Alex Benzegala, News/Sports Director at Panhandle Post, discusses broadcast career, broadcasting at his hometown radio station as a 14-year-old, college career and journey to KCOW. Listen to the interview with Jason Wentworth and Kalin Krohe above.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Meet Alex Benzegala, News and Sports Director" 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=v7y7q-1548f33-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>Alex Benzegala, News/Sports Director at Panhandle Post, discusses broadcast career, broadcasting at his hometown radio station as a 14-year-old, college career and journey to KCOW. Listen to the interview with Jason Wentworth and Kalin Krohe above.

POST PODCAST: Meet Alex Benzegala, News and Sports Director

Alliance, NE – Join Keep Alliance Beautiful and Alliance Public Library to create your Valentine Box on Monday, February 5th from 4-5:30 pm in the Community Room.

 Preschool through fifth grade with their families are invited to this free event. All boxes, recycled products and craft supplies will be provided for your Valentine masterpiece.

Please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at (308) 762-1387 for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704996248867.jpeg" alt="Valentine Boxes with Keep Alliance Beautiful!" />
 <figcaption>Valentine Boxes with Keep Alliance Beautiful!</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance, NE – Join Keep Alliance Beautiful and Alliance Public Library to create your Valentine Box on Monday, February 5th from 4-5:30 pm in the Community Room. Preschool through fifth grade with their families are invited to this free event. All boxes, recycled products and craft supplies will be provided for your Valentine masterpiece.Please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at (308) 762-1387 for more information.

 Make Valentine Boxes with Keep Alliance Beautiful and APL 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 1/11/24

Fair Recyclers By JOHN E. WEARE

Thirty years removed from when my pooch and I competed in obedience and two decades after sitting in the stands watching the steer ropers, 2023 brought me back to the Dawes County Fairgrounds on the north end of Chadron twice.

The fair seemed like an interesting mid-week option this past summer while in town. Bunnies were a highlight as both my children would show their rabbits soon at the Box Butte County Fair. Though a bit more compact than the layout at Hemingford, the grounds host numerous activities and events throughout any given year. Keep Chadron Beautiful is taking advantage of the location for its monthly community recycling events when the weather is (or could be) cold, wet, windy or just too cruddy. This month was the first to relocate from downtown. The 16th proved to be sunny, calm and mild so the KCB board and volunteers set up outside as usual filling one of our green Keep Alliance Beautiful trailers and two owned by Roger, and John and Theresa, respectively. If the weather would have acted like it could have just over a week before Christmas, sorting and loading would have been inside fed by a bundled up relay with bags in hand like the Jolly Old Elf himself.

I have no data for the weight of the recyclables conveyed from Chadron to KAB on this latest occasion. However, word is spreading as to how to prepare materials and when and where to take whatever will fit in everything from a few bags in a coupe to a load of appliance boxes and styrofoam in an enclosed trailer. Volume has certainly increased. Traffic in two lanes formed by a line of orange cones stayed constant this month. If anything, I assumed the switch away from the main drag would have dissuaded people on the fence.

Adding Chadron as a major spoke to our recycling center hub has helped boost volume to record numbers this year. Perhaps a little self-serving, but necessary to form a relationship, a caveat from KAB was everything must be sorted. We lack the staff and mechanization to handle tons of additional material otherwise. I offer a bit of advice while loading our trailer, but the volunteers are excellent at dividing and repackaging recyclables for transport – and sharing the lowdown with those they are unloading.

Initial public meetings bandied about other ideas. How about a single dropoff location where sorting would produce periodic loads to send south? Institutions in Chadron traveled to Alliance regularly. Send materials that way. Instead, the number of members on the KCB board swelled and the group invested in addressing public demand by being willing to “get their hands dirty” and recruit others to help.

Keep Chadron Beautiful, months ago, settled on the current format. Why does it serve their organization and residents so well? One word: fun. Snippets of conversation float in the air. This is a regular occasion to serve and be grateful for service rendered between friends, neighbors and new acquaintances. I like the atmosphere. There is a fresh scent of grass from the proverbial seed that has found fertile soil.

Fair Recyclers By JOHN E. WEAREThirty years removed from when my pooch and I competed in obedience and two decades after sitting in the stands watching the steer ropers, 2023 brought me back to the Dawes County Fairgrounds on the north end of Chadron twice.The fair seemed like an interesting mid-week option this past summer while in town. Bunnies were a highlight as both my children would show their rabbits soon at the Box Butte County Fair. Though a bit more compact than the layout at Hemingford, the grounds host numerous activities and events throughout any given year. Keep Chadron Beautiful is taking advantage of the location for its monthly community recycling events when the weather is (or could be) cold, wet, windy or just too cruddy. This month was the first to relocate from downtown. The 16th proved to be sunny, calm and mild so the KCB board and volunteers set up outside as usual filling one of our green Keep Alliance Beautiful trailers and two owned by Roger, and John and Theresa, respectively. If the weather would have acted like it could have just over a week before Christmas, sorting and loading would have been inside fed by a bundled up relay with bags in hand like the Jolly Old Elf himself.I have no data for the weight of the recyclables conveyed from Chadron to KAB on this latest occasion. However, word is spreading as to how to prepare materials and when and where to take whatever will fit in everything from a few bags in a coupe to a load of appliance boxes and styrofoam in an enclosed trailer. Volume has certainly increased. Traffic in two lanes formed by a line of orange cones stayed constant this month. If anything, I assumed the switch away from the main drag would have dissuaded people on the fence.Adding Chadron as a major spoke to our recycling center hub has helped boost volume to record numbers this year. Perhaps a little self-serving, but necessary to form a relationship, a caveat from KAB was everything must be sorted. We lack the staff and mechanization to handle tons of additional material otherwise. I offer a bit of advice while loading our trailer, but the volunteers are excellent at dividing and repackaging recyclables for transport – and sharing the lowdown with those they are unloading.Initial public meetings bandied about other ideas. How about a single dropoff location where sorting would produce periodic loads to send south? Institutions in Chadron traveled to Alliance regularly. Send materials that way. Instead, the number of members on the KCB board swelled and the group invested in addressing public demand by being willing to “get their hands dirty” and recruit others to help.Keep Chadron Beautiful, months ago, settled on the current format. Why does it serve their organization and residents so well? One word: fun. Snippets of conversation float in the air. This is a regular occasion to serve and be grateful for service rendered between friends, neighbors and new acquaintances. I like the atmosphere. There is a fresh scent of grass from the proverbial seed that has found fertile soil.

