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

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

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>

Farm and Ranch Estate and Transition planning workshops in Rushville, Chadron, and Scottsbluff

By Hemingford Community Foundation

The Hemingford community has gratefully received a generous $50,000 gift, established as an enduring tribute to Charles and Dorothy Ray. Of this sum, $10,000 will be allocated to the Hemingford Scholarship Foundation, while the remaining $40,000 will be directed to the Hemingford Community Foundation.

On behalf of the Ray family, they shared why this gift was so important to them, “Charles and Dorothy Ray never wanted to live anywhere else, other than Hemingford. Charles and Dorothy were born and raised in Hemingford and spent all their adult lives living in the town that they loved. They owned and operated Silver Line Salvage and Treasurers and Trash, working hard in the community of Hemingford to help others. They chose to put down roots, and they decided where they wanted them to grow. Raising 3 children; Dan, Jerry, and Jodeen, they instilled the values of a small town in their family. The family would like to share in the strength of community displayed by Charles and Dorothy Ray by contributing to the Hemingford Community Foundation and the Hemingford Scholarship Foundation.”

Charles passed away in 2009. Dorothy lived in Hemingford until 2022 when she moved closer to her son in Rapid City and recently passed away in November 2023. Just prior to Dorothy’s passing, she generously gifted $10,000 split between the Hemingford Community Foundation and the Hemingford Scholarship Foundation.

A portion of these funds were invested in a Holiday Chamber Buck promotion offering a 10% bonus to anyone that purchased Hemingford Chamber Bucks in November and December. The Foundation committee was delighted to see $13,200 in Chamber Bucks purchased and remaining in Hemingford Chamber businesses.

The Hemingford Community Foundation expresses profound gratitude for this generous tribute to the Rays. Since its establishment in 2017, the Foundation has served as a platform for community giving. The board is committed to ensuring that this substantial donation is strategically invested throughout the community, making a visible and impactful difference.

If you are interested in contributing to the Foundation, this can be accessed at: https://otcf.org/hemingford-community-foundation/.

The Foundation board has prioritized the following areas for the next three years:

The board is comprised of Jessica Davies, April Delsing, Joni Jespersen, Tonya Mayer, and Tabi Prochazka. They have been meeting regularly to serve the residents of Hemingford and the surrounding area by identifying and

supporting the people, organizations, and projects that make Hemingford a great place to live, learn, work, and play. The Foundation is an affiliate fund of the Oregon Trail Community Foundation.

By Hemingford Community FoundationThe Hemingford community has gratefully received a generous $50,000 gift, established as an enduring tribute to Charles and Dorothy Ray. Of this sum, $10,000 will be allocated to the Hemingford Scholarship Foundation, while the remaining $40,000 will be directed to the Hemingford Community Foundation.On behalf of the Ray family, they shared why this gift was so important to them, “Charles and Dorothy Ray never wanted to live anywhere else, other than Hemingford. Charles and Dorothy were born and raised in Hemingford and spent all their adult lives living in the town that they loved. They owned and operated Silver Line Salvage and Treasurers and Trash, working hard in the community of Hemingford to help others. They chose to put down roots, and they decided where they wanted them to grow. Raising 3 children; Dan, Jerry, and Jodeen, they instilled the values of a small town in their family. The family would like to share in the strength of community displayed by Charles and Dorothy Ray by contributing to the Hemingford Community Foundation and the Hemingford Scholarship Foundation.”Charles passed away in 2009. Dorothy lived in Hemingford until 2022 when she moved closer to her son in Rapid City and recently passed away in November 2023. Just prior to Dorothy’s passing, she generously gifted $10,000 split between the Hemingford Community Foundation and the Hemingford Scholarship Foundation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704817567304.jpeg" alt="Charles and Dorothy Ray" />
 <figcaption>Charles and Dorothy Ray</figcaption>
 </figure>A portion of these funds were invested in a Holiday Chamber Buck promotion offering a 10% bonus to anyone that purchased Hemingford Chamber Bucks in November and December. The Foundation committee was delighted to see $13,200 in Chamber Bucks purchased and remaining in Hemingford Chamber businesses.The Hemingford Community Foundation expresses profound gratitude for this generous tribute to the Rays. Since its establishment in 2017, the Foundation has served as a platform for community giving. The board is committed to ensuring that this substantial donation is strategically invested throughout the community, making a visible and impactful difference.If you are interested in contributing to the Foundation, this can be accessed at: https://otcf.org/hemingford-community-foundation/.The Foundation board has prioritized the following areas for the next three years:· Strategic Giving· Maximizing 501(c)3 Access· Community Presence· Strategic PartnershipsThe board is comprised of Jessica Davies, April Delsing, Joni Jespersen, Tonya Mayer, and Tabi Prochazka. They have been meeting regularly to serve the residents of Hemingford and the surrounding area by identifying andsupporting the people, organizations, and projects that make Hemingford a great place to live, learn, work, and play. The Foundation is an affiliate fund of the Oregon Trail Community Foundation.

Charles & Dorothy Ray gift enduring tribute to the Hemingford community

By JOHN E. WEARE Keep Alliance Beautiful

Our diesel’s unmistakable rumble announces the pickup as it enters the alley. It will have to wait to switch out totes of cardboard as we unload a van in the bay, and serve another two customers pulled up outside. Fortunately it was “all hands on deck” as the shifts overlapped at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center. This scene was indicative of a record year as we processed more material than ever before – 849,294 pounds – during 2023.

More than anything, the most recent four quarters have been steady. The record at KAB for recycling in a three-month span was 249,608 pounds to open 2020. Every quarter of 2023 exceeded 100 tons, ranging from 202,188 to open the year to 217,074 to close it out as Spud hauled the 51st load away in late December. Overall, KAB’s new high water mark exceeded the previous high (794,640 pounds in 2021) by about 50,000 pounds. I commend area recyclers for collectively keeping more than 700,000 pounds of what would have been trash out of the landfill for a fourth consecutive year.

Corrugated and paperboard cardboard accounted for more weight than the rest of the categories combined – 469,926 pounds this past year. Below are some of our most recycled materials with the 2022 weights in parentheses for comparison:

Keep Alliance Beautiful accounts for volume based on what is shipped from Alliance. Boxes of curbside bags and sorted materials taken in but not yet processed on Dec, 31 do not count, yet also speak of the demand for recycling in Box Butte County as well as the western Sandhills and northern Panhandle.

Serving the community of Chadron has been a major factor in higher numbers for 2023. KAB provides a trailer at every monthly recycling event there with one or two other trailers filled and processed at the recycling center as well. Keep Chadron Beautiful hauls paper and cardboard to Alliance on a regular basis as well.

