Senator Pete Ricketts is in Alliance today, (Monday)&nbsp; as he is speaking at at a forum at the Knight Museum theater room.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostSenator Pete Ricketts is in Alliance today, (Monday)&nbsp; as he is speaking at at a forum at the Knight Museum theater room.&nbsp;The event starts at 12 pm.

(CORRECTION) Sen. Ricketts speaking at Knight Museum Monday

A Colorado man was killed in a motorcycle accident in Scottsbluff on Saturday night. Scottsbluff Sheriff's Department reports that they were dispatched to 23rd St. and Broadway at 9:42 p.m.&nbsp;

 The investigation uncovered that a white 2008 Mazda driven by 23 year-old Angelina Palomo of Scottsbluff, was driving southbound in the 2300 block of Broadway, when she made a left turn at the intersection of 23rd st and Broadway.&nbsp; She then&nbsp; collided with an orange 2010 Honda CBR1000 driven by 43 year-old Levi Queen of Loveland, CO.

 Queen was transported to Regional West Medical Center by Valley Ambulance where he later passed away due to his injuries.

Authorities say that witnesses to the accident reported the Honda was traveling at an estimated speed of over 60 mph in the 30 mph zone at the time of impact, and that speed and helmet use are be being investigated as factors in the accident. Palomo was issued a citation for Driving Under Suspension.  

Both vehicles were total losses in the accident.&nbsp; Scotts Bluff Sheriff's Department, Valley Ambulance and Scottsbluff Fire Department assisted in the call.

By ALex Benzegala Panhandle PostA Colorado man was killed in a motorcycle accident in Scottsbluff on Saturday night. Scottsbluff Sheriff's Department reports that they were dispatched to 23rd St. and Broadway at 9:42 p.m.&nbsp; The investigation uncovered that a white 2008 Mazda driven by 23 year-old Angelina Palomo of Scottsbluff, was driving southbound in the 2300 block of Broadway, when she made a left turn at the intersection of 23rd st and Broadway.&nbsp; She then&nbsp; collided with an orange 2010 Honda CBR1000 driven by 43 year-old Levi Queen of Loveland, CO. Queen was transported to Regional West Medical Center by Valley Ambulance where he later passed away due to his injuries.Authorities say that witnesses to the accident reported the Honda was traveling at an estimated speed of over 60 mph in the 30 mph zone at the time of impact, and that speed and helmet use are be being investigated as factors in the accident. Palomo was issued a citation for Driving Under Suspension. Both vehicles were total losses in the accident.&nbsp; Scotts Bluff Sheriff's Department, Valley Ambulance and Scottsbluff Fire Department assisted in the call.

Fatal accident in Scottsbluff on Saturday night

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Planned Parenthood of the Heartland has appealed a judge's ruling that left a new Nebraska law intact that bans&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-care-abortion-ban-nebraska-1a88067bf403559116df7c09e004e472">abortions</a>&nbsp;after 12 weeks of pregnancy and imposes restrictions on gender-affirming surgery.

Planned Parenthood filed its appeal Friday with help from the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska, one week after a judge sided with the state and rejected the challenge to the law&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trans-health-abortion-laws-nebraska-3bd01980e0df33bc89afc3d5b0c11f93">Nebraska lawmakers approved</a>&nbsp;earlier this year.

The lawsuit had argued that the law violated a Nebraska constitutional rule that bills cannot contain more than one subject, but the judge disagreed. Lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-transgender-ban-nebraska-filibuster-94f1e637e2d9034f608c793bf929e888">added the abortion ban</a>&nbsp;to an existing bill dealing with gender-related care.

The law outlaws abortion after 12 weeks of pregnancy with exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the mother. As of Oct. 1, it also will prevent people under 19 from receiving gender-affirming surgery and restricts the use of hormone treatments and puberty blockers for minors.

Ruth Richardson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood North Central States, said her organization “will never stop fighting for the reproductive freedom, bodily autonomy and health of our Nebraska communities.”

Richardson said Planned Parenthood will continue to provide abortions to women up to the 12th week of pregnancy in compliance with state law, and it will work with anyone who needs care later in pregnancy to find treatment in another state.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Planned Parenthood of the Heartland has appealed a judge's ruling that left a new Nebraska law intact that bans&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-care-abortion-ban-nebraska-1a88067bf403559116df7c09e004e472">abortions</a>&nbsp;after 12 weeks of pregnancy and imposes restrictions on gender-affirming surgery.Planned Parenthood filed its appeal Friday with help from the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska, one week after a judge sided with the state and rejected the challenge to the law&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trans-health-abortion-laws-nebraska-3bd01980e0df33bc89afc3d5b0c11f93">Nebraska lawmakers approved</a>&nbsp;earlier this year.The lawsuit had argued that the law violated a Nebraska constitutional rule that bills cannot contain more than one subject, but the judge disagreed. Lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-transgender-ban-nebraska-filibuster-94f1e637e2d9034f608c793bf929e888">added the abortion ban</a>&nbsp;to an existing bill dealing with gender-related care.The law outlaws abortion after 12 weeks of pregnancy with exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the mother. As of Oct. 1, it also will prevent people under 19 from receiving gender-affirming surgery and restricts the use of hormone treatments and puberty blockers for minors.Ruth Richardson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood North Central States, said her organization “will never stop fighting for the reproductive freedom, bodily autonomy and health of our Nebraska communities.”Richardson said Planned Parenthood will continue to provide abortions to women up to the 12th week of pregnancy in compliance with state law, and it will work with anyone who needs care later in pregnancy to find treatment in another state.

Planned Parenthood appeals ruling that let Neb. abortion ban stand

&nbsp;By Jeff Yost, President and CEO, Nebraska Community Foundation

Every day I hear amazing stories of community members pulling together to create fantastic outcomes in the places they love. Behind many of these stories are people who had the generosity and foresight to consider their communities when deciding how to create their legacy. I think of Noral Wait, whose estate gift to Seward has capitalized an endowment for youth engagement. Or individuals like Rudy Elis, whose gifts to northeast Nebraska empower young Nebraskans to pursue careers that maximize their talents.

Less than half of American adults have a will, according to Gallup. That’s unfortunate, because estate planning is one of the most impactful ways to benefit our families and communities after we’re gone. Another gift planning survey conducted by Caring.com found that 34% of people aged 35-54 have never discussed estate planning with anyone. That means, in the event of an untimely passing, family are left to guess the wishes of their loved one, or worse, fight over them. Having a will in place is the best way to ensure wishes are met and loved ones are taken care of.

What many don’t realize is that they actually do have a will. Most states, including Nebraska, have statutes directing how your estate will be distributed if you die without a will. The reality is these laws most likely do not reflect what you would want. By creating your will, you take control of your legacy.

August is Make-a-Will Month and the perfect reminder to either finally get a plan in place, or revisit estate plans to ensure they still represent your wishes.

With a will, you decide how to use your estate to ensure your family’s security and hometown’s future. Many Nebraskans are beginning to treat their communities as another member of their family, recognizing the essential role the places we call home have in improving quality of life – in creating the margin of excellence that makes our hometowns places we love, not just places we live. More than ever, Nebraskans are realizing we must care for our communities the way they’ve cared for us.

Over the next 10 years in Nebraska, more than $100 billion will transfer from one generation to the next. Charitable gift planning is one of the simplest, most impactful ways to ensure a portion of the multi-billion-dollar transfer of wealth remains in your hometown or the community you love. Nebraska Community Foundation suggests leaving 5% of one’s assets to local charitable causes. If everyone left just 5%, it would equate to $5 billion statewide in the next decade. These charitable resources could be used to further community and economic development, better local quality-of-life and improve our state for the next generation who call it home.

Writing a will may seem intimidating, but most people report the process is easier than anticipated. Meeting with an attorney or professional advisor is always recommended, however, there are also free online tools to help you get started. For instance,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fivetothrivene.org/" target="_blank">www.fivetothrivene.org</a>&nbsp;has a free, easy-to-use will planning guide to take you through the process. Visit the website, scroll down to the “Transfer of Wealth Toolkit,” and click on “WORKBOOK: Planning Your Legacy” to access the free guide. Nebraska Community Foundation staff are also always happy to discuss tax-wise charitable gift planning strategies and the ways our fellow Nebraskans are leaving a legacy.

Whether you need to start the conversation, make it official or revisit your existing will, I encourage you to join me and other community-minded Nebraskans in devising a legacy that benefits you, your family and the place you love. We can’t control everything, but we can control what we leave to the next generation.

&nbsp;By Jeff Yost, President and CEO, Nebraska Community FoundationEvery day I hear amazing stories of community members pulling together to create fantastic outcomes in the places they love. Behind many of these stories are people who had the generosity and foresight to consider their communities when deciding how to create their legacy. I think of Noral Wait, whose estate gift to Seward has capitalized an endowment for youth engagement. Or individuals like Rudy Elis, whose gifts to northeast Nebraska empower young Nebraskans to pursue careers that maximize their talents.Less than half of American adults have a will, according to Gallup. That’s unfortunate, because estate planning is one of the most impactful ways to benefit our families and communities after we’re gone. Another gift planning survey conducted by Caring.com found that 34% of people aged 35-54 have never discussed estate planning with anyone. That means, in the event of an untimely passing, family are left to guess the wishes of their loved one, or worse, fight over them. Having a will in place is the best way to ensure wishes are met and loved ones are taken care of.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692387025428.jpeg" alt="Jeff Yost,&nbsp;President and CEO, Nebraska Community Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Yost,&nbsp;President and CEO, Nebraska Community Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>What many don’t realize is that they actually do have a will. Most states, including Nebraska, have statutes directing how your estate will be distributed if you die without a will. The reality is these laws most likely do not reflect what you would want. By creating your will, you take control of your legacy.August is Make-a-Will Month and the perfect reminder to either finally get a plan in place, or revisit estate plans to ensure they still represent your wishes.With a will, you decide how to use your estate to ensure your family’s security and hometown’s future. Many Nebraskans are beginning to treat their communities as another member of their family, recognizing the essential role the places we call home have in improving quality of life – in creating the margin of excellence that makes our hometowns places we love, not just places we live. More than ever, Nebraskans are realizing we must care for our communities the way they’ve cared for us.Over the next 10 years in Nebraska, more than $100 billion will transfer from one generation to the next. Charitable gift planning is one of the simplest, most impactful ways to ensure a portion of the multi-billion-dollar transfer of wealth remains in your hometown or the community you love. Nebraska Community Foundation suggests leaving 5% of one’s assets to local charitable causes. If everyone left just 5%, it would equate to $5 billion statewide in the next decade. These charitable resources could be used to further community and economic development, better local quality-of-life and improve our state for the next generation who call it home.Writing a will may seem intimidating, but most people report the process is easier than anticipated. Meeting with an attorney or professional advisor is always recommended, however, there are also free online tools to help you get started. For instance,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fivetothrivene.org/" target="_blank">www.fivetothrivene.org</a>&nbsp;has a free, easy-to-use will planning guide to take you through the process. Visit the website, scroll down to the “Transfer of Wealth Toolkit,” and click on “WORKBOOK: Planning Your Legacy” to access the free guide. Nebraska Community Foundation staff are also always happy to discuss tax-wise charitable gift planning strategies and the ways our fellow Nebraskans are leaving a legacy.Whether you need to start the conversation, make it official or revisit your existing will, I encourage you to join me and other community-minded Nebraskans in devising a legacy that benefits you, your family and the place you love. We can’t control everything, but we can control what we leave to the next generation.