Keep Alliance Beautiful: Fair Recyclers

GNMSS-Hemingford clinic closed today (Thursday) due to weather

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

An Alliance woman pled not guilty on Wednesday on charges from an incident in November where she allegedly held her child hostage in a standoff with authorities. 

34-year-old Yadira L. Garza  was in Box Butte County Court on Wednesday, facing her arraignment on several charges, including use of a Firearm to Commit a Felony, a Class 1C Felony, Terroristic threats, a Class 1C felony, and Obstruction of Government Operations, a Class 1 misdemeanor. The original incident occurred on Nov. 2 when Alliance police responded to a welfare check, where allegedly Garza showed a firearm to officers.

A shelter-in-place was issued, and a standoff ensued before Garza surrendered peacefully to authorities shortly before midnight.&nbsp;

&nbsp;On Wednesday, Garza's defense counsel requested a bond reduction, as the Court ultimately decided to set her bond at $250,000, 10% requested.&nbsp;

A status hearing was set for March 13. at 1 p.m.

District Judge Travis O'Gorman is expected to sign the journal entry in the case on Thursday.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAn Alliance woman pled not guilty on Wednesday on charges from an incident in November where she allegedly held her child hostage in a standoff with authorities. 34-year-old Yadira L. Garza was in Box Butte County Court on Wednesday, facing her arraignment on several charges, including use of a Firearm to Commit a Felony, a Class 1C Felony, Terroristic threats, a Class 1C felony, and Obstruction of Government Operations, a Class 1 misdemeanor. The original incident occurred on Nov. 2 when Alliance police responded to a welfare check, where allegedly Garza showed a firearm to officers.A shelter-in-place was issued, and a standoff ensued before Garza surrendered peacefully to authorities shortly before midnight.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Wednesday, Garza's defense counsel requested a bond reduction, as the Court ultimately decided to set her bond at $250,000, 10% requested.&nbsp;A status hearing was set for March 13. at 1 p.m.District Judge Travis O'Gorman is expected to sign the journal entry in the case on Thursday.

Garza pleads not guilty in November Alliance hostage case

By Cody Thomas Nebraska State Patrol

JANUARY 10, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol responded to over 350 weather-related incidents during this week’s strong winter storm. 

From the start of the storm on Monday morning through Tuesday evening, troopers performed 310 motorist assists, responded to 37 crashes, and assisted other agencies with 23 incidents. 

“This storm impacted a large portion of the state with heavy snowfall, blizzard conditions, and ice-covered roadways,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. 

“While our troopers were busy responding to slide-offs, stranded motorists, and crashes, we’d also like to thank NDOT and local plow crews for their work to make roadways safe for travel.”

Additional snow is possible in portions of the state today and another winter storm is expected later this week. Temperatures will also drop significantly over the next several days with dangerous wind chills expected for nearly all of the state. 

“As this next storm arrives, it’s important to keep the safe winter-driving mindset and also be prepared for frigid conditions,” said Colonel Bolduc. “If you become stranded, stay in your

vehicle and call for help. Do not risk exposure to the extreme cold by leaving your vehicle. Call the NSP Highway Helpline and our dispatchers will get help to you as soon as possible.”

Travelers are urged to stay updated on weather forecasts and always check 511.Nebraska.gov for current road conditions throughout the state. Any motorist in need of assistance can call *55 or 800-525-5555 for the NSP Highway Helpline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704919517981.jpeg" alt="Photo by Nebraska State Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Nebraska State Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>By Cody Thomas Nebraska State PatrolJANUARY 10, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.) — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol responded to over 350 weather-related incidents during this week’s strong winter storm. From the start of the storm on Monday morning through Tuesday evening, troopers performed 310 motorist assists, responded to 37 crashes, and assisted other agencies with 23 incidents. “This storm impacted a large portion of the state with heavy snowfall, blizzard conditions, and ice-covered roadways,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “While our troopers were busy responding to slide-offs, stranded motorists, and crashes, we’d also like to thank NDOT and local plow crews for their work to make roadways safe for travel.”Additional snow is possible in portions of the state today and another winter storm is expected later this week. Temperatures will also drop significantly over the next several days with dangerous wind chills expected for nearly all of the state. “As this next storm arrives, it’s important to keep the safe winter-driving mindset and also be prepared for frigid conditions,” said Colonel Bolduc. “If you become stranded, stay in yourvehicle and call for help. Do not risk exposure to the extreme cold by leaving your vehicle. Call the NSP Highway Helpline and our dispatchers will get help to you as soon as possible.”Travelers are urged to stay updated on weather forecasts and always check 511.Nebraska.gov for current road conditions throughout the state. Any motorist in need of assistance can call *55 or 800-525-5555 for the NSP Highway Helpline.

NSP Makes Over 350 Weather-Related Responses, Urge  Preparedness for Next Round of Severe Winter Weather

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post&nbsp;

By Chabella Guzman, communications specialist Panhandle Research,&nbsp; Extension &amp; Education&nbsp; Center

Livestock producers know winter can be a challenge for their cowherds, and Karla Wilke, Nebraska Extension cow-calf/stocker specialist, reminds them not to forget about their bulls in their winter management plans.&nbsp;

“Bulls are one of our bigger investments in the cow herd, and 90 percent of the cows are still impregnated through natural service with a bull rather than artificial insemination,” Wilke said. “So, they also require year-round maintenance.”&nbsp;

While most cows are in larger groups, bulls tend to be in small groups,&nbsp;resulting in more exposure to the elements. Keeping them protected from the elements is crucial. A bull’s testicles can get frostbite, which could decrease semen production and quality, making it hard to pass their breeding soundness exams. Wilke suggests windbreaks and some bedding of poorer quality feed bales or corn stalk residue bales to protect and maintain the bull. Winter weather can also create scenarios where bulls can be injured, such as on ice. If it doesn’t recover by the breeding season, it can create a loss, having to be sold or culled in the spring.&nbsp;

