adventures of the Cinnamon Bear.The quilt, along with historic documents related to KCOW,&nbsp; will be displayed throughout the month of February at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, where the history of the sandhills comes alive.&nbsp; KCOW would like to thank Becci Thomas and her staff at the Knight Museum for their support in bringing back this unique memento of KCOW's legacy as The Voice Of Box Butte County.

KCOW Memory Quilt On Display At Knight Museum for 75th Anniversary Month

Firewood harvest is usually prohibited at Box Butte Wildlife Management Area but people with authorization will be allowed to collect it Feb. 1-March 10.

Non-commercial firewood users who receive permission from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission may cut and collect any fallen dead timber in specific areas of the property north of Hemingford during the six-week period. Those with the authorization form will receive a map of areas open for harvest and vehicle access, and will be urged to use safe practices while cutting.

Firewood harvest aids in Game and Parks’ habitat management goals on targeted areas of the property that are annually subject to excessive down timber from cottonwoods, willows and other hardwoods. The logs and branches become driftwood and can be a hazard to boats when the reservoir's water levels rise in spring.

The free authorization form may be obtained by contacting Hunter Baillie, Game and Parks district wildlife manager, or Justin Powell, wildlife biologist, at 308-763-2940, or by stopping by the Game and Parks Commission’s northwest district office at 299 Husker Road in Alliance.

By Nebraska Game &amp; ParksFirewood harvest is usually prohibited at Box Butte Wildlife Management Area but people with authorization will be allowed to collect it Feb. 1-March 10.Non-commercial firewood users who receive permission from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission may cut and collect any fallen dead timber in specific areas of the property north of Hemingford during the six-week period. Those with the authorization form will receive a map of areas open for harvest and vehicle access, and will be urged to use safe practices while cutting.Firewood harvest aids in Game and Parks’ habitat management goals on targeted areas of the property that are annually subject to excessive down timber from cottonwoods, willows and other hardwoods. The logs and branches become driftwood and can be a hazard to boats when the reservoir's water levels rise in spring.The free authorization form may be obtained by contacting Hunter Baillie, Game and Parks district wildlife manager, or Justin Powell, wildlife biologist, at 308-763-2940, or by stopping by the Game and Parks Commission’s northwest district office at 299 Husker Road in Alliance.

Box Butte WMA opening for firewood harvest

By John Weare Keep Alliance Beautiful

Author’s Note: This is the first in a multi-part look at the Alliance Municipal Landfill.

Though not committed to the page, one quote sticks: Everything ends up here. Not relevant enough for the camera’s card, south Alliance on a crisp January morning from atop landfill Cell 2, pairs with the sentiment from Clint Fankhauser in my memory.

“Everything” referred to whatever you can think of from a family home decades from now to the candy wrapper dropped in a park trash can. I know what we process at the recycling center does not contribute to a hill of garbage thereby at least keeping some of material out of the “everything” column. Yet, KAB deals with but a disappointingly small fraction of the overall waste as we strive to educate and accommodate people who reduce-reuse-recycle.

I talked to Clint, Alliance Municipal Landfill and Refuse Collection foreman, months ago about featuring our city’s landfill from a “where does it go?” standpoint.

We wanted to highlight the people and process behind the City’s role in waste management as our trash “disappears” like clockwork from the curb or alley every week.

At the landfill for six years and foreman the past four, “I originally applied because after moving here I was working in Bridgeport and got tired of the commute,” Clint said. Also at the facility: two baler operators, two trash truck drivers and a heavy equipment operator. A pair of trash trucks normally logs about 100 miles apiece a week, he said, in addition to another functioning backup truck. Also onsite: a skid steer, wheel loader, bulldozer, paddle scraper and excavator.

Whether watching the scraper gather snow between lanes on Alliance streets this winter or watching for a garbage truck to pull out on the way to work, we know the machines. Clint knows the people and what they do to serve the community. “I feel I have the best crew out of any department in the City,” he commented. “My guys know their stuff, they’re happy at work, they get along – it’s a happy working environment here. Definitely couldn’t do it without them. Rodney has been working here since the day I was born (nearly 44 years and four months ago).”

Overall, the landfill took in 13,927.7 tons for 2023. “It’s pretty average,” Clint explained. “During Covid we had a tremendous uptick when everyone was stuck at home.”

Drivers pause to latch onto hooks of Dumpsters or grab roll offs with what look like two-fingered hands. Once full, they back into the baler building and everything gets dumped on the tipping floor at the transfer station. Clint said the load is inspected, looking for hazardous materials, tires or anything that is not allowed. Once approved, staff pushes the refuse on the container where it’s fed into the baler. The equipment churns out 3x4x5-foot, 1,800-pound bales – significantly larger than models operated at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center. Then, “We move it up onto the hill where they’re stacked and covered with dirt,” Clint said.

Refuse arrives by other conveyances. H &amp; H is a local, private customer and the largest single source outside of the municipal routes. Besides their commercial routes, H &amp; H also arrives with giant rolloffs. The landfill serves private contractors as well. “People bring anything from a Dumpster on a flatbed to a horse trailer full, we see it all,” Clint said. “We take anything from anywhere as long as it fits into the legal parameters of what we’re allowed to take.” Anyone

preparing a load should avoid hazardous chemicals, tires, asbestos liquids, diseased animals and other biowaste. “We need documentation for animals to prove they haven’t died from an infectious disease,” he added.

By John Weare Keep Alliance BeautifulAuthor’s Note: This is the first in a multi-part look at the Alliance Municipal Landfill.Though not committed to the page, one quote sticks: Everything ends up here. Not relevant enough for the camera’s card, south Alliance on a crisp January morning from atop landfill Cell 2, pairs with the sentiment from Clint Fankhauser in my memory.“Everything” referred to whatever you can think of from a family home decades from now to the candy wrapper dropped in a park trash can. I know what we process at the recycling center does not contribute to a hill of garbage thereby at least keeping some of material out of the “everything” column. Yet, KAB deals with but a disappointingly small fraction of the overall waste as we strive to educate and accommodate people who reduce-reuse-recycle.I talked to Clint, Alliance Municipal Landfill and Refuse Collection foreman, months ago about featuring our city’s landfill from a “where does it go?” standpoint.We wanted to highlight the people and process behind the City’s role in waste management as our trash “disappears” like clockwork from the curb or alley every week.At the landfill for six years and foreman the past four, “I originally applied because after moving here I was working in Bridgeport and got tired of the commute,” Clint said. Also at the facility: two baler operators, two trash truck drivers and a heavy equipment operator. A pair of trash trucks normally logs about 100 miles apiece a week, he said, in addition to another functioning backup truck. Also onsite: a skid steer, wheel loader, bulldozer, paddle scraper and excavator.Whether watching the scraper gather snow between lanes on Alliance streets this winter or watching for a garbage truck to pull out on the way to work, we know the machines. Clint knows the people and what they do to serve the community. “I feel I have the best crew out of any department in the City,” he commented. “My guys know their stuff, they’re happy at work, they get along – it’s a happy working environment here. Definitely couldn’t do it without them. Rodney has been working here since the day I was born (nearly 44 years and four months ago).”Overall, the landfill took in 13,927.7 tons for 2023. “It’s pretty average,” Clint explained. “During Covid we had a tremendous uptick when everyone was stuck at home.”Drivers pause to latch onto hooks of Dumpsters or grab roll offs with what look like two-fingered hands. Once full, they back into the baler building and everything gets dumped on the tipping floor at the transfer station. Clint said the load is inspected, looking for hazardous materials, tires or anything that is not allowed. Once approved, staff pushes the refuse on the container where it’s fed into the baler. The equipment churns out 3x4x5-foot, 1,800-pound bales – significantly larger than models operated at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center. Then, “We move it up onto the hill where they’re stacked and covered with dirt,” Clint said.Refuse arrives by other conveyances. H &amp; H is a local, private customer and the largest single source outside of the municipal routes. Besides their commercial routes, H &amp; H also arrives with giant rolloffs. The landfill serves private contractors as well. “People bring anything from a Dumpster on a flatbed to a horse trailer full, we see it all,” Clint said. “We take anything from anywhere as long as it fits into the legal parameters of what we’re allowed to take.” Anyonepreparing a load should avoid hazardous chemicals, tires, asbestos liquids, diseased animals and other biowaste. “We need documentation for animals to prove they haven’t died from an infectious disease,” he added.