The number of curbside recyclers and how much they recycle has also grown. This convenient, paid service (free for senior citizens) complements other ways to recycle with us: public trailers in Alliance and Hemingford and visiting the recycling center at 107 ½ Cheyenne Ave. anytime 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

By JOHN E. WEARE Keep Alliance Beautiful<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704816945036.jpeg" alt="Sacks from the weekly run to BBGH fill a KAB pickup bed. The hospital recycled thousands of pounds in 2023 as demand for alternative waste management grows in the area." />
 <figcaption>Sacks from the weekly run to BBGH fill a KAB pickup bed. The hospital recycled thousands of pounds in 2023 as demand for alternative waste management grows in the area.</figcaption>
 </figure>Our diesel’s unmistakable rumble announces the pickup as it enters the alley. It will have to wait to switch out totes of cardboard as we unload a van in the bay, and serve another two customers pulled up outside. Fortunately it was “all hands on deck” as the shifts overlapped at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center. This scene was indicative of a record year as we processed more material than ever before – 849,294 pounds – during 2023.More than anything, the most recent four quarters have been steady. The record at KAB for recycling in a three-month span was 249,608 pounds to open 2020. Every quarter of 2023 exceeded 100 tons, ranging from 202,188 to open the year to 217,074 to close it out as Spud hauled the 51st load away in late December. Overall, KAB’s new high water mark exceeded the previous high (794,640 pounds in 2021) by about 50,000 pounds. I commend area recyclers for collectively keeping more than 700,000 pounds of what would have been trash out of the landfill for a fourth consecutive year.Corrugated and paperboard cardboard accounted for more weight than the rest of the categories combined – 469,926 pounds this past year. Below are some of our most recycled materials with the 2022 weights in parentheses for comparison:&gt; #1-7 Plastics – 49,976 (53,335)&gt; Steel/Tin Cans – 24,246 (24,399)&gt; Fiber Board – 21,600 (53,650)&gt; Mixed Paper – 122,463 (134,171)&gt; Glass – 84,207 (70,066)&gt; Hefty Bag – 15,332 (14,260)&gt; Paint – 3,191 (5,061)Keep Alliance Beautiful accounts for volume based on what is shipped from Alliance. Boxes of curbside bags and sorted materials taken in but not yet processed on Dec, 31 do not count, yet also speak of the demand for recycling in Box Butte County as well as the western Sandhills and northern Panhandle.Serving the community of Chadron has been a major factor in higher numbers for 2023. KAB provides a trailer at every monthly recycling event there with one or two other trailers filled and processed at the recycling center as well. Keep Chadron Beautiful hauls paper and cardboard to Alliance on a regular basis as well.The number of curbside recyclers and how much they recycle has also grown. This convenient, paid service (free for senior citizens) complements other ways to recycle with us: public trailers in Alliance and Hemingford and visiting the recycling center at 107 ½ Cheyenne Ave. anytime 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.Thanks for keeping Alliance beautiful!

849,000 Pounds: KAB Recycling Sets Another Record In 2023

CHADRON – Chadron State College has announced the students on the Fall 2023 President’s and Dean’s Lists. The President's List consists of students with a 4.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Students met the requirements for the Dean’s List by earning at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average. To qualify for either list, students must be enrolled in 12 credit hours of coursework, be seeking their first bachelor’s degree, and have no incomplete grades during the semester. Cities, states, and countries listed are the home addresses provided by the students.

Alliance: Olivia Behrends, Kayla Campos, Lizbeth Carrillo, Julissa Gomez, Katelynn Gomez, Isabella Middleton, Cade Stephenson, Dylan Sward, Jennifer Weare, Isaac Weems

Bayard: Megan Cawley, Wyatt Fiscus, Alicia Gutierrez, Cole Kramer, Tzu-Yang Lin

Broken Bow: Justin Johnson, Kenna McCaslin

Chadron: Lucas Ambrose, Michael Anderson, Jacee Bates, Cobie Bila, Spring Burks, Chayton Bynes, Katelyn Diehl, Laura Johndreau, Aarikah Johnson, Xavier Juniper, Ella O'Brien, Allison Omernik, Madison Sandstrom, Nicole Scarrow, Kennady Stack, Hunter Townsend, Emma Witte

Gering: Coleton Bevins, Hallie Cochran, Misty Ford, Mackenzie Gable, Taylor Koros, Madysen Powell, Tukker Romey, Adam Scanlan, Chelsea Smith, Maia Swan

Gordon: Rayne Charging Thunder, Sierra Garrett

Gothenburg: Johanna Foster, Sean Graff, Rylee Naprstek, Shania Wear, Alana Wheatley

Grand Island: Logan Hamik, Garrett Orcutt

Grant: Adriana Gonzalez, Mallory McClenahan, Ethan Sihm

Hay Springs: Ashley Burrows, November Diers, India Rittgarn, Jaydlyn Youel

Hemingford: Dorthea Boerkircher, Danea Hanson, Taren Hunter, Kenneth Wyland

Hershey: Carlee Brownawell, Mekenna Fisher

Kearney: Patrick Blake, Karen Gonzalez, Natalie Hamaker, Colton Holoubeck, Tianna Martin

Lincoln: Benjamin Andreasen, Emma Codr, Caleb Olenick, Trista Topil

Mitchell: Rylan Aguallo, Sarah Cardona, Jake Chasek, Tyler Jackson, Jacob Trauernicht

North Platte: Kirby Corfield, Emily Evans

O'Neill: Brandi Bowder, Mallorie Scott, Alexa Shald

Scottsbluff: Sandra Arlt, Aubrey Barrett, Alexis Bowlin, Adanijah Gonzales, Erin Hayhurst, Isabella Jaramillo, Destiny Lerma, Romaldo Roldan, Piper Ryschon, Alicia Stodola, Ethan Strey, Jennifer Wimmer

Sidney: Rebekah Carlson, Chance Carter, Austin Glanz, Tiffany Hobson, Rylee McManis, Caitlyn Mueller, Lydia Peters, Elizabeth Swayze

