By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful

Heritage Days is here then Box Butte County Fair in Hemingford with wheat harvest in between. When pondering where “it” goes, summer and time in general always make the list.

Time, our very own unique perspective on how it passes, seems to start early with some adults able to access memories from preschool and before. Instead of thinking about a torn butterfly from kindergarten, my recent thoughts have touched on how people choose to spend time between the first breath and their last.

Recycling, for instance, is among dozens of daily activities in homes and businesses. Budget how long the commitment will take and the practice becomes routine. Volunteering to help our crew at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center is on another level. Granted, some people come by for a number of days as part of court-ordered community service. Volunteers are not much different than securing dedicated employees – some arrive with a positive attitude and work ethic, others not so much. I have worked alongside a few retired volunteers during the past four years, yet the balance has been younger than I.

Our latest community member to donate time marked her first day July 7. Katelyn Heisler,

who will be a junior at Alliance High School this fall, is parlaying the experience into meeting a requirement for membership in the National Honor Society.

“They give you a letter, tells you the GPA (grade point average) requirement (which I had met) to apply and gives you a list of possible places,” she explained. Bumping into Kathy Worley, KAB’s executive director, at Safeway, Katelyn and her mom asked about choosing the recycling center for service hours. Katelyn said she knew Kathy from working at Redman’s. Beyond that connection, “I think recycling is a big deal,” Katelyn said.

She really only considered serving at KAB. “The other places were kind of boring and I really didn’t know how to contact them,” she said. The appeal of joining the National Honor Society itself is also a matter of time – looking to the future. “I know it looks great on college applications,” Katelyn said. She would really like to leave Alliance after graduating from AHS. Scholarships would expand options to attend “a good college” that her family may not otherwise be able to afford.

Katelyn moved from Alabama to Alliance in 2017 at age 10 where she had lived her whole life by the bay along the Gulf of Mexico. Litter in her hometown and Alliance have been about on par though spring break years ago proved an exception. “There was beer bottles and trash all over Orange Beach and they had to close it for a couple days. . . . You see trash all over no matter where you go . . .,” she said.

Vacations, personnel changes and health issues among recycling center staff make another set of hands a valuable asset. “I knew I’d work a lot and do what I was told to do,” Katelyn said simply. She has already gone on runs to pick up recyclables and continues to learn what goes where and how to get it there. Also,Heritage Days offers the opportunity for downtown trash patrol. “What’s challenging is (helping to) pick up those white things (aluminum/plastic totes) when they have stuff in them. I don’t like the (baling) wires because I can’t put them in fully and somebody has to help me.”

In addition to a National Honor Society number or narrative, time at KAB may be fodder for the school paper. Kately was a staff writer for the Spud during the 2022-23 school year. “I took a journalism class and had to think of things to write. A lot of times I turned to environmental stuff. I have a soft spot in my heart for animals and the ocean.”

Whether you read all about it later under her byline or not, Katelyn conveyed a positive assessment as concluded our interview by the balers. “I like working here, it’s fun, a lot of weird.”

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689607991067.jpeg" alt="Katelyn Heisler helps Lonnie Grant shovel aluminum cans into the baler at the KAB Recycling Center. A junior at AHS this year, she has been volunteering during July." />
 <figcaption>Katelyn Heisler helps Lonnie Grant shovel aluminum cans into the baler at the KAB Recycling Center. A junior at AHS this year, she has been volunteering during July.</figcaption>
 </figure>Heritage Days is here then Box Butte County Fair in Hemingford with wheat harvest in between. When pondering where “it” goes, summer and time in general always make the list.Time, our very own unique perspective on how it passes, seems to start early with some adults able to access memories from preschool and before. Instead of thinking about a torn butterfly from kindergarten, my recent thoughts have touched on how people choose to spend time between the first breath and their last.Recycling, for instance, is among dozens of daily activities in homes and businesses. Budget how long the commitment will take and the practice becomes routine. Volunteering to help our crew at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center is on another level. Granted, some people come by for a number of days as part of court-ordered community service. Volunteers are not much different than securing dedicated employees – some arrive with a positive attitude and work ethic, others not so much. I have worked alongside a few retired volunteers during the past four years, yet the balance has been younger than I.Our latest community member to donate time marked her first day July 7. Katelyn Heisler,who will be a junior at Alliance High School this fall, is parlaying the experience into meeting a requirement for membership in the National Honor Society.“They give you a letter, tells you the GPA (grade point average) requirement (which I had met) to apply and gives you a list of possible places,” she explained. Bumping into Kathy Worley, KAB’s executive director, at Safeway, Katelyn and her mom asked about choosing the recycling center for service hours. Katelyn said she knew Kathy from working at Redman’s. Beyond that connection, “I think recycling is a big deal,” Katelyn said.She really only considered serving at KAB. “The other places were kind of boring and I really didn’t know how to contact them,” she said. The appeal of joining the National Honor Society itself is also a matter of time – looking to the future. “I know it looks great on college applications,” Katelyn said. She would really like to leave Alliance after graduating from AHS. Scholarships would expand options to attend “a good college” that her family may not otherwise be able to afford.Katelyn moved from Alabama to Alliance in 2017 at age 10 where she had lived her whole life by the bay along the Gulf of Mexico. Litter in her hometown and Alliance have been about on par though spring break years ago proved an exception. “There was beer bottles and trash all over Orange Beach and they had to close it for a couple days. . . . You see trash all over no matter where you go . . .,” she said.Vacations, personnel changes and health issues among recycling center staff make another set of hands a valuable asset. “I knew I’d work a lot and do what I was told to do,” Katelyn said simply. She has already gone on runs to pick up recyclables and continues to learn what goes where and how to get it there. Also,Heritage Days offers the opportunity for downtown trash patrol. “What’s challenging is (helping to) pick up those white things (aluminum/plastic totes) when they have stuff in them. I don’t like the (baling) wires because I can’t put them in fully and somebody has to help me.”In addition to a National Honor Society number or narrative, time at KAB may be fodder for the school paper. Kately was a staff writer for the Spud during the 2022-23 school year. “I took a journalism class and had to think of things to write. A lot of times I turned to environmental stuff. I have a soft spot in my heart for animals and the ocean.”Whether you read all about it later under her byline or not, Katelyn conveyed a positive assessment as concluded our interview by the balers. “I like working here, it’s fun, a lot of weird.”

KAB: Time to volunteer

United Way of Western Nebraska’s “Stuff the Bus” is ramping up to help local school children. Stuff the Bus is United Way’s annual school supply drive to help local children and their families that may be unable to purchase the necessary school supplies for the schoolyear. 

The public is encouraged to donate new schools supplies or make a monetary donation. The drive runs July 17th , 2023, through July 28th , 2023 with the mission to help local kids with school supplies. Donations of backpacks, earbuds, personal water bottles, lunch boxes, disinfectant&nbsp; wipes, and other school supplies are welcome to be dropped off at either the Alliance United Way office (723 Flack Avenue, Alliance, NE 69301) or the Scottsbluff United Way office (1517 Broadway, Suite 106, Scottsbluff, NE 69361).