Alliance Landfill – (Almost) Everything Ends Up Here

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

Alliance City Administrator Seth Sorensen talks to KCOW and Panhandle Post News Director Alex Benzegala about the latest City Council meeting, the latest on the search for a new Police Chief of the City of Alliance and Jordan Hooper Day. Listen to the full podcast below.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAlliance City Administrator Seth Sorensen talks to KCOW and Panhandle Post News Director Alex Benzegala about the latest City Council meeting, the latest on the search for a new Police Chief of the City of Alliance and Jordan Hooper Day. Listen to the full podcast below.<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alliance City Administrator talks Police Chief Search, Jordan Hooper Day" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nny4h-1566e71-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Administrator talks Police Chief search, Jordan Hooper Day

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: New BBGH Daycare, Hoops On Tap Tonight

By Panhandle Public Health District

Representative Adrian Smith was at Panhandle Public Health District’s Scottsbluff office last Thursday, January 25, 2024, to receive an award for supporting the children and families of the Panhandle through evidence-based home visitation.

Smith sits on the Ways and Means Committee where he has repeatedly supported successful reauthorization of the federal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV, pronounced McVee) program.

“We commend Representative Smith for his ongoing support and leadership of the MIECHV reauthorization as it will continue to have a long-term, positive impact for Panhandle children, families, and communities,” said Kim Engel, Director of PPHD.

Healthy Families America (HFA) is a nationally recognized, evidence-based home visiting program that enhances family well-being, parent-child relationships, and promotes child development. This program has been implemented in the Panhandle since 2011 and currently serves nearly 100 families.

Rigorous studies show HFA results in fewer low-birth-weight babies, reduction in the recurrent of maltreatment, and fewer HFA children have behavioral issues or receive special education services. In addition, fewer HFA families are homeless, and we see increased participation in education and training, more positive mental health, and lower parenting stress for HFA moms.

By Panhandle Public Health District<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706631702015.jpeg" alt="(l-r) Kim Engel, PPHD Director; Dezarae Brandt, PPHD Healthy Families Program Manager; Representative Adrian Smith" />
 <figcaption>(l-r) Kim Engel, PPHD Director; Dezarae Brandt, PPHD Healthy Families Program Manager; Representative Adrian Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>Representative Adrian Smith was at Panhandle Public Health District’s Scottsbluff office last Thursday, January 25, 2024, to receive an award for supporting the children and families of the Panhandle through evidence-based home visitation.Smith sits on the Ways and Means Committee where he has repeatedly supported successful reauthorization of the federal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV, pronounced McVee) program.“We commend Representative Smith for his ongoing support and leadership of the MIECHV reauthorization as it will continue to have a long-term, positive impact for Panhandle children, families, and communities,” said Kim Engel, Director of PPHD.Healthy Families America (HFA) is a nationally recognized, evidence-based home visiting program that enhances family well-being, parent-child relationships, and promotes child development. This program has been implemented in the Panhandle since 2011 and currently serves nearly 100 families.Rigorous studies show HFA results in fewer low-birth-weight babies, reduction in the recurrent of maltreatment, and fewer HFA children have behavioral issues or receive special education services. In addition, fewer HFA families are homeless, and we see increased participation in education and training, more positive mental health, and lower parenting stress for HFA moms.

PPHD presents award to Representative Adrian Smith for support in evidence-based home visitation

By Chabella Guzman PREEC communication

The Nebraska 2024 On-Farm Research Network results and update meetings will be held in February across the state. One of the meetings will be in Alliance on Feb. 21 at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center. The workshops highlight collaboration with growers and Nebraska Extension educators.

“Growers appreciate the on-farm research because they are doing the studies on their own farms with their own equipment and seeing results with their own eyes. They trust that,” said John Thomas, Nebraska Extension cropping systems educator in Box Butte County.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An important aspect of the On-Farm Research projects is figuring out if a product is viable economically for a grower's operation. Thomas has worked with several growers over the years and has recently been doing research on dry edible beans, including with foliar fertilizers. “With only one year’s data with foliar fertilizers on dry beans, it's hard to make any conclusions. One of the foliar treatments had a slightly better yield but no economic benefit,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The On-Farm Research meeting will have current information on local research, along with weed and disease management and crop water monitoring and usage.

The meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 21, at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, 908 Yellowstone Ave., in Alliance.&nbsp;

The meeting is free, and a lunch will be provided. Register by calling 308-762-5616 for a lunch count.

By Chabella Guzman PREEC communicationThe Nebraska 2024 On-Farm Research Network results and update meetings will be held in February across the state. One of the meetings will be in Alliance on Feb. 21 at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center. The workshops highlight collaboration with growers and Nebraska Extension educators.“Growers appreciate the on-farm research because they are doing the studies on their own farms with their own equipment and seeing results with their own eyes. They trust that,” said John Thomas, Nebraska Extension cropping systems educator in Box Butte County.&nbsp;&nbsp;An important aspect of the On-Farm Research projects is figuring out if a product is viable economically for a grower's operation. Thomas has worked with several growers over the years and has recently been doing research on dry edible beans, including with foliar fertilizers. “With only one year’s data with foliar fertilizers on dry beans, it's hard to make any conclusions. One of the foliar treatments had a slightly better yield but no economic benefit,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The On-Farm Research meeting will have current information on local research, along with weed and disease management and crop water monitoring and usage.The meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 21, at the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, 908 Yellowstone Ave., in Alliance.&nbsp;The meeting is free, and a lunch will be provided. Register by calling 308-762-5616 for a lunch count.

On-Farm Research meeting scheduled in Alliance at Knight Museum

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/party-may-be-over-for-witty-messages-on-interstate-safety-boards-in-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The party may be over for clever and humorous safety tips on message boards installed over Nebraska freeways.

The&nbsp;Federal Highway Administration, in a recent update of a manual on traffic control devices, recommended that states steer clear of messages with humor, double meanings and references to pop culture.

‘Don’t be a clown, put the phone down’

That may spell the end of advisories like&nbsp;“Don’t be a clown, put the phone down” and the Yuletime warning,&nbsp;“Texting and driving will get you on the naughty list,” which have been used in Nebraska.

Messages with obscure meaning, references to popular culture, that are intended to be humorous ... should not be displayed

– Federal Highway Administration

A spokeswoman for the Nebraska Department of Transportation said the department is reviewing the advisory in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-12-19/pdf/2023-27178.pdf">Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices</a>.

Spokeswoman Jeni Campana said NDOT was among the highway agencies involved in putting together the 11th edition of the traffic control manual, but she wouldn’t say if humor was now out.

“NDOT is currently reviewing the MUTCD for changes to be implemented over the course of the next several years.,” Campana told the Examiner. “This includes our review of the messages placed on our overhead boards.”

The state has been posting safety messages every Friday since 2016. It now has now more than 50 message boards across the state. NDOT has encouraged the public to submit clever phrases that fit the boards, which display three lines of type, 17 characters per line.

Humor and references to current events or pop culture were used, state officials have said, to make the messages more memorable and thus more effective.

The signs are also used to convey some sobering information — an update of the state’s traffic fatalities.

But a 2021<a href="https://www.virginiadot.org/vtrc/main/online_reports/pdf/20-r16.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;study</a>&nbsp;for the Virginia Department of Transportation found that while funny messages sparked the most brain activity, there was no evidence that it actually changed driver behavior in terms of increased use of safety belts or decreased accidents.

There was also concern that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dcist.com/story/21/07/20/interstate-message-signs-are-getting-funnier-but-do-they-work/">the witty notices might distract</a>&nbsp;drivers, according to the news outlet DCist.

The Federal Highway Administration, in its updated manual, discouraged states from using “messages with obscure meaning, references to popular culture, that are intended to be humorous….”

The agency stated that such messages “can be misunderstood or understood only by a limited segment of road users….”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706623797613.jpeg" alt="Freeway message boards, like this one on U.S. 77 west of Lincoln, are mainly used for alerting motorists to traffic delays, detours ahead or Amber Alerts. On Fridays, however, a safety message is posted to urge drivers to buckle up or take over precautions. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Freeway message boards, like this one on U.S. 77 west of Lincoln, are mainly used for alerting motorists to traffic delays, detours ahead or Amber Alerts. On Fridays, however, a safety message is posted to urge drivers to buckle up or take over precautions. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/party-may-be-over-for-witty-messages-on-interstate-safety-boards-in-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The party may be over for clever and humorous safety tips on message boards installed over Nebraska freeways.The&nbsp;Federal Highway Administration, in a recent update of a manual on traffic control devices, recommended that states steer clear of messages with humor, double meanings and references to pop culture.<h2>‘Don’t be a clown, put the phone down’</h2>That may spell the end of advisories like&nbsp;“Don’t be a clown, put the phone down” and the Yuletime warning,&nbsp;“Texting and driving will get you on the naughty list,” which have been used in Nebraska.Messages with obscure meaning, references to popular culture, that are intended to be humorous ... should not be displayed– Federal Highway AdministrationA spokeswoman for the Nebraska Department of Transportation said the department is reviewing the advisory in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2023-12-19/pdf/2023-27178.pdf">Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices</a>.Spokeswoman Jeni Campana said NDOT was among the highway agencies involved in putting together the 11th edition of the traffic control manual, but she wouldn’t say if humor was now out.“NDOT is currently reviewing the MUTCD for changes to be implemented over the course of the next several years.,” Campana told the Examiner. “This includes our review of the messages placed on our overhead boards.”<h2>Began in 2016</h2>The state has been posting safety messages every Friday since 2016. It now has now more than 50 message boards across the state. NDOT has encouraged the public to submit clever phrases that fit the boards, which display three lines of type, 17 characters per line.Humor and references to current events or pop culture were used, state officials have said, to make the messages more memorable and thus more effective.The signs are also used to convey some sobering information — an update of the state’s traffic fatalities.But a 2021<a href="https://www.virginiadot.org/vtrc/main/online_reports/pdf/20-r16.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;study</a>&nbsp;for the Virginia Department of Transportation found that while funny messages sparked the most brain activity, there was no evidence that it actually changed driver behavior in terms of increased use of safety belts or decreased accidents.There was also concern that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://dcist.com/story/21/07/20/interstate-message-signs-are-getting-funnier-but-do-they-work/">the witty notices might distract</a>&nbsp;drivers, according to the news outlet DCist.The Federal Highway Administration, in its updated manual, discouraged states from using “messages with obscure meaning, references to popular culture, that are intended to be humorous….”The agency stated that such messages “can be misunderstood or understood only by a limited segment of road users….”