Winter is not the only season a bull can be at risk. Especially for young bulls, where they can lose weight with low-quality forages in drought. A young bull can lose one to two points on a body condition score of one to nine during the breeding season. Maintaining a body condition score of five to six in winter will result in higher quality semen than when bulls have a body condition score of four.&nbsp;

A livestock producer will also need more bulls for the breeding season if all their bulls are young. “A young bull, who is typically 12-16 months old, can breed 10-15 cows. A mature bull of 30 months or more can breed 25-30,” Wilke said. When mixing young and older bulls, keep an eye on the older bull. Older, larger bulls can injure younger bulls when fighting for dominance.&nbsp;

“It’s really important to have yearly breeding soundness exams done on all bulls,” she said. When a bull breeder sells a new yearling, that bull will have had to pass to go through sale. Producers will want to make sure older bulls continue to get soundness exams. A dominant bull who cannot pass a breeding soundness exam and prevents younger bulls from having access to the cows can result in cows that do not get bred or get bred late in the breeding season. It takes a bull two months to produce semen. Again, younger bulls are still growing and will sometimes fall apart in the winter if their nutritional needs are not met.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704919147397.jpeg" alt=" A bull takes in the western Nebraska snowy landscape. Photo by Hannah Smith " />
 <figcaption> A bull takes in the western Nebraska snowy landscape. Photo by Hannah Smith </figcaption>
 </figure>By Chabella Guzman, communications specialist Panhandle Research,&nbsp; Extension &amp; Education&nbsp; CenterLivestock producers know winter can be a challenge for their cowherds, and Karla Wilke, Nebraska Extension cow-calf/stocker specialist, reminds them not to forget about their bulls in their winter management plans.&nbsp;“Bulls are one of our bigger investments in the cow herd, and 90 percent of the cows are still impregnated through natural service with a bull rather than artificial insemination,” Wilke said. “So, they also require year-round maintenance.”&nbsp;While most cows are in larger groups, bulls tend to be in small groups,&nbsp;resulting in more exposure to the elements. Keeping them protected from the elements is crucial. A bull’s testicles can get frostbite, which could decrease semen production and quality, making it hard to pass their breeding soundness exams. Wilke suggests windbreaks and some bedding of poorer quality feed bales or corn stalk residue bales to protect and maintain the bull. Winter weather can also create scenarios where bulls can be injured, such as on ice. If it doesn’t recover by the breeding season, it can create a loss, having to be sold or culled in the spring.&nbsp;Winter is not the only season a bull can be at risk. Especially for young bulls, where they can lose weight with low-quality forages in drought. A young bull can lose one to two points on a body condition score of one to nine during the breeding season. Maintaining a body condition score of five to six in winter will result in higher quality semen than when bulls have a body condition score of four.&nbsp;A livestock producer will also need more bulls for the breeding season if all their bulls are young. “A young bull, who is typically 12-16 months old, can breed 10-15 cows. A mature bull of 30 months or more can breed 25-30,” Wilke said. When mixing young and older bulls, keep an eye on the older bull. Older, larger bulls can injure younger bulls when fighting for dominance.&nbsp;“It’s really important to have yearly breeding soundness exams done on all bulls,” she said. When a bull breeder sells a new yearling, that bull will have had to pass to go through sale. Producers will want to make sure older bulls continue to get soundness exams. A dominant bull who cannot pass a breeding soundness exam and prevents younger bulls from having access to the cows can result in cows that do not get bred or get bred late in the breeding season. It takes a bull two months to produce semen. Again, younger bulls are still growing and will sometimes fall apart in the winter if their nutritional needs are not met.&nbsp;

Winter weather challenges for bulls can affect breeding season

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 1/10/24

Lincoln, Neb. —An upcoming four-part extension workshop for women in agriculture will focus on emergency preparedness for rural families.

The program will be a four-part series, held at numerous locations across Nebraska and Indiana. The series will focus on farm and ranch emergency management, first aid, fire protection and hazardous materials. Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Central time on March 5, 7, 12 and 14.

The program is a collaboration between extension women in agriculture programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Purdue University.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, agricultural occupations have high rates of work-related injuries and deaths. While not all emergencies result in bodily injury or death, they also may cost rural families in other ways.

“Women play a critical role in ensuring the safety of their homes and rural communities,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program. “In many farm and ranch families, safety is an important topic, but it sometimes gets overlooked because it does not directly impact profitability.”

Each state’s workshop sites will be hosted by local extension personnel. Keynote speakers will be simulcast to each location, and each site will provide additional speakers and hands-on activities. Dinner will be included.

Groskopf said the program’s structure is intended to strengthen networks of women in rural areas, which can provide opportunities for building trust and sharing information. “Connections are so important to rural women,” she said. “We have seen the benefits that come from knowing your peers, having a place to share difficulties, and mitigate the isolation that so many of us in agriculture often feel.”

The workshops seek to help participants initiate preventative practices, set up a plan to deal with emergencies before they occur and be more comfortable reacting to emergency situations.

There is a registration fee of $50 per person before Feb. 20. The fee increases to $60 per person after Feb. 20. Participants should&nbsp; lan to attend each session. A virtual option is available for those unable to attend a workshop site, although in-person attendance is highly encouraged to better network with other attendees and interact with speakers. The virtual registration fee is $75 before Feb. 20 and $80 after Feb. 20. Registration may be completed on the Nebraska Women in Agriculture website, https://wia.unl.edu/prep.