August is Make-A-Will Month

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

United Way is hosting their annual Campaign Kickoff luncheon on Wednesday, August 30 at noon at WNCC’s Harms Center at 2620 College Park in Scottsbluff.

They will hold a press conference at 11:30 am to allow time for questions prior to the campaign kickoff.

United Way will&nbsp; we present our annual awards, announce our new campaign co-chairs and the 2023-24 campaign goal.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostUnited Way is hosting their annual Campaign Kickoff luncheon on Wednesday, August 30 at noon at WNCC’s Harms Center at 2620 College Park in Scottsbluff.They will hold a press conference at 11:30 am to allow time for questions prior to the campaign kickoff.United Way will&nbsp; we present our annual awards, announce our new campaign co-chairs and the 2023-24 campaign goal.

United Way annual Campaign Kickoff soon

By the Office of Senator Pete Ricketts

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations,&nbsp;joined&nbsp;a group of 26 Republican&nbsp;Senators,&nbsp;led by U.S. Senator Tim Scott&nbsp;(R-SC),&nbsp;to demand answers from the Biden Administration after they released $6 billion in frozen assets to the Islamic Republic of Iran in exchange for the release of five American detainees. &nbsp;

“While we firmly believe the United States must use every appropriate resource to secure the release of American citizens wrongfully detained overseas, this decision will reinforce an incredibly dangerous precedent and will enable the Iranian regime to increase its destabilizing activities across the Middle East,”&nbsp;the letter said.

In 2016, the Obama administration released $400 million in assets to Iran. Seven years later the current administration&nbsp;liquidated 15 times that amount.

“Setting a price on American lives, sets a dangerous precedent that our other adversaries are surely watching,”&nbsp;Ricketts said. “Biden’s decision is yet another example of his failed appeasement-first foreign policy that endangers&nbsp;our national security and that of our allies. This will make Americans and our allies abroad more vulnerable.”

“We are also worried that your administration is attempting to sidestep Congress and pursue other pathways to financially compensate Iran in an attempt to renegotiate a successor to the ill-fated 2015 nuclear deal. Any agreement with the Iranian regime that entails financial reward for malign behavior is wholly unacceptable”&nbsp;the letter continued.&nbsp;

The letter concluded by asking for an in person briefing from the State Department and written responses to the below questions.

In addition to Ricketts and Tim Scott, other co-signers of the letter include Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Katie Britt (R-AL), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Budd (R-NC), J.D. Vance (R-OH), John Cornyn (R-TX), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Hoeven (R-ND), Todd Young (R-IN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Roger Marshall (R-KS), James Lankford (R-OK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Kennedy (R-LA), John Barrasso (R-WY), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

By the Office of Senator Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations,&nbsp;joined&nbsp;a group of 26 Republican&nbsp;Senators,&nbsp;led by U.S. Senator Tim Scott&nbsp;(R-SC),&nbsp;to demand answers from the Biden Administration after they released $6 billion in frozen assets to the Islamic Republic of Iran in exchange for the release of five American detainees. &nbsp;“While we firmly believe the United States must use every appropriate resource to secure the release of American citizens wrongfully detained overseas, this decision will reinforce an incredibly dangerous precedent and will enable the Iranian regime to increase its destabilizing activities across the Middle East,”&nbsp;the letter said.In 2016, the Obama administration released $400 million in assets to Iran. Seven years later the current administration&nbsp;liquidated 15 times that amount.“Setting a price on American lives, sets a dangerous precedent that our other adversaries are surely watching,”&nbsp;Ricketts said. “Biden’s decision is yet another example of his failed appeasement-first foreign policy that endangers&nbsp;our national security and that of our allies. This will make Americans and our allies abroad more vulnerable.”“We are also worried that your administration is attempting to sidestep Congress and pursue other pathways to financially compensate Iran in an attempt to renegotiate a successor to the ill-fated 2015 nuclear deal. Any agreement with the Iranian regime that entails financial reward for malign behavior is wholly unacceptable”&nbsp;the letter continued.&nbsp;The letter concluded by asking for an in person briefing from the State Department and written responses to the below questions.<ol>
 <li>The Iranian assets to be released were initially frozen at South Korean financial institutions in support of existing U.S. sanctions policy. Does the release of the funds violate that policy? Will the President issue a waiver and required report to Congress consistent with Section 1245 of the FY2012 National Defense Authorization Act?</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Financial assets are fungible. How can your departments guarantee that the funds will only be used for humanitarian purposes and will not free up additional resources that the Iranian regime can use to support terrorist networks and weapons proliferation, or increase its nuclear enrichment activities?&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Iran is well-versed in sanctions evasion. What specific mechanisms are in place to prevent the diversion of these assets to terrorism and to ensure the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has sufficient visibility on each proposed transaction?&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Were any alternative funding mechanisms discussed with Iran to facilitate the exchange of detainees?</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>What funding mechanisms have you discussed with Iran to limit its nuclear weapons development?</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Will you commit to not allowing Iran to access its Special Drawing Rights at the International Monetary Fund (IMF)&nbsp;and to oppose any efforts by the IMF to facilitate such access?</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>What additional steps are you taking to ensure that Iran does not access any form of compensation from the IMF and other international financial institutions?</li>
 </ol>In addition to Ricketts and Tim Scott, other co-signers of the letter include Senators Jim Risch (R-ID), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Katie Britt (R-AL), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Steve Daines (R-MT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ted Budd (R-NC), J.D. Vance (R-OH), John Cornyn (R-TX), Joni Ernst (R-IA), John Hoeven (R-ND), Todd Young (R-IN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Roger Marshall (R-KS), James Lankford (R-OK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Kennedy (R-LA), John Barrasso (R-WY), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

Ricketts, Colleagues Pressure Biden Admin for Answers After They Released $6 Billion to Iran

Alliance, NE - The Alliance Public Library has announced their programming for Adults, Nalani Stewart is the Adult Services Librarian at the Alliance Public Library and explains one of the book clubs that they offer.

"We'll be starting 'Bring Your Own Book Club,' where it's not the traditional book club where everyone reads the same book," Steward said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; Stewart says B.Y.O.B&nbsp;Starts Thursday August 24th at 6pm at&nbsp; the&nbsp; Library, and will meet every 4th Thursday of the month to discuss the books that club members are obsessed with, liked, or didn’t much care for.

While some people think of the library as place solely as place for books, Stewart says APL also offers a Fiber Arts club that meets every week, on Wednesday's from 2-3 p.m.&nbsp; "It's anything to do with strings, and we have a group that makes things using crochet Macramé or other fibers."

In September there will also be other craft courses as well, as people are welcomed to make Sunflower Fall signs in the APL Community Room. 

The sessions with be at 6 p.m. over two days, ,with the first class being on Thursday, September 14th and the second on Thursday, September 21st. The cost of the course is $30. Spots are limited, and attendees must prepay to secure their spot. Sign up begins today and ends September 11th.

For more information, please contact Nalani Stewart, Adult Services Librarian at 308.762.1387.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAlliance, NE - The Alliance Public Library has announced their programming for Adults, Nalani Stewart is the Adult Services Librarian at the Alliance Public Library and explains one of the book clubs that they offer."We'll be starting 'Bring Your Own Book Club,' where it's not the traditional book club where everyone reads the same book," Steward said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Stewart says B.Y.O.B&nbsp;Starts Thursday August 24th at 6pm at&nbsp; the&nbsp; Library, and will meet every 4th Thursday of the month to discuss the books that club members are obsessed with, liked, or didn’t much care for.While some people think of the library as place solely as place for books, Stewart says APL also offers a Fiber Arts club that meets every week, on Wednesday's from 2-3 p.m.&nbsp; "It's anything to do with strings, and we have a group that makes things using crochet Macramé or other fibers." In September there will also be other craft courses as well, as people are welcomed to make Sunflower Fall signs in the APL Community Room. The sessions with be at 6 p.m. over two days, ,with the first class being on Thursday, September 14th and the second on Thursday, September 21st. The cost of the course is $30. Spots are limited, and attendees must prepay to secure their spot. Sign up begins today and ends September 11th.For more information, please contact Nalani Stewart, Adult Services Librarian at 308.762.1387.

Alliance Public Library announces fall programs for adults

Alliance, NE- On Aug. 8 and 9, Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) nurses, Courtney Schnell, Sarah Davis, Trevor Ridenour, and Tosha Greene, presented their final projects for the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program, completing their requirements for graduation.

The Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program is a 12-month transitional program offered by the University of Iowa. It is designed to help recent RN graduates transition from student life to working as professional nurses.

During the program, residents complete online educational modules, participate in monthly live discussions with other residents from across the country, maintain a weekly transition journal, have monthly check-ins with their on-site coordinator, and complete a Professionalism in Action Experience project.

“Honestly, the first year on the job as a new grad can often be the toughest, as it comes with starting an entirely new adventure and, not only are you learning new information, but you’re also putting the education you already have into action,” Brianna Sherlock, BBGH’s on-site coordinator for the residency program, said. “This program provides each of our residents the tools and skills they need to be successful and provide the upmost care to our patients at BBGH. We as a facility truly want to ensure that our new grads are taken care of and have the best chance to succeed.”

BBGH partnered with the University of Iowa in August 2022 to bring this program to first-year nurses, with the intention of increasing recruitment and retention rates. Schnell, Davis, Ridenour, and Greene are the first nurses from BBGH to graduate from the program.