Party may be over for witty messages on Interstate safety boards in Nebraska

The Scottsbluff Police Department continues to investigate a four-vehicle accident in Scottsbluff on Monday afternoon.

The incident was first reported shortly after 2 pm as SPD Officers were dispatched to the intersection of Ave B and W 20th ST.

The preliminary investigation found that the four vehicles involved were a black 2016 Ford F350 driven by Jared Whiting 41 of Mitchell, a US Postal Service vehicle driven by Robert Hesse 49 of Gering, a white 2007 GMC pickup driven by Chesnie Le 28 of Scottsbluff, and a black 2015 Ford Expedition driven by Alan Carter 62 of Rushville. 

The investigation found that the 2016 Ford F350 was north bound in the 1800 block of Ave B when it sideswiped the 2015 Ford Expedition. After the initial impact with the Expedition, the F350 continued north on Ave B until it impacted the rear end of the US Postal vehicle, causing the US Postal vehicle to impact the rear of the 2007 GMC pickup. 

Hesse and Whiting were treated at Regional West Medical Center for minor injuries. Le was issued a citation for Driving Under Suspension. A medical complication is being considered as a contributing factor in the accident. The F350 and US Postal vehicle are total losses. The Expedition sustained an estimated $500 in damages and the GMC pickup sustained an estimated $4000 in damages. 

Scottsbluff Fire Department, Valley Ambulance, and Scotts Bluff Sheriff Department assisted in the response. The intersection of Ave B and W 20th ST was closed for approximately one hour due to the investigation.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Scottsbluff Police Department continues to investigate a four-vehicle accident in Scottsbluff on Monday afternoon.The incident was first reported shortly after 2 pm as SPD Officers were dispatched to the intersection of Ave B and W 20th ST.The preliminary investigation found that the four vehicles involved were a black 2016 Ford F350 driven by Jared Whiting 41 of Mitchell, a US Postal Service vehicle driven by Robert Hesse 49 of Gering, a white 2007 GMC pickup driven by Chesnie Le 28 of Scottsbluff, and a black 2015 Ford Expedition driven by Alan Carter 62 of Rushville. The investigation found that the 2016 Ford F350 was north bound in the 1800 block of Ave B when it sideswiped the 2015 Ford Expedition. After the initial impact with the Expedition, the F350 continued north on Ave B until it impacted the rear end of the US Postal vehicle, causing the US Postal vehicle to impact the rear of the 2007 GMC pickup. Hesse and Whiting were treated at Regional West Medical Center for minor injuries. Le was issued a citation for Driving Under Suspension. A medical complication is being considered as a contributing factor in the accident. The F350 and US Postal vehicle are total losses. The Expedition sustained an estimated $500 in damages and the GMC pickup sustained an estimated $4000 in damages. Scottsbluff Fire Department, Valley Ambulance, and Scotts Bluff Sheriff Department assisted in the response. The intersection of Ave B and W 20th ST was closed for approximately one hour due to the investigation.&nbsp;

Two injured in four vehicle accident in Scottsbluff on Tue

University of Nebraska—Lincoln’s beef program will be presenting the latest feedlot-related research findings in meetings across Nebraska in February.

Anyone interested is welcome to attend the meetings Feb. 13, 14 and 15 in Bridgeport, Gothenburg and West Point, respectively."With precision technology and the tools we have available, we can offer producers more scientifically-supported, specific information than ever before," said Dr. Jessica Sperber, UNL Feedlot Extension specialist and organizer of the event.

The roundtables will discuss new technologies in cattle feeding, a 2024 market outlook, severe weather responses, results of the 2022 National Beef Quality audit and hiring employees on visas. The information will be presented by UNL faculty, Nebraska beef producers, and speakers from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Nebraska Cattlemen affiliates.

"We heard from producers that some of their challenges are employee recruitment and retention, plus the perennial issues presented by regulation, the weather and markets," Sperber said. "That feedback shaped our planning for these events, so we’re talking about updates to implant labels, the use of a stress-relieving pheromone for cattle, and a feed supplement that claims to reduce ammonia gas emissions from cattle. On the employment front we’re hosting a feedlot producer panel, and including ag immigration attorneys who will talk about the process of recruiting and hiring through the visa process. The market update and new information about responding to severe weather will give producers tools to plan for the challenges of the coming year."

The roundtables are from 12:30 to 5 pm. Cost is $30 paid online at registration or at the door.

Please pre-register at&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.lt.acemlnb.com/Prod/link-tracker?redirectUrl=aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZnby51bmwuZWR1JTJGMjAyNHJvdW5kdGFibGU=&amp;sig=D8E42GSZMgLVANMghu8FYVC8j31abmsYXURPtup5LUMN&amp;iat=1706554441&amp;a=%7C%7C68108822%7C%7C&amp;account=unl233%2Eactivehosted%2Ecom&amp;email=rLuLRv1KOWnasChWuH3N1rdVfUzGfXEciyGi3is5urUN9mOoZoeA1Tg%3D%3AUJrL0nU3focQW4%2B104BPCtlt1zaomLjc&amp;s=073f67d35943f6c01a66f2eac84e284e&amp;i=582A675A50A11849" target="_blank">https://go.unl.edu/2024roundtable</a>by Friday, Feb. 9.For more information, contact Dr. Jessica Sperber, Beef Feedlot Extension Specialist; email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jsperber2@unl.edu" target="_blank">jsperber2@unl.edu</a>.

University of Nebraska—Lincoln’s beef program will be presenting the latest feedlot-related research findings in meetings across Nebraska in February.Anyone interested is welcome to attend the meetings Feb. 13, 14 and 15 in Bridgeport, Gothenburg and West Point, respectively."With precision technology and the tools we have available, we can offer producers more scientifically-supported, specific information than ever before," said Dr. Jessica Sperber, UNL Feedlot Extension specialist and organizer of the event.The roundtables will discuss new technologies in cattle feeding, a 2024 market outlook, severe weather responses, results of the 2022 National Beef Quality audit and hiring employees on visas. The information will be presented by UNL faculty, Nebraska beef producers, and speakers from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Nebraska Cattlemen affiliates."We heard from producers that some of their challenges are employee recruitment and retention, plus the perennial issues presented by regulation, the weather and markets," Sperber said. "That feedback shaped our planning for these events, so we’re talking about updates to implant labels, the use of a stress-relieving pheromone for cattle, and a feed supplement that claims to reduce ammonia gas emissions from cattle. On the employment front we’re hosting a feedlot producer panel, and including ag immigration attorneys who will talk about the process of recruiting and hiring through the visa process. The market update and new information about responding to severe weather will give producers tools to plan for the challenges of the coming year."The roundtables are from 12:30 to 5 pm. Cost is $30 paid online at registration or at the door.<ul>
 <li>Tuesday, Feb. 13 in Bridgeport at the Prairie Winds Community Center</li><li>Wednesday, Feb. 14 in Gothenburg at the Bayer Water Utilization Learning Center</li><li>Thursday, Feb. 15&nbsp;in West Point&nbsp; at the Nielsen Community Center</li>
 </ul>Please pre-register at&nbsp;<a href="https://unl233.lt.acemlnb.com/Prod/link-tracker?redirectUrl=aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZnby51bmwuZWR1JTJGMjAyNHJvdW5kdGFibGU=&amp;sig=D8E42GSZMgLVANMghu8FYVC8j31abmsYXURPtup5LUMN&amp;iat=1706554441&amp;a=%7C%7C68108822%7C%7C&amp;account=unl233%2Eactivehosted%2Ecom&amp;email=rLuLRv1KOWnasChWuH3N1rdVfUzGfXEciyGi3is5urUN9mOoZoeA1Tg%3D%3AUJrL0nU3focQW4%2B104BPCtlt1zaomLjc&amp;s=073f67d35943f6c01a66f2eac84e284e&amp;i=582A675A50A11849" target="_blank">https://go.unl.edu/2024roundtable</a>by Friday, Feb. 9.For more information, contact Dr. Jessica Sperber, Beef Feedlot Extension Specialist; email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jsperber2@unl.edu" target="_blank">jsperber2@unl.edu</a>.