This project was supported by a grant from NCRCRD through funding from USDA NIFA Award #2022-51150-38141.&nbsp; ​

Disaster Preparedness for Rural Families Nebraska Workshop Sites

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704900246798.jpeg" alt="Aftermath of a combine that caught on fire" />
 <figcaption>Aftermath of a combine that caught on fire</figcaption>
 </figure>Lincoln, Neb. —An upcoming four-part extension workshop for women in agriculture will focus on emergency preparedness for rural families.The program will be a four-part series, held at numerous locations across Nebraska and Indiana. The series will focus on farm and ranch emergency management, first aid, fire protection and hazardous materials. Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Central time on March 5, 7, 12 and 14.The program is a collaboration between extension women in agriculture programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Purdue University.According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, agricultural occupations have high rates of work-related injuries and deaths. While not all emergencies result in bodily injury or death, they also may cost rural families in other ways.“Women play a critical role in ensuring the safety of their homes and rural communities,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program. “In many farm and ranch families, safety is an important topic, but it sometimes gets overlooked because it does not directly impact profitability.”Each state’s workshop sites will be hosted by local extension personnel. Keynote speakers will be simulcast to each location, and each site will provide additional speakers and hands-on activities. Dinner will be included.Groskopf said the program’s structure is intended to strengthen networks of women in rural areas, which can provide opportunities for building trust and sharing information. “Connections are so important to rural women,” she said. “We have seen the benefits that come from knowing your peers, having a place to share difficulties, and mitigate the isolation that so many of us in agriculture often feel.”The workshops seek to help participants initiate preventative practices, set up a plan to deal with emergencies before they occur and be more comfortable reacting to emergency situations.There is a registration fee of $50 per person before Feb. 20. The fee increases to $60 per person after Feb. 20. Participants should&nbsp; lan to attend each session. A virtual option is available for those unable to attend a workshop site, although in-person attendance is highly encouraged to better network with other attendees and interact with speakers. The virtual registration fee is $75 before Feb. 20 and $80 after Feb. 20. Registration may be completed on the Nebraska Women in Agriculture website, https://wia.unl.edu/prep.This project was supported by a grant from NCRCRD through funding from USDA NIFA Award #2022-51150-38141.&nbsp; ​Disaster Preparedness for Rural Families Nebraska Workshop Sites<ul>
 <li>Beatrice — Beatrice Fire and Rescue, 300 S. 6th St.</li><li>Concord — Haskell Ag Lab, 57905 866 Road</li><li>Grand Island — Raising Nebraska, 501 E. Fonner Park Road, Suite 100</li><li>O‘Neill — Holt County Courthouse Annex, 128 N. 6th St.</li><li>Weeping Water — Nebraska Extension in Cass County, 8400 144th St., Suite 100</li>
 </ul>

Extension to host multistate emergency preparedness workshop series for rural families

An Alliance man is facing multiple drug charges in Scottsbluff County, court records show.

Ruben J. Mendez faces a charge of Distribution of Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine a Class 1C Felony.

The second charge against Mendez is also a Possession of a controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, more than 14o grams. That is a Class IB Felony.

The case has not yet been bounded to District Court according to court documents, and the preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 2 in the County Court.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAn Alliance man is facing multiple drug charges in Scottsbluff County, court records show.Ruben J. Mendez faces a charge of Distribution of Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine a Class 1C Felony.The charges stem from incidents in 2021.The second charge against Mendez is also a Possession of a controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, more than 14o grams. That is a Class IB Felony.The case has not yet been bounded to District Court according to court documents, and the preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 2 in the County Court.

Alliance native faces meth distribution charges in Scotts Bluff County

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

On January 1, Nebraska's minimum wage went up to $12.00 an hour.

Minimum wage is the lowest hourly rate an employer can pay an employee, and each state can set their own minimum wage. The federal minimum is $7.25 an hour, established in 2009, and that sets the rate states must meet or exceed.

Having a minimum wage is controversial. Many economists believe that supply and demand do enough to ensure fair wages; if wages are too low, people find a different job. Any government-mandated increase has downstream effects, also called externalities or unintended consequences.

What are the pros and cons of raising the minimum wage?

Many individuals and families will move out of poverty. There is a decreased need for government welfare programs. The additional income has a multiplier effect in a community, meaning they spend more money at businesses, and those businesses will be better off. The economy grows.

Company morale is usually higher when employees earn more, so they are more productive. Employees are less likely to leave their jobs; therefore hiring, training, and relocation costs are lower for the business.

Of course, there are disadvantages of raising minimum wage. The obvious one is that many businesses will raise their prices. Increased prices means the cost of living goes up, so the increased wage may not buy that much more.

Many of our small businesses operate on a tight profit margin, and this increased cost may cause them to close.

There may be more competition for minimum wage jobs if they pay more. Overqualified workers may be taking jobs that were once held by teenagers or other inexperienced workers. With fewer jobs available, those entry-level workers have trouble getting their foot into the labor market.

Increased wages may also encourage many businesses, especially manufacturers, to automate. Their equipment purchases may displace even more workers.

Nebraska voters in November, 2022, passed a ballot initiative to gradually increase our minimum wage to $15.00 an hour by January 2026. It will increase $1.50 each year until then.

After 2026, the minimum wage will go up according to the cost-of-living increase in inflation as measured the Consumer Price Index.

There are a few exceptions to the minimum wage requirement, and these can be found online at the Nebraska Department of Labor. The major exceptions are training wages for teenagers, people working in agriculture, child care, or for family members, and lower base pay for tipped employees. We'll talk more about these exceptions next week.

Employers should already be paying more than the minimum wage, due to labor shortages in our area and throughout America. They should also be paying more because worker productivity increases every year, so businesses earn more. Instead, we see those increased earnings becoming higher executive salaries, higher dividends for investors, and soaring stock prices. In the past 10 years, a CEO's pay at S&amp;P 500 companies increased by more than $5 million to an average of $16.7 million in 2022, according to the AFL-CIO.

A minimum wage employee working full time would earn $24,960 a year before taxes. The national poverty line for a family unit consisting of two people is $19,720.00 per year, $24,860 for three people.

Isn't it time for more of those business profits to be transferred to America's workers?