Monetary donations are welcome at uwwn.org/bus or mailed to either local United Way office. 100% of all monetary donations will be used to purchase school supplies, and those supplies are distributed to local children in need to help them get started on the right foot and succeed in school. For every $20 donated, it will help one child get the necessary school supplies. 

Monetary donations may be made online at uwwn.org/bus or mailed to United Way, P.O. Box 17, Alliance, NE 69301 or 1517 Broadway, Suite 106 Scottsbluff, NE 69361. For more information about Stuff the Bus or United Way please contact Ally Shipman at 308-635-2522 or ashipman@uwwn.org. 

United Way continues the strong tradition of ensuring that donor dollars stay local, and the monies raised stay in the area where they were raised. Stuff the Bus is no exception, donations made for Stuff the Bus will help local children in the community.

&nbsp;By United Way of Western NebraskaUnited Way of Western Nebraska’s “Stuff the Bus” is ramping up to help local school children. Stuff the Bus is United Way’s annual school supply drive to help local children and their families that may be unable to purchase the necessary school supplies for the schoolyear. The public is encouraged to donate new schools supplies or make a monetary donation. The drive runs July 17th , 2023, through July 28th , 2023 with the mission to help local kids with school supplies. Donations of backpacks, earbuds, personal water bottles, lunch boxes, disinfectant&nbsp; wipes, and other school supplies are welcome to be dropped off at either the Alliance United Way office (723 Flack Avenue, Alliance, NE 69301) or the Scottsbluff United Way office (1517 Broadway, Suite 106, Scottsbluff, NE 69361).Monetary donations are welcome at uwwn.org/bus or mailed to either local United Way office. 100% of all monetary donations will be used to purchase school supplies, and those supplies are distributed to local children in need to help them get started on the right foot and succeed in school. For every $20 donated, it will help one child get the necessary school supplies. Monetary donations may be made online at uwwn.org/bus or mailed to United Way, P.O. Box 17, Alliance, NE 69301 or 1517 Broadway, Suite 106 Scottsbluff, NE 69361. For more information about Stuff the Bus or United Way please contact Ally Shipman at 308-635-2522 or ashipman@uwwn.org. United Way continues the strong tradition of ensuring that donor dollars stay local, and the monies raised stay in the area where they were raised. Stuff the Bus is no exception, donations made for Stuff the Bus will help local children in the community.

The Stuff the Bus School Drive is underway in the Panhandle

Patients who have received billable services at Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) on May 1st and after will begin to receive billing statements from the new billing system for the provided service(s). Any billable service that took place before May 1st has been billed in the previous system.

 Patients with account balances in the previous system will continue to receive their statements from that system until paid. This will generate two separate statements that require payment. Statements from the previous system will be printed on green paper and statements from the new system will be printed on blue paper.

 For more information or questions regarding billing statements, please contact a Financial Counselor, Rob Hood, 308-761-1008 or Elena Dawn, 308-761-1020.

By Box Butte General HospitalPatients who have received billable services at Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) on May 1st and after will begin to receive billing statements from the new billing system for the provided service(s). Any billable service that took place before May 1st has been billed in the previous system. Patients with account balances in the previous system will continue to receive their statements from that system until paid. This will generate two separate statements that require payment. Statements from the previous system will be printed on green paper and statements from the new system will be printed on blue paper. For more information or questions regarding billing statements, please contact a Financial Counselor, Rob Hood, 308-761-1008 or Elena Dawn, 308-761-1020.

BBGH patients may receive two billing statements

A woman has been arrested and is being held in the Box Butte County Jail after an alleged altercation and stabbing in Alliance on Thursday evening. 

 The incident is still under investigation as names have not been released in the incident, but what is known is that Alliance Police were dispatched to the area of 5th and Potash just before 6 PM on Thursday  July 13th where a woman allegedly stabbed a man.

 Information from Thursday that the incident may be result of a mental health crisis. Alliance Police Chief Philip Lukens says that the man is in stable conditions and is expected to survive.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostA woman has been arrested and is being held in the Box Butte County Jail after an alleged altercation and stabbing in Alliance on Thursday evening. The incident is still under investigation as names have not been released in the incident, but what is known is that Alliance Police were dispatched to the area of 5th and Potash just before 6 PM on Thursday July 13th where a woman allegedly stabbed a man. Information from Thursday that the incident may be result of a mental health crisis. Alliance Police Chief Philip Lukens says that the man is in stable conditions and is expected to survive.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Update: Man in stable condition after stabbing in Alliance

Fur Trade Days Parade LIVE video stream 

There’s an old adage that those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat its mistakes. Despite teaching history as early as kindergarten, we sometimes forget its lessons. In doing so, we miss opportunities to prevent it from repeating. Our posture toward the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine is one such example.

Despite our efforts to avoid getting involved in conflicts around the world, they inevitably find their way to our doorstep. From World War I and II to the radical Islamic terror that inspired 9/11, our greatness makes us the ultimate target for adversaries on the warpath. The last century demonstrated that the United States will get dragged into global conflicts. As we grapple with what to do about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, history tells us looking the other way now won’t keep the bullies from setting their sights on us. To put it even more simply: as every Nebraska farmer knows, it is better to address a problem early than let it get bigger down the road. A stitch in time saves nine.

After World War II, the United States and our allies set up a rules-based system. This system promotes peaceful trade between nations and has prevented global war. For nearly 80 years, this system has worked. Now, both Russia and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) want to change that system. Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s invasion of its neighbor Ukraine is a land grab. It is also a direct challenge to global peace. If dictators are successful they don’t stop. They grab for more. Our actions now will either open the door to more conflict or prevent catastrophe.

Putin’s brutality is on display in Ukraine. We should not question his willingness to apply the same kind of disregard for human life in a conflict with the United States and our allies. He’s&nbsp;killed tens of thousands. Ukrainian children have been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/04/24/1171632554/efforts-to-rescue-ukrainian-children-kidnapped-by-russia-are-underway" target="_blank">abducted</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;taken&nbsp;to Russian&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2023/07/russia-kidnapping-abducting-ukrainian-children/674535/" target="_blank">indoctrination</a>&nbsp;camps.&nbsp;Putin’s&nbsp;troops have been accused of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/evidence-of-russian-war-crimes-mounts-as-invasion-of-ukraine-drags-on" target="_blank">thousands</a>&nbsp;of war crimes. This includes the&nbsp;indiscriminate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WW8YYhUIK0s" target="_blank">mass killings</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/10/28/russia-ukraine-war-un-report-details-accounts-of-rape-torture-and-executions.html" target="_blank">rape</a>&nbsp;of civilians. More than&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/International/8-million-refugees-fled-ukraine-after-year-fighting/story?id=97369869" target="_blank">8 million Ukrainians&nbsp;</a>– that’s four times Nebraska’s entire population –&nbsp;have been forced to flee their country.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unrefugees.org/emergencies/ukraine/#:~:text=Emergencies&amp;text=There%20are%20an%20estimated%205%2C914%2C000%20internally%20displaced%20people%20in%20Ukraine.&amp;text=Nearly%208%20million%20refugees%20from,neighboring%20countries%20and%20across%20Europe.&amp;text=Approximately%2017.6%20million%20people%20are%20in%20need%20of%20humanitarian%20assistance%20in%202023." target="_blank">Nearly 6&nbsp;million&nbsp;</a>have had to abandon their homes and&nbsp;are displaced within Ukraine. Our support for Ukraine now can prevent a wider conflict without costing American lives. It will also be at a lesser financial cost.