For their Professionalism in Action Experience project, the residents had a choice of completing a change project, a case study or a type of committee work. All four BBGH residents completed change projects, with topics ranging from the importance of performing mock education drills, the benefits of a Hercules system hospital bed which makes it easier for nurses to readjust patients, and need to implement disinfecting caps that would reduce the risk of patients contracting bloodstream infections.

“I was thoroughly impressed with all the projects that our residents presented last week in front of their peers, nurse managers and executive team,” Sherlock said. “I truly feel these Professional Experience projects helped the residents to utilize the skills they had

gained throughout the program and apply it to a concern that they saw within their specific roles to better our own hospital.”

Chief Nursing Officer Jordan Colwell said that, in the future, more “hands-on learning” will be incorporated into to the program to add to the wellbeing and compassion aspects taught in the online program.

By Box Butte General HospitalAlliance, NE- On Aug. 8 and 9, Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) nurses, Courtney Schnell, Sarah Davis, Trevor Ridenour, and Tosha Greene, presented their final projects for the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program, completing their requirements for graduation.The Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program is a 12-month transitional program offered by the University of Iowa. It is designed to help recent RN graduates transition from student life to working as professional nurses.During the program, residents complete online educational modules, participate in monthly live discussions with other residents from across the country, maintain a weekly transition journal, have monthly check-ins with their on-site coordinator, and complete a Professionalism in Action Experience project.“Honestly, the first year on the job as a new grad can often be the toughest, as it comes with starting an entirely new adventure and, not only are you learning new information, but you’re also putting the education you already have into action,” Brianna Sherlock, BBGH’s on-site coordinator for the residency program, said. “This program provides each of our residents the tools and skills they need to be successful and provide the upmost care to our patients at BBGH. We as a facility truly want to ensure that our new grads are taken care of and have the best chance to succeed.”BBGH partnered with the University of Iowa in August 2022 to bring this program to first-year nurses, with the intention of increasing recruitment and retention rates. Schnell, Davis, Ridenour, and Greene are the first nurses from BBGH to graduate from the program.For their Professionalism in Action Experience project, the residents had a choice of completing a change project, a case study or a type of committee work. All four BBGH residents completed change projects, with topics ranging from the importance of performing mock education drills, the benefits of a Hercules system hospital bed which makes it easier for nurses to readjust patients, and need to implement disinfecting caps that would reduce the risk of patients contracting bloodstream infections.“I was thoroughly impressed with all the projects that our residents presented last week in front of their peers, nurse managers and executive team,” Sherlock said. “I truly feel these Professional Experience projects helped the residents to utilize the skills they hadgained throughout the program and apply it to a concern that they saw within their specific roles to better our own hospital.”Chief Nursing Officer Jordan Colwell said that, in the future, more “hands-on learning” will be incorporated into to the program to add to the wellbeing and compassion aspects taught in the online program.

BBGH nurses graduate from Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Investor Warren Buffett has donated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-berkshire-hathaway-earnings-second-quarter-9681b4761e8d81d7ca13c7d5507b1996">Berkshire Hathaway</a>&nbsp;stock worth $27 million to an unnamed charity.

Buffett disclosed the gift of 50 Class A shares of Berkshire stock in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission late Wednesday.

This donation is in addition to&nbsp;<a href="https://berkshirehathaway.com/news/jun2123.pdf">Buffett's annual gifts</a>&nbsp;to the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation and four smaller foundations run by his family that he has been making since 2006. Buffett has said that more than 99% of his nearly $118 billion fortune will eventually go to charity, and he has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.berkshirehathaway.com/donate/bmgfltr.pdf">gradually been giving</a>&nbsp;it away over time. He has given those five foundations stock worth roughly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-donations-gates-foundation-c2f6981e46c6211b16ada2704433d3c0">$50 billion</a>&nbsp;over the years.

Buffett didn't identify the charity that received his latest donation this week.

Even after this latest donation, Buffett still holds 218,237 Class A shares of Berkshire stock, which are the most expensive shares on the market. Thursday morning, the shares were up $2.183 to sell for $539,680 apiece.

Berkshire does have a more affordable Class B share that offers a fraction of the voting rights of the A shares. Those Class B shares were selling for $355.95 Thursday morning.

Buffett's Omaha, Nebraska-based Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate owns dozens of businesses including Geico insurance,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-contract-paid-sick-time-bnsf-engineers-c04539c76dfcfc61c26f8d0ffad4b395">BNSF railroad</a>&nbsp;and several major utilities. It also owns an eclectic assortment of manufacturing and retail companies. In addition to the companies it owns outright Berkshire holds a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/berkshire-hathaway-warren-buffett-portfolio-investments-fcb74a2ee0aaf61a9416e96c51983892">$350 billion stock portfolio</a>&nbsp;with major stakes in Apple, Bank of America, Coca-Cola and American Express, among other stocks.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Investor Warren Buffett has donated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-berkshire-hathaway-earnings-second-quarter-9681b4761e8d81d7ca13c7d5507b1996">Berkshire Hathaway</a>&nbsp;stock worth $27 million to an unnamed charity.Buffett disclosed the gift of 50 Class A shares of Berkshire stock in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission late Wednesday.This donation is in addition to&nbsp;<a href="https://berkshirehathaway.com/news/jun2123.pdf">Buffett's annual gifts</a>&nbsp;to the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation and four smaller foundations run by his family that he has been making since 2006. Buffett has said that more than 99% of his nearly $118 billion fortune will eventually go to charity, and he has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.berkshirehathaway.com/donate/bmgfltr.pdf">gradually been giving</a>&nbsp;it away over time. He has given those five foundations stock worth roughly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/warren-buffett-donations-gates-foundation-c2f6981e46c6211b16ada2704433d3c0">$50 billion</a>&nbsp;over the years.Buffett didn't identify the charity that received his latest donation this week.Even after this latest donation, Buffett still holds 218,237 Class A shares of Berkshire stock, which are the most expensive shares on the market. Thursday morning, the shares were up $2.183 to sell for $539,680 apiece.Berkshire does have a more affordable Class B share that offers a fraction of the voting rights of the A shares. Those Class B shares were selling for $355.95 Thursday morning.Buffett's Omaha, Nebraska-based Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate owns dozens of businesses including Geico insurance,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-contract-paid-sick-time-bnsf-engineers-c04539c76dfcfc61c26f8d0ffad4b395">BNSF railroad</a>&nbsp;and several major utilities. It also owns an eclectic assortment of manufacturing and retail companies. In addition to the companies it owns outright Berkshire holds a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/berkshire-hathaway-warren-buffett-portfolio-investments-fcb74a2ee0aaf61a9416e96c51983892">$350 billion stock portfolio</a>&nbsp;with major stakes in Apple, Bank of America, Coca-Cola and American Express, among other stocks.

Buffett gives $27M in Berkshire Hathaway stock to an unnamed charity

Residents in Alliance have the opportunity to voice their opinions about the budget in two separate meetings that are coming up soon. 

Alliance City Manager Seth Sorensen explains what the first meeting is a public workshop on Thursday, Aug. 24 at 9 am at the Alliance Public Library.

"Residents can come and ask questions about the budget as we continue to go over it," Sorensen said. "On Sept. 5 which is the first City Council meeting in September, the public can come and comment on the state of the city and the budget." For more information, call the City of Alliance at 308-762-5400

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostResidents in Alliance have the opportunity to voice their opinions about the budget in two separate meetings that are coming up soon. Alliance City Manager Seth Sorensen explains what the first meeting is a public workshop on Thursday, Aug. 24 at 9 am at the Alliance Public Library. "Residents can come and ask questions about the budget as we continue to go over it," Sorensen said. "On Sept. 5 which is the first City Council meeting in September, the public can come and comment on the state of the city and the budget." For more information, call the City of Alliance at 308-762-5400

Sorensen discusses Alliance City Budget

By Chabella Guzman Nebraska Extension communications specialist

The Hard Red Winter Wheat harvest is in the bins, and now growers are beginning to look at planting for next year’s crop.&nbsp;

Nebraska Extension faculty were at the recent Kriesel Certified Seed event in Gurley, Neb., with some information for growers making planting decisions for the winter wheat crop.

“It's a great time to evaluate what varieties have worked for you in the past,” said Katherine Frels, University of Nebraska-Lincoln small grains breeder. “Take a look at the results from the state variety trails and new releases from breeders around the region to really find your next big wheat.”

This year’s weather patterns saw more rain in western Nebraska than typical with cooler temperatures. While the rest of the state experienced varying degrees of drought. Even in western Nebraska, the rains were scattered, with hail accompanying the thunderstorms. The varying degrees of rain caused challenges for the wheat varieties.&nbsp;

“We didn’t have a lot of consistent winners throughout the whole region as we did some years,” Frels said.&nbsp;

One of the varieties which performed well and surprised Frels and the team at the UNL High Plains Ag Lab in Sidney, was Settler CL, an older variety of wheat.&nbsp;

“It really liked the environment this year,” she said. “But it’s not one we would recommend for a lot of acres anymore as it doesn’t have as high yield potential as some of the new varieties, but it had a fantastic year.”&nbsp;

It’s best for growers to look at averages in the variety trials, where available, because sometimes varieties have an outlier result for a single year like Settler CL did this year. She added growers need to check the areas closest to their soil type and look at multiple years to get an average.&nbsp;

Something else growers need to consider when picking a variety for planting time is to look at the wheat’s disease resistance package. The added moisture this year did cause more fusarium head blight. While unusual for this area, there was a lot of rain around the time the wheat was flowering.&nbsp;

Disease may be one challenge for growers next year, but the wheat stem sawfly is a constant challenge. The UNL faculty has been working on the sawfly problem for several years.&nbsp;

The sawfly causes stem damage and lodging in the mature wheat stands, making it harder to harvest, impacting the yield.&nbsp;

“So what we are doing is trying to measure the impact as far as when we have wheat infested with sawfly, are we losing yield, how much, and is it impacting our quality. That will help us to drive our efforts going forward. To understand where problems are and how to address those problems,” said Cody Creech, Nebraska Extension dryland cropping specialist.