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityOn January 1, Nebraska's minimum wage went up to $12.00 an hour.Minimum wage is the lowest hourly rate an employer can pay an employee, and each state can set their own minimum wage. The federal minimum is $7.25 an hour, established in 2009, and that sets the rate states must meet or exceed.Having a minimum wage is controversial. Many economists believe that supply and demand do enough to ensure fair wages; if wages are too low, people find a different job. Any government-mandated increase has downstream effects, also called externalities or unintended consequences.What are the pros and cons of raising the minimum wage?Many individuals and families will move out of poverty. There is a decreased need for government welfare programs. The additional income has a multiplier effect in a community, meaning they spend more money at businesses, and those businesses will be better off. The economy grows.Company morale is usually higher when employees earn more, so they are more productive. Employees are less likely to leave their jobs; therefore hiring, training, and relocation costs are lower for the business.Of course, there are disadvantages of raising minimum wage. The obvious one is that many businesses will raise their prices. Increased prices means the cost of living goes up, so the increased wage may not buy that much more.Many of our small businesses operate on a tight profit margin, and this increased cost may cause them to close.There may be more competition for minimum wage jobs if they pay more. Overqualified workers may be taking jobs that were once held by teenagers or other inexperienced workers. With fewer jobs available, those entry-level workers have trouble getting their foot into the labor market.Increased wages may also encourage many businesses, especially manufacturers, to automate. Their equipment purchases may displace even more workers.Nebraska voters in November, 2022, passed a ballot initiative to gradually increase our minimum wage to $15.00 an hour by January 2026. It will increase $1.50 each year until then.After 2026, the minimum wage will go up according to the cost-of-living increase in inflation as measured the Consumer Price Index.There are a few exceptions to the minimum wage requirement, and these can be found online at the Nebraska Department of Labor. The major exceptions are training wages for teenagers, people working in agriculture, child care, or for family members, and lower base pay for tipped employees. We'll talk more about these exceptions next week.Employers should already be paying more than the minimum wage, due to labor shortages in our area and throughout America. They should also be paying more because worker productivity increases every year, so businesses earn more. Instead, we see those increased earnings becoming higher executive salaries, higher dividends for investors, and soaring stock prices. In the past 10 years, a CEO's pay at S&amp;P 500 companies increased by more than $5 million to an average of $16.7 million in 2022, according to the AFL-CIO.A minimum wage employee working full time would earn $24,960 a year before taxes. The national poverty line for a family unit consisting of two people is $19,720.00 per year, $24,860 for three people.Isn't it time for more of those business profits to be transferred to America's workers?

Getting ahead: Opinion on Nebraska Minimum wage increases

The Alliance High School Band made the town proud during holiday break, going to Atlanta to perform in front of thousands. They also took home a number of awards as well.&nbsp;

Listen to this full episode of the Post Podcast with Jason Wentworth above.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alliance High Band Discusses Peach Bowl Trip" 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=uvkya-1547348-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>The Alliance High School Band made the town proud during holiday break, going to Atlanta to perform in front of thousands. They also took home a number of awards as well.&nbsp;Listen to this full episode of the Post Podcast with Jason Wentworth above.

POST PODCAST: Alliance High Band Discusses Peach Bowl Trip

By Office of Congressman Mike Flood

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;–Tuesday, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement on a new rule&nbsp;from&nbsp;the U.S. Department of Labor that makes it more difficult for Americans to work as independent contractors.&nbsp;

“Independent contracting gives millions of Americans the flexibility they want to work for themselves and support their families. This new rule from the Biden administration will make it harder for working Americans to pursue their dream and will put pressure on some to pay expensive and unnecessary union dues. I expect there will be legal challenges to the acting Labor Secretary’s overreach, and the agency would be wise to scrap the rule to avoid expensive litigation.”&nbsp;

A copy of the USDOL’s announcement regarding the final rule can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/whd/whd20240109-1#:~:text=The%20new%20%E2%80%9Cindependent%20contractor%E2%80%9D%20rule,employee%20or%20an%20independent%20contractor." target="_blank">here</a>.

By Office of Congressman Mike FloodWASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;–Tuesday, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood issued a statement on a new rule&nbsp;from&nbsp;the U.S. Department of Labor that makes it more difficult for Americans to work as independent contractors.&nbsp;“Independent contracting gives millions of Americans the flexibility they want to work for themselves and support their families. This new rule from the Biden administration will make it harder for working Americans to pursue their dream and will put pressure on some to pay expensive and unnecessary union dues. I expect there will be legal challenges to the acting Labor Secretary’s overreach, and the agency would be wise to scrap the rule to avoid expensive litigation.”&nbsp;A copy of the USDOL’s announcement regarding the final rule can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/whd/whd20240109-1#:~:text=The%20new%20%E2%80%9Cindependent%20contractor%E2%80%9D%20rule,employee%20or%20an%20independent%20contractor." target="_blank">here</a>.

Congressman Flood Slams New Biden Rule Threatening the Future of Independent Contractors

Alliance, NE – Alliance RSVP once again is hosting their annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day food drive, this year partnering with Nebraska AmeriCorps Seniors across the state starting on Friday, January 12th through Wednesday, January 17th.

Nonperishable food donations will be accepted at the Alliance Senior Center, located at 212 Yellowstone Avenue from 8am – 5pm. RSVP will also be at the Alliance Grocery Kart to accept donations on January 12th, 15th and 16th from 1pm - 5pm and on January 13th from 11am – 5pm and on January 14th from 12pm – 5pm.

All donated items will be taken to our local food pantries to restock the shelves that are depleted from the holiday demand. If you are not able to bring your donations to the Senior Center or Grocery Kart, please call the RSVP office at (308) 762-1293 to schedule pickup.

For more information about the food drive, please contact Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Alliance RSVP once again is hosting their annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day food drive, this year partnering with Nebraska AmeriCorps Seniors across the state starting on Friday, January 12th through Wednesday, January 17th.Nonperishable food donations will be accepted at the Alliance Senior Center, located at 212 Yellowstone Avenue from 8am – 5pm. RSVP will also be at the Alliance Grocery Kart to accept donations on January 12th, 15th and 16th from 1pm - 5pm and on January 13th from 11am – 5pm and on January 14th from 12pm – 5pm.All donated items will be taken to our local food pantries to restock the shelves that are depleted from the holiday demand. If you are not able to bring your donations to the Senior Center or Grocery Kart, please call the RSVP office at (308) 762-1293 to schedule pickup.For more information about the food drive, please contact Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

 Alliance AmeriCorps Seniors Unites in Service on MLK Day 2024

The Sidney Police Department is investigating the theft of this 8-foot pickup box trailer, from the 2200 block of Hickory Street sometime between Friday, December 29th and Sunday December 30th. Trailer had a load of lumber on it. If you have information, you can provide it to an Officer by calling 308-254-5515.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704815886771.jpeg" alt="8-foot trailer/Sidney Police Department" />
 <figcaption>8-foot trailer/Sidney Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Sidney Police DepartmentThe Sidney Police Department is investigating the theft of this 8-foot pickup box trailer, from the 2200 block of Hickory Street sometime between Friday, December 29th and Sunday December 30th. Trailer had a load of lumber on it. If you have information, you can provide it to an Officer by calling 308-254-5515.