Valentine: Lindsey Boes, KayLynn Miller, Ethan Sprenger

Palmer: Christina White, Melaina Williams

Wasilla: Donnie Arnone Jr., Hannah Brooke, Elizabeth Elliott, Malia Hoagland

Colorado Springs: Kiley West, Samantha Brunner, Samuel Guilez

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College has announced the students on the Fall 2023 President’s and Dean’s Lists. The President's List consists of students with a 4.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale. Students met the requirements for the Dean’s List by earning at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average. To qualify for either list, students must be enrolled in 12 credit hours of coursework, be seeking their first bachelor’s degree, and have no incomplete grades during the semester. Cities, states, and countries listed are the home addresses provided by the students.PRESIDENT’S LISTNebraskaAlexandria: Kylie SeefusAlliance: Olivia Behrends, Kayla Campos, Lizbeth Carrillo, Julissa Gomez, Katelynn Gomez, Isabella Middleton, Cade Stephenson, Dylan Sward, Jennifer Weare, Isaac WeemsAmelia: Jayna MosesAmherst: MaKinna BowmanArthur: Colten StorerBancroft: Kyle NovakBayard: Megan Cawley, Wyatt Fiscus, Alicia Gutierrez, Cole Kramer, Tzu-Yang LinBertrand: Karley PattersonBrady: Kyler HornBroken Bow: Justin Johnson, Kenna McCaslinCedar Bluffs: Ashley CallahanCeresco: Logan PardeChadron: Lucas Ambrose, Michael Anderson, Jacee Bates, Cobie Bila, Spring Burks, Chayton Bynes, Katelyn Diehl, Laura Johndreau, Aarikah Johnson, Xavier Juniper, Ella O'Brien, Allison Omernik, Madison Sandstrom, Nicole Scarrow, Kennady Stack, Hunter Townsend, Emma WitteClarks: Aubree QuastClay Center: Victoria SwitzerClearwater: Cecily ThieleDalton: Kaitlyn JonesDix: Kiley Collins, Elizabeth WilliamsDuncan: Liam BlaserElmwood: Debra MumfordElwood: Madison ClouseFullerton: Lexi Knopik, Grant PickrelGering: Coleton Bevins, Hallie Cochran, Misty Ford, Mackenzie Gable, Taylor Koros, Madysen Powell, Tukker Romey, Adam Scanlan, Chelsea Smith, Maia SwanGordon: Rayne Charging Thunder, Sierra GarrettGothenburg: Johanna Foster, Sean Graff, Rylee Naprstek, Shania Wear, Alana WheatleyGrand Island: Logan Hamik, Garrett OrcuttGrant: Adriana Gonzalez, Mallory McClenahan, Ethan SihmGurley: Cort RummelHarrison: Kailey Klein, Thomas WatsonHastings: Danae Rader, Grace RedingerHay Springs: Ashley Burrows, November Diers, India Rittgarn, Jaydlyn YouelHebron: Brenner McLaughlinHemingford: Dorthea Boerkircher, Danea Hanson, Taren Hunter, Kenneth WylandHenderson: Dawson OhrtHershey: Carlee Brownawell, Mekenna FisherImperial: Carissa HillIndianola: Alyssa SpringerJohnstown: Katrina BeelKearney: Patrick Blake, Karen Gonzalez, Natalie Hamaker, Colton Holoubeck, Tianna MartinLogan O'Brien, Carmen ThrockmortonKimball: Keara O'BrienLa Vista: Kayla Brion, Cassandra AlbinoLexington: Taya BerryLincoln: Benjamin Andreasen, Emma Codr, Caleb Olenick, Trista TopilLisco: Zachery EvansLoup City: Creighton HarringtonMadrid: Quinn KoopMcCook: Madelyn Bird, Samantha RodewaldMerna: Sid MillerMerriman: Abigayle DonnerMinatare: Corina MeyersMitchell: Rylan Aguallo, Sarah Cardona, Jake Chasek, Tyler Jackson, Jacob TrauernichtMorrill: Kenzey Kanno, Katlyn MedelNenzel: Elle RavenscroftNickerson: Rhianna HagerbaumerNorfolk: Piper Craig, Teresa GoodrichNorth Platte: Kirby Corfield, Emily EvansOdell: Alexis ParksOgallala: Emma Coffman, McKenna HeadleyOmaha: Carolyn Drake, Faith HansonO'Neill: Brandi Bowder, Mallorie Scott, Alexa ShaldOrd: Devin KonicekOshkosh: Dahnna MillerPaxton: Eben RosentraterPierce: Carter RohrichPlatte Center: Janae SlivaPlattsmouth: Makayla LarsenPolk: Dylan SouleRed Cloud: Ruthanna JohnsonSaint Paul: Alexis KramerSargent: Bailey SchneiderScottsbluff: Sandra Arlt, Aubrey Barrett, Alexis Bowlin, Adanijah Gonzales, Erin Hayhurst, Isabella Jaramillo, Destiny Lerma, Romaldo Roldan, Piper Ryschon, Alicia Stodola, Ethan Strey, Jennifer WimmerSeward: Hannah HaertelShelby: Rachel WackerSidney: Rebekah Carlson, Chance Carter, Austin Glanz, Tiffany Hobson, Rylee McManis, Caitlyn Mueller, Lydia Peters, Elizabeth SwayzeSpringview: Adyson Linse, Sydney LinseSt. Paul: Grant TurekStuart: Jenny ForkerTilden: Jenna PoulsenValentine: Lindsey Boes, KayLynn Miller, Ethan SprengerVerdigre: Kaci WickershamWayne: Claire LindsayWellfleet: LeAnna CramerYork: Ashleigh HillsAlaskaPalmer: Christina White, Melaina WilliamsWasilla: Donnie Arnone Jr., Hannah Brooke, Elizabeth Elliott, Malia HoaglandColoradoArvada: Abigail WelchBerthoud: Josie DiffendafferBroomfield: Kenzi Garner, Madison WattBuena Vista: Sage McGinnisByers: Ashland BacaCentennial: Delaney FarnsworthColorado Springs: Kiley West, Samantha Brunner, Samuel GuilezCommerce City: McKinsey PoulsonCraig: Cort Murphy, Pepper RhyneDenver: Devin BuderusEvergreen: Wyatt BlyFleming: Kendyl KirkwoodFort Morgan: Kaitlyn BellHighlands Ranch: Richard OkunoHolyoke: Makenzie MartinHotchkiss: Rebeka ScheidererLittleton: Alexis PeepgrassMontrose: Alexandra WaxlerMonument: Logan Miles, Emma PendletonParker: Katelyn Fredrickson, Liberty LinePeetz: Gwendolyn BussPueblo: Isabella Adams, Makayla KeckSimla: Molly BraunWestminster: Mark Cardenas, Juliana SellarsWindsor: Parker Gonser, Aubree HeinsmaMontanaBillings: Madison ClauseBroadus: Marcus MaderEkalaka: Tyra O'ConnorGlendive: Kayla Brown, Madeline SteinbronMiles City: Rachel BellSouth