The group is also looking at the impact the sawfly has on crops following a wheat crop. In western Nebraska, that is predominately corn. When there is a sawfly infestation, what is the residue degradation and speed, and how does that impact the soil moisture?&nbsp;

“We’re still looking at data from this year, but by winter, we’ll have a better understanding of the impact of sawfly,” Creech said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For the latest information on the wheat variety trails, visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://cropwatch.unl.edu/winter-wheat-variety-test-results" target="_blank">https://cropwatch.unl.edu/winter-wheat-variety-test-results</a>

By Chabella Guzman Nebraska Extension communications specialistThe Hard Red Winter Wheat harvest is in the bins, and now growers are beginning to look at planting for next year’s crop.&nbsp;Nebraska Extension faculty were at the recent Kriesel Certified Seed event in Gurley, Neb., with some information for growers making planting decisions for the winter wheat crop.“It's a great time to evaluate what varieties have worked for you in the past,” said Katherine Frels, University of Nebraska-Lincoln small grains breeder. “Take a look at the results from the state variety trails and new releases from breeders around the region to really find your next big wheat.”This year’s weather patterns saw more rain in western Nebraska than typical with cooler temperatures. While the rest of the state experienced varying degrees of drought. Even in western Nebraska, the rains were scattered, with hail accompanying the thunderstorms. The varying degrees of rain caused challenges for the wheat varieties.&nbsp;“We didn’t have a lot of consistent winners throughout the whole region as we did some years,” Frels said.&nbsp;One of the varieties which performed well and surprised Frels and the team at the UNL High Plains Ag Lab in Sidney, was Settler CL, an older variety of wheat.&nbsp;“It really liked the environment this year,” she said. “But it’s not one we would recommend for a lot of acres anymore as it doesn’t have as high yield potential as some of the new varieties, but it had a fantastic year.”&nbsp;It’s best for growers to look at averages in the variety trials, where available, because sometimes varieties have an outlier result for a single year like Settler CL did this year. She added growers need to check the areas closest to their soil type and look at multiple years to get an average.&nbsp;Something else growers need to consider when picking a variety for planting time is to look at the wheat’s disease resistance package. The added moisture this year did cause more fusarium head blight. While unusual for this area, there was a lot of rain around the time the wheat was flowering.&nbsp;Disease may be one challenge for growers next year, but the wheat stem sawfly is a constant challenge. The UNL faculty has been working on the sawfly problem for several years.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692299683965.jpeg" alt="Growers and extension faculty walk through wheat plots at the 2023 High Plains Ag Lab tour in Sidney, Neb. Photo by Chabella Guzman " />
 <figcaption>Growers and extension faculty walk through wheat plots at the 2023 High Plains Ag Lab tour in Sidney, Neb. Photo by Chabella Guzman </figcaption>
 </figure>The sawfly causes stem damage and lodging in the mature wheat stands, making it harder to harvest, impacting the yield.&nbsp;“So what we are doing is trying to measure the impact as far as when we have wheat infested with sawfly, are we losing yield, how much, and is it impacting our quality. That will help us to drive our efforts going forward. To understand where problems are and how to address those problems,” said Cody Creech, Nebraska Extension dryland cropping specialist.The group is also looking at the impact the sawfly has on crops following a wheat crop. In western Nebraska, that is predominately corn. When there is a sawfly infestation, what is the residue degradation and speed, and how does that impact the soil moisture?&nbsp;“We’re still looking at data from this year, but by winter, we’ll have a better understanding of the impact of sawfly,” Creech said.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the latest information on the wheat variety trails, visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://cropwatch.unl.edu/winter-wheat-variety-test-results" target="_blank">https://cropwatch.unl.edu/winter-wheat-variety-test-results</a>

Nebraska Extension aids growers with studies on wheat planting varieties

&nbsp;By Office of Governor&nbsp;Jim&nbsp; Pillen

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;–Earlier this week, Governor Jim&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;announced his appointment of Dr. Steve Corsi as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Corsi will start Sept. 11.

Corsi’s most recent role is acting CEO of the Central Wyoming Counseling Center. He has been director and/or CEO of the Missouri Department of Social Services, Wyoming Department of Family Services, High Country Behavioral Health (Wyoming) and the Cornerstone Behavioral Health Group in California. In 2019, Corsi became president/CEO of Volunteers of America Western Washington, where he significantly recruited and retained the workforce, expanded early childhood offerings and grew the organization’s revenue from $17.2 million to $115 million during his nearly four years of tenure.&nbsp;

“Steve brings a wealth of experience and leadership to DHHS, having served as director and CEO over a number of social service organizations, including state agencies in Missouri and Wyoming,” said Gov.&nbsp;Pillen. “In addition to his operational expertise, Steve has a strong servant focus when it comes to providing program services to those who need them. I look forward to working with Steve as he brings new direction and impact to DHHS.”

“The opportunity to bring my experience in executive leadership to serve all Nebraskans is an honor,” said Steven Corsi. “I am excited to hit the ground running by establishing, executing, and measuring a strategic vision for the Department.”

Corsi earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from California Baptist University in psychology and counseling psychology, respectively. He received a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in clinical psychology from Alliant International University – San Diego.

&nbsp;By Office of Governor&nbsp;Jim&nbsp; PillenLINCOLN, NE&nbsp;–Earlier this week, Governor Jim&nbsp;Pillen&nbsp;announced his appointment of Dr. Steve Corsi as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Corsi will start Sept. 11.Corsi’s most recent role is acting CEO of the Central Wyoming Counseling Center. He has been director and/or CEO of the Missouri Department of Social Services, Wyoming Department of Family Services, High Country Behavioral Health (Wyoming) and the Cornerstone Behavioral Health Group in California. In 2019, Corsi became president/CEO of Volunteers of America Western Washington, where he significantly recruited and retained the workforce, expanded early childhood offerings and grew the organization’s revenue from $17.2 million to $115 million during his nearly four years of tenure.&nbsp;“Steve brings a wealth of experience and leadership to DHHS, having served as director and CEO over a number of social service organizations, including state agencies in Missouri and Wyoming,” said Gov.&nbsp;Pillen. “In addition to his operational expertise, Steve has a strong servant focus when it comes to providing program services to those who need them. I look forward to working with Steve as he brings new direction and impact to DHHS.”“The opportunity to bring my experience in executive leadership to serve all Nebraskans is an honor,” said Steven Corsi. “I am excited to hit the ground running by establishing, executing, and measuring a strategic vision for the Department.”Corsi earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from California Baptist University in psychology and counseling psychology, respectively. He received a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in clinical psychology from Alliant International University – San Diego.

Gov. Pillen Appoints Steve Corsi as CEO of DHHS

By Patricia Jones, &nbsp;Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

"No one is for poverty. Not Republicans, not Democrats, not Independents. Everyone wants poverty to end. But the solution is not that simple." These words were spoken at a Bridges Out of Poverty workshop I recently attended.

Matthew Desmond, Pulitzer-prize winning author of Evicted, would disagree with this speaker. This spring he published the book Poverty, by America. With Poverty, by America, Desmond argues that the wealthy punish the poor and keep people living in poverty. Sometimes this is purposeful; sometimes they don't realize the effects of their actions. Either way, those who are well-off benefit.

The book shows us how poverty injures the impoverished—physically, financially, and spiritually. Poverty is connected to crime, health, education, housing, and pretty much every social issue we can think of. Many families are denied safety, security, and dignity in one of the richest nations on the planet. According to Census data, about 38 million Americans live in poverty. Why is poverty in the United States so commonplace?

Many people argue that poverty is the fault of the poor, caused by their choices and actions. Others argue that poverty is caused by the loss of manufacturing jobs. Or is it caused by racism? Immigration? Drugs? Maybe it's the fault of families no longer being strong and stable.

What is Desmond's argument, exactly? Our systems, our tax laws, our racism, and our affluent are all to blame. There is plenty of wealth to go around. But we are taught that we each deserve more. We ignore those at the bottom of the income scale who need assistance. Instead, we look for ways we can benefit from someone else's problems.

Many businesses exploit workers, paying less than minimum wage, not paying overtime. Who might hire undocumented workers who they can abuse with threats that they might be turned in? Who never pays penalty fees like overdrafts at banks? Who avoids paying 39% interest on credit card debt and higher rates on all loans? Who gets a special, lower, capital gains tax rate so they don't have to pay so much income tax? Who gets to roll part of their income into non-taxed benefits? Who writes off mortgage interest, moving expenses, deductions to private schools? Not the poorest 20% of America!

There is plenty of government support for low-income Americans. They can get Medicaid, the Earned-Income Tax Credit, housing vouchers, TANF, SNAP, or other benefits. But it's hard for those who need it to access this support. They may not know what is available. Programs often have complicated, confusing applications. Offices may be hard to reach, or have limited hours. Nebraska requires now that virtually everything be done online, and many households don't have access to computers or internet.

By Patricia Jones, &nbsp;Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity"No one is for poverty. Not Republicans, not Democrats, not Independents. Everyone wants poverty to end. But the solution is not that simple." These words were spoken at a Bridges Out of Poverty workshop I recently attended.Matthew Desmond, Pulitzer-prize winning author of Evicted, would disagree with this speaker. This spring he published the book Poverty, by America. With Poverty, by America, Desmond argues that the wealthy punish the poor and keep people living in poverty. Sometimes this is purposeful; sometimes they don't realize the effects of their actions. Either way, those who are well-off benefit.The book shows us how poverty injures the impoverished—physically, financially, and spiritually. Poverty is connected to crime, health, education, housing, and pretty much every social issue we can think of. Many families are denied safety, security, and dignity in one of the richest nations on the planet. According to Census data, about 38 million Americans live in poverty. Why is poverty in the United States so commonplace?Many people argue that poverty is the fault of the poor, caused by their choices and actions. Others argue that poverty is caused by the loss of manufacturing jobs. Or is it caused by racism? Immigration? Drugs? Maybe it's the fault of families no longer being strong and stable.What is Desmond's argument, exactly? Our systems, our tax laws, our racism, and our affluent are all to blame. There is plenty of wealth to go around. But we are taught that we each deserve more. We ignore those at the bottom of the income scale who need assistance. Instead, we look for ways we can benefit from someone else's problems.Many businesses exploit workers, paying less than minimum wage, not paying overtime. Who might hire undocumented workers who they can abuse with threats that they might be turned in? Who never pays penalty fees like overdrafts at banks? Who avoids paying 39% interest on credit card debt and higher rates on all loans? Who gets a special, lower, capital gains tax rate so they don't have to pay so much income tax? Who gets to roll part of their income into non-taxed benefits? Who writes off mortgage interest, moving expenses, deductions to private schools? Not the poorest 20% of America!There is plenty of government support for low-income Americans. They can get Medicaid, the Earned-Income Tax Credit, housing vouchers, TANF, SNAP, or other benefits. But it's hard for those who need it to access this support. They may not know what is available. Programs often have complicated, confusing applications. Offices may be hard to reach, or have limited hours. Nebraska requires now that virtually everything be done online, and many households don't have access to computers or internet.