I&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-concerns-with-u-s-nuclear-strategy-amid-growing-threat-from-russia/" target="_blank">said recently</a>&nbsp;in our Senate Foreign Relations hearing on Russia policy that&nbsp;Putin sees the U.S. as his chief adversary. He has long behaved like he’s at war with us. He’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/state-department-investigating-case-detained-american-russia-rcna88942" target="_blank">wrongfully detained</a>&nbsp;U.S. citizens and held them for ransom. He’s repeatedly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/31/politics/us-russia-nuclear-arms-control-treaty/index.html" target="_blank">refused</a>&nbsp;to comply with U.S.-Russia arms control agreements. He’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2022/07/19/putin-russia-iran-ukraine-00046646" target="_blank">aligned</a>&nbsp;himself with our other adversaries in Iran and the&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/xi-putin-meeting-highlights-us-tensions-china/story?id=97997247" target="_blank">CCP</a>, who will be emboldened if he is successful in Ukraine.&nbsp;

While&nbsp;Putin’s&nbsp;hostility can be shocking, the ambition behind it is not surprising.&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;invaded&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2014/03/13/world/europe/2008-georgia-russia-conflict/index.html" target="_blank">Georgia in 2008</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-attacks-drones-c2d00e60a040b66656a59720712c2ea9" target="_blank">Ukrainian Crimea in 2014</a>, and&nbsp;Ukraine again last year. Putin’s actions indicate&nbsp;he aims to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/putin-soviet-union-next-move" target="_blank">recreate the Soviet Union</a>. If Putin succeeds in Ukraine, NATO allies like Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland could be next. At that point, the United States would be obligated to intervene with our own troops. We cannot let Putin succeed.

However, our support cannot be in the form of a blank check. It is critical we also provide necessary and aggressive oversight of American tax dollars to ensure they are being used effectively.

It is also critical that our NATO allies do their part to help in this fight. In 2014, all NATO members&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/official_texts_112964.htm" target="_blank">agreed</a>&nbsp;to spend at least 2% of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on defense by 2024. That pledge is more important than ever.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/seven-out-30-allies-met-nato-military-spending-target-2022-stoltenberg-2023-03-21/" target="_blank">Seven countries met</a>&nbsp;or exceeded this target last year, including the United States. Yet, twenty-four others failed to step up. This must change. Recently, I joined&nbsp;with 35&nbsp;of my Senate colleagues to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2023/07/07/nato-countries-military-spending-contributions/70390384007/" target="_blank">urge</a>&nbsp;President Biden to push NATO countries to fulfill their defense commitments. I also personally raised these concerns with them at the NATO Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania this past week.&nbsp;

History has taught us that to stop Putin now will be far less costly in blood and treasure then what happens if we don’t. We are giving Ukraine weapons to fight Russia so we don’t have to.&nbsp;It is critical the U.S. and our allies provide Ukraine with the economic and security assistance necessary to defeat Russia so the battlefield never reaches us at home.

The United States must direct a coherent policy to confront Russia that forces Putin to deal with us on our terms. We must continue to provide Ukraine the types of weapons its needs to win. We must also expand our sanctions regime on Russia’s energy sector and crack down on those who support Putin’s war machine by helping Russia evade sanctions. Finally, we must urgently accelerate efforts to modernize our nation’s nuclear deterrent.

It is in America’s national interest to respond to these challenges. Adversaries like Putin can only be dealt with by leading with strength. If we look the other way, it will cost far more in American blood and treasure down the road. We must deter future aggression and promote security – both at home and abroad before it’s too late.

By Sen. Pete RickettsThere’s an old adage that those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat its mistakes. Despite teaching history as early as kindergarten, we sometimes forget its lessons. In doing so, we miss opportunities to prevent it from repeating. Our posture toward the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine is one such example.Despite our efforts to avoid getting involved in conflicts around the world, they inevitably find their way to our doorstep. From World War I and II to the radical Islamic terror that inspired 9/11, our greatness makes us the ultimate target for adversaries on the warpath. The last century demonstrated that the United States will get dragged into global conflicts. As we grapple with what to do about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, history tells us looking the other way now won’t keep the bullies from setting their sights on us. To put it even more simply: as every Nebraska farmer knows, it is better to address a problem early than let it get bigger down the road. A stitch in time saves nine.After World War II, the United States and our allies set up a rules-based system. This system promotes peaceful trade between nations and has prevented global war. For nearly 80 years, this system has worked. Now, both Russia and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) want to change that system. Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s invasion of its neighbor Ukraine is a land grab. It is also a direct challenge to global peace. If dictators are successful they don’t stop. They grab for more. Our actions now will either open the door to more conflict or prevent catastrophe.Putin’s brutality is on display in Ukraine. We should not question his willingness to apply the same kind of disregard for human life in a conflict with the United States and our allies. He’s&nbsp;killed tens of thousands. Ukrainian children have been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/04/24/1171632554/efforts-to-rescue-ukrainian-children-kidnapped-by-russia-are-underway" target="_blank">abducted</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;taken&nbsp;to Russian&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2023/07/russia-kidnapping-abducting-ukrainian-children/674535/" target="_blank">indoctrination</a>&nbsp;camps.&nbsp;Putin’s&nbsp;troops have been accused of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/evidence-of-russian-war-crimes-mounts-as-invasion-of-ukraine-drags-on" target="_blank">thousands</a>&nbsp;of war crimes. This includes the&nbsp;indiscriminate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WW8YYhUIK0s" target="_blank">mass killings</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/10/28/russia-ukraine-war-un-report-details-accounts-of-rape-torture-and-executions.html" target="_blank">rape</a>&nbsp;of civilians. More than&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/International/8-million-refugees-fled-ukraine-after-year-fighting/story?id=97369869" target="_blank">8 million Ukrainians&nbsp;</a>– that’s four times Nebraska’s entire population –&nbsp;have been forced to flee their country.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.unrefugees.org/emergencies/ukraine/#:~:text=Emergencies&amp;text=There%20are%20an%20estimated%205%2C914%2C000%20internally%20displaced%20people%20in%20Ukraine.&amp;text=Nearly%208%20million%20refugees%20from,neighboring%20countries%20and%20across%20Europe.&amp;text=Approximately%2017.6%20million%20people%20are%20in%20need%20of%20humanitarian%20assistance%20in%202023." target="_blank">Nearly 6&nbsp;million&nbsp;</a>have had to abandon their homes and&nbsp;are displaced within Ukraine. Our support for Ukraine now can prevent a wider conflict without costing American lives. It will also be at a lesser financial cost.I&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ricketts.senate.gov/press-releases/ricketts-highlights-concerns-with-u-s-nuclear-strategy-amid-growing-threat-from-russia/" target="_blank">said recently</a>&nbsp;in our Senate Foreign Relations hearing on Russia policy that&nbsp;Putin sees the U.S. as his chief adversary. He has long behaved like he’s at war with us. He’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/state-department-investigating-case-detained-american-russia-rcna88942" target="_blank">wrongfully detained</a>&nbsp;U.S. citizens and held them for ransom. He’s repeatedly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/31/politics/us-russia-nuclear-arms-control-treaty/index.html" target="_blank">refused</a>&nbsp;to comply with U.S.-Russia arms control agreements. He’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2022/07/19/putin-russia-iran-ukraine-00046646" target="_blank">aligned</a>&nbsp;himself with our other adversaries in Iran and the&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/xi-putin-meeting-highlights-us-tensions-china/story?id=97997247" target="_blank">CCP</a>, who will be emboldened if he is successful in Ukraine.&nbsp;While&nbsp;Putin’s&nbsp;hostility can be shocking, the ambition behind it is not surprising.&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;invaded&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2014/03/13/world/europe/2008-georgia-russia-conflict/index.html" target="_blank">Georgia in 2008</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-war-attacks-drones-c2d00e60a040b66656a59720712c2ea9" target="_blank">Ukrainian Crimea in 2014</a>, and&nbsp;Ukraine again last year. Putin’s actions indicate&nbsp;he aims to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/putin-soviet-union-next-move" target="_blank">recreate the Soviet Union</a>. If Putin succeeds in Ukraine, NATO allies like Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland could be next. At that point, the United States would be obligated to intervene with our own troops. We cannot let Putin succeed.However, our support cannot be in the form of a blank check. It is critical we also provide necessary and aggressive oversight of American tax dollars to ensure they are being used effectively.It is also critical that our NATO allies do their part to help in this fight. In 2014, all NATO members&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/official_texts_112964.htm" target="_blank">agreed</a>&nbsp;to spend at least 2% of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on defense by 2024. That pledge is more important than ever.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/seven-out-30-allies-met-nato-military-spending-target-2022-stoltenberg-2023-03-21/" target="_blank">Seven countries met</a>&nbsp;or exceeded this target last year, including the United States. Yet, twenty-four others failed to step up. This must change. Recently, I joined&nbsp;with 35&nbsp;of my Senate colleagues to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2023/07/07/nato-countries-military-spending-contributions/70390384007/" target="_blank">urge</a>&nbsp;President Biden to push NATO countries to fulfill their defense commitments. I also personally raised these concerns with them at the NATO Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania this past week.&nbsp;History has taught us that to stop Putin now will be far less costly in blood and treasure then what happens if we don’t. We are giving Ukraine weapons to fight Russia so we don’t have to.&nbsp;It is critical the U.S. and our allies provide Ukraine with the economic and security assistance necessary to defeat Russia so the battlefield never reaches us at home.The United States must direct a coherent policy to confront Russia that forces Putin to deal with us on our terms. We must continue to provide Ukraine the types of weapons its needs to win. We must also expand our sanctions regime on Russia’s energy sector and crack down on those who support Putin’s war machine by helping Russia evade sanctions. Finally, we must urgently accelerate efforts to modernize our nation’s nuclear deterrent.It is in America’s national interest to respond to these challenges. Adversaries like Putin can only be dealt with by leading with strength. If we look the other way, it will cost far more in American blood and treasure down the road. We must deter future aggression and promote security – both at home and abroad before it’s too late.