DakotaBelle Fourche: Colby TadraBlack Hawk: Brodie EisenbraunBox Elder: Ivy Hise, Jeslyn Jindra, Chloe Shatswell, Maiya Timm, Alissa WiemanCamp Crook: Karlin TeigenChamberlain: Tiana GahmCorsica: Hannah ReimnitzCuster: Morgan Helfer, Kristina ReindlHermosa: Taylor Neugebauer, Kristin SeidlerHot Springs: T'Aunah Benson, Jenna Ellis, Caden ShanklinMartin: Lily Alexander, Colton RosaneMobridge: Alexis SjomelingNew Underwood: Ethan TussingNewell: Sarah WallaceParkston: Kiauna Hargens, Ashlyn TapioPrairie City: Shane CollinsRapid City: Megan Baloun, Katelyn Beshara, Savanna Dudley, Ashlee Glandt, Cate Greff, Katherine Hoeke, Jessica Hughes, Emma Johnson, Nicholas Lembke, Hannah Martian, Reese Maxon, Elizabeth Misti SchlabachSpearfish: Shaylie EdgrenSturgis: Joel CarpenterVale: Aundra StarkVivian: Brianna SmithWall: Gabriel FauskeWyomingArapahoe: McAye FeglerCasper: Cydnie Eskew, Rebecca GoekenCheyenne: Brogan Allen, Chance Aumiller, Caydince Groth, Jackson Hesford, Amber Morgan, Garet SchlabsCody: Zelma RuddDouglas: Abrielle Hoopman, Jessica Johnson, Whisper Layher, Rylan WehrEncampment: Koye Gilbert, Dalton PetersonGillette: Samantha Hill, Sydney Hunter, Scott O'Dell, Andrea PearsonGlendo: Rachel HillGuernsey: Caleb Christensen, Katrina Christensen, Michelle MerlinoLander: Annabeth KogerLaramie: Cassandra WulffLingle: Callie FritzlerLovell: Mikkel McintoshLusk: Riley ShawMoorcroft: Tia CranstonNewcastle: Shelby Davis, Angelyse Perez, Mia PetersenPinedale: Maddox GehlhausenRanchester: Madeline HillRawlins: Eva NitschkeRiverton: Anna HutchisonRock Springs: Charles FosseySheridan: Kelsey Jacobs, Mayra PelayoThayne: Madison WrightTorrington: Gregory Logsdon, Megan Martinez, Braden Mechem, Kyla OdermannWheatland: Katie Klein, Elisa Smith, Halle SmithWright: Wyatt Real, Joslyn StrohscheinOther States and CountriesDorian Collier, Ashford, Ala.Erika VanZandt, Florence, Ariz.Kaitlyn Smith, Hackberry, Ariz.Kyle Shirley, Queen Creek, Ariz.Ashton Baswell, Livermore, Calif.Elizabeth Myers, Nevada City, Calif.Gabrielle Belton, Acworth, Ga.Sharmila Uppalapati, Joliet, Ill.John Figus, Oak Lawn, Ill.Meggan Mitchell, Vandalia, Ill.Tayler Wessely, Parkersburg, IowaLindsay Anderson, Sioux City, IowaGrady Fox, Severy, Kan.Milleanne Mullinix, Union Bridge, Md.Kolton Drogowski, Williamsburg, Mich.Morgan Halquist, Henderson, Minn.Cathy Prentiss, New Brighton, Minn.Adeline Beason, Byram, Miss.Briton Hyer, Kansas City, Mo.Hailey Jensen, Jacksonville, N.C.Saysha Woeste, Tillamook, Ore.Rochelle Romrell, Tualatin, Ore.Jacqueline Shindman, Hawley, Pa.Quincy Efeturi, Columbia, S.C.Abygail Roberts, Goose Creek, S.C.Joshua Robinson, Paris, TexasSydney Alles, West Valley City, UtahKaren Norton, Ephrata, Wash.Jazmyn Webb, Ashland, Wis.Dean Neff, Lake Mills, Wis.Myles Jensen, Marshfield, Wis.Duje Srzic, Makarska, CroatiaLidiya Dinku, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaRuhama Molla, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaWongel Molla, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaShantae Morgan, Westmoreland, JamaicaJoyce Tsuguma, Kashiba, JapanMolly Cockburn, Christchurch, New ZealandKosiso Akwanamnye, Awka, NigeriaEmmanuella Tchona, Lokossa, NigeriaMartin Poznanovic, Uzice, SerbiaDEAN’S LISTNebraska&nbsp;Alliance: Mackenzie Broderick, Aubrey Garrett, Nolan Nagaki, Kyndal Paterakis, Connor Schmidt, Macey Simmons, Alicia Tyree, Katelyn VarnerAnselmo: Nathan KastensAshland: Faith BuckAurora: Delaney SchmerAxtell: Mandy StrolbergAyr: Dylan ThomBeatrice: Raquel Moore, Sarah RiekenbergBertrand: Reece VinzantBig Springs: Kristie HillBloomfield: Jaidyn WarriorBridgeport: Jon Barrow, Rachael Blue, Chance Cooper, Olivia Freeze, Tehya FromBurwell: Carlie Helgoth, Dylan PetersenChadron: Trinity Bannan, Allison Beard, Emily Beye, Chase Boyer, Emma Cogdill, Naomie Elliott, Aubrey Evans, Allie Ferguson, Joshua Fernau, Dylan Gieseler, Sawyer Haag, David Johnson, Jackson Jones, Emily Lecher, Jaytin Metzger, Savanna Sayaloune, Taylor Strotheide, Tyleigh Strotheide, Dylon Two Dogs, Jonathan VahrenkampChambers: Samuel JesseColumbus: Hannah Montgomery, Emma Stewart, Aubrey StrombergCozad: Hannah SmithCrete: Minh Duc LeEdison: Courtney EidsonElsie: Aidan Anderson-McClintockGering: Brenda Borjas, Colby Elliott, Jade Garcia, Madison Kinney, Abigail Madden, Elizabeth Malsam, Brayden Ryan, Morgan Van AnneGordon: Rebecca Gallant, Mandy NorrisGothenburg: Jamie Graff, Ellarey Harm, Oliva Jorgenson, Rozelynn Latta, Bailey Ryker, Kayla StudnickaGrand Island: Trystan Davies, Bo DouglassHalsey: Lindsay CodyHarrison: Kalen LottonHemingford: Rayne JespersenHershey: Chanda Cooper, Eva McConnellHyannis: Payton Gorwill, Ashlyn HendersonImperial: Jolee SchoenholzKearney: Preston Pearson, Thomas WalshKimball: Sydney Biesecker, Tianna Stierwalt, Payton WiseLewellen: Reid SpadyLincoln: Karly Codr, Ashley Miller, Allison Schneider, Mataya Topil, Drew WhitneyLisco: Mallory ChristiansenLodgepole: Cooper MichelmanLoup City: Ashley Dearmont, Ella Jaixen, Mariah MarkusMadrid: Kayla ReichenbergMaxwell: Paige AnthonyMcCook: Kaylee Eckert, Megan Hodgson, Alec Langan, Lauren OsweilerMinden: Mary Braun, Isabella Poppe, Markus RamseyMitchell: Francisco Barrios, Makena ChambersMorrill: Elisha Barron, Jayden KannoMullen: Brooke McCullyNaper: Mattie GarwoodNorfolk: Jalen Hoffman, Bailey Hurlburt, Katherine Meuret, Sheila Renteria Salgado, Amanda