Getting Ahead: Poverty by America

Press release from office of Rep. Adrian Smith

Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee, released the following statement at the conclusion of the 75-day window established by the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) for consultations between the U.S. and Mexico on the issue of biotech corn:

“As the 75-day consultation window concludes, it’s clear Mexico has no intention of fully honoring their USMCA commitments,”said Smith. “Thankfully, because of the hard work that went into the negotiation of USMCA – a true, enforceable trade agreement – the United States has tools to hold Mexico accountable. I’m glad the Biden administration finally decided to fully deploy these enforcement mechanisms, but it’s disappointing the president has yet to speak about this and show solidarity with U.S. corn producers. Steps toward dispute settlement should have been taken sooner, but I will continue working with Ambassador Tai and Secretary Vilsack to demand a level playing field for U.S. agriculture producers. I will be closely monitoring the panel’s work and ensuring our trading partners are held accountable.”

August 16 marked the end of the 75-day window for consultations under USMCA to address Mexico’s policy towards American biotech corn exports, meaning the United States is now able to request the establishment of a dispute settlement panel to decide the case. Today, the Biden administration formally requested creation of the panel. The panel will make a final determination on whether Mexico’s policy to ban the use of American biotech corn for tortillas or dough – and ultimately ban the use of biotech corn in all products intended for human consumption and animal feed – violates USMCA.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

During USMCA negotiations, Smith traveled to Montreal and Mexico City and has continuously advocated for formal dispute consultations with Mexico for their actions to ban U.S. biotech corn. Subcommittee Chairman Smith&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001wGDDEteFd-1HFhLm9f48B-aVQBBzp9HquPDv9y-0RVMRb1PsmpQDrxSbJl1Ek3C4jdPyp9wV5QKw7cNUA14DsjShzaM1O7W9PJJhrqjX0cyQmSOyswptci53AWy3iL-EFspWIrqSRX133ajEF-50S7zTA6Rhh03PmAFxcEOyMbjrdvySesySolPkgZQTRv4JDqU-dKFbNbLDGSuAPMIDfkdBAz_UugwW2Z3yPqy_G0yWmjps1QSI4QNwcUlXE3rF4m4xaiG9o3oWGpslMBTPLEeJsbJ6hHoqiUE3o8o0IBbjhHjC1-_3yzgnIuK9PGPhIFQbGqfCs_lkeLSn7hMiO1TpZb5a39zI3_zbDNiIvnMn7a440BdS1GdpOgtWnpzaquuxZB_PJSeMwZ77x8lQbp1pxNFmtY0J4N1DUg3uahF9joKcphzDEdybNSQxfVzBzitxjkmYVyI1pyNxl5eLVE9PRQV4rhhLF3eaMi8EB4KupQAzLS1jX6fV6TMxBBddm9gttK9oPgZbYjh61paqz8b3MF__PDjJFa5JWMv2L1nhPJig5o8K6W9h1E_oIy2Cpnc5ZaFbtC-NrCekaNrcieygsYjgc90A-yGg1i6hW1bOb3Fa4JG9naHhCz29fhBY9vvnXv4Vbapie08X1HEiHl3tT_qVSkjS-wMbCCcAvAxUAXo8CfJhxDib_JNP-WoAOD0ViwAvpDejFAxMtIRkSuBFSNiNIS9-pisVnXjAQ9UUY812xkee1Lz8HDq-Hswlm-_VnvY17_2HTKDtCYn9CK039gQnTSCg9xDgjfz0jDfS6MaTu9lkZayfxh-CNfyKZE4tkUAZoti5YUzEH2wIqVymFtYkUCrjl9Ua3f2JQGTbWq4lv6VYEAe3fnK6B0GJVLoovAm8-GEsfZ1qEpEynpyYIO6Tdw427WpJnmMpcRVdeCkUOJYNGkQED3zQog3LqkQBBnHpAnVHFveRjBUMa-L42XVUkeZgydTf5sbQxCmcFugx0EpuwA==&amp;c=ncGxxJ33IMcLZea3BtraYyP-bnEvrwq_7w6IFr55hnuHM65PPOkNAg==&amp;ch=xWYdZWj7j4gYXrjJrHRjeryS58AUHCJxm3z5dx8-R4yN53uEmHVmrg==" target="_blank">signed a letter</a>&nbsp;to Ambassador Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack earlier this year with Chairman Jason Smith calling for formal dispute consultations under USMCA. Last December, he and Rep. Dan Kildee also led a&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001wGDDEteFd-1HFhLm9f48B-aVQBBzp9HquPDv9y-0RVMRb1PsmpQDrxSbJl1Ek3C4xeMkUeM2xhdqoCtZJrieCNuUs1vwoqcRnMJh1H8kFOTHmT5Qg2aNCQZOpkf8iB37ln-_1qrg_ISz8DJYIcsMKEVauZg5bhXejDX52XZTv3yoCyBfz4RQ_AbrSQCQn3uIT0oU6FjNvN3dkxcbTUYkZxdzbh1kH3MmFx9o6C8Zo0_vS3u8R5lmnUxntYYU7SoVyTk45HjFF5FLQ6nCISEBhbYTWic7_ugj0VhUlPJQwIt1lzpDcIACk4SzK8qD8f6798iEex0GswumYHpHh6Hk2Tbz6_YPdfKIIYSmrzp0GmBnq-UzVZCQZ5ZWrcXoh707AQMzoVjV6aMPGxVbsDrYwneH_vCECQ6YG9mtSslScGV1SXxZXjgfEJFXd4UL5B9c4vhT_FKhLLJ7iximVWcaHxEYmJBoEV1Mm8n1mGs54wbW_C6K19tNk56YXzOJkPPaFBdytOFTYheEGq3ylI7WanO4gORS-UeznrCfFwfhCowny7cT9H5nGf7WOCdPUgdvYLpuMoCCdpu1uVq9XT_2AKVoMBjO9dCSnrE48WhZBdZEUED-Fy6dsDQ6YYjkEAfSPvv9Gtd7LxjKiiBTIWMlV7qbJYvxqz2Ft5oE1OmUFeGKV4IhxJRCVz-LpbA5G5NwnZIX-KowA_WMaqx7Hb0ndveZAXn99jegKsgQtLUD_jXoXd20vTlEt8bbC0f9Gcspvxpg62NdfDVos13U9gZcRnPattorPc_krWGvlhm9XcTgaC60tKaUuj-iZI3l2ChS6VQrADQp4XwuEBw_ebWFi48l_7eGRCiTvDpTgXucD8rFofinAkRwQ9SyzopNT7XmEK20CS48yBxPxK6Ph3SgLZNNTK4eNtZx9SWVkndaxs_y4snjrRYop6QYHQcYElZJfEEa1uczkB-b3X4VXkmtKA==&amp;c=ncGxxJ33IMcLZea3BtraYyP-bnEvrwq_7w6IFr55hnuHM65PPOkNAg==&amp;ch=xWYdZWj7j4gYXrjJrHRjeryS58AUHCJxm3z5dx8-R4yN53uEmHVmrg==" target="_blank">bipartisan letter</a>&nbsp;with members of the Ways and Means Committee to Ambassador Tai requesting dispute consultations and encouraging the administration to “ensure all our trading partners maintain science-based biotech regulatory systems.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