Sen. Ricketts: Pushing back on Putin

A Nebraska man rode his bike over 100 miles on Thursday and stopped in Alliance. Robb Finegan is an ultra-gravel cyclist originally from Alliance who now resides in Lincoln this week, and his website joypoweradventures.com follows his biking exploits. From Monday to Friday, Finegan has rode over 800 miles over the last five days. Finegan's says that on he is going through Crawford and will end up on the South Dakota border on&nbsp;Friday.&nbsp;

Finegan's cycling is a part of project called the Great Plains Gravel Route Nebraska Project where his journey is being documented by Three Pillars Media documenting the whole experience. The video will showcase the diverse landscape that Nebraska has to offer. For more info on Finnegan's journey, visit his website at https://www.joypoweradventures.com/&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala, Panhandle PostA Nebraska man rode his bike over 100 miles on Thursday and stopped in Alliance. Robb Finegan is an ultra-gravel cyclist originally from Alliance who now resides in Lincoln this week, and his website joypoweradventures.com follows his biking exploits. From Monday to Friday, Finegan has rode over 800 miles over the last five days. Finegan's says that on he is going through Crawford and will end up on the South Dakota border on&nbsp;Friday.&nbsp;Finegan's cycling is a part of project called the Great Plains Gravel Route Nebraska Project where his journey is being documented by Three Pillars Media documenting the whole experience. The video will showcase the diverse landscape that Nebraska has to offer. For more info on Finnegan's journey, visit his website at https://www.joypoweradventures.com/&nbsp;

Nebraska man bikes through Alliance on 800 mile journey

Alliance – The Alliance Landfill will be closing at 3:45pm today, Thursday, July 13th due to power line replacement.

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

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Alliance Landfill will be closing at 3:45pm today, Thursday, July 13th due to power line replacement.For more information, please contact the Alliance Landfill at (308) 762-2705.

Alliance landfill to close early on Friday 

"Cancer Run" motorcycle fundraiser will start at Outlaw Saloon on Saturday, July 15 at 10 a.m. with stops in Rushville, Gordon, Hemingford and Alliance.&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689290297262.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Cancer Run" motorcycle fundraiser will start at Outlaw Saloon on Saturday, July 15 at 10 a.m. with stops in Rushville, Gordon, Hemingford and Alliance.&nbsp;

'Cancer Run' travels to Hay Springs, Rushville, Gordon, Alliance, Hemingford 

By Alex Benzegala&nbsp; Panhandle Post

The Alliance Police Department released a statement about an alleged stabbing in Alliance on Thursday night. Police Chief Phil Lukens tells Panhandle Post that at about 5:53 PM, officers were dispatched to an alleged stabbing between a man and a woman on 5th and Potash.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the stabbing appears to be a result of a mental health crisis. 

The female is in stable condition and the male was airlifted. Panhandle Post will have an update on this story when they become available.

By Alex Benzegala&nbsp; Panhandle PostThe Alliance Police Department released a statement about an alleged stabbing in Alliance on Thursday night. Police Chief Phil Lukens tells Panhandle Post that at about 5:53 PM, officers were dispatched to an alleged stabbing between a man and a woman on 5th and Potash.The preliminary investigation indicates that the stabbing appears to be a result of a mental health crisis. The female is in stable condition and the male was airlifted. Panhandle Post will have an update on this story when they become available.

Stabbing in Alliance sends man to hospital

On Thursday night there was car accident in Alliance, at about 6 PM.

Information provided by the Alliance Police Department indicated the accident was reported at around 6 PM,&nbsp; and that a juvenile female was driving a Dodge Dakota westbound and failed to yield to a&nbsp; Ford F150 driven my an adult man.

 There were were only minor injuries in&nbsp; the accident and no medical transports. The parents of the juvenile responded to the scene.