SellinNorth Platte: Madilyn Ayres, Mollie Finney, Elleigh Fisher, Skyler Geier-Dodson, Gracie Risse, Bailey Shurigar, Cole WaltherOgallala: Kai Brixton, Clayton MurphyOhiowa: Hector NunezOmaha: Piper Hart, Jacoby LongO’Neill: Christopher Jennings, Taryn StrongOsceola: Sydney RobertsPapillion: Devyn Jones, Nicole SnavelyPlattsmouth: Melissa HaswellPotter: Kailey NicklasSargent: Karina KittScottsbluff: Ashley Kessler, Marisela Aguilar, Harrison Bice, Alexandra Harris, Alyssa Liebich, Hunter Lund, Madison Miller, Sasha Paez, Sarah Peterson, Meagan Shuey, Isabella SotoSeward: Noah FieldsSidney: McKenzie Andrew, Julie Bellendir, Trey Douglas, Jersie Misegadis, Paige Pritchard, Jaylee Shaw, Karalyn Stevens, Seth StudnickaSpringview: Hunter WiebelhausStanton: Sutton PohlmanSyracuse: Kaylea GeiserTaylor: Dean SchroderTrenton: Mackenzie CarlsonTryon: Abigail GooseyValentine: McKenna Elliott, Cody Miller, Ian SlamaVirginia: Caitlin ArmstrongWauneta: Tiffany HarrisWest Point: Aspen LundYork: Josephine LoosveltAlaskaPalmer: Torrey McClainSeward: Zen PetrosiusWasilla: Mary Jo Holm, Heather MilsteadWillow: Misty MillerArizonaMarana: JoLynn NiegockiMesa: Karstin HollenQueen Creek: Nathan MannTucson: Brandon ParedesVail: Bailey RomingerColoradoAkron: Tara ChadwickArvada: Reed HenkelAurora: Jaelyn Martinez, Spencer MartinezBerthoud: Adam BeardBethune: Kaitlynn NormanBriggsdale: Kylie KriseBrighton: Bo FrenchBroomfield: Grant SwensonCedaredge: Reganne McIntireColorado Springs: Ethan BorenDelta: Hannah SternsDenver: J'lyssa MartinezEaton: Makenna Cormack, Noelle MeagherErie: Zachary Kapushion, Sloane QuijasEvans: Mayson FagotFirestone: Paige EdwardsFleming: Kally KirkwoodFort Collins: Haleyanna Dierenfield, Jessie Henchenski, Peter KrohnFort Morgan: Ashley AndersonFowler: Richard LeoneGrand Lake: Sarah HoughGreeley: Devyn ThorntonHighlands Ranch: Xavier HarrellHotchkiss: McKenna WaddellIdalia: Camren Morris, Brisa PerezJohnstown: Izabella MillerKit Carson: Cordell FarmerLa Junta: Jaedyn GronemeyerLamar: Isabel GainesLaSalle: Cale SchaferLimon: Litzy WilsonLittleton: Chase Anderson, Tyson SmithLongmont: Ashayla Powers, Creighton TremblyLoveland: Tucker McGinnisMonument: Joshua Gerlach IIPeetz: Addyson Gipfert, Lacie VachRangely: Kiara Harris, Hannah WilkieThornton: Samantha Conradie, Alejandra Medrano, Olivia WaufleWellington: Brody LambWestminster: Adam LynchWindsor: Avery LacySouth Dakota&nbsp;Aberdeen: Trey HedgesBelle Fourche: Whitley RederBox Elder: Colton Jackson, Riley Perry, Ashlynn WylieBuffalo: Brooklyn WilliamsCamp Crook: Karissa RasmussenCuster: Quintin GilgDe Smet: Griffin ClubbHarrold: Letha Jessen, Velvet JessenHermosa: Josiah HegerHolabird: Zane ZilverbergHot Springs: Jacob HaertelKadoka: Sammi StoutLemmon: Blake ThyneLong Valley: Reece OhrtmanMidland: Autumn SkowNew Underwood: Breinn RichterNewell: Austin AlexanderOwanka: Nicole VolmerPiedmont: Alisha SolaasPine Ridge: Giani BettelyounQuinn: Hannah ThorsonRapid City: Shana Bender, Ramsey Deming, Rylee Flick, Josephine Fritz, Maddison Frohling, Julie Geiman, Delaney Klosterman, Trynyty Krebsbach, Madison Sebbo, Trace TrainorRed Shirt: Cathlyn KnutsonSmithwick: Aerial BochmannSturgis: Reese JacobsSummerset: Michaela HillWhite River: Jaelyn GreenWhitewood: Carson BrandenbergTexasBorger: Britley LopezConroe: Jared HurtProsper: Armon Johnson, Earl Johnson Jr.Roma: Nataly TorresSweeny: Ana RojasWyomingAlpine: Johannah ChristieArvada: Krista MalliBar Nunn: D'Anthony SmithBig Piney: Rebecha DelkerBurns: Emma Bach, Katelyn BachCasper: Amanda HessCasper: Emory YoosookCheyenne: Gavyn Aumiller, Brittny Merritt, Emma NorrisCody: AnnMarie ChitwoodDouglas: Brianna Hansel, Brooke Layher, Treyton Pearson, Christopher Schoening, Kamdynn TownsendEvanston: Meagan PextonGillette: Jaden Earle, Mason Hamilton, Breckyn Hamlin, Chloe RankinGlenrock: Seterra HoskinsonGreen River: Megan Counts, Ashlyn JensenGuernsey: Reva Falen, Whitney MartinJackson: Jeydon CoxKemmerer: Colter JulianLander: Ursula AndersonLaramie: Cole PerkinsLingle: Christopher Anderson, Bailey Powell, Ashley RileyLovell: Madison Bryson, Ezra HarlowLusk: Ashley Christianson, Alec PenfieldNewcastle: Emma Haugen, Autumn Mills, Gunnar WainscottPine Bluffs: Katie FornstromPowell: Matthew SeckmanRanchester: Amy SimonsonRawlins: Maddison WrightRiverton: Dillon FabricusRock Springs: Courtney SmithSaratoga: Savannah WellsSheridan: Riley Billings, Reata Cook, Bailey Ferree, Elizabeth Peterson, Brooke WormanThermopolis: Remington FerreeTorrington: Meranda RichardsWheatland: Jolie Evans, Jamie WardellYoder: Kadra Clark, Clifford SwankOther States and CountriesJarrett Taylor, Castleberry, Ala.Brianna Vollendroff, Oroville, Calif.Emma Meadows, Roseville, Calif.Simeon Marton, San Juan Capistrano, Calif.Jordan James, Tallahassee, Fla.Kyra Tanabe, Honolulu, HawaiiClaudia Dolliger, Bourbonnais, Ill.Jaymi Stacy, Red Oak, IowaCasey Black, Silver City, IowaTate Rusher, Derby, Kan.Kelsey Huggans, Wichita, Kan.Matthew Coleman-Dunson, Casco, Mich.Casey Knobloch, Birney, Mont.Irene Johnson, Roy, Mont.Conner Schwend, Saint Xavier, Mont.Kali Lucier, Burlington, N.D.BreAnne Benson, West Fargo, N.D.Kamila Montenegro, Las Vegas, Nev.Mohammed Moustahwid, Grennville, S.C.Tamara Kinsman, Perkinsville, Vt.Annika Lee, Lacey, Wash.Jules Smyth, Roblin, CanadaNathan Tefera, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