Press release from office of Rep. Adrian SmithRep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Trade Subcommittee, released the following statement at the conclusion of the 75-day window established by the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) for consultations between the U.S. and Mexico on the issue of biotech corn: “As the 75-day consultation window concludes, it’s clear Mexico has no intention of fully honoring their USMCA commitments,”said Smith. “Thankfully, because of the hard work that went into the negotiation of USMCA – a true, enforceable trade agreement – the United States has tools to hold Mexico accountable. I’m glad the Biden administration finally decided to fully deploy these enforcement mechanisms, but it’s disappointing the president has yet to speak about this and show solidarity with U.S. corn producers. Steps toward dispute settlement should have been taken sooner, but I will continue working with Ambassador Tai and Secretary Vilsack to demand a level playing field for U.S. agriculture producers. I will be closely monitoring the panel’s work and ensuring our trading partners are held accountable.” August 16 marked the end of the 75-day window for consultations under USMCA to address Mexico’s policy towards American biotech corn exports, meaning the United States is now able to request the establishment of a dispute settlement panel to decide the case. Today, the Biden administration formally requested creation of the panel. The panel will make a final determination on whether Mexico’s policy to ban the use of American biotech corn for tortillas or dough – and ultimately ban the use of biotech corn in all products intended for human consumption and animal feed – violates USMCA.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; During USMCA negotiations, Smith traveled to Montreal and Mexico City and has continuously advocated for formal dispute consultations with Mexico for their actions to ban U.S. biotech corn. Subcommittee Chairman Smith&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001wGDDEteFd-1HFhLm9f48B-aVQBBzp9HquPDv9y-0RVMRb1PsmpQDrxSbJl1Ek3C4jdPyp9wV5QKw7cNUA14DsjShzaM1O7W9PJJhrqjX0cyQmSOyswptci53AWy3iL-EFspWIrqSRX133ajEF-50S7zTA6Rhh03PmAFxcEOyMbjrdvySesySolPkgZQTRv4JDqU-dKFbNbLDGSuAPMIDfkdBAz_UugwW2Z3yPqy_G0yWmjps1QSI4QNwcUlXE3rF4m4xaiG9o3oWGpslMBTPLEeJsbJ6hHoqiUE3o8o0IBbjhHjC1-_3yzgnIuK9PGPhIFQbGqfCs_lkeLSn7hMiO1TpZb5a39zI3_zbDNiIvnMn7a440BdS1GdpOgtWnpzaquuxZB_PJSeMwZ77x8lQbp1pxNFmtY0J4N1DUg3uahF9joKcphzDEdybNSQxfVzBzitxjkmYVyI1pyNxl5eLVE9PRQV4rhhLF3eaMi8EB4KupQAzLS1jX6fV6TMxBBddm9gttK9oPgZbYjh61paqz8b3MF__PDjJFa5JWMv2L1nhPJig5o8K6W9h1E_oIy2Cpnc5ZaFbtC-NrCekaNrcieygsYjgc90A-yGg1i6hW1bOb3Fa4JG9naHhCz29fhBY9vvnXv4Vbapie08X1HEiHl3tT_qVSkjS-wMbCCcAvAxUAXo8CfJhxDib_JNP-WoAOD0ViwAvpDejFAxMtIRkSuBFSNiNIS9-pisVnXjAQ9UUY812xkee1Lz8HDq-Hswlm-_VnvY17_2HTKDtCYn9CK039gQnTSCg9xDgjfz0jDfS6MaTu9lkZayfxh-CNfyKZE4tkUAZoti5YUzEH2wIqVymFtYkUCrjl9Ua3f2JQGTbWq4lv6VYEAe3fnK6B0GJVLoovAm8-GEsfZ1qEpEynpyYIO6Tdw427WpJnmMpcRVdeCkUOJYNGkQED3zQog3LqkQBBnHpAnVHFveRjBUMa-L42XVUkeZgydTf5sbQxCmcFugx0EpuwA==&amp;c=ncGxxJ33IMcLZea3BtraYyP-bnEvrwq_7w6IFr55hnuHM65PPOkNAg==&amp;ch=xWYdZWj7j4gYXrjJrHRjeryS58AUHCJxm3z5dx8-R4yN53uEmHVmrg==" target="_blank">signed a letter</a>&nbsp;to Ambassador Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack earlier this year with Chairman Jason Smith calling for formal dispute consultations under USMCA. Last December, he and Rep. Dan Kildee also led a&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001wGDDEteFd-1HFhLm9f48B-aVQBBzp9HquPDv9y-0RVMRb1PsmpQDrxSbJl1Ek3C4xeMkUeM2xhdqoCtZJrieCNuUs1vwoqcRnMJh1H8kFOTHmT5Qg2aNCQZOpkf8iB37ln-_1qrg_ISz8DJYIcsMKEVauZg5bhXejDX52XZTv3yoCyBfz4RQ_AbrSQCQn3uIT0oU6FjNvN3dkxcbTUYkZxdzbh1kH3MmFx9o6C8Zo0_vS3u8R5lmnUxntYYU7SoVyTk45HjFF5FLQ6nCISEBhbYTWic7_ugj0VhUlPJQwIt1lzpDcIACk4SzK8qD8f6798iEex0GswumYHpHh6Hk2Tbz6_YPdfKIIYSmrzp0GmBnq-UzVZCQZ5ZWrcXoh707AQMzoVjV6aMPGxVbsDrYwneH_vCECQ6YG9mtSslScGV1SXxZXjgfEJFXd4UL5B9c4vhT_FKhLLJ7iximVWcaHxEYmJBoEV1Mm8n1mGs54wbW_C6K19tNk56YXzOJkPPaFBdytOFTYheEGq3ylI7WanO4gORS-UeznrCfFwfhCowny7cT9H5nGf7WOCdPUgdvYLpuMoCCdpu1uVq9XT_2AKVoMBjO9dCSnrE48WhZBdZEUED-Fy6dsDQ6YYjkEAfSPvv9Gtd7LxjKiiBTIWMlV7qbJYvxqz2Ft5oE1OmUFeGKV4IhxJRCVz-LpbA5G5NwnZIX-KowA_WMaqx7Hb0ndveZAXn99jegKsgQtLUD_jXoXd20vTlEt8bbC0f9Gcspvxpg62NdfDVos13U9gZcRnPattorPc_krWGvlhm9XcTgaC60tKaUuj-iZI3l2ChS6VQrADQp4XwuEBw_ebWFi48l_7eGRCiTvDpTgXucD8rFofinAkRwQ9SyzopNT7XmEK20CS48yBxPxK6Ph3SgLZNNTK4eNtZx9SWVkndaxs_y4snjrRYop6QYHQcYElZJfEEa1uczkB-b3X4VXkmtKA==&amp;c=ncGxxJ33IMcLZea3BtraYyP-bnEvrwq_7w6IFr55hnuHM65PPOkNAg==&amp;ch=xWYdZWj7j4gYXrjJrHRjeryS58AUHCJxm3z5dx8-R4yN53uEmHVmrg==" target="_blank">bipartisan letter</a>&nbsp;with members of the Ways and Means Committee to Ambassador Tai requesting dispute consultations and encouraging the administration to “ensure all our trading partners maintain science-based biotech regulatory systems.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

 Rep. Adrian Smith issues statement on biotech corn

The City of Alliance announced on Thursday that the Knight Museum will be hosting a presentation by historian Randy Kane. 

It is called&nbsp; ‘Who Killed Crazy Horse? Politics at Red Cloud Agency, Summer 1877.’

The presentation will be on Tuesday, August 22nd at 5:30pm, for more information, please contact the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center at (308) 762-2384.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe City of Alliance announced on Thursday that the Knight Museum will be hosting a presentation by historian Randy Kane. It is called&nbsp; ‘Who Killed Crazy Horse? Politics at Red Cloud Agency, Summer 1877.’<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692290529464.jpeg" alt="Who killed crazy horse" />
 <figcaption>Who killed crazy horse</figcaption>
 </figure>The presentation will be on Tuesday, August 22nd at 5:30pm, for more information, please contact the Knight Museum &amp; Sandhills Center at (308) 762-2384.

Presentation at Knight Museum & Sandhills Center

By Tema Cook,&nbsp;Marketing Coordinator Chadron State&nbsp;College

At a recent President’s Cabinet meeting, Dean of Student Affairs Austen Stephens shared the 2022-23 report about highlights of work by departments included in Student Affairs. He included a review of academic support, campus activities, and software programs all designed to enrich students’ experiences at CSC.

“A lot of the great work that the Student Affairs staff members do, the activities and outlets we offer, are behind the scenes and tend to happen at times that aren't visible during the work week and regular office hours,” Stephens said.

Student Affairs offered the first Eagle Peer Mentor Program in the fall of 2019 with a pilot group of 180 incoming students.

“We saw immediate and significant results with respect to persistence and retention rates in participants versus non-participants.&nbsp;Based on that,&nbsp;the entire incoming class has been included since 2020,” Stephens said.&nbsp;“I wanted to highlight the great work done by the mentors and the graduate assistants who have facilitated that program.”

Mentors maintain contact with their students through the first year to support and guide them in the transition to college life. Mentors must apply and interview for the opportunity to participate in the program and are trained regarding appropriate interactions, as well as campus resources available to students.

In addition to focusing on academics, Stephens said it is equally important that students have physical, recreational, social, and wellness opportunities.

Last academic year, students checked in 8,400 times at 177 events sponsored by the Residence Life Association (RLA). Student Resident Advisors or Senior Resident Advisors led most activities with professional staff assisting. Events included a haunted house in the Kent Hall basement, a popular sip and paint night, and other crafting events.

“The RLA events had a very wide reach which is pretty awesome.&nbsp;I thought the number of students who used the Eagle Rewards app was encouraging. We push the app as a clearinghouse for trying to minimize duplication of events and to get information distributed to campus.&nbsp;The Eagle Rewards App is sort of an onboarding tool. It’s like a one-stop shop. Once a student becomes seasoned, they know what things they care about and how and where to find out more,” Stephens said.

The Student Center Pit hosted 28 activities that attracted more than 1,300 students. Taylor Osmotherly, student activities coordinator, managed events that ranged from video game tournaments to movie nights and murder mystery games.

Intramurals typically take place at the Nelson Physical Activities Center where Jeff Turman, manager of the center, helps coordinate and manage leagues and events, and hires referees. A total of 646 participants were involved in 11 physically active leagues and two bracket events.

“Sometimes Jeff has to throw on a zebra shirt and ref himself,” Stephens said.&nbsp;“We have a lot of different offerings for students with diverse interests.”

To help students maintain their health, the college contracts with Jessaca Denke, a part-time registered nurse, who averages seven cases per day. February had the most cases during the 2022-23 academic year while the most referrals to the clinic occurred in September.

Stephens said for the coming year, the college has added two extra office hours on the busiest days, Tuesdays and Thursdays, to help serve students. On-campus health services include strep and influenza testing and basic first aid. Services beyond that scope are referred to the Chadron Medical Clinic.&nbsp;

Eagles 360, a platform fully implemented in January 2023, allows campus employees to log and track information to assist students. It is used particularly by members of the Care Team, and those involved with Title IX, conduct, and academic cases.&nbsp;Tori Meshke, the project coordinator for Student Affairs, manages the program, according to Stephens.

“There are a lot of cool aspects of it,” Stephens said. “It is a central place to record our interactions with students, such as when housing staff document concerns they have about residents. Of course, some conversations and interactions can't be logged due to time constraints or other factors.

“A lot of this work and many staff interactions with students happen outside of traditional business hours and that aspect is often overlooked. I appreciate that our staff steps up to serve students and are passionate about their work. From one student to another, what helps them be successful at CSC is going to be individualized.”