The accident at 10th and Big Horn. A white Dodge Dakota was northbound on Big Horn driven by a juvenile female sole occupant. A brown Ford F150 was westbound on 10th driven by an adult male sole occupant. The Dodge proceeded from the stop sign failing to yield to the F150 causing them to collide. There was no medical transports and the parents of the juvenile responded to the scene.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala, Panhandle PostOn Thursday night there was car accident in Alliance, at about 6 PM.Information provided by the Alliance Police Department indicated the accident was reported at around 6 PM,&nbsp; and that a juvenile female was driving a Dodge Dakota westbound and failed to yield to a&nbsp; Ford F150 driven my an adult man. There were were only minor injuries in&nbsp; the accident and no medical transports. The parents of the juvenile responded to the scene.The accident at 10th and Big Horn. A white Dodge Dakota was northbound on Big Horn driven by a juvenile female sole occupant. A brown Ford F150 was westbound on 10th driven by an adult male sole occupant. The Dodge proceeded from the stop sign failing to yield to the F150 causing them to collide. There was no medical transports and the parents of the juvenile responded to the scene.&nbsp;

Car accident involving teen in Alliance on Thursday

A new business had it's grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday in downtown Aliiance. Sweet Pickin's is a family business owned by Troy and Susan Unzicker, and Troy talked to Panhandle Post about what Sweet Pickin's is all about.

"Our business is a a mix of things, we not only have the nutritional lounge with the loaded teas but we also carry a wide variety of everything, Troy said. "We have comic books, sports cards and memorabilia, vintage items and much more."

Sweet Pickins' also specializes&nbsp; in different shakes and teas such as mega teas; Tabitha Unzicker is the daughter of Troy and Susan and says that there are a lot of health benefits to the teas, and that the most popular drink so far is&nbsp; 'The Southern Gentleman,' which is a strawberry and watermelon combination with extra protein and collagen&nbsp;

For more information check out Sweet  Pickins at 304 Box Butte  in Alliance.

A new business had it's grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday in downtown Aliiance. Sweet Pickin's is a family business owned by Troy and Susan Unzicker, and Troy talked to Panhandle Post about what Sweet Pickin's is all about."Our business is a a mix of things, we not only have the nutritional lounge with the loaded teas but we also carry a wide variety of everything, Troy said. "We have comic books, sports cards and memorabilia, vintage items and much more."Sweet Pickins' also specializes&nbsp; in different shakes and teas such as mega teas; Tabitha Unzicker is the daughter of Troy and Susan and says that there are a lot of health benefits to the teas, and that the most popular drink so far is&nbsp; 'The Southern Gentleman,' which is a strawberry and watermelon combination with extra protein and collagen&nbsp;For more information check out Sweet Pickins at 304 Box Butte in Alliance.

Sweet Pickin's a unique combination of health and variety

JULY 13, 2023 (SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— As thousands gather in Scotts Bluff County for Oregon Trail Days, troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol will be working to reduce the likelihood of serious crashes around the event.

“Oregon Trail Days brings people from near and far, so we’ll be working diligently to keep our local residents and visitors safe this weekend,” said Major Jeff Roby, NSP Western Operations Major. “As folks participate in numerous events through Sunday, we encourage everyone to plan ahead to have a sober driver.”

Oregon Trail Days is marking its 102nd&nbsp;consecutive year in 2023. The events run from today, July 13, through Sunday, July 16, at several locations around Gering.

Troopers will be performing high visibility patrols on roadways throughout Scotts Bluff County as part of the effort. The Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office (NDOT-HSO) has designated Scotts Bluff County as a priority county for 2023. NSP’s effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $1,770 from NDOT-HSO.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689272653417.jpeg" alt="Nebraska State Patrol Cruiser (Photo/Nebraska State Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska State Patrol Cruiser (Photo/Nebraska State Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>Cody Thomas Nebraska State PatrolJULY 13, 2023 (SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— As thousands gather in Scotts Bluff County for Oregon Trail Days, troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol will be working to reduce the likelihood of serious crashes around the event.“Oregon Trail Days brings people from near and far, so we’ll be working diligently to keep our local residents and visitors safe this weekend,” said Major Jeff Roby, NSP Western Operations Major. “As folks participate in numerous events through Sunday, we encourage everyone to plan ahead to have a sober driver.”Oregon Trail Days is marking its 102nd&nbsp;consecutive year in 2023. The events run from today, July 13, through Sunday, July 16, at several locations around Gering.Troopers will be performing high visibility patrols on roadways throughout Scotts Bluff County as part of the effort. The Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office (NDOT-HSO) has designated Scotts Bluff County as a priority county for 2023. NSP’s effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $1,770 from NDOT-HSO.

Troopers on Patrol During Oregon Trail Days

Alliance – The Central Park Fountain will be off for minor repairs starting this Friday, July 14th. 

Repairs are anticipated to be complete by Saturday, July 15th. 

Thank you for your understanding as we complete repairs on this historic icon of our community.

For more information, please contact the Knight Museum at (308) 762-2384.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Central Park Fountain will be off for minor repairs starting this Friday, July 14th. Repairs are anticipated to be complete by Saturday, July 15th. Thank you for your understanding as we complete repairs on this historic icon of our community.For more information, please contact the Knight Museum at (308) 762-2384.

Alliance Central Park Fountain to be repaired

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post&nbsp;

Last weekend was huge for a group of girls representing the Nebraska Panhandle, as a team with players from Alliance, Scottsbluff and Gering won the Colorado State Championship. The team is called 308 United in the U18  Division and twin sisters Hannah  and Hallie Schneider from Alliance were  on the USSA Class B State Championship team, and their dad Jeff is an Assistant Coach on the team.

 Hannah pitched a gem in the state championship against the Colorado Altitude in an 11-1 win and reflected on winning that final game. "It was really fun, honestly it felt like just another tournament," Hannah said. But then the after celebration&nbsp; it made it feel like winning a State Tournament."

 Her sister Hallie expressed that the whole experience  was enjoyable, especially winning the title. "Just to play really competitive teams, and to play a our highest level. It shows how we started the season and to where we finished as a team, altogether," Hallie said.

Their dad Jeff said that he is very proud&nbsp; the of the girls and the team for how they played against great teams and got better throughout the season.

308 United&nbsp; went 7-0 a the Colorado State Tournament, finishing&nbsp; with a 39-11-2 record and&nbsp; winning 23 of their last 25 games.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post&nbsp;Last weekend was huge for a group of girls representing the Nebraska Panhandle, as a team with players from Alliance, Scottsbluff and Gering won the Colorado State Championship. The team is called 308 United in the U18 Division and twin sisters Hannah and Hallie Schneider from Alliance were on the USSA Class B State Championship team, and their dad Jeff is an Assistant Coach on the team. Hannah pitched a gem in the state championship against the Colorado Altitude in an 11-1 win and reflected on winning that final game. "It was really fun, honestly it felt like just another tournament," Hannah said. But then the after celebration&nbsp; it made it feel like winning a State Tournament." Her sister Hallie expressed that the whole experience was enjoyable, especially winning the title. "Just to play really competitive teams, and to play a our highest level. It shows how we started the season and to where we finished as a team, altogether," Hallie said.Their dad Jeff said that he is very proud&nbsp; the of the girls and the team for how they played against great teams and got better throughout the season.308 United&nbsp; went 7-0 a the Colorado State Tournament, finishing&nbsp; with a 39-11-2 record and&nbsp; winning 23 of their last 25 games.