2024 Beef Feedlot Roundtable Series meetings scheduled across Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after filing for re-election with Nebraska’s Secretary of State on Monday:

“Today, I made it official that I am seeking a third term in the United States Senate to continue serving the great people of Nebraska. Over the past year, we have worked hard to visit with Nebraskans in all 93 counties, secure County Campaign Chairs in each county, and earn the support of over 1,000 local, state, and federal leaders from across Nebraska. This milestone is a testament to the strong grassroots support for my campaign and our collective commitment to earn each and every vote.”

By Office of Senator Deb FischerLINCOLN, Neb. – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement after filing for re-election with Nebraska’s Secretary of State on Monday:“Today, I made it official that I am seeking a third term in the United States Senate to continue serving the great people of Nebraska. Over the past year, we have worked hard to visit with Nebraskans in all 93 counties, secure County Campaign Chairs in each county, and earn the support of over 1,000 local, state, and federal leaders from across Nebraska. This milestone is a testament to the strong grassroots support for my campaign and our collective commitment to earn each and every vote.”

 Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer Files for Re-Election

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR Chadron State College

CHADRON – Chadron State College senior Shasta Rosales has been named the Wyoming Education Association’s (WEA) Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year. She is a student teacher at Indian Paintbrush Elementary School in Laramie, Wyoming.

Rosales is one of 36 nominees invited to attend the 2024 National Education Association’s (NEA) ESP conference March 22-24, in Las Vegas, where one nominee will be presented with the NEA ESP of the Year Award. She will participate in workshops designed to help ESPs excel in their careers, champion racial and social justice, build community relationships, and positively impact student success.

Rosales, who has been a paraeducator for 12 years, will graduate in May with a K-12 Special Education bachelor’s degree. She is part of the CSC Para-to-Teacher program designed for working paraprofessionals.

“I decided at age 45 to go back to school through CSC,” she said. “What pulled me into the program, was a phone call to ask questions. I spoke to Dr. Hank McCallum and he answered all my questions, but more importantly, his passion and support for this program drew me in. I was accepted into the program in June of 2021. The experiences have shown me the impact that teachers can have on students' lives and have motivated me to pursue a career in teaching.”

She said the CSC program's focus on Special Education appealed to her.

“CSC offered a pathway that aligned with my professional experience, my passion for educational advocacy, and my mission to foster positive change within the educational system,” she said. “It provides the tools to address the unique needs of every student, ensuring they have access to high-quality education. This degree will enable me to make a more substantial difference in the lives of students with diverse learning requirements.”

The support she received from CSC faculty and staff while working and pursuing her coursework made a positive impression.

“They have been patient, and they understand paraeducators are educators and treat us as such. They have helped me become a better educator during my journey. Stefani Van Vleet, the Project Coordinator for Field Experiences, has been my support, inspiration, and cheerleader,” Rosales said. “The respect and guidance I received were individualized and I was treated as an educator.”

During 12 years as a paraeducator, Rosales became a member of the Wyoming Education Association and the National Education Association. She is working with the NEA to create micro-credentials for all ESPs to receive higher wages, receive PTSB credits, and gain a micro-credential badge.

“I wanted to be a voice for change for my district, my state, and the nation. I knew we deserved respect, higher wages, and professional development to help us have the same opportunities as certified staff,” Rosales said. “My, ‘why’ is to empower our roles and change the narrative for ESPs. I couldn’t do this without the support of the Wyoming Education Association and the National Education Association.”

Her classroom experiences have confirmed her goals and dreams of becoming a teacher.

“I knew I wanted to become a teacher when I stepped into a classroom. I feel all my experiences and connections have brought me a step closer to becoming a teacher. I wanted to grow as an educator to advocate better for my students and families. I feel that as a future teacher, I will go into this career with high ambitions and lofty goals,” she said.

She said one of the most interesting and challenging aspects of becoming a teacher is cultural competence or learning about, interacting with, and understanding people from a variety of backgrounds.

“It's not enough to just be aware of the issues, but as ESPs we need to be a proactive, powerful voice in our schools and our communities about issues like cultural inclusion,” she said.

By TENA L. COOK, MARKETING COORDINATOR Chadron State College<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706554579648.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College student and Wyoming Support Professional of the Year for 2024 Shasta Rosales of Laramie, Wyo. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College student and Wyoming Support Professional of the Year for 2024 Shasta Rosales of Laramie, Wyo. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Chadron State College senior Shasta Rosales has been named the Wyoming Education Association’s (WEA) Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year. She is a student teacher at Indian Paintbrush Elementary School in Laramie, Wyoming.Rosales is one of 36 nominees invited to attend the 2024 National Education Association’s (NEA) ESP conference March 22-24, in Las Vegas, where one nominee will be presented with the NEA ESP of the Year Award. She will participate in workshops designed to help ESPs excel in their careers, champion racial and social justice, build community relationships, and positively impact student success.Rosales, who has been a paraeducator for 12 years, will graduate in May with a K-12 Special Education bachelor’s degree. She is part of the CSC Para-to-Teacher program designed for working paraprofessionals.“I decided at age 45 to go back to school through CSC,” she said. “What pulled me into the program, was a phone call to ask questions. I spoke to Dr. Hank McCallum and he answered all my questions, but more importantly, his passion and support for this program drew me in. I was accepted into the program in June of 2021. The experiences have shown me the impact that teachers can have on students' lives and have motivated me to pursue a career in teaching.”She said the CSC program's focus on Special Education appealed to her.“CSC offered a pathway that aligned with my professional experience, my passion for educational advocacy, and my mission to foster positive change within the educational system,” she said. “It provides the tools to address the unique needs of every student, ensuring they have access to high-quality education. This degree will enable me to make a more substantial difference in the lives of students with diverse learning requirements.”The support she received from CSC faculty and staff while working and pursuing her coursework made a positive impression.“They have been patient, and they understand paraeducators are educators and treat us as such. They have helped me become a better educator during my journey. Stefani Van Vleet, the Project Coordinator for Field Experiences, has been my support, inspiration, and cheerleader,” Rosales said. “The respect and guidance I received were individualized and I was treated as an educator.”During 12 years as a paraeducator, Rosales became a member of the Wyoming Education Association and the National Education Association. She is working with the NEA to create micro-credentials for all ESPs to receive higher wages, receive PTSB credits, and gain a micro-credential badge.“I wanted to be a voice for change for my district, my state, and the nation. I knew we deserved respect, higher wages, and professional development to help us have the same opportunities as certified staff,” Rosales said. “My, ‘why’ is to empower our roles and change the narrative for ESPs. I couldn’t do this without the support of the Wyoming Education Association and the National Education Association.”Her classroom experiences have confirmed her goals and dreams of becoming a teacher.“I knew I wanted to become a teacher when I stepped into a classroom. I feel all my experiences and connections have brought me a step closer to becoming a teacher. I wanted to grow as an educator to advocate better for my students and families. I feel that as a future teacher, I will go into this career with high ambitions and lofty goals,” she said.She said one of the most interesting and challenging aspects of becoming a teacher is cultural competence or learning about, interacting with, and understanding people from a variety of backgrounds.“It's not enough to just be aware of the issues, but as ESPs we need to be a proactive, powerful voice in our schools and our communities about issues like cultural inclusion,” she said.

 CSC's Rosales earns Para-Professional of the Year from the Wyoming Education Association

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 1/29/24

POST PODCAST: Karen Benzel Shares Results Of Radiothon Fundraiser

(SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the Scotts Bluff County and Sioux County Sheriff’s Departments, have arrested one person after an incident this morning at the Sioux County Feedlot.

Just after 9:00 a.m. MT Friday, troopers were called to assist deputies in Sioux County after a man had threatened two others with a knife at the Sioux County Feedlot. The suspect was later located at a business in Morrill. Troopers and Scotts Bluff County deputies were able to take the suspect into custody without incident. He was found to be in possession of a knife.

Alden Hill, 49, of Morrill, was arrested for making terroristic threats, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, use of a weapon to commit a felony, sex offender registry violation, and other charges. He was lodged in Scotts Bluff County Jail.