By Tema Cook,&nbsp;Marketing Coordinator Chadron State&nbsp;CollegeAt a recent President’s Cabinet meeting, Dean of Student Affairs Austen Stephens shared the 2022-23 report about highlights of work by departments included in Student Affairs. He included a review of academic support, campus activities, and software programs all designed to enrich students’ experiences at CSC.“A lot of the great work that the Student Affairs staff members do, the activities and outlets we offer, are behind the scenes and tend to happen at times that aren't visible during the work week and regular office hours,” Stephens said.Student Affairs offered the first Eagle Peer Mentor Program in the fall of 2019 with a pilot group of 180 incoming students.“We saw immediate and significant results with respect to persistence and retention rates in participants versus non-participants.&nbsp;Based on that,&nbsp;the entire incoming class has been included since 2020,” Stephens said.&nbsp;“I wanted to highlight the great work done by the mentors and the graduate assistants who have facilitated that program.”Mentors maintain contact with their students through the first year to support and guide them in the transition to college life. Mentors must apply and interview for the opportunity to participate in the program and are trained regarding appropriate interactions, as well as campus resources available to students.In addition to focusing on academics, Stephens said it is equally important that students have physical, recreational, social, and wellness opportunities.Last academic year, students checked in 8,400 times at 177 events sponsored by the Residence Life Association (RLA). Student Resident Advisors or Senior Resident Advisors led most activities with professional staff assisting. Events included a haunted house in the Kent Hall basement, a popular sip and paint night, and other crafting events.“The RLA events had a very wide reach which is pretty awesome.&nbsp;I thought the number of students who used the Eagle Rewards app was encouraging. We push the app as a clearinghouse for trying to minimize duplication of events and to get information distributed to campus.&nbsp;The Eagle Rewards App is sort of an onboarding tool. It’s like a one-stop shop. Once a student becomes seasoned, they know what things they care about and how and where to find out more,” Stephens said.The Student Center Pit hosted 28 activities that attracted more than 1,300 students. Taylor Osmotherly, student activities coordinator, managed events that ranged from video game tournaments to movie nights and murder mystery games.Intramurals typically take place at the Nelson Physical Activities Center where Jeff Turman, manager of the center, helps coordinate and manage leagues and events, and hires referees. A total of 646 participants were involved in 11 physically active leagues and two bracket events.“Sometimes Jeff has to throw on a zebra shirt and ref himself,” Stephens said.&nbsp;“We have a lot of different offerings for students with diverse interests.”To help students maintain their health, the college contracts with Jessaca Denke, a part-time registered nurse, who averages seven cases per day. February had the most cases during the 2022-23 academic year while the most referrals to the clinic occurred in September.Stephens said for the coming year, the college has added two extra office hours on the busiest days, Tuesdays and Thursdays, to help serve students. On-campus health services include strep and influenza testing and basic first aid. Services beyond that scope are referred to the Chadron Medical Clinic.&nbsp;Eagles 360, a platform fully implemented in January 2023, allows campus employees to log and track information to assist students. It is used particularly by members of the Care Team, and those involved with Title IX, conduct, and academic cases.&nbsp;Tori Meshke, the project coordinator for Student Affairs, manages the program, according to Stephens.“There are a lot of cool aspects of it,” Stephens said. “It is a central place to record our interactions with students, such as when housing staff document concerns they have about residents. Of course, some conversations and interactions can't be logged due to time constraints or other factors.“A lot of this work and many staff interactions with students happen outside of traditional business hours and that aspect is often overlooked. I appreciate that our staff steps up to serve students and are passionate about their work. From one student to another, what helps them be successful at CSC is going to be individualized.”

CSC Student Affairs reports how students are served

&nbsp; Community residents interested in performing with Chadron State College’s Community Symphonic Band are welcome to join us their first rehearsal of the Fall semester Aug. 22, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.

&nbsp;All instrumentalists 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;The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform in concert Nov. 3, at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.

The Community Band will also join the Wind Symphony for the annual Holiday Concert Dec. 7, at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Chadron State College&nbsp; Community residents interested in performing with Chadron State College’s Community Symphonic Band are welcome to join us their first rehearsal of the Fall semester Aug. 22, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium.&nbsp;All instrumentalists 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;The Wind Symphony and Community Band will perform in concert Nov. 3, at 7 p.m. in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium. The Community Band will also join the Wind Symphony for the annual Holiday Concert Dec. 7, at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Community members invited to CSC music rehearsals 

&nbsp;BNSF Railroad in Alliance announced&nbsp; recently&nbsp; that there will a closing next week.&nbsp; 

The 25th Street Crossing in Alliance will be closed beginning at 7:30 AM on Wednesday, August 23&nbsp; and won’t reopen until 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 24.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post&nbsp;BNSF Railroad in Alliance announced&nbsp; recently&nbsp; that there will a closing next week.&nbsp; The 25th Street Crossing in Alliance will be closed beginning at 7:30 AM on Wednesday, August 23&nbsp; and won’t reopen until 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 24.&nbsp;

BNSF announces Alliance closure for next week

Finances for the city of Alliance were largely discussed at this week's City Council meeting. Seth Sorensen was a guest on the KCOW morning show and discussed the 2023-2024 Appropriation bill.

"This year we did a little different approach, we did what is called zero based budgeting," Sorensen said.&nbsp; "That means that we went back to zero on everything,&nbsp; department heads had to claim each individual thing that they would be working on in the coming year.

Sorensen continues to say that the budgeting approach went well because the Alliance will be approximately two million dollars below the budget they had two years ago.

Alliance City Treasurer Cindy Baker also presented the 3rd quarter financial report and Sorensen says that it's mostly positive for the city.

"It looks good, we are on track for our expenditures, we are actually below what is anticipated for this far along in the year," Sorensen said.&nbsp; "Revenues are still down a little bit in some of our funds, but that is due to the last quarter being where we receive a lot of those property tax payments, we see more electricity and water use during these last few months," Sorensen said.

For more information, contact the city of Alliance at (308) 762-5400

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostFinances for the city of Alliance were largely discussed at this week's City Council meeting. Seth Sorensen was a guest on the KCOW morning show and discussed the 2023-2024 Appropriation bill. "This year we did a little different approach, we did what is called zero based budgeting," Sorensen said.&nbsp; "That means that we went back to zero on everything,&nbsp; department heads had to claim each individual thing that they would be working on in the coming year.Sorensen continues to say that the budgeting approach went well because the Alliance will be approximately two million dollars below the budget they had two years ago.Alliance City Treasurer Cindy Baker also presented the 3rd quarter financial report and Sorensen says that it's mostly positive for the city. "It looks good, we are on track for our expenditures, we are actually below what is anticipated for this far along in the year," Sorensen said.&nbsp; "Revenues are still down a little bit in some of our funds, but that is due to the last quarter being where we receive a lot of those property tax payments, we see more electricity and water use during these last few months," Sorensen said.For more information, contact the city of Alliance at (308) 762-5400

Alliance City Council financials discussed at Tuesday meeting

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

A Hemingford woman is in court this week facing felony drug charges from a traffic stop in Scotts Bluff County.

41-year-old Melissa Annen of Hemingford  was stopped by a trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol on Thursday Aug. 10, a little after 1 a.m on Highway 26.

Court documents state that Annen failed to signal two turns and when she was stopped, the trooper found traces of&nbsp;methamphetamine and she taken to the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center. Annen allegedly concealed drugs into the Scottsbluff Detention Center and authorities found meth, fentanyl and cocaine. 

She made her first appearance in Scotts Bluff County Court on charges of intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, fentanyl and&nbsp;methamphetamine along with tampering physical evidence.

Annen has a preliminary hearing set for Aug. 17, with bond set at $400,000. 

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post A Hemingford woman is in court this week facing felony drug charges from a traffic stop in Scotts Bluff County.41-year-old Melissa Annen of Hemingford was stopped by a trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol on Thursday Aug. 10, a little after 1 a.m on Highway 26.Court documents state that Annen failed to signal two turns and when she was stopped, the trooper found traces of&nbsp;methamphetamine and she taken to the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center. Annen allegedly concealed drugs into the Scottsbluff Detention Center and authorities found meth, fentanyl and cocaine. She made her first appearance in Scotts Bluff County Court on charges of intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, fentanyl and&nbsp;methamphetamine along with tampering physical evidence.Annen has a preliminary hearing set for Aug. 17, with bond set at $400,000.

Box Butte County woman arrested for felony drug charges

Alliance, NE – The Alliance Police Department is committed to fostering a cohesive and secure community, and recognizes the vital role they play in achieving this objective.

APD is requesting your feedback. Please take the time to fill out the survey by visiting <a href="https://alliance-ne.civilspace.io/en/projects/voices-of-the-community-a-secondary-survey/engagements/dr-del-carmen-survey/sections/1">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

For more information, please contact the Alliance Police Department at (308) 762-4955.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The Alliance Police Department is committed to fostering a cohesive and secure community, and recognizes the vital role they play in achieving this objective. APD is requesting your feedback. Please take the time to fill out the survey by visiting <a href="https://alliance-ne.civilspace.io/en/projects/voices-of-the-community-a-secondary-survey/engagements/dr-del-carmen-survey/sections/1">HERE</a>.&nbsp;For more information, please contact the Alliance Police Department at (308) 762-4955.

Alliance Police Department requests community feedback 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 8/16/23

&nbsp;By Pratiksha Baishya – Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture Dr. Dipak Santra – Professor, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture

Panhandle Research and Education Center

The United Nations has declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM2023), contributing to six of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 – Zero Hunger, Good health and well-being, Decent work, and economic growth, Responsible consumption and production, Climate change, and Life on Land (FAO 2023). The slogan “Rich in heritage, full of potential” is being used to convey and raise awareness about the multiple benefits of growing and consuming millets for the environment and human health, with a long-term goal of alleviating food insecurity. 

The key objectives for IYM2023 include providing a unique opportunity to increase global production, strengthening science and policy interactions, ensuring efficient processing and consumption, promoting better utilization of crop rotations, empowering stakeholders to take action, and building and strengthening new and old partnerships for millets worldwide (UN 2023).

In the United States, proso millet (known as ‘millet’) is the only commercially cultivated millet at present. Proso millet was first introduced in the US on the eastern Atlantic Coast by European immigrants in 1875 and is now generally grown in the Great Plains. About 90 percent of the total proso millet produced in the United States is grown in the states of Colorado, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Over the last twenty years, proso millet production in the US has been getting more popular but has been chiefly to cater to the demands of the bird-feed market, which neglects to utilize the crop to its full potential. USDA data indicates significant fluctuations in planted acreage and production statistics for proso millet over the last two decades, primarily driven by market price volatility. Combined with the lack of sound insurance coverage, farmers have no incentive to grow millet.

However, millet has several agronomic and nutritional advantages, making it an ideal substitute in the cropping system and food basket alike. Proso millet is a shallow-rooted crop that is adapted to be cultivated in semi-arid and arid environments, requiring the least amount of water among all cereals. It is a short-duration crop (60-90 days), making it an ideal alternative to be included in winter wheat-based crop rotations under dryland production conditions. It can be grown after a crop failure like winter wheat, thus aiding farmers in making additional profit.

 Regarding nutritional superiority, millets are naturally gluten-free and fiber-rich, aiding digestive health, especially for people with gluten sensitivities. Millets also have a low glycemic index (54-68) and can prevent blood sugar spikes and promote insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients. Due to these qualities, recent years have seen a steady rise in millet popularity and demand to meet the growing food demand worldwide while addressing food security concerns and climate change impacts on agriculture.

Research related to promoting proso millet among producers and consumers is still preliminary. Several knowledge gaps (lack of high-yielding varieties, agronomic constraints like weed and disease management, crop insurance, market limitations, lack of value-added products, etc.) need to be addressed to popularize the market for millet beyond just bird feed. 