Alliance girls help area softball team win State in Colorado

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

A petition has made against Dawes County Commissioner Vic Rivera to step  down for alleged misconduct in different areas. 

 The petitioner  is Taylor Wohlers of Crawford,  and his recall petition of Rivera is for alleged interference with relationships with former and  current employees,  dereliction of duties  and mismanagement of operations. 

There is a deadline of August 3rd for Rivera to either issue and submit a statement to defend himself or resign. This is a developing story and Panhandle Post will have additional details when they become available.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostA petition has made against Dawes County Commissioner Vic Rivera to step down for alleged misconduct in different areas. The petitioner is Taylor Wohlers of Crawford, and his recall petition of Rivera is for alleged interference with relationships with former and current employees, dereliction of duties and mismanagement of operations. There is a deadline of August 3rd for Rivera to either issue and submit a statement to defend himself or resign. This is a developing story and Panhandle Post will have additional details when they become available.

Dawes County Commissioner faces petition to resign

By TENA L. COOK, Marketing Coordinator, Chadron State College

CHADRON – Fifteen high school students learned more about mental health careers by participating in the Frontier Area Rural Mental-health (FARM) Camp at Chadron State College in June. This year, students and alumni attended from Chadron, Gordon, Rushville, Hemingford, Bayard, Grant, Valentine, and Lodgepole.

The FARM Camp and Mentorship Program was created in 2012 by Western Nebraska Behavioral Health (WNBH) Clinic staff, with support from the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska, to address the underserved nature of rural areas by using a grow our own approach, according to Dr. Catherine Jones-Hazledine.

“We hope to identify young people in our rural communities who have an interest in, or affinity for these fields, and provide them with information and mentoring to pursue these much-needed careers,” she said. “We have done presentations in many local high schools and also spread the word through conferences and webinars.”

Student applications were reviewed by Jones-Hazledine and Dr. Tara Wilson, CSC associate professor, who then invited selected applicants.

A team of behavioral health professionals affiliated with WNBH clinics made core presentations including Jones-Hazledine, Wilson, Shanna Rosentrater, Lauren Coffey, Michael Steube, Julie Hamburger, and Elissa Rosebraugh.&nbsp;

Students earn one credit hour by completing the camp including study of the history of behavioral health, psychological theories, basic brain anatomy, cultural considerations, and clinical skills.

Annually, guest speakers include community-based licensed mental health providers, psychiatric nurse practitioners, licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselors, grief counselors, social workers, and counselor educators.&nbsp;This year's guest speakers were Mandi Price, Dr. Nathan Favaloro, Loni Watson, Jeanice Caporaso, Victor Gehrig, Dr. Russ Seger, Robin Bila, Rebecca Fernau, Ana Young, and Jen Taylor.

“They talk to the students about what their work involves, necessary training, what they like and don't like about their work, and more,” Jones-Hazledine said

Another aspect of FARM Camp is a mock-interview exercise where local drama students portray clients seeking care.

“Our participants role play interviewing clients to get a sense of clinical interactions, and then we all debrief on this experience together.&nbsp;Their final project is to work with a partner to create a social media post or video about a mental health topic,” Jones-Hazledine said.

FARM leaders encourage camp alumni to take on a leadership or mentorship role and return to make presentations to the campers.&nbsp;This year, three alumni made presentations. Justin Frandsen, a graduate student at Texas A&amp;M, presented about research psychology, Aliyah American Horse of Gordon, Nebraska, presented about mental health and poetry, and CSC student Summer Mayhew of Valentine, Nebraska, presented about mental health in the justice system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By TENA L. COOK, Marketing Coordinator, Chadron State CollegeCHADRON – Fifteen high school students learned more about mental health careers by participating in the Frontier Area Rural Mental-health (FARM) Camp at Chadron State College in June. This year, students and alumni attended from Chadron, Gordon, Rushville, Hemingford, Bayard, Grant, Valentine, and Lodgepole.The FARM Camp and Mentorship Program was created in 2012 by Western Nebraska Behavioral Health (WNBH) Clinic staff, with support from the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska, to address the underserved nature of rural areas by using a grow our own approach, according to Dr. Catherine Jones-Hazledine.“We hope to identify young people in our rural communities who have an interest in, or affinity for these fields, and provide them with information and mentoring to pursue these much-needed careers,” she said. “We have done presentations in many local high schools and also spread the word through conferences and webinars.”Student applications were reviewed by Jones-Hazledine and Dr. Tara Wilson, CSC associate professor, who then invited selected applicants.A team of behavioral health professionals affiliated with WNBH clinics made core presentations including Jones-Hazledine, Wilson, Shanna Rosentrater, Lauren Coffey, Michael Steube, Julie Hamburger, and Elissa Rosebraugh.&nbsp;Students earn one credit hour by completing the camp including study of the history of behavioral health, psychological theories, basic brain anatomy, cultural considerations, and clinical skills.Annually, guest speakers include community-based licensed mental health providers, psychiatric nurse practitioners, licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselors, grief counselors, social workers, and counselor educators.&nbsp;This year's guest speakers were Mandi Price, Dr. Nathan Favaloro, Loni Watson, Jeanice Caporaso, Victor Gehrig, Dr. Russ Seger, Robin Bila, Rebecca Fernau, Ana Young, and Jen Taylor.“They talk to the students about what their work involves, necessary training, what they like and don't like about their work, and more,” Jones-Hazledine said<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689194379795.jpeg" alt="FARM camp staff and organizers pose in the Chadron State College Student Center's Ballroom June 29, 2023. Front row, from left, Dr. Tara Wilson and Dr. Cate Jones-Hazledine. Back row, from left, Julie Hamburger, Dr. Lauren Coffey, Michael Steube, and Shanna Rosentrater. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>FARM camp staff and organizers pose in the Chadron State College Student Center's Ballroom June 29, 2023. Front row, from left, Dr. Tara Wilson and Dr. Cate Jones-Hazledine. Back row, from left, Julie Hamburger, Dr. Lauren Coffey, Michael Steube, and Shanna Rosentrater. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>Another aspect of FARM Camp is a mock-interview exercise where local drama students portray clients seeking care.“Our participants role play interviewing clients to get a sense of clinical interactions, and then we all debrief on this experience together.&nbsp;Their final project is to work with a partner to create a social media post or video about a mental health topic,” Jones-Hazledine said.FARM leaders encourage camp alumni to take on a leadership or mentorship role and return to make presentations to the campers.&nbsp;This year, three alumni made presentations. Justin Frandsen, a graduate student at Texas A&amp;M, presented about research psychology, Aliyah American Horse of Gordon, Nebraska, presented about mental health and poetry, and CSC student Summer Mayhew of Valentine, Nebraska, presented about mental health in the justice system.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Students learn about mental health careers at CSC FARM Camp

The City of Chadron will be spraying for mosquitoes today July 12, 2023, one hour before sunset until one hour after sunset, weather permitting.

By City of ChadronThe City of Chadron will be spraying for mosquitoes today July 12, 2023, one hour before sunset until one hour after sunset, weather permitting.