Cody ThomasNebraska State Patrol(SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from the Scotts Bluff County and Sioux County Sheriff’s Departments, have arrested one person after an incident this morning at the Sioux County Feedlot.Just after 9:00 a.m. MT Friday, troopers were called to assist deputies in Sioux County after a man had threatened two others with a knife at the Sioux County Feedlot. The suspect was later located at a business in Morrill. Troopers and Scotts Bluff County deputies were able to take the suspect into custody without incident. He was found to be in possession of a knife.Alden Hill, 49, of Morrill, was arrested for making terroristic threats, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, use of a weapon to commit a felony, sex offender registry violation, and other charges. He was lodged in Scotts Bluff County Jail.

Man Arrested After Incident at Sioux County Feedlot

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) spoke on the Senate floor about his one-year anniversary in the Senate – and the three-year anniversary of Joe Biden as President.

“When I was Governor of the State of Nebraska, we spent eight years delivering excellence and making government work for the people,”&nbsp;Ricketts said. “We proved that government can work better and put taxpayers first. And we did it while respecting individual freedoms and limiting our spending, running government well and keeping people safe. Those are the things that I'm working on in the United States Senate.”

Ricketts spoke about the importance of fighting Biden’s overregulation and overspending.&nbsp;He also&nbsp;highlighted his work to make government work better with&nbsp;his&nbsp;Proven Nebraska Solutions&nbsp;agenda.&nbsp;Ricketts&nbsp;closed by outlining how&nbsp;President Biden’s policies are making Americans less safe.

“I think we have to ask ourselves:&nbsp;‘Are we better off today, versus three years ago?’&nbsp;The answer is no,”&nbsp;Ricketts closed.&nbsp;“I will continue to push back on this Biden Administration and the way they've driven inflation,&nbsp;to&nbsp;bring our&nbsp;Proven Nebraska&nbsp;Solutions to Washington D.C.&nbsp;and to fight to keep Americans safe,&nbsp;both here and abroad.”

Watch the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrrVEJaQ8HE" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

Senator Ricketts:&nbsp;“Yesterday marked the one-year anniversary of me joining the United States Senate.

“I wanted to take the opportunity to join this body because I believe America's best days lie ahead of us.&nbsp;And that we needn't look any further than&nbsp;states like mine to find the solutions to our nation's problems.

“I often say that Nebraska is what America is supposed to be. When I was Governor of the&nbsp;State of Nebraska, we spent eight years delivering excellence and making government work for the people.

“We proved that government can work better and put taxpayers first. And we did it while respecting individual freedoms&nbsp;and limiting our spending,&nbsp;running government well,&nbsp;and keeping people safe. Those are the things that I'm working on in the United States Senate.

“This year,&nbsp;my team and I got to work for the people of Nebraska by fighting against the Biden administration's overspending and overregulation. It is driving inflation and it's costing Americans money. Since Joe Biden has been sworn in as&nbsp;president, inflation&nbsp;broadly&nbsp;is up 17.2%. Groceries are up 20%. Rent is up 19%. Electricity is up 24%. Gas is up 34%. Your average American home is spending $11,434 more today to have the same standard of living as they did when Joe Biden was sworn in as president.&nbsp;Americans are hurt by Joe Biden's policies.

“We made government work better in Nebraska and I pledged to do the same thing here in D.C. My proven solutions&nbsp;from&nbsp;Nebraska work here in D.C.&nbsp;and&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;small steps to make things better here in Washington and put taxpayers first.

“The SNAP&nbsp;Next Step&nbsp;Act that I introduced here will help our families on SNAP get better jobs and get out of welfare. We've introduced bills to provide tax relief to our veterans and to our seniors,&nbsp;and we're fighting to allow consumers choice.&nbsp;For example, with my Flex Fuel Fairness Act. It would push back against the Biden administration's EV mandate and provide consumers choice&nbsp;with biofuels&nbsp;that we know will save them money at the pump, help clean up our environment,&nbsp;and help make us less energy dependent.

“I'm also going to keep fighting to help keep Americans safe. Joe Biden's failed&nbsp;border policies have made every state a border state. Over the weekend, News Channel Nebraska reported on a man from Mexico who was sentenced to prison in Bellevue, Nebraska after being convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. This 43-year-old man was in the country illegally. He was arrested in a motel room with nearly $15,000 in cash and 11.5 pounds of methamphetamine.&nbsp;It turned out, he had been previously deported for drug charges.

“If drug trafficking doesn't scare you,&nbsp;the&nbsp;national&nbsp;security threat&nbsp;should. In years past,&nbsp;we'd have single-digit numbers of people crossing our&nbsp;southern border on the terrorist watch list. Last year,&nbsp;it was 169 people&nbsp;[that]&nbsp;crossed our&nbsp;southern border on the terrorist watch list.

“Over 8.8 million encounters along our&nbsp;southern border since Joe Biden has become president.&nbsp;That number of encounters with individuals on the terrorist watch list that used to be in single digits pales in comparison with the number of people coming here illegally. And that's why I'm working with my colleagues to pass legislation that would attack Biden's failed border policies head on.&nbsp;We're working to fix our broken&nbsp;asylum system, to build a wall,&nbsp;and to go after the drug cartels.&nbsp;We're fighting to reform the parole system the administration is abusing.

“If you look back on the average number of people who were paroled in this country during the Obama and Trump&nbsp;administrations,&nbsp;it was about 5,600 people a year. Last year, Joe Biden paroled into this country 1.2 million people trying to come here illegally. Folks, that's about two-thirds of the population of the state of Nebraska.

“We've also got to stop the&nbsp;human trafficking that's going&nbsp;along on&nbsp;the southern border. Children&nbsp;are being recycled. They’re&nbsp;being brought across the border by adults who know it's easier to get in if they've got a child with them. Yet the Biden Administration stopped the DNA testing that would prove that these children belong to the parents.

“Customs and Border Protection&nbsp;personnel tell me that sometimes 30 to 50% of the kids they used to test did not belong to those adults. Inexplicably,&nbsp;the Biden Administration has stopped that,&nbsp;putting these kids at risk.

“President Biden's appeasement-first foreign policy has left us weakened in a dangerous world.&nbsp;Our disastrous pull out of Afghanistan emboldened dangerous dictators like Putin in Russia, Xi in China, and Khomeini in Iran. Iran is the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism and yet this administration has given them over $50 billion in sanctions relief.

“As a result, Houthi rebels sponsored by Iran, funded by Iran,&nbsp;are shooting at our ships in the Red Sea, including our U.S.&nbsp;Navy. Hamas,&nbsp;also backed by Iran,&nbsp;has attacked one of our greatest allies,&nbsp;Israel.

“Biden's weakness has encouraged Putin to invade Ukraine. And the Chinese Communist&nbsp;Party has&nbsp;increased their aggression toward Taiwan. All of this must stop. This world is less safe because of Joe Biden's policy.

“I will continue to push back on Washington's overregulation and overspending, to&nbsp;introduce measures to make government work well,&nbsp;and to keep people safe.

“I think we have to ask ourselves:&nbsp;‘Are we better off today, versus three years ago?’&nbsp;The answer is no.

“I will continue to push back on this Biden Administration and the way they've driven inflation,&nbsp;to&nbsp;bring our&nbsp;Proven Nebraska&nbsp;Solutions to Washington D.C.&nbsp;and to fight to keep Americans safe,&nbsp;both here and abroad.”

“Thank you Madam President, I yield the floor.”