The Alternative Crops Lab under Dr. Dipak Santra at UNL PREEC (University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center) aims to investigate some of these gaps in the coming years. This year, we have started a field experiment to compare the greenhouse gas emissions (particularly nitrous oxide) between corn and proso millet to test if proso millet is a better sustainable crop than corn. In addition, a variety trial for proso millet was conducted for the first time at Havelock Farm in Lincoln to see how the crop performs in the eastern Nebraska climatic conditions. Work has been started to analyze the farmer profitability for different insurance coverage levels based on existing corn and proso millet data. With an anticipated increase in demand for proso millet post-IYM2023, we also aim to test the consumer preferences/demand for various products using proso millet as a primary ingredient.&nbsp;

&nbsp;By Pratiksha Baishya – Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture Dr. Dipak Santra – Professor, Department of Agronomy and HorticulturePanhandle Research and Education CenterThe United Nations has declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets (IYM2023), contributing to six of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 – Zero Hunger, Good health and well-being, Decent work, and economic growth, Responsible consumption and production, Climate change, and Life on Land (FAO 2023). The slogan “Rich in heritage, full of potential” is being used to convey and raise awareness about the multiple benefits of growing and consuming millets for the environment and human health, with a long-term goal of alleviating food insecurity. The key objectives for IYM2023 include providing a unique opportunity to increase global production, strengthening science and policy interactions, ensuring efficient processing and consumption, promoting better utilization of crop rotations, empowering stakeholders to take action, and building and strengthening new and old partnerships for millets worldwide (UN 2023).In the United States, proso millet (known as ‘millet’) is the only commercially cultivated millet at present. Proso millet was first introduced in the US on the eastern Atlantic Coast by European immigrants in 1875 and is now generally grown in the Great Plains. About 90 percent of the total proso millet produced in the United States is grown in the states of Colorado, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Over the last twenty years, proso millet production in the US has been getting more popular but has been chiefly to cater to the demands of the bird-feed market, which neglects to utilize the crop to its full potential. USDA data indicates significant fluctuations in planted acreage and production statistics for proso millet over the last two decades, primarily driven by market price volatility. Combined with the lack of sound insurance coverage, farmers have no incentive to grow millet.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692147186713.jpeg" alt="millet testing.jpg" />
 <figcaption>millet testing.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>However, millet has several agronomic and nutritional advantages, making it an ideal substitute in the cropping system and food basket alike. Proso millet is a shallow-rooted crop that is adapted to be cultivated in semi-arid and arid environments, requiring the least amount of water among all cereals. It is a short-duration crop (60-90 days), making it an ideal alternative to be included in winter wheat-based crop rotations under dryland production conditions. It can be grown after a crop failure like winter wheat, thus aiding farmers in making additional profit. Regarding nutritional superiority, millets are naturally gluten-free and fiber-rich, aiding digestive health, especially for people with gluten sensitivities. Millets also have a low glycemic index (54-68) and can prevent blood sugar spikes and promote insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients. Due to these qualities, recent years have seen a steady rise in millet popularity and demand to meet the growing food demand worldwide while addressing food security concerns and climate change impacts on agriculture.Research related to promoting proso millet among producers and consumers is still preliminary. Several knowledge gaps (lack of high-yielding varieties, agronomic constraints like weed and disease management, crop insurance, market limitations, lack of value-added products, etc.) need to be addressed to popularize the market for millet beyond just bird feed. The Alternative Crops Lab under Dr. Dipak Santra at UNL PREEC (University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center) aims to investigate some of these gaps in the coming years. This year, we have started a field experiment to compare the greenhouse gas emissions (particularly nitrous oxide) between corn and proso millet to test if proso millet is a better sustainable crop than corn. In addition, a variety trial for proso millet was conducted for the first time at Havelock Farm in Lincoln to see how the crop performs in the eastern Nebraska climatic conditions. Work has been started to analyze the farmer profitability for different insurance coverage levels based on existing corn and proso millet data. With an anticipated increase in demand for proso millet post-IYM2023, we also aim to test the consumer preferences/demand for various products using proso millet as a primary ingredient.&nbsp;

 Millets for a Sustainable Future

CHADRON – The Chadron State College Drumline will&nbsp;perform an original composition at Bands on Bordeaux Thursday. The outdoor concert at First and Main Streets at 6 p.m. is organized by the Chadron Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by&nbsp;CSC.

Music Professor Dr. Rick Puzzo is excited for the students in the ensemble to perform a&nbsp;collaboration between himself and his colleague, Music Professor Dr. Michael&nbsp;Stephens. Stephens composed the melody and harmony, and Puzzo wrote the drum parts.

“I really appreciate working with Dr. Stephens. He has written a very groovy piece of music that is fun to play and fun to listen to,” Puzzo said.

Students in the drumline have been practicing in a boot camp for more than a week leading up to Thursday’s performance.

Puzzo created the camp four years ago and this year, the drumline is the largest it has been at eight members.

“I am hopeful that this trend of attracting students to participate in the drumline continues.&nbsp;It takes dedication, but I think that most of the members have come away with a good feeling of accomplishment and pride in their growth as musicians,” Puzzo said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I can confidently say it is a joy to watch most of the drumline players improve in their technical and musical skills as well as life skills.”

Puzzo said the spread of skill sets in the drumline ranges from seniors who are more advanced to incoming freshmen.

“Because of this, I try to place each participant on an instrument that is a good fit. Generally, cymbal players and bass drum players don’t need any previous music or band experience. The snare drummers and tenor drummers do need to have some previous music or band experience,” Puzzo said.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Isabella Middleton, captain of the drumline, will complete her third camp this year. She is a&nbsp;Business Administration major from Alliance, Nebraska.

“This is what every collegiate-level drumline is doing right now. It's really good because we go through all the basics and warm-ups. By the time classes start, we aren’t doing beginning-level stuff. We can be polishing and adding some of those extra steps,” Middleton said. “It does take work but it’s great, and fun for everyone. Any level can join.”

Drumline is a graded, one-credit class that meets during the semester on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The August Drumline Camp is considered a prerequisite for the course Puzzo created in 2019. Freshmen and sophomores register for MUS 149 and juniors and seniors register for MUS 349.

The drumline plays with the Eagle Band at football games and usually performs two halftime shows each season.&nbsp;The group also performs off campus. Last year, it performed at the&nbsp;Harvest Moon Festival and has been invited back this year. Other community outreach efforts have included multiple performances at the Chadron Chili Cookoff, the Athletic Scholarship Dinner, and Crest View Care Center.

CHADRON – The Chadron State College Drumline will&nbsp;perform an original composition at Bands on Bordeaux Thursday. The outdoor concert at First and Main Streets at 6 p.m. is organized by the Chadron Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by&nbsp;CSC.Music Professor Dr. Rick Puzzo is excited for the students in the ensemble to perform a&nbsp;collaboration between himself and his colleague, Music Professor Dr. Michael&nbsp;Stephens. Stephens composed the melody and harmony, and Puzzo wrote the drum parts.“I really appreciate working with Dr. Stephens. He has written a very groovy piece of music that is fun to play and fun to listen to,” Puzzo said.Students in the drumline have been practicing in a boot camp for more than a week leading up to Thursday’s performance.Puzzo created the camp four years ago and this year, the drumline is the largest it has been at eight members.“I am hopeful that this trend of attracting students to participate in the drumline continues.&nbsp;It takes dedication, but I think that most of the members have come away with a good feeling of accomplishment and pride in their growth as musicians,” Puzzo said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I can confidently say it is a joy to watch most of the drumline players improve in their technical and musical skills as well as life skills.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692144207480.jpeg" alt="Music Professor Rick Puzzo, left, instructs Chadron State College student Natalie Summers during drumline summer camp Aug. 11, 2023. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Music Professor Rick Puzzo, left, instructs Chadron State College student Natalie Summers during drumline summer camp Aug. 11, 2023. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>Puzzo said the spread of skill sets in the drumline ranges from seniors who are more advanced to incoming freshmen.“Because of this, I try to place each participant on an instrument that is a good fit. Generally, cymbal players and bass drum players don’t need any previous music or band experience. The snare drummers and tenor drummers do need to have some previous music or band experience,” Puzzo said.&nbsp; &nbsp;Isabella Middleton, captain of the drumline, will complete her third camp this year. She is a&nbsp;Business Administration major from Alliance, Nebraska.“This is what every collegiate-level drumline is doing right now. It's really good because we go through all the basics and warm-ups. By the time classes start, we aren’t doing beginning-level stuff. We can be polishing and adding some of those extra steps,” Middleton said. “It does take work but it’s great, and fun for everyone. Any level can join.”Drumline is a graded, one-credit class that meets during the semester on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The August Drumline Camp is considered a prerequisite for the course Puzzo created in 2019. Freshmen and sophomores register for MUS 149 and juniors and seniors register for MUS 349.The drumline plays with the Eagle Band at football games and usually performs two halftime shows each season.&nbsp;The group also performs off campus. Last year, it performed at the&nbsp;Harvest Moon Festival and has been invited back this year. Other community outreach efforts have included multiple performances at the Chadron Chili Cookoff, the Athletic Scholarship Dinner, and Crest View Care Center.Puzzo has&nbsp;been teaching and writing for drumlines for several decades. He was a front ensemble marimba tech with the Drum Corps International Jersey Surf for four seasons. The last year he was involved, 2007, the drumline won high drums in its division.&nbsp;“I learned a lot about what it takes to build and maintain a drumline at a high level. Drumlines have a lot of parts and because of the nature of the instruments – they are loud and tend to play very short notes – it is a challenge to produce a musical and clean performance. Since the drumline is also a moving ensemble, students must play and move at the same time,” he said.Since some new players don’t have much experience with that combination, Puzzo uses a graduated approach to direct the ensemble.“Often this involves separating playing and moving techniques and when the students are comfortable with each of those aspects, I integrate additional skills slowly so that eventually by the end of camp, they are playing and moving together as an ensemble,” Puzzo said.He said the drumline curriculum is similar to technique-building programs at other colleges and universities.“While I write all the technical exercises for the&nbsp;CSC&nbsp;Drumline, they are based on solid educational and technical philosophies,” Puzzo said.Puzzo encourages students interested in scholarships and tuition waivers to complete the online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/academics/music/music-scholarships/" target="_blank">application</a>, submit an audition video, or attend the drumline audition and skill builder camp in April.He hopes to eventually take the drumline to regional high schools for performances and clinics.

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