City of Chadron continues mosquito spraying 

Wally A. Seiler has announced the recent awarding of grants and scholarships totaling $8,900 by the Darold A. Newblom Foundation to three organizations and six individuals. Seiler serves as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Foundation which was created under the terms of the Last Will and Testament of the late Mr. Newblom.

Those organizations receiving grants are Post Playhouse, Inc., Crawford, Nebraska ($3,150 to fund internships for students in stage management/technology); White River Wacipi, Crawford, Nebraska ($750 to aid with the cost of speakers and presenters); and Crawford Public Schools, Crawford, Nebraska ($2,000 to help implement the 8 to Great curriculum).

Individuals receiving scholarships, each in the amount of $500, are Alliance residents Chloe Blumanthal and Nicholas Waldron; Chadron resident Maralee Rischling; Crawford resident Ty Brady; and Hemingford residents Rylie Wright and Taren Hunter.

This marks the thirty-third year that grants and scholarships have been given by the Newblom Foundation which was established to support activities for the moral, mental, intellectual and physical development of young men and women in Box Butte and Dawes Counties, Nebraska; to provide scholarships for assisting students in obtaining an education; and to assist in the founding, equipping and maintaining of associations or institutions engaged in the advancement of learning. During the past thirty-three years, the Newblom Foundation has provided funding of $408,651.19 in support of its goals.

Grants and scholarships from the Newblom Foundation are awarded once a year. Applications for the 2024 grants and scholarships will be available from Seiler after January 1, 2024, at his home at 1208 Laramie Avenue, Alliance, Nebraska 69301.

News ReleaseWally A. Seiler has announced the recent awarding of grants and scholarships totaling $8,900 by the Darold A. Newblom Foundation to three organizations and six individuals. Seiler serves as the Secretary-Treasurer of the Foundation which was created under the terms of the Last Will and Testament of the late Mr. Newblom.Those organizations receiving grants are Post Playhouse, Inc., Crawford, Nebraska ($3,150 to fund internships for students in stage management/technology); White River Wacipi, Crawford, Nebraska ($750 to aid with the cost of speakers and presenters); and Crawford Public Schools, Crawford, Nebraska ($2,000 to help implement the 8 to Great curriculum).Individuals receiving scholarships, each in the amount of $500, are Alliance residents Chloe Blumanthal and Nicholas Waldron; Chadron resident Maralee Rischling; Crawford resident Ty Brady; and Hemingford residents Rylie Wright and Taren Hunter.This marks the thirty-third year that grants and scholarships have been given by the Newblom Foundation which was established to support activities for the moral, mental, intellectual and physical development of young men and women in Box Butte and Dawes Counties, Nebraska; to provide scholarships for assisting students in obtaining an education; and to assist in the founding, equipping and maintaining of associations or institutions engaged in the advancement of learning. During the past thirty-three years, the Newblom Foundation has provided funding of $408,651.19 in support of its goals.Grants and scholarships from the Newblom Foundation are awarded once a year. Applications for the 2024 grants and scholarships will be available from Seiler after January 1, 2024, at his home at 1208 Laramie Avenue, Alliance, Nebraska 69301.

Newblom Foundation announce scholarship, grant recipients 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 7/12/23

Lincoln, NE – Due to high sales, the Multi-State Lottery Association has increased the estimated jackpot amount for the Wednesday, July 12 Powerball drawing to $750 million or $378.8 million with the cash option selected.

The Powerball jackpot starts at $20 million and continues to grow each drawing until it is won. There have been 35 consecutive Powerball drawings since April 22 without a jackpot winner.

Ten jackpots ranging from $2.5 million to $365 million have been won in Nebraska since the Nebraska Lottery began offering Powerball in July of 1994. The largest Powerball jackpot won in Nebraska occurred in February 2006 when a group of eight coworkers at the ConAgra Foods ham and corned beef plant in Lincoln split a $365 million jackpot.

Because of the high Powerball jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at problemgambling.nebraska.gov.

The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $936 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

By&nbsp;Nebraska LotteryLincoln, NE – Due to high sales, the Multi-State Lottery Association has increased the estimated jackpot amount for the Wednesday, July 12 Powerball drawing to $750 million or $378.8 million with the cash option selected.The Powerball jackpot starts at $20 million and continues to grow each drawing until it is won. There have been 35 consecutive Powerball drawings since April 22 without a jackpot winner.Ten jackpots ranging from $2.5 million to $365 million have been won in Nebraska since the Nebraska Lottery began offering Powerball in July of 1994. The largest Powerball jackpot won in Nebraska occurred in February 2006 when a group of eight coworkers at the ConAgra Foods ham and corned beef plant in Lincoln split a $365 million jackpot.Play ResponsiblyBecause of the high Powerball jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at problemgambling.nebraska.gov.The mission of the Nebraska Lottery is to generate proceeds for good causes while providing quality entertainment options to Nebraskans. Over $936 million has been raised for the Nebraska Lottery’s beneficiary funds since the Lottery began in 1993. All 93 counties in Nebraska have benefited from projects funded with these Nebraska Lottery proceeds.

Powerball Jackpot increased for Wednesday drawing

There have been some new businesses popping up in the panhandle recently,  and one of them is a little dirty. Dirty Pop is a soda shop that opened up in Alliance about two weeks ago. LuAnne Hancock is the co-owner of Dirty Pop with her sister in law Bailey Griffith, and LuAnne explains what makes the drinks dirty. 

"We have dirty soda's and dirty energy drink's, so what that means that when you put any flavoring into a soda, it makes it into a dirty soda," Hancock said.&nbsp;

LuAnne  says  that Dirty Pop has more common flavors like vanilla, lemonade and root beer, but also has unique flavors like cheesecake, toasted marshmallows and s'mores. Another unique aspect is&nbsp; that each drink is named after a 90's band. The top selling drink at the moment is the "Truly, madly deeply" which is Dr. Pepper, vanilla  and coconut cream. LuAnne says that they are happy with how they have been welcomed so far by the community.

  Dirty Pop is located across the street from the Dairy Queen in Alliance and you can find them on Facebook by just typing in Dirty Pop and also on Instagram at Dirty Pop Soda Shop.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThere have been some new businesses popping up in the panhandle recently, and one of them is a little dirty. Dirty Pop is a soda shop that opened up in Alliance about two weeks ago. LuAnne Hancock is the co-owner of Dirty Pop with her sister in law Bailey Griffith, and LuAnne explains what makes the drinks dirty. "We have dirty soda's and dirty energy drink's, so what that means that when you put any flavoring into a soda, it makes it into a dirty soda," Hancock said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689129075958.jpeg" alt="Dirty Pop" />
 <figcaption>Dirty Pop</figcaption>
 </figure>LuAnne says that Dirty Pop has more common flavors like vanilla, lemonade and root beer, but also has unique flavors like cheesecake, toasted marshmallows and s'mores. Another unique aspect is&nbsp; that each drink is named after a 90's band. The top selling drink at the moment is the "Truly, madly deeply" which is Dr. Pepper, vanilla and coconut cream. LuAnne says that they are happy with how they have been welcomed so far by the community. Dirty Pop is located across the street from the Dairy Queen in Alliance and you can find them on Facebook by just typing in Dirty Pop and also on Instagram at Dirty Pop Soda Shop.