By Office of Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) spoke on the Senate floor about his one-year anniversary in the Senate – and the three-year anniversary of Joe Biden as President.“When I was Governor of the State of Nebraska, we spent eight years delivering excellence and making government work for the people,”&nbsp;Ricketts said. “We proved that government can work better and put taxpayers first. And we did it while respecting individual freedoms and limiting our spending, running government well and keeping people safe. Those are the things that I'm working on in the United States Senate.”Ricketts spoke about the importance of fighting Biden’s overregulation and overspending.&nbsp;He also&nbsp;highlighted his work to make government work better with&nbsp;his&nbsp;Proven Nebraska Solutions&nbsp;agenda.&nbsp;Ricketts&nbsp;closed by outlining how&nbsp;President Biden’s policies are making Americans less safe.“I think we have to ask ourselves:&nbsp;‘Are we better off today, versus three years ago?’&nbsp;The answer is no,”&nbsp;Ricketts closed.&nbsp;“I will continue to push back on this Biden Administration and the way they've driven inflation,&nbsp;to&nbsp;bring our&nbsp;Proven Nebraska&nbsp;Solutions to Washington D.C.&nbsp;and to fight to keep Americans safe,&nbsp;both here and abroad.”Watch the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrrVEJaQ8HE" target="_blank">HERE</a>.TRANSCRIPT:Senator Ricketts:&nbsp;“Yesterday marked the one-year anniversary of me joining the United States Senate.“I wanted to take the opportunity to join this body because I believe America's best days lie ahead of us.&nbsp;And that we needn't look any further than&nbsp;states like mine to find the solutions to our nation's problems.“I often say that Nebraska is what America is supposed to be. When I was Governor of the&nbsp;State of Nebraska, we spent eight years delivering excellence and making government work for the people.“We proved that government can work better and put taxpayers first. And we did it while respecting individual freedoms&nbsp;and limiting our spending,&nbsp;running government well,&nbsp;and keeping people safe. Those are the things that I'm working on in the United States Senate.“This year,&nbsp;my team and I got to work for the people of Nebraska by fighting against the Biden administration's overspending and overregulation. It is driving inflation and it's costing Americans money. Since Joe Biden has been sworn in as&nbsp;president, inflation&nbsp;broadly&nbsp;is up 17.2%. Groceries are up 20%. Rent is up 19%. Electricity is up 24%. Gas is up 34%. Your average American home is spending $11,434 more today to have the same standard of living as they did when Joe Biden was sworn in as president.&nbsp;Americans are hurt by Joe Biden's policies.“We made government work better in Nebraska and I pledged to do the same thing here in D.C. My proven solutions&nbsp;from&nbsp;Nebraska work here in D.C.&nbsp;and&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;small steps to make things better here in Washington and put taxpayers first.“The SNAP&nbsp;Next Step&nbsp;Act that I introduced here will help our families on SNAP get better jobs and get out of welfare. We've introduced bills to provide tax relief to our veterans and to our seniors,&nbsp;and we're fighting to allow consumers choice.&nbsp;For example, with my Flex Fuel Fairness Act. It would push back against the Biden administration's EV mandate and provide consumers choice&nbsp;with biofuels&nbsp;that we know will save them money at the pump, help clean up our environment,&nbsp;and help make us less energy dependent.“I'm also going to keep fighting to help keep Americans safe. Joe Biden's failed&nbsp;border policies have made every state a border state. Over the weekend, News Channel Nebraska reported on a man from Mexico who was sentenced to prison in Bellevue, Nebraska after being convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. This 43-year-old man was in the country illegally. He was arrested in a motel room with nearly $15,000 in cash and 11.5 pounds of methamphetamine.&nbsp;It turned out, he had been previously deported for drug charges.“If drug trafficking doesn't scare you,&nbsp;the&nbsp;national&nbsp;security threat&nbsp;should. In years past,&nbsp;we'd have single-digit numbers of people crossing our&nbsp;southern border on the terrorist watch list. Last year,&nbsp;it was 169 people&nbsp;[that]&nbsp;crossed our&nbsp;southern border on the terrorist watch list.“Over 8.8 million encounters along our&nbsp;southern border since Joe Biden has become president.&nbsp;That number of encounters with individuals on the terrorist watch list that used to be in single digits pales in comparison with the number of people coming here illegally. And that's why I'm working with my colleagues to pass legislation that would attack Biden's failed border policies head on.&nbsp;We're working to fix our broken&nbsp;asylum system, to build a wall,&nbsp;and to go after the drug cartels.&nbsp;We're fighting to reform the parole system the administration is abusing.“If you look back on the average number of people who were paroled in this country during the Obama and Trump&nbsp;administrations,&nbsp;it was about 5,600 people a year. Last year, Joe Biden paroled into this country 1.2 million people trying to come here illegally. Folks, that's about two-thirds of the population of the state of Nebraska.“We've also got to stop the&nbsp;human trafficking that's going&nbsp;along on&nbsp;the southern border. Children&nbsp;are being recycled. They’re&nbsp;being brought across the border by adults who know it's easier to get in if they've got a child with them. Yet the Biden Administration stopped the DNA testing that would prove that these children belong to the parents.“Customs and Border Protection&nbsp;personnel tell me that sometimes 30 to 50% of the kids they used to test did not belong to those adults. Inexplicably,&nbsp;the Biden Administration has stopped that,&nbsp;putting these kids at risk.“President Biden's appeasement-first foreign policy has left us weakened in a dangerous world.&nbsp;Our disastrous pull out of Afghanistan emboldened dangerous dictators like Putin in Russia, Xi in China, and Khomeini in Iran. Iran is the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism and yet this administration has given them over $50 billion in sanctions relief.“As a result, Houthi rebels sponsored by Iran, funded by Iran,&nbsp;are shooting at our ships in the Red Sea, including our U.S.&nbsp;Navy. Hamas,&nbsp;also backed by Iran,&nbsp;has attacked one of our greatest allies,&nbsp;Israel.“Biden's weakness has encouraged Putin to invade Ukraine. And the Chinese Communist&nbsp;Party has&nbsp;increased their aggression toward Taiwan. All of this must stop. This world is less safe because of Joe Biden's policy.“I will continue to push back on Washington's overregulation and overspending, to&nbsp;introduce measures to make government work well,&nbsp;and to keep people safe.“I think we have to ask ourselves:&nbsp;‘Are we better off today, versus three years ago?’&nbsp;The answer is no.“I will continue to push back on this Biden Administration and the way they've driven inflation,&nbsp;to&nbsp;bring our&nbsp;Proven Nebraska&nbsp;Solutions to Washington D.C.&nbsp;and to fight to keep Americans safe,&nbsp;both here and abroad.”“Thank you Madam President, I yield the floor.”

Ricketts Reflects on One Year in U.S. Senate, Three Years of Joe Biden

By Western Nebraska Community College

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (Jan. 25, 2024) -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College is preparing for a renovation and expansion of the John N. Harms Center on the Scottsbluff Campus that will revamp and provide new spaces for WNCC Health Sciences programs.

The project consists of 34,421 square feet of renovated space split between the lower level and main floor within the existing John N. Harms Center, and will provide&nbsp;expansion and improvements for programs including nursing, emergency medical services, health information technology, medical laboratory technology, and surgical technology.

The project will largely be funded with money WNCC received from the&nbsp;federal&nbsp;American Rescue Plan Act totaling approximately $9 million.

“The demand for more nurses and healthcare professionals is nothing new to western Nebraska,” said WNCC President Greg Dart. “Having a state-of-the-art facility is important as we train the next generation of healthcare providers. This renovation will increase our ability to train more students and do it in an elevated learning experience.”

The remodeled spaces will allow for programs to be held in one cohesive area, rather than classrooms scattered throughout the building. In addition, the project will create additional classrooms and office spaces in areas that are currently underutilized.

"The renovation of the Harms Center is a very exciting time for our health science programs," said Allisha Weeden Weitzel, dean of Health Sciences.&nbsp;"Having the students in one area will allow us to modernize student learning, provide more interactive teaching opportunities with our nursing simulators, and increase collaboration between programs. The new facilities will help us to better prepare students to work in today’s healthcare environment."

Beckenhauer Construction was selected by the WCCA Board of Governors as the Construction Manager at Risk for the project. WNCC, Beckenhauer, and architectural designer Wilkins ADP have already begun the design phase of the project with substantial completion planned for January 2025.

By Western Nebraska Community CollegeSCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (Jan. 25, 2024) -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College is preparing for a renovation and expansion of the John N. Harms Center on the Scottsbluff Campus that will revamp and provide new spaces for WNCC Health Sciences programs.The project consists of 34,421 square feet of renovated space split between the lower level and main floor within the existing John N. Harms Center, and will provide&nbsp;expansion and improvements for programs including nursing, emergency medical services, health information technology, medical laboratory technology, and surgical technology.The project will largely be funded with money WNCC received from the&nbsp;federal&nbsp;American Rescue Plan Act totaling approximately $9 million.“The demand for more nurses and healthcare professionals is nothing new to western Nebraska,” said WNCC President Greg Dart. “Having a state-of-the-art facility is important as we train the next generation of healthcare providers. This renovation will increase our ability to train more students and do it in an elevated learning experience.”The remodeled spaces will allow for programs to be held in one cohesive area, rather than classrooms scattered throughout the building. In addition, the project will create additional classrooms and office spaces in areas that are currently underutilized."The renovation of the Harms Center is a very exciting time for our health science programs," said Allisha Weeden Weitzel, dean of Health Sciences.&nbsp;"Having the students in one area will allow us to modernize student learning, provide more interactive teaching opportunities with our nursing simulators, and increase collaboration between programs. The new facilities will help us to better prepare students to work in today’s healthcare environment."Beckenhauer Construction was selected by the WCCA Board of Governors as the Construction Manager at Risk for the project. WNCC, Beckenhauer, and architectural designer Wilkins ADP have already begun the design phase of the project with substantial completion planned for January 2025.

WNCC to expand John N. Harms Center by 2025

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 1/26/24

On Friday's Episode of the Post Podcast, Nate Lanik, School Counselor at Alliance High School discusses the APS Foundation scholarship applications that are now available to students.