Sidney Police investigating a late December theft

The 13th annual fundraiser for East Point Horspice is coming up on the evening of Saturday, Feb 3. at the Alliance Eagles Club.

The Silent auction and Kid's games begins at 5;30 and goes until 8 p.m.

Event entertainment includes Texas Hold'em for adults, ($25 entry) and

live music by Crossbell until 11 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Proceeds will benefit the local horse rescue that is East Point Horspice, therapeutic horse riding and equine assisted program.

For more information, contact EPH at (308) 762-3848.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe 13th annual fundraiser for East Point Horspice is coming up on the evening of Saturday, Feb 3. at the Alliance Eagles Club.The Silent auction and Kid's games begins at 5;30 and goes until 8 p.m.Event entertainment includes Texas Hold'em for adults, ($25 entry) andlive music by Crossbell until 11 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds will benefit the local horse rescue that is East Point Horspice, therapeutic horse riding and equine assisted program.For more information, contact EPH at (308) 762-3848.Cost of admission at the event is $15.

Wild West Party: East Point Horspice Fundraiser on Feb. 3

MILLS, Wyoming&nbsp;­­­­– The Bureau of Reclamation&nbsp;will temporarily use the spillway at Alcova Dam to make scheduled water releases to the North Platte River. This action is necessary to accommodate scheduled maintenance activities in the powerplant. The river flow below Gray Reef Dam will continue to be at about 500 cubic feet per second (cfs), as it has been all winter.&nbsp;

This water operation will begin on January 11, and will last until January 25, or completion of the maintenance. All releases from Alcova Dam will be stored in Glendo reservoir. The releases will again be made through Alcova Powerplant when repairs are completed.&nbsp;

Alcova Dam is on the North Platte River about 35 miles southwest of Casper, Wyoming. The dam forms a reservoir from which water is diverted into Casper Canal for irrigation of lands in the Kendrick Project near Casper. Winter releases from Alcova Reservoir generally provide power generation and relocate storage water into Glendo Reservoir for delivery the following spring and summer. Alcova Powerplant is located just downstream of Alcova Dam and has two 20.7 megawatt generating units.

By USBRMILLS, Wyoming&nbsp;­­­­– The Bureau of Reclamation&nbsp;will temporarily use the spillway at Alcova Dam to make scheduled water releases to the North Platte River. This action is necessary to accommodate scheduled maintenance activities in the powerplant. The river flow below Gray Reef Dam will continue to be at about 500 cubic feet per second (cfs), as it has been all winter.&nbsp;This water operation will begin on January 11, and will last until January 25, or completion of the maintenance. All releases from Alcova Dam will be stored in Glendo reservoir. The releases will again be made through Alcova Powerplant when repairs are completed.&nbsp;Alcova Dam is on the North Platte River about 35 miles southwest of Casper, Wyoming. The dam forms a reservoir from which water is diverted into Casper Canal for irrigation of lands in the Kendrick Project near Casper. Winter releases from Alcova Reservoir generally provide power generation and relocate storage water into Glendo Reservoir for delivery the following spring and summer. Alcova Powerplant is located just downstream of Alcova Dam and has two 20.7 megawatt generating units.

Reclamation announces temporary water release using Alcova Spillway for maintenance

Chadron community residents and Chadron State staff and faculty interested in performing with the CSC Community Symphonic Band are welcome to the first rehearsal of the Spring semester, Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall, Room 125.

The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform with the Chadron Schools Bands in concert on Tuesday, March 19 at 7 p.m. in&nbsp;Memorial Hall’s Auditorium

The Wind Symphony and Community Band will also perform Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.

All instrumentalists and levels of talent are welcome.&nbsp;For more details, contact Dr. John Wojcik at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jwojcik@csc.edu">jwojcik@csc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308-432-6322.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Chadron State College Community Chorus is open to the greater Chadron community and CSC students.

Community members may join the chorus by emailing Dr. Joel Schreuder and then attending the first weekly rehearsal on Thursday, Jan. 11, in Memorial Hall’s&nbsp;Room 126&nbsp;from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The chorus will perform a concert on Saturday, April 13 at 3 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.

For more information, contact Dr. Schreuder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jschreuder@csc.edu">jschreuder@csc.edu</a>.

By Chadron State CollegeCSC Community BandChadron community residents and Chadron State staff and faculty interested in performing with the CSC Community Symphonic Band are welcome to the first rehearsal of the Spring semester, Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall, Room 125.The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform with the Chadron Schools Bands in concert on Tuesday, March 19 at 7 p.m. in&nbsp;Memorial Hall’s AuditoriumThe Wind Symphony and Community Band will also perform Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.All instrumentalists and levels of talent are welcome.&nbsp;For more details, contact Dr. John Wojcik at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jwojcik@csc.edu">jwojcik@csc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308-432-6322.&nbsp;&nbsp;CSC Community ChorusThe Chadron State College Community Chorus is open to the greater Chadron community and CSC students.Community members may join the chorus by emailing Dr. Joel Schreuder and then attending the first weekly rehearsal on Thursday, Jan. 11, in Memorial Hall’s&nbsp;Room 126&nbsp;from 7 to 8:30 p.m.The chorus will perform a concert on Saturday, April 13 at 3 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.For more information, contact Dr. Schreuder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jschreuder@csc.edu">jschreuder@csc.edu</a>.