CSC President’s and Dean’s Lists announced

United Way of Western of Nebraska is getting closer to their fundraising goal of $400,000 for the entire Panhandle of Western Nebraska, to give back to non-profit organizations they partner with and support community impact initiatives for United Way.

United Way of Western Nebraska Executive Director Karen Benzel provides an update on the Fundraiser.

"We have raised $320,073.89, so we are about $80,000 away from reaching that goal," Benzel said. We are doing really well, but we are not quite there yet."

Benzel says the money raised will go back to their partner agencies and support the work they are doing in the community.&nbsp;

To donate, go to the giving page at UWWN.org/giving.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostUnited Way of Western of Nebraska is getting closer to their fundraising goal of $400,000 for the entire Panhandle of Western Nebraska, to give back to non-profit organizations they partner with and support community impact initiatives for United Way.United Way of Western Nebraska Executive Director Karen Benzel provides an update on the Fundraiser."We have raised $320,073.89, so we are about $80,000 away from reaching that goal," Benzel said. We are doing really well, but we are not quite there yet."Benzel says the money raised will go back to their partner agencies and support the work they are doing in the community.&nbsp;To donate, go to the giving page at UWWN.org/giving.

United Way of Western Nebraska closing in on fundraising goal

By Chabella Guzman, communications specialist Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff held its Holiday Banquet with faculty and staff on Jan. 5 at the Weborg Center in Gering.&nbsp;

The annual PREEC award for Outstanding Service to Panhandle Agriculture was awarded to Dr. Ivan Rush, an Emeritus Professor of Beef Nutrition at the Panhandle Research &amp; Extension Center.

“The award recognizes someone who provides outstanding service to agriculture in western Nebraska,” said Mitchell Stephenson, Nebraska Extension Range Management Specialist and PREEC Associate Center Director. “The criteria include the value of work they’ve done, cooperation with UNL specialists and educators; leadership in agriculture; community service other than agriculture; and level of impact on Panhandle agriculture.”

Rush began his career in the Panhandle in 1963 as an extension agent in Dawes County. He left briefly to work internationally and returned in the late 60s to take the reigns as the beef extension specialist at the Panhandle Research and Extension Center. Rush was an integral part of many of the improvements at the feedlot coming from his efforts and work. He retired in 2008, but his service to agriculture has continued. Ivan and his wife Doris are well known for their tireless service to the Nebraska Cattle industry, and he was recently honored for that service by the Nebraska Cattlemen Association. Rush also serves within the Nebraska Sheep and Goat Association.

The banquet also recognized years of service:

Rex Neilsen, research technician, retired - 45 years of service

Cardinal Farrington, facilities manager – 5 years of service

Ryan Parker, research technician - 5 years of service

David Blanke, research technician – 5 years of service&nbsp;

By Chabella Guzman, communications specialist Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704820734144.jpeg" alt="Dr. Ivan Rush receives Outstanding Service to Panhandle Agriculture at the PREEC Holiday Banquet. From left, Hailey and her father Mitch Stephenson, Ivan Rush, and John Westra. Photo by Chabella Guzman " />
 <figcaption>Dr. Ivan Rush receives Outstanding Service to Panhandle Agriculture at the PREEC Holiday Banquet. From left, Hailey and her father Mitch Stephenson, Ivan Rush, and John Westra. Photo by Chabella Guzman </figcaption>
 </figure>The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff held its Holiday Banquet with faculty and staff on Jan. 5 at the Weborg Center in Gering.&nbsp;The annual PREEC award for Outstanding Service to Panhandle Agriculture was awarded to Dr. Ivan Rush, an Emeritus Professor of Beef Nutrition at the Panhandle Research &amp; Extension Center.“The award recognizes someone who provides outstanding service to agriculture in western Nebraska,” said Mitchell Stephenson, Nebraska Extension Range Management Specialist and PREEC Associate Center Director. “The criteria include the value of work they’ve done, cooperation with UNL specialists and educators; leadership in agriculture; community service other than agriculture; and level of impact on Panhandle agriculture.”Rush began his career in the Panhandle in 1963 as an extension agent in Dawes County. He left briefly to work internationally and returned in the late 60s to take the reigns as the beef extension specialist at the Panhandle Research and Extension Center. Rush was an integral part of many of the improvements at the feedlot coming from his efforts and work. He retired in 2008, but his service to agriculture has continued. Ivan and his wife Doris are well known for their tireless service to the Nebraska Cattle industry, and he was recently honored for that service by the Nebraska Cattlemen Association. Rush also serves within the Nebraska Sheep and Goat Association.The banquet also recognized years of service:Rex Neilsen, research technician, retired - 45 years of serviceCardinal Farrington, facilities manager – 5 years of serviceRyan Parker, research technician - 5 years of serviceDavid Blanke, research technician – 5 years of service&nbsp;

Local cattleman honored with ‘Outstanding Service to Panhandle Agriculture’ award

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s changes to 2024 fishing rules are:

Archery Paddlefish – Archery paddlefish permit holders may harvest paddlefish in the spillway below Gavins Point Dam. The north wall and discharge canal remain closed to archery paddlefish fishing.

Archery Fishing – Only the north wall of the spillway and immediately below the Gavins Point Dam powerhouse downstream to a line extending from the east end of the south cement wall of the discharge canal northwest to the east end of the north wall of the discharge canal will be closed to archery fishing during archery paddlefish season.

Channel Catfish – The statewide bag and length restriction on channel catfish is changed to one fish greater than 30 inches in length.