Listen to the full interview with KCOW News/Sports Director Alex Benzegala below.

On Friday's Episode of the Post Podcast, Nate Lanik, School Counselor at Alliance High School discusses the APS Foundation scholarship applications that are now available to students.Listen to the full interview with KCOW News/Sports Director Alex Benzegala below.<div><iframe title="APS School Counselor Nate Lanik discusses APS Foundation Scholarships" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=k6prg-15614ba-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

POST PODCAST: School Counselor Nate Lanik discusses APS Foundation scholarship applications

&nbsp;To&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;water&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;safety,&nbsp;Nebraska’s&nbsp;Natural&nbsp;Resources Districts (NRDs) and other sponsors continue a strong partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) on several dam assessments across the state.

&nbsp;2023,&nbsp;18&nbsp;floodwater&nbsp;reduction&nbsp;dam&nbsp;assessments&nbsp;were&nbsp;completed&nbsp;with&nbsp;seven&nbsp;NRDs&nbsp;–&nbsp;Lower Big Blue, Lower Elkhorn, Lower Platte South, Nemaha, North Platte, Papio-Missouri River, and Upper Niobrara White. The cities of Bayard, Plattsmouth, Gordon, and the Pathfinder and Farmers Irrigation Districts were also joint local partners.

Dam assessments are detailed inspections that analyze the current hazard classification, determine if the dam meets current design standards and evaluate if any deficiencies are present. In some cases, corrective actions may be listed to address deficiencies or to meet design&nbsp;standards.&nbsp;Dam&nbsp;assessments&nbsp;are&nbsp;funded&nbsp;under&nbsp;the&nbsp;NRCS&nbsp;Watershed&nbsp;Rehabilitation Program, which was authorized in 1981.

“NRCS is pleased to provide technical and financial assistance to partners like NRDs, communities and others for addressing dam safety,” said Nebraska State Conservationist Rob Lawson. “Our&nbsp;purpose&nbsp;is&nbsp;to&nbsp;help&nbsp;local&nbsp;sponsors&nbsp;identify&nbsp;any&nbsp;needed&nbsp;improvements&nbsp;to&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;long-term structural integrity.”

NRCS’s first focus is to complete assessments on dams that provide flood protection upstream of&nbsp;towns&nbsp;and&nbsp;cities.&nbsp;Because&nbsp;of&nbsp;their&nbsp;location,&nbsp;these&nbsp;structures&nbsp;are&nbsp;classified as&nbsp;“high&nbsp;hazard”&nbsp;by the state of Nebraska and thus receive top priority for review.

“Local sponsors&nbsp;have done a&nbsp;great job operating&nbsp;and&nbsp;maintaining&nbsp;dams over&nbsp;the&nbsp;years; however, repairs&nbsp;or&nbsp;alterations&nbsp;may&nbsp;be&nbsp;needed&nbsp;as&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;ages,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;NRCS&nbsp;Dam&nbsp;Safety&nbsp;Engineer Bob Sullivan. “Many of these structures were built 40 to 60 years ago.”

On&nbsp;behalf&nbsp;of&nbsp;participating&nbsp;NRDs,&nbsp;the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Association&nbsp;of&nbsp;Resources&nbsp;Districts&nbsp;(NARD) coordinates the dam assessments with NRCS and contracted with local engineering firms including JEO Consulting Group and Houston Engineering.

“We appreciate the excellent work of the NARD to coordinate these assessments with NRDs,” Lawson said. “This is a great example of federal, state, and local entities working together to accomplish mutual goals.”

“Completing&nbsp;these assessments&nbsp;is the&nbsp;first&nbsp;step in&nbsp;securing&nbsp;additional&nbsp;federal funding&nbsp;to&nbsp;help address&nbsp;any&nbsp;dam&nbsp;deficiencies&nbsp;that&nbsp;may&nbsp;be&nbsp;found,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;NARD&nbsp;President&nbsp;Dr. Orval Gigstad. “This&nbsp;program&nbsp;is vital in&nbsp;helping NRDs protect&nbsp;the&nbsp;lives, property, and&nbsp;future of Nebraskans.”

This&nbsp;partnership&nbsp;began in 2022&nbsp;when&nbsp;nine&nbsp;dam&nbsp;assessments&nbsp;were completed&nbsp;across&nbsp;Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706212755462.jpeg" alt="Front row from left, Rob Lawson, USDA NRCS State Conservationist; David Potter, Lower Platte South NRD Assistant Manager; Tom Green, Lower Platte South NRD Director; J. Scott Sobotka, Lower Big Blue NRD General Manager; John Winkler, Papio-Missouri River NRD General Manager. Middle row from left, Mark Hall, Lower Elkhorn NRD Director; Kyle Hauschild, Nemaha NRD General Manager; Steve Sandberg, Upper Niobrara White NRD Director; Larry Barta and Steve Kelley, Lower Big Blue NRD Directors. Back row from left, Curt Becker, Lower Elkhorn NRD Assistant Manager; Dr. Orval Gigstad, NARD President and Nemaha NRD Director; Pat O’Brien, Upper Niobrara White NRD General Manager; Ryan Reuter, North Platte NRD Director; and Travis Preston, North Platte NRD Assistant Manager" />
 <figcaption>Front row from left, Rob Lawson, USDA NRCS State Conservationist; David Potter, Lower Platte South NRD Assistant Manager; Tom Green, Lower Platte South NRD Director; J. Scott Sobotka, Lower Big Blue NRD General Manager; John Winkler, Papio-Missouri River NRD General Manager. Middle row from left, Mark Hall, Lower Elkhorn NRD Director; Kyle Hauschild, Nemaha NRD General Manager; Steve Sandberg, Upper Niobrara White NRD Director; Larry Barta and Steve Kelley, Lower Big Blue NRD Directors. Back row from left, Curt Becker, Lower Elkhorn NRD Assistant Manager; Dr. Orval Gigstad, NARD President and Nemaha NRD Director; Pat O’Brien, Upper Niobrara White NRD General Manager; Ryan Reuter, North Platte NRD Director; and Travis Preston, North Platte NRD Assistant Manager</figcaption>
 </figure>Megan GrimesNebraska Natural Resources District&nbsp;To&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;water&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;safety,&nbsp;Nebraska’s&nbsp;Natural&nbsp;Resources Districts (NRDs) and other sponsors continue a strong partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) on several dam assessments across the state.&nbsp;2023,&nbsp;18&nbsp;floodwater&nbsp;reduction&nbsp;dam&nbsp;assessments&nbsp;were&nbsp;completed&nbsp;with&nbsp;seven&nbsp;NRDs&nbsp;–&nbsp;Lower Big Blue, Lower Elkhorn, Lower Platte South, Nemaha, North Platte, Papio-Missouri River, and Upper Niobrara White. The cities of Bayard, Plattsmouth, Gordon, and the Pathfinder and Farmers Irrigation Districts were also joint local partners.Dam assessments are detailed inspections that analyze the current hazard classification, determine if the dam meets current design standards and evaluate if any deficiencies are present. In some cases, corrective actions may be listed to address deficiencies or to meet design&nbsp;standards.&nbsp;Dam&nbsp;assessments&nbsp;are&nbsp;funded&nbsp;under&nbsp;the&nbsp;NRCS&nbsp;Watershed&nbsp;Rehabilitation Program, which was authorized in 1981.“NRCS is pleased to provide technical and financial assistance to partners like NRDs, communities and others for addressing dam safety,” said Nebraska State Conservationist Rob Lawson. “Our&nbsp;purpose&nbsp;is&nbsp;to&nbsp;help&nbsp;local&nbsp;sponsors&nbsp;identify&nbsp;any&nbsp;needed&nbsp;improvements&nbsp;to&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;long-term structural integrity.”NRCS’s first focus is to complete assessments on dams that provide flood protection upstream of&nbsp;towns&nbsp;and&nbsp;cities.&nbsp;Because&nbsp;of&nbsp;their&nbsp;location,&nbsp;these&nbsp;structures&nbsp;are&nbsp;classified as&nbsp;“high&nbsp;hazard”&nbsp;by the state of Nebraska and thus receive top priority for review.“Local sponsors&nbsp;have done a&nbsp;great job operating&nbsp;and&nbsp;maintaining&nbsp;dams over&nbsp;the&nbsp;years; however, repairs&nbsp;or&nbsp;alterations&nbsp;may&nbsp;be&nbsp;needed&nbsp;as&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;ages,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;NRCS&nbsp;Dam&nbsp;Safety&nbsp;Engineer Bob Sullivan. “Many of these structures were built 40 to 60 years ago.”On&nbsp;behalf&nbsp;of&nbsp;participating&nbsp;NRDs,&nbsp;the&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Association&nbsp;of&nbsp;Resources&nbsp;Districts&nbsp;(NARD) coordinates the dam assessments with NRCS and contracted with local engineering firms including JEO Consulting Group and Houston Engineering.“We appreciate the excellent work of the NARD to coordinate these assessments with NRDs,” Lawson said. “This is a great example of federal, state, and local entities working together to accomplish mutual goals.”“Completing&nbsp;these assessments&nbsp;is the&nbsp;first&nbsp;step in&nbsp;securing&nbsp;additional&nbsp;federal funding&nbsp;to&nbsp;help address&nbsp;any&nbsp;dam&nbsp;deficiencies&nbsp;that&nbsp;may&nbsp;be&nbsp;found,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;NARD&nbsp;President&nbsp;Dr. Orval Gigstad. “This&nbsp;program&nbsp;is vital in&nbsp;helping NRDs protect&nbsp;the&nbsp;lives, property, and&nbsp;future of Nebraskans.”This&nbsp;partnership&nbsp;began in 2022&nbsp;when&nbsp;nine&nbsp;dam&nbsp;assessments&nbsp;were completed&nbsp;across&nbsp;Nebraska.