CSC Community Band practice begins today, Choir starts Thursday

Editor's note: This information is public record, found at Box Butte County Courthouse

Marriages in Box Butte CountyBrady Turek &amp; Carli CullanIsaiah Dagnan &amp; Shania MaxeyJack Mcdonough &amp; Tessa SisMichael Swanson &amp; Amber Allen&nbsp;Divorces in Box Butte CountyCaitlen Grimes &amp; Ty Grimes Drew Hayes &amp; Tanaya Hayes Sarah Burck &amp; Clifford Burck&nbsp;Editor's note: This information is public record, found at Box Butte County Courthouse

Marriages & Divorces in Box Butte County, Dec 2023

Scottsbluff Police Department Officers worked many hours of overtime participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Campaign. The overtime was funded by a grant awarded to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068922951021&amp;__cft__[0]=AZVZ4Hox2KPSsESbYc6RKfH4sJvCCV2lG0pykYaPhbhG5cjdwReSVUF0FKpEx206Khl3aqKWJPeR8VyiVzHAS88JO7uhMGpdCoG8DkhF6uvRT4HO-gHhXNvGVF8EEYpvhL0Am-A6b5i7Q1U5r7Jx4DTbOcxfgpQ9t0bKlA9EkWqs4xqw247AserGQ01lF5gd8vU&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Scottsbluff Police Department</a> by the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office. The grant time was from December 15, 2023 to January 1, 2024.

The following citation and arrest activity was noted.

Driving Under Suspension or Revocation 12

12 arrest warrants were served. In addition to the above activity Scottsbluff Police Department Officers issued 116 warnings, responded to 960 calls for service, there was 32 traffic crashes, and 178 case reports were assigned.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scottsbluff Police DepartmentScottsbluff Police Department Officers worked many hours of overtime participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Campaign. The overtime was funded by a grant awarded to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068922951021&amp;__cft__[0]=AZVZ4Hox2KPSsESbYc6RKfH4sJvCCV2lG0pykYaPhbhG5cjdwReSVUF0FKpEx206Khl3aqKWJPeR8VyiVzHAS88JO7uhMGpdCoG8DkhF6uvRT4HO-gHhXNvGVF8EEYpvhL0Am-A6b5i7Q1U5r7Jx4DTbOcxfgpQ9t0bKlA9EkWqs4xqw247AserGQ01lF5gd8vU&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Scottsbluff Police Department</a> by the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office. The grant time was from December 15, 2023 to January 1, 2024.The following citation and arrest activity was noted.No Valid Registration 33Speeding 23Driving Under Suspension or Revocation 12No Seat Belt 9No Operators License 8Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol 6No Insurance 6Possession of Marijuana 5Open Container of Alcohol 4Minor in Possession of Alcohol 3Driving Left of Center 3Learner’s Permit Violation 3Felony Drug Violations 3Driving Under the Influence of Drugs 1Fictitious Plates 1Careless Driving 1Resisting Arrest 1Willful Reckless Driving 1Wrong Way in a One Way 1Leaving the Scene of an Accident 1Window Tint Violation 1Following too Close 1Traffic Light Violation 1No Head Lights 1Failure to Signal Turn 1Failure to Yield Right of Way 112 arrest warrants were served. In addition to the above activity Scottsbluff Police Department Officers issued 116 warnings, responded to 960 calls for service, there was 32 traffic crashes, and 178 case reports were assigned.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scottsbluff Police Department arrested 7 impaired drivers during the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Campaign

The Alliance Arts Council is sponsoring a performance by Paul Taylor on Friday, January 12th, 7:00 pm at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center. Taylor will also be working in the elementary schools the week of January 8-12.

Paul Taylor delights in sharing the culture of his Australian homeland. His Friday night program entitled Wonders Down Under will be an exciting blend of story, song, dance, and drama featuring the mesmerizing didgeridoo.

Paul learned Aboriginal percussion and didgeridoo from Yidumduma Bill Harney, the last male custodian of the Wardaman culture in Australia’s Northern territory who also made Paul an honorary member of the clan. Recipient of the 2015 Wyoming Governor’s Arts Award, Paul travels the US, performing and conducting hands-on interactive sessions for schools, colleges, performing arts centers and festivals but still makes time to go to the Outback bush each summer. His performances combine Australian storytelling with Aboriginal culture and legends, instrumental music on didgeridoo and other traditional instruments, and traditional European/Australian songs laced with drama and dance. Paul’s concert presents Australian culture both of the cities and of the bush with equal reverence – and a good dash of humor.

Mr. Taylor will be conducting an in-school residency in Alliance 4th grade classrooms the week of January 8-12. These 4th grade students will have an opportunity to briefly join Taylor on stage on Friday night to showcase what they have learned during the week. Taylor will then go on to present his solo performance.

Business co-presenters for the school residency and the public performance are FNBO, FNIC, KCOW/Double Q Country Radio, Western Nebraska Real Estate and Harris Sales.

Tickets for the Friday night public performance are $10 Adult, $9 Senior, $5 Student (preschool admitted free). Tickets are available at Carnegie Arts Center, Chamber of Commerce and at the door. Doors open at 6:00.

By Alliance Arts CouncilThe Alliance Arts Council is sponsoring a performance by Paul Taylor on Friday, January 12th, 7:00 pm at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center. Taylor will also be working in the elementary schools the week of January 8-12.Paul Taylor delights in sharing the culture of his Australian homeland. His Friday night program entitled Wonders Down Under will be an exciting blend of story, song, dance, and drama featuring the mesmerizing didgeridoo.Paul learned Aboriginal percussion and didgeridoo from Yidumduma Bill Harney, the last male custodian of the Wardaman culture in Australia’s Northern territory who also made Paul an honorary member of the clan. Recipient of the 2015 Wyoming Governor’s Arts Award, Paul travels the US, performing and conducting hands-on interactive sessions for schools, colleges, performing arts centers and festivals but still makes time to go to the Outback bush each summer. His performances combine Australian storytelling with Aboriginal culture and legends, instrumental music on didgeridoo and other traditional instruments, and traditional European/Australian songs laced with drama and dance. Paul’s concert presents Australian culture both of the cities and of the bush with equal reverence – and a good dash of humor.Mr. Taylor will be conducting an in-school residency in Alliance 4th grade classrooms the week of January 8-12. These 4th grade students will have an opportunity to briefly join Taylor on stage on Friday night to showcase what they have learned during the week. Taylor will then go on to present his solo performance.Business co-presenters for the school residency and the public performance are FNBO, FNIC, KCOW/Double Q Country Radio, Western Nebraska Real Estate and Harris Sales.Tickets for the Friday night public performance are $10 Adult, $9 Senior, $5 Student (preschool admitted free). Tickets are available at Carnegie Arts Center, Chamber of Commerce and at the door. Doors open at 6:00.