Dirty Pop brings unique variety to Soda in Alliance

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

In 2017 Alliance was on the center line for an amazing solar eclipse. We had visitors from all over the world. I was on the eclipse planning committee, and that weekend Earl and I hosted five speakers at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center who shared information about the astronomy projects they were working on or the videos they were making. Each program had several hundred attendees, and we talked to many of them. People were amazed that the parks and recreation facilities were open to the public, and most activities were free. Universally, our guests commented on how beautiful Alliance is!

What were their comments based on? The Performing Arts Center is a grand facility. The open skies and Sandhills landscapes are like nothing most of our visitors had ever seen. But what made the biggest impression was our community's parks, jewels which we continue to enjoy.

The Alliance Parks System runs through the center of town and is tied together by the Snake Creek trail. All day long you'll see walkers, runners, and people on bicycles using the trail. Today if guests don't bring bikes, there are locations along the trail where they can borrow a green bike provided by Activate Alliance.

Central Park has open spaces for games, a large playground, and picnic shelters. The sunken gardens are surrounded by majestic pillars. Central Park hosts the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, the Sallows Military Museum, and the Conservatory. The Central Park Fountain was built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. In 1988 Alliance raised money to renovate the fountain, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On a summer evening, the fountain's light-and-water show is entrancing.

Laing Lake is the centerpiece of the northern end of the park system and is a great place for fishing and canoeing, especially for kids. The park surrounding the lake has a disc golf course, skateboard park, playground, and shelters.

Many people travel with their pets. Wiggly Field Dog Park is located at 1603 Box Butte Avenue. Your dogs can enjoy 2 1/2 acres of fenced-in grassy freedom from sunrise to sundown! Amenities include drinking water, small wading pools, multiple cleanup bag stations, separate area for small dogs or dogs that need a private space, covered gazebo and stone benches. Handicapped access parking is available at Big Blue Bay swimming pool.

The Big Blue Bay swimming pool has water slides, diving boards, two water features, and a zero-entry area. Special times are set aside for lap swimming. Guests to Alliance often drop their kids off to swim while they visit the Alliance Public Library. The library offers wireless internet, computers, and places to sit and read.

The park system has four ball field areas with eight fields. The two tennis court areas are also used for basketball and pickleball. Scattered through the community we have several neighborhood parks and playgrounds.

In last week's column I talked about all the activities in Alliance that we need to take our guests to: Carhenge, Dobby's Frontier Town, Carnegie Arts Center, the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, Sallows Military Museum, the Nebraska Veteran's Cemetery, and Skyview Golf Course. We often take our attractions, museums, and parks for granted. Most are free or low cost. Our conversations during the 2017 Eclipse with people from all over the United States and several foreign countries made us realize that Alliance truly is an exceptional town. We have so many wonderful activities in our community, so much to be proud of!

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityIn 2017 Alliance was on the center line for an amazing solar eclipse. We had visitors from all over the world. I was on the eclipse planning committee, and that weekend Earl and I hosted five speakers at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center who shared information about the astronomy projects they were working on or the videos they were making. Each program had several hundred attendees, and we talked to many of them. People were amazed that the parks and recreation facilities were open to the public, and most activities were free. Universally, our guests commented on how beautiful Alliance is!What were their comments based on? The Performing Arts Center is a grand facility. The open skies and Sandhills landscapes are like nothing most of our visitors had ever seen. But what made the biggest impression was our community's parks, jewels which we continue to enjoy.The Alliance Parks System runs through the center of town and is tied together by the Snake Creek trail. All day long you'll see walkers, runners, and people on bicycles using the trail. Today if guests don't bring bikes, there are locations along the trail where they can borrow a green bike provided by Activate Alliance.Central Park has open spaces for games, a large playground, and picnic shelters. The sunken gardens are surrounded by majestic pillars. Central Park hosts the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, the Sallows Military Museum, and the Conservatory. The Central Park Fountain was built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. In 1988 Alliance raised money to renovate the fountain, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On a summer evening, the fountain's light-and-water show is entrancing.Laing Lake is the centerpiece of the northern end of the park system and is a great place for fishing and canoeing, especially for kids. The park surrounding the lake has a disc golf course, skateboard park, playground, and shelters.Many people travel with their pets. Wiggly Field Dog Park is located at 1603 Box Butte Avenue. Your dogs can enjoy 2 1/2 acres of fenced-in grassy freedom from sunrise to sundown! Amenities include drinking water, small wading pools, multiple cleanup bag stations, separate area for small dogs or dogs that need a private space, covered gazebo and stone benches. Handicapped access parking is available at Big Blue Bay swimming pool.The Big Blue Bay swimming pool has water slides, diving boards, two water features, and a zero-entry area. Special times are set aside for lap swimming. Guests to Alliance often drop their kids off to swim while they visit the Alliance Public Library. The library offers wireless internet, computers, and places to sit and read.The park system has four ball field areas with eight fields. The two tennis court areas are also used for basketball and pickleball. Scattered through the community we have several neighborhood parks and playgrounds.In last week's column I talked about all the activities in Alliance that we need to take our guests to: Carhenge, Dobby's Frontier Town, Carnegie Arts Center, the Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, Sallows Military Museum, the Nebraska Veteran's Cemetery, and Skyview Golf Course. We often take our attractions, museums, and parks for granted. Most are free or low cost. Our conversations during the 2017 Eclipse with people from all over the United States and several foreign countries made us realize that Alliance truly is an exceptional town. We have so many wonderful activities in our community, so much to be proud of!

Getting Ahead: Alliance's park system 

The Alliance Municipal Building phone lines are back up and functional.&nbsp;

Alliance – Due to the phone system upgrade, the Municipal Building’s phone system is temporarily non-operational. This includes the Administration offices, Community Development, Utility Office and Fire Department.

You may contact the Public Works Facility at (308) 762-1907 for service until the main contact line is restored.

By City of AllianceUPDATE 9:20 a.m.&nbsp;The Alliance Municipal Building phone lines are back up and functional.&nbsp;------------------Alliance – Due to the phone system upgrade, the Municipal Building’s phone system is temporarily non-operational. This includes the Administration offices, Community Development, Utility Office and Fire Department.You may contact the Public Works Facility at (308) 762-1907 for service until the main contact line is restored.

UPDATE: Alliance Municipal Building experiencing phone issues 

The 100 and 200 blocks of Bordeaux Street and the 100 and 200 blocks of East Second Street are closed for the set up of the carnival for Fur Trade Days.&nbsp; If you have a vehicle parked in this area, please have it removed.&nbsp; This closure will be in effect for the remainder of the week.&nbsp; 

We appreciate your cooperation and if there are any questions, please contact the police department at <a href="tel:4320510">432-0510</a>.

By City of Chadron&nbsp;The 100 and 200 blocks of Bordeaux Street and the 100 and 200 blocks of East Second Street are closed for the set up of the carnival for Fur Trade Days.&nbsp; If you have a vehicle parked in this area, please have it removed.&nbsp; This closure will be in effect for the remainder of the week.&nbsp; We appreciate your cooperation and if there are any questions, please contact the police department at <a href="tel:4320510">432-0510</a>.

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