NRCS and NRDs Continue Successful Partnership on Dam Assessments

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific's fourth-quarter profit crept up 1% as the railroad delivered more fertilizer, imported goods and vehicles.

The Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad said it earned $1.65 billion, or $2.71 per share, in the quarter. That's up slightly from $1.64 billion, or $2.67 per share, a year earlier.

The results topped the estimates of the analysts surveyed by FactSet Research that called for earnings of $2.60 per share as Union Pacific hauled 3% more shipments.

CEO Jim Vena said the railroad's key operating metrics improved in the fourth quarter with average freight car velocity jumping 14% to 217 daily miles per car, and the average maximum length of Union Pacific's trains increased 2% to 9,413 feet. The average speed of the railroad's trains also increased 5% to 24.9 mph.

“We enter 2024 with strong momentum, recognizing we have plenty of opportunity to improve. We’re excited to show our stakeholders what our great team can accomplish,” Vena said.

Union Pacific said it's unclear how much volume will grow because of the “muted” economic outlook this year and uncertainty about interest rates. The railroad also lost a contract to haul some imported goods and it expects weaker coal demand.

“It’s very difficult for us to, look forward and say, this is exactly the way the year is going to go. More important to me and the team is what’ve we done operationally,” Vena said.

The railroad's revenue slipped slightly to $6.16 billion as fuel surcharge revenue declined with lower diesel prices and the mix of shipments shifted to a less-profitable mix of cargo and revenue per car declined 3%. But Union Pacific's topped Wall Street's predictions for $6.05 billion. revenue.

Union Pacific was able to keep its expenses flat during the quarter at $3.75 billion as it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-management-layoffs-d72058d3154289e26c732492748bd452">laid off</a>&nbsp;a couple hundred managers and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-track-maintenance-layoffs-railroad-safety-ac062bb01429a0176c298ae8ddfe3d98">more than 1,000</a>&nbsp;seasonal track maintenance workers as it delayed some capital projects at end of the year.

Edward Jones analyst Jeff Windau said Union Pacific had a good quarter of improving efficiency, which should continue under&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-ceo-jim-vena-06b2fbdf515e7f5aa8d82c0b2cafbc88">Vena</a>&nbsp;who was brought in last summer after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-earnings-ceo-jim-vena-6e9cefb37dacede8874dac62061e9850">hedge fund pressured</a>&nbsp;the railroad to improve its bottom line performance. Vena is known for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-ceo-jim-vena-railroad-23365ccd844a91a7ba9d0cfd6b36fe0b">lean operating model</a>&nbsp;he favors that has become the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-aab7d3084a8d17d8d721d2cb750be323">industry standard</a>&nbsp;in recent years.

“With Jim Vena being in charge now, we’re looking for continued momentum in efficiencies for the railroad,” Windau said.

The railroad said it plans to invest $3.4 billion in improvements to its network and equipment this year — down from $3.7 billion last year, but investors may be disappointed that Union Pacific doesn't plan any share repurchases during the first quarter.

Union Pacific is one of the nation’s largest railroads and operates more than 30,000 miles of track in 23 western states.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific's fourth-quarter profit crept up 1% as the railroad delivered more fertilizer, imported goods and vehicles.The Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad said it earned $1.65 billion, or $2.71 per share, in the quarter. That's up slightly from $1.64 billion, or $2.67 per share, a year earlier.The results topped the estimates of the analysts surveyed by FactSet Research that called for earnings of $2.60 per share as Union Pacific hauled 3% more shipments.CEO Jim Vena said the railroad's key operating metrics improved in the fourth quarter with average freight car velocity jumping 14% to 217 daily miles per car, and the average maximum length of Union Pacific's trains increased 2% to 9,413 feet. The average speed of the railroad's trains also increased 5% to 24.9 mph.“We enter 2024 with strong momentum, recognizing we have plenty of opportunity to improve. We’re excited to show our stakeholders what our great team can accomplish,” Vena said.Union Pacific said it's unclear how much volume will grow because of the “muted” economic outlook this year and uncertainty about interest rates. The railroad also lost a contract to haul some imported goods and it expects weaker coal demand.“It’s very difficult for us to, look forward and say, this is exactly the way the year is going to go. More important to me and the team is what’ve we done operationally,” Vena said.The railroad's revenue slipped slightly to $6.16 billion as fuel surcharge revenue declined with lower diesel prices and the mix of shipments shifted to a less-profitable mix of cargo and revenue per car declined 3%. But Union Pacific's topped Wall Street's predictions for $6.05 billion. revenue.Union Pacific was able to keep its expenses flat during the quarter at $3.75 billion as it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-management-layoffs-d72058d3154289e26c732492748bd452">laid off</a>&nbsp;a couple hundred managers and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-track-maintenance-layoffs-railroad-safety-ac062bb01429a0176c298ae8ddfe3d98">more than 1,000</a>&nbsp;seasonal track maintenance workers as it delayed some capital projects at end of the year.Edward Jones analyst Jeff Windau said Union Pacific had a good quarter of improving efficiency, which should continue under&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-ceo-jim-vena-06b2fbdf515e7f5aa8d82c0b2cafbc88">Vena</a>&nbsp;who was brought in last summer after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-earnings-ceo-jim-vena-6e9cefb37dacede8874dac62061e9850">hedge fund pressured</a>&nbsp;the railroad to improve its bottom line performance. Vena is known for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-ceo-jim-vena-railroad-23365ccd844a91a7ba9d0cfd6b36fe0b">lean operating model</a>&nbsp;he favors that has become the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-aab7d3084a8d17d8d721d2cb750be323">industry standard</a>&nbsp;in recent years.“With Jim Vena being in charge now, we’re looking for continued momentum in efficiencies for the railroad,” Windau said.The railroad said it plans to invest $3.4 billion in improvements to its network and equipment this year — down from $3.7 billion last year, but investors may be disappointed that Union Pacific doesn't plan any share repurchases during the first quarter.Union Pacific is one of the nation’s largest railroads and operates more than 30,000 miles of track in 23 western states.

Union Pacific profit up 1% as the railroad delivers more fertilizer, imported goods and vehicles

The Pharmacy Podcast Network (PPN) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2023, 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy. The 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy program was launched in 2021 by the PPN as a way to draw attention to industry professionals whose thoughts, actions, accomplishments and leadership have helped solve clinical, customer service and financial problems.

Unlike other awards program that focus on a particular aspect of pharmacy the Pharmacy 50 is designed to identify and honor people in all aspects of the industry

Press Release by Dave's PharmacyThe Pharmacy Podcast Network (PPN) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2023, 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy. The 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy program was launched in 2021 by the PPN as a way to draw attention to industry professionals whose thoughts, actions, accomplishments and leadership have helped solve clinical, customer service and financial problems.Unlike other awards program that focus on a particular aspect of pharmacy the Pharmacy 50 is designed to identify and honor people in all aspects of the industryDarren Thieding, Chief Operating Officer at Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) commented: “The excellence demonstrated by the winners of the Pharmacy 50 awards should give everyone confidence that pharmacy is poised to succeed in 2024 and beyond. With such great operators, healthcare professionals, and innovators at the helm we can work collectively towards tackling and overcoming the challenge of moving the industry forward. IPC is proud to be a partner in recognizing the excellent work done by these award winners. ”Randolph came in at number 23 on the list for the pharmacy excellence he brings to Western Nebraska. The Pharmacy Podcast Network noted that as an independent pharmacy owner in rural Western Nebraska, David strives to provide advanced services with excellent patient care. He also endeavors to further the pharmacy profession through education, advocacy, mentoring, and action. In his free time, you can catch him doing fun educational content on tiktok. For these reasons, and more, David made the list coming in at number 23!