Alliance Arts Council hosting Australian Paul Taylor

Alliance, NE – The Sallows Military Museum will be closed for the remainder of today, January 9th. We are sorry for any inconvenience.

For more information, please call 308-762-2384

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The Sallows Military Museum will be closed for the remainder of today, January 9th. We are sorry for any inconvenience.For more information, please call 308-762-2384

Sallows Military Museum closed for rest of today (Tuesday)

&nbsp;By Panhandle Public Health District

Activate Alliance has made significant progress in the past five years toward creating a safer &amp; healthier place to walk, bike, and roll. We are proud of the accomplishments, but we need your assistance in determining where to focus our efforts next.

The committee is inviting the community to come to the Box Butte General Hospital Wellness Center meeting room on January 23 from 5:30-7pm to offer their important input. A light dinner will be provided. Please RSVP here: https://forms.gle/qCx4wSZqUpJbtU446 or by calling Dan Newhoff @ 308-761-3404 or Janelle Visser @ 308-760-6493.

Successes include a free community bike share program, accessible bike repair station, vibrant crosswalk art projects, enhanced safety signage in critical locations around Alliance, walk audits around schools and key community locations, multiple businesses and individuals participating in Walk @ Lunch Day, and other impactful communication campaigns.

Activate Alliance is comprised of school, community residents, hospital, city, law enforcement, public transit, senior services, community center, and public health. The committee was initiated through a community planning forum in May 2019. Thereafter, they meet regularly with the goal of making Alliance a safer place to walk, bike, and roll.

This work was identified through Box Butte General Hospital's Community Health Improvement Plan. Public health’s role is to assist in organizing the effort by finding funding opportunities that align with the plan and coordinate the monthly meetings. Project funding is supported in part by the Box Butte Health Foundation.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.ne.gov.

&nbsp;By Panhandle Public Health DistrictActivate Alliance has made significant progress in the past five years toward creating a safer &amp; healthier place to walk, bike, and roll. We are proud of the accomplishments, but we need your assistance in determining where to focus our efforts next.The committee is inviting the community to come to the Box Butte General Hospital Wellness Center meeting room on January 23 from 5:30-7pm to offer their important input. A light dinner will be provided. Please RSVP here: https://forms.gle/qCx4wSZqUpJbtU446 or by calling Dan Newhoff @ 308-761-3404 or Janelle Visser @ 308-760-6493.Successes include a free community bike share program, accessible bike repair station, vibrant crosswalk art projects, enhanced safety signage in critical locations around Alliance, walk audits around schools and key community locations, multiple businesses and individuals participating in Walk @ Lunch Day, and other impactful communication campaigns.Activate Alliance is comprised of school, community residents, hospital, city, law enforcement, public transit, senior services, community center, and public health. The committee was initiated through a community planning forum in May 2019. Thereafter, they meet regularly with the goal of making Alliance a safer place to walk, bike, and roll.This work was identified through Box Butte General Hospital's Community Health Improvement Plan. Public health’s role is to assist in organizing the effort by finding funding opportunities that align with the plan and coordinate the monthly meetings. Project funding is supported in part by the Box Butte Health Foundation.Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community. Visit our website www.pphd.ne.gov.

Alliance community invited to share ideas for active living on January 23 @ BBGH

By Panhandle Research &amp; Extension Center

Nebraska Extension will host Estate and Transition planning workshops for farmers and ranchers in Rushville, Chadron, and Scottsbluff.

Nebraska Extension Educator, Jessica Groskopf, will offer tools and strategies to plan, start effectively, and complete estate plans, offer background on common mistakes during the process, and highlight essential considerations for creating and carrying out estate and succession plans. Following Groskopf’s presentation, an attorney or panel of estate planning professionals will be available to answer questions.

“The common mistake is that most know that they need an estate plan but never get around to putting a plan into a legal document,” Groskopf said. “Over several years, at the end of the workshop, the most common comment is that the participants wished that they had started learning the steps to start and complete a plan sooner.”

The program is free to attend. Pre-registration is requested one week prior to each workshop.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704819329159.jpeg" alt=" Snow covers the landscape around a pivot and bales of hay. Photo by Chabella Guzman" />
 <figcaption> Snow covers the landscape around a pivot and bales of hay. Photo by Chabella Guzman</figcaption>
 </figure>By Panhandle Research &amp; Extension CenterNebraska Extension will host Estate and Transition planning workshops for farmers and ranchers in Rushville, Chadron, and Scottsbluff.Nebraska Extension Educator, Jessica Groskopf, will offer tools and strategies to plan, start effectively, and complete estate plans, offer background on common mistakes during the process, and highlight essential considerations for creating and carrying out estate and succession plans. Following Groskopf’s presentation, an attorney or panel of estate planning professionals will be available to answer questions.“The common mistake is that most know that they need an estate plan but never get around to putting a plan into a legal document,” Groskopf said. “Over several years, at the end of the workshop, the most common comment is that the participants wished that they had started learning the steps to start and complete a plan sooner.”The program is free to attend. Pre-registration is requested one week prior to each workshop.<ul>
 <li>Rushville – Jan. 30, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Sheridan County Extension Office (800 S. Loofborrow St). To register, call 308-327-2312</li><li>Chadron – Jan. 31, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Dawes County Fairgrounds (2009 E Gordon Ave). To register, call 308-432-3373</li><li>Scottsbluff – Feb. 1, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education Center (4502 Ave I). To register, call 308-632-1230</li>
 </ul>

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