Yellow Perch – The daily bag limit for yellow perch shall include only five fish 10 inches or longer, of which only one fish may be 12 inches or longer, at Home Valley Lake (Cherry County), Rat and Beaver Wildlife Management Area (Cherry County), Blue Lake (Garden County), Island Lake (Garden County), Smith Lake, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Garden County), Frye Lake WMA (Grant County), and Smith Lake WMA (Sheridan County).

Bluegill – The daily bag limit for bluegill shall include only one fish nine inches or longer at Duck Lake (Cherry County), Pelican Lake (Cherry Lake), Blue Lake (Garden County), Island Lake (Garden County), Smith Lake, FWS (Garden County), Frye Lake WMA (Grant County), and Smith Lake WMA (Sheridan County).

More fishing information can be found in the 2024 Fishing Guide, which will be available in January at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.outdoornebraska.org/">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and where 2024 fishing permits are sold.

Jerry KaneNebraska Games and Parks The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s changes to 2024 fishing rules are:Archery Paddlefish – Archery paddlefish permit holders may harvest paddlefish in the spillway below Gavins Point Dam. The north wall and discharge canal remain closed to archery paddlefish fishing.Archery Fishing – Only the north wall of the spillway and immediately below the Gavins Point Dam powerhouse downstream to a line extending from the east end of the south cement wall of the discharge canal northwest to the east end of the north wall of the discharge canal will be closed to archery fishing during archery paddlefish season.Channel Catfish – The statewide bag and length restriction on channel catfish is changed to one fish greater than 30 inches in length.Yellow Perch – The daily bag limit for yellow perch shall include only five fish 10 inches or longer, of which only one fish may be 12 inches or longer, at Home Valley Lake (Cherry County), Rat and Beaver Wildlife Management Area (Cherry County), Blue Lake (Garden County), Island Lake (Garden County), Smith Lake, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Garden County), Frye Lake WMA (Grant County), and Smith Lake WMA (Sheridan County).Bluegill – The daily bag limit for bluegill shall include only one fish nine inches or longer at Duck Lake (Cherry County), Pelican Lake (Cherry Lake), Blue Lake (Garden County), Island Lake (Garden County), Smith Lake, FWS (Garden County), Frye Lake WMA (Grant County), and Smith Lake WMA (Sheridan County).More fishing information can be found in the 2024 Fishing Guide, which will be available in January at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.outdoornebraska.org/">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and where 2024 fishing permits are sold.

Be aware of fishing regulation changes for 2024

Gering, NE – The Civilian Conservation Corps, known as the CCC, was a voluntary work relief program during the Great Depression. Enrollees in this New Deal program planted trees and completed other important conservation and infrastructure projects in national parks, state parks, and national forests across the United States. One of these companies, Company 762, operated here at Scotts Bluff National Monument.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A new, temporary exhibit is on display in the monument visitor center, illustrated with historic photographs, two copies of the “Adobe Echo” Company 762 newspaper from the Scotts Bluff National Monument collection, clothing patches, and a mysterious clay tile on loan from the Legacy of the Plains Museum. Stop by the monument visitor center during normal operating hours to learn more about the daily lives of the men of Company 762, their accomplishments, and the legacy they’ve left at Scotts Bluff National Monument and other parks, forests, and monuments throughout the United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The monument visitor center is currently open daily from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The Summit Road is open (weather and conditions permitting) from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monument grounds and trails are open sunrise to sunset.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Further information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules are available at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.&nbsp;

By Scottsbluff National MonumentGering, NE – The Civilian Conservation Corps, known as the CCC, was a voluntary work relief program during the Great Depression. Enrollees in this New Deal program planted trees and completed other important conservation and infrastructure projects in national parks, state parks, and national forests across the United States. One of these companies, Company 762, operated here at Scotts Bluff National Monument.&nbsp;&nbsp;A new, temporary exhibit is on display in the monument visitor center, illustrated with historic photographs, two copies of the “Adobe Echo” Company 762 newspaper from the Scotts Bluff National Monument collection, clothing patches, and a mysterious clay tile on loan from the Legacy of the Plains Museum. Stop by the monument visitor center during normal operating hours to learn more about the daily lives of the men of Company 762, their accomplishments, and the legacy they’ve left at Scotts Bluff National Monument and other parks, forests, and monuments throughout the United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;The monument visitor center is currently open daily from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The Summit Road is open (weather and conditions permitting) from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monument grounds and trails are open sunrise to sunset.&nbsp;&nbsp;Further information about Scotts Bluff National Monument programs and schedules are available at the visitor center, by calling 308-436-9700 or by visiting our website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm</a>&nbsp;or Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/scottsbluffnps</a>.&nbsp;

Scottsbluff National Monument announces  Exhibit featuring Civilian Conservation Corps 

Nebraska Extension will host a webinar on Monday and Thursday evenings in late January and February on the fundamentals of knowing and calculating annual cow costs.

Knowing annual cow costs is the foundation for evaluating and making management decisions that can improve profitability for a cow-calf enterprise. Significant increases in input costs challenge producers to examine the cost of production and identify where there may be opportunities to adjust the production system. Calculating costs and breaking them into categories gives an understanding of where there may be an opportunity to make changes.

The webinar series will be held on Jan. 29 and Feb.1, 5, 8, 12, and 15 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. CST. The cost is $60 per person and includes a resource workbook. The course is limited to 30 participants. To register, go to<a href="https://go.unl.edu/cow_costs" target="_blank">&nbsp;https://go.unl.edu/cow_costs</a>. Registration is requested by Jan. 22 to ensure pre-meeting preparation material is available to participants. A computer and internet connection will be needed to participate in the webinar series.&nbsp;

For questions about the webinar series or for more information, contact Aaron Berger, Nebraska Extension Educator, at 308-235-3122 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aberger2@unl.edu">aberger2@unl.edu</a>.

Nebraska Extension is a Division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln cooperating with the Counties and the United States Department of Agriculture. Nebraska Extension educational programs abide with the nondiscrimination policies of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the United States Department of Agriculture.

By Nebraska Extension<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704736068086.jpeg" alt="Diamond Bar Ranch, Central Nebraska" />
 <figcaption>Diamond Bar Ranch, Central Nebraska</figcaption>
 </figure>By Nebraska ExtensionNebraska Extension will host a webinar on Monday and Thursday evenings in late January and February on the fundamentals of knowing and calculating annual cow costs.Knowing annual cow costs is the foundation for evaluating and making management decisions that can improve profitability for a cow-calf enterprise. Significant increases in input costs challenge producers to examine the cost of production and identify where there may be opportunities to adjust the production system. Calculating costs and breaking them into categories gives an understanding of where there may be an opportunity to make changes.Topics to be covered will include:<ul>
 <li>Understanding economic unit cost of production for the cow-calf enterprise.</li><li>Recognizing the value and cost of both grazed and harvested feed.</li><li>Calculating cow depreciation and replacement development costs.</li><li>Figuring the cost of equipment and labor utilized in the cow-calf enterprise.</li><li>Examining breeding expenses and evaluating the value and cost relationship.</li><li>Reviewing benchmark cost and production data to see how you compare.</li>
 </ul>The webinar series will be held on Jan. 29 and Feb.1, 5, 8, 12, and 15 from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. CST. The cost is $60 per person and includes a resource workbook. The course is limited to 30 participants. To register, go to<a href="https://go.unl.edu/cow_costs" target="_blank">&nbsp;https://go.unl.edu/cow_costs</a>. Registration is requested by Jan. 22 to ensure pre-meeting preparation material is available to participants. A computer and internet connection will be needed to participate in the webinar series.&nbsp;For questions about the webinar series or for more information, contact Aaron Berger, Nebraska Extension Educator, at 308-235-3122 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aberger2@unl.edu">aberger2@unl.edu</a>.Nebraska Extension is a Division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln cooperating with the Counties and the United States Department of Agriculture. Nebraska Extension educational programs abide with the nondiscrimination policies of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the United States Department of Agriculture.

Calculating Annual Cow Costs webinar series scheduled for January and February

By Box Butte Development Corporation

It's always significant when a long-serving executive director decides to step down, and Chelsie Herian's 15 years of service to BBDC certainly leave a notable legacy. Transitioning from Historic Main Street Manager/Assistant Director to the Executive Director position is a testament to her dedication and capabilities.

Some notable accomplishments in Herian’s 15 years of service include securing the Site &amp; Building Development Fund Grant to purchase and prepare the 40-acre Box Butte Industrial Site in 2012, which has since added Nutrien Ag Solutions in one of the 4 tracts of land. She also helped coordinate several Business &amp; Industry Day tours for both Alliance and Hemingford High School, including a few years helping organize a Career Day for Grandview 5th Graders. 2023 brought some excitement with landing $750,000 grant from Nebraska’s Rural Workforce Housing Fund Grant which we matched locally with an additional $325,000 and a $30,000 Community For Kids grant to help address child care issues for the next three years here in Box Butte County. 

Herian has also been heavily involved with the Career Connections of Western Nebraska group which recently just hosted 262 sophomores from the area in Chadron for a 6 tact Career Cab event. She is currently organizing a Job Fair for AHS Juniors and Seniors on February 7th. Herian has served on the Heartland Expressway Association board of directors in various capacities over the years as well as the Nebraska Economic Developers Association Board of Directors and has served as the Conference Chair for the past three years. 

The Board of Directors expressing gratitude to Herian for her contributions speaks volumes about the impact she has had on Box Butte County. She has assisted with startup, growth, and development all over the county. BBDC also assists the City with the LB840 program, PREMA’s Revolving Loan Fund, Hemingford’s Storefront Improvement Grant, Main Street Façade grant, as well as helps connect businesses with other funding sources with various State partners. 

The board wishes Chelsie Herian success in her future professional endeavors and hopes that the next Executive Director will carry on her passion and determination to improve the communities served by BBDC. Box Butte County's positive attributes as a great place to live, work, and raise a family will undoubtedly continue to be a focus for the organization. Herian’s last day at BBDC will be February 8th, 2024. The board of directors are seeking an individual who will ensure the values of the organization are adhered to, with a passion for making Box Butte County a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

• The organization has an annual budget of $148,700.00

• BBDC’s areas of focus are Business Development, Talent Attraction, and Community Affairs

• Our strategic goals in the next three years are: Creating more Affordable Housing, additional Early Child Care 

Opportunities and Support, driving Business &amp; Expansion, and further collaboration with our partners. 

Interested candidates should send their cover letters, resumes, and references to BoxButteDevelopment@gmail.com

By Box Butte Development Corporation<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704735807241.jpeg" alt="Chelsie Herian, longtime BBDC Executive Director" />
 <figcaption>Chelsie Herian, longtime BBDC Executive Director</figcaption>
 </figure>It's always significant when a long-serving executive director decides to step down, and Chelsie Herian's 15 years of service to BBDC certainly leave a notable legacy. Transitioning from Historic Main Street Manager/Assistant Director to the Executive Director position is a testament to her dedication and capabilities.Some notable accomplishments in Herian’s 15 years of service include securing the Site &amp; Building Development Fund Grant to purchase and prepare the 40-acre Box Butte Industrial Site in 2012, which has since added Nutrien Ag Solutions in one of the 4 tracts of land. She also helped coordinate several Business &amp; Industry Day tours for both Alliance and Hemingford High School, including a few years helping organize a Career Day for Grandview 5th Graders. 2023 brought some excitement with landing $750,000 grant from Nebraska’s Rural Workforce Housing Fund Grant which we matched locally with an additional $325,000 and a $30,000 Community For Kids grant to help address child care issues for the next three years here in Box Butte County. Herian has also been heavily involved with the Career Connections of Western Nebraska group which recently just hosted 262 sophomores from the area in Chadron for a 6 tact Career Cab event. She is currently organizing a Job Fair for AHS Juniors and Seniors on February 7th. Herian has served on the Heartland Expressway Association board of directors in various capacities over the years as well as the Nebraska Economic Developers Association Board of Directors and has served as the Conference Chair for the past three years. The Board of Directors expressing gratitude to Herian for her contributions speaks volumes about the impact she has had on Box Butte County. She has assisted with startup, growth, and development all over the county. BBDC also assists the City with the LB840 program, PREMA’s Revolving Loan Fund, Hemingford’s Storefront Improvement Grant, Main Street Façade grant, as well as helps connect businesses with other funding sources with various State partners. The board wishes Chelsie Herian success in her future professional endeavors and hopes that the next Executive Director will carry on her passion and determination to improve the communities served by BBDC. Box Butte County's positive attributes as a great place to live, work, and raise a family will undoubtedly continue to be a focus for the organization. Herian’s last day at BBDC will be February 8th, 2024. The board of directors are seeking an individual who will ensure the values of the organization are adhered to, with a passion for making Box Butte County a great place to live, work, and raise a family.• The organization has an annual budget of $148,700.00• BBDC’s areas of focus are Business Development, Talent Attraction, and Community Affairs• Our strategic goals in the next three years are: Creating more Affordable Housing, additional Early Child Care Opportunities and Support, driving Business &amp; Expansion, and further collaboration with our partners. Interested candidates should send their cover letters, resumes, and references to BoxButteDevelopment@gmail.com

Herian stepping down as Executive Director of BBDC

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 1/8/24

POST PODCAST: Alliance Public Library

POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska