By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful

Rain in the forecast equaled a postponed litter cleanup. Saturday morning brought sunshine and wind, but no precipitation. Game on. Four adults, four Cub Scouts and a stretch of downtown Alliance to clean before lunch. A gust here and there tried to help (perhaps hinder) our efforts by blowing trash near waiting bags and suction-cupped, orange grabbers. Still, like the youngest sibling, the breeze tagged along.

My son’s pack, as well as other area youth organizations, schedules a day, usually during the spring, to collect trash from a public area. In 2022, the wind’s handiwork was much more apparent as we scoured the Hal Murray Softball Complex on the west side of town. The prevailing wind had brought plastic bags and anything else it could carry to rest on fence lines and trees around the four diamonds. This year’s setting yielded fewer bags of rubbish and a contrast in what we plucked from the grass, sidewalks and flowerbeds.

The bricks of Box Butte Avenue were relatively quiet as we met in front of the courthouse on Memorial Day weekend. I may be wrong, though I think only a handful of people may have noticed the difference upon returning to work. Cigarette butts, pens squished under patrol car tires, screws and miscellaneous litter under four inches accounted for most of what our crew retrieved around the courthouse block and along the main drag between Sixth and Third Streets. How often do we really see the butts between the bricks after parking? Handfuls of litter came from nearly every flower bed along the avenue, camouflaged by wood mulch. Still, I’d estimate we averaged a little more than 10 pounds of litter per block.

The only people that crossed my path were two women heading to their car while shopping in the 300 block and those ready for an early lunch at The Haven, a community outreach center operated by the Alliance Berean Church.

Silent storefronts spoke instead. Weeds did their best to blend in with flowers at the County’s Slagle Annex (former library). A sheet of plywood patched where a car went through the window of what was Dobson Dodge a few decades ago. Walking down the west side, we could see activity a couple doors down from Fifth Street. The Butte Bakery Co-Op is relocating to Bob and Delinda’s place where the couple served as insurance agents for years. Improvements also seem to be underway to some extent at the former Elks Lodge. Businesses in every stage of life told tales – from flyers taped to the doors to banners spread over former signage. Last chance for jewelry. No more shoes. The latest business to open, Sweet Pickin’s, in a former donut shop (Thiele’s pharmacy and gifts prior), was also almost where we ended – steps away from Highway 2 (Third Street).

The boys, all 10 and under, had fun. I have no doubt the experience will resonate as they grow older and strive to live in a clean community. As for Mariah, she blows what we throw away where she will. Take away her toys and somebody else will offer a fast food sack to play with. At least this way it is easy to count on one way for kids to log community service every spring.

By JOHN E. WEARE, Keep Alliance Beautiful<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686339484936.jpeg" alt="Cub Scouts from Alliance Pack 207 gather after a recent downtown litter cleanup. From left,&nbsp;Jonathan Allen,&nbsp;Archer Niemeier,&nbsp;Mitch Weare and&nbsp;Huck Long. " />
 <figcaption>Cub Scouts from Alliance Pack 207 gather after a recent downtown litter cleanup. From left,&nbsp;Jonathan Allen,&nbsp;Archer Niemeier,&nbsp;Mitch Weare and&nbsp;Huck Long. </figcaption>
 </figure>Rain in the forecast equaled a postponed litter cleanup. Saturday morning brought sunshine and wind, but no precipitation. Game on. Four adults, four Cub Scouts and a stretch of downtown Alliance to clean before lunch. A gust here and there tried to help (perhaps hinder) our efforts by blowing trash near waiting bags and suction-cupped, orange grabbers. Still, like the youngest sibling, the breeze tagged along.My son’s pack, as well as other area youth organizations, schedules a day, usually during the spring, to collect trash from a public area. In 2022, the wind’s handiwork was much more apparent as we scoured the Hal Murray Softball Complex on the west side of town. The prevailing wind had brought plastic bags and anything else it could carry to rest on fence lines and trees around the four diamonds. This year’s setting yielded fewer bags of rubbish and a contrast in what we plucked from the grass, sidewalks and flowerbeds.The bricks of Box Butte Avenue were relatively quiet as we met in front of the courthouse on Memorial Day weekend. I may be wrong, though I think only a handful of people may have noticed the difference upon returning to work. Cigarette butts, pens squished under patrol car tires, screws and miscellaneous litter under four inches accounted for most of what our crew retrieved around the courthouse block and along the main drag between Sixth and Third Streets. How often do we really see the butts between the bricks after parking? Handfuls of litter came from nearly every flower bed along the avenue, camouflaged by wood mulch. Still, I’d estimate we averaged a little more than 10 pounds of litter per block.The only people that crossed my path were two women heading to their car while shopping in the 300 block and those ready for an early lunch at The Haven, a community outreach center operated by the Alliance Berean Church.Silent storefronts spoke instead. Weeds did their best to blend in with flowers at the County’s Slagle Annex (former library). A sheet of plywood patched where a car went through the window of what was Dobson Dodge a few decades ago. Walking down the west side, we could see activity a couple doors down from Fifth Street. The Butte Bakery Co-Op is relocating to Bob and Delinda’s place where the couple served as insurance agents for years. Improvements also seem to be underway to some extent at the former Elks Lodge. Businesses in every stage of life told tales – from flyers taped to the doors to banners spread over former signage. Last chance for jewelry. No more shoes. The latest business to open, Sweet Pickin’s, in a former donut shop (Thiele’s pharmacy and gifts prior), was also almost where we ended – steps away from Highway 2 (Third Street).The boys, all 10 and under, had fun. I have no doubt the experience will resonate as they grow older and strive to live in a clean community. As for Mariah, she blows what we throw away where she will. Take away her toys and somebody else will offer a fast food sack to play with. At least this way it is easy to count on one way for kids to log community service every spring.

Cub Scouts from Alliance Pack 207 gather after litter cleanup

Scottsbluff’s Police Department has concluded its investigation completed of this motor vehicle accident. The investigation identified and collected surveillance video in the area to assist in determining the cause of the accident.

The video revealed that the northbound motorcycle, driven by 17-year-old James Adams of Morrill, NE was not traveling at a high rate of speed prior to the accident. The video also identified, that the SUV, driven by Cadence Dubray, 17 of Scottsbluff, failed to stop at the Stop sign at E 19th Street and 1st Avenue, just prior to impact with the motorcycle.

A citation for a Stop Sign violation has been issued to Cadence Dubray. The investigating officer is also recommending a charge of Operating a Motorcycle without the required operators license endorsement as well.

The Scottsbluff Police Department would like to thank the public for their assistance in this investigation.

By Scottsbluff Police DepartmentScottsbluff’s Police Department has concluded its investigation completed of this motor vehicle accident. The investigation identified and collected surveillance video in the area to assist in determining the cause of the accident.The video revealed that the northbound motorcycle, driven by 17-year-old James Adams of Morrill, NE was not traveling at a high rate of speed prior to the accident. The video also identified, that the SUV, driven by Cadence Dubray, 17 of Scottsbluff, failed to stop at the Stop sign at E 19th Street and 1st Avenue, just prior to impact with the motorcycle.A citation for a Stop Sign violation has been issued to Cadence Dubray. The investigating officer is also recommending a charge of Operating a Motorcycle without the required operators license endorsement as well.The Scottsbluff Police Department would like to thank the public for their assistance in this investigation.

Scottsbluff police release more details on motorcycle vs. SUV crash

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved staff recommendations for a 2024 mountain lion hunting season at its June 9 meeting in Alma.

For the first time, a mountain lion harvest season will take place outside the Pine Ridge as the Niobrara Unit is created, encompassing parts of Brown, Cherry, Keya Paha, Rock and Sheridan counties. The objective for the Niobrara Unit is to provide a harvest opportunity for mountain lions that allows the population to remain resilient and healthy, while slowing growth of the population.

Mountain lions in Nebraska are part of the larger western population that includes Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming, and are not isolated.

Mountain lion presence has been documented in the Niobrara River Valley of north-central Nebraska since 2001. There has been a resident reproducing population there since 2013 and information gathered through research suggests a population that is growing and will be resilient to harvest.

Season 1 in the Niobrara and Pine Ridge units will take place Jan. 2 through the end of February. The season will end immediately in a unit if the annual harvest limit or female sub-limit are reached. The Pine Ridge limit will be four mountain lions with a sub-limit of two females, and the Niobrara limit will be two mountain lions with a one female sub-limit. Up to 320 permits will be issued by lottery in the Pine Ridge Unit and up to 160 permits will be issued in the Niobrara Unit. An auxiliary season would be held March 16 through the end of March if the annual harvest limit or female sub-limit are not reached during Season 1 in a unit.

The Commission also approved changes to the river otter trapping season. These changes eliminate the overall season harvest limit and simplify the check-in process by allowing otters to be checked within two days after the close of the season and before the sale or transfer of the otter. The requirement of daily checking of season status is eliminated as well. The season will be Nov. 1, 2023, through Feb. 29, 2024. Each harvester will be limited to one otter per season.

In other business, the commissioners approved changes to sportfishing regulations that allow archery paddlefish permit holders to harvest paddlefish in the spillway below Gavins Point Dam. The north wall and discharge canal will remain closed to archery paddlefish fishing.

The Commission renamed the Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center in Lincoln the Nebraska Game and Parks Turpin Outdoor Education Center in the memory of Dick Turpin, a longtime Game and Parks employee and outdoor enthusiast. A dedication and special event open to the public will be hosted at a later date.

Ted LaGrange, wetlands program manager, was recognized for 30 years of service to the Commission and his contributions to Nebraska’s wetland resources and the wildlife that depend on them.

He later presented on the recent Wetlands of Nebraska Outreach and Education project aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of wetlands in Nebraska. The project produced five documentary films and several publications, all available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.JrCrdhv4eXH1t2IcHyiA7ZPic9AfWnXg2gWILfeo48E/s/497221906/br/204632934908-l" target="_blank">NebraskaWetlands.com</a>.

Game and Parks coordinated the project, which was funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Partners included the Platte Basin Timelapse group at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and Ducks Unlimited.

By Nebraska Game and ParksThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission approved staff recommendations for a 2024 mountain lion hunting season at its June 9 meeting in Alma.For the first time, a mountain lion harvest season will take place outside the Pine Ridge as the Niobrara Unit is created, encompassing parts of Brown, Cherry, Keya Paha, Rock and Sheridan counties. The objective for the Niobrara Unit is to provide a harvest opportunity for mountain lions that allows the population to remain resilient and healthy, while slowing growth of the population.Mountain lions in Nebraska are part of the larger western population that includes Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming, and are not isolated.Mountain lion presence has been documented in the Niobrara River Valley of north-central Nebraska since 2001. There has been a resident reproducing population there since 2013 and information gathered through research suggests a population that is growing and will be resilient to harvest.Season 1 in the Niobrara and Pine Ridge units will take place Jan. 2 through the end of February. The season will end immediately in a unit if the annual harvest limit or female sub-limit are reached. The Pine Ridge limit will be four mountain lions with a sub-limit of two females, and the Niobrara limit will be two mountain lions with a one female sub-limit. Up to 320 permits will be issued by lottery in the Pine Ridge Unit and up to 160 permits will be issued in the Niobrara Unit. An auxiliary season would be held March 16 through the end of March if the annual harvest limit or female sub-limit are not reached during Season 1 in a unit.The Commission also approved changes to the river otter trapping season. These changes eliminate the overall season harvest limit and simplify the check-in process by allowing otters to be checked within two days after the close of the season and before the sale or transfer of the otter. The requirement of daily checking of season status is eliminated as well. The season will be Nov. 1, 2023, through Feb. 29, 2024. Each harvester will be limited to one otter per season.In other business, the commissioners approved changes to sportfishing regulations that allow archery paddlefish permit holders to harvest paddlefish in the spillway below Gavins Point Dam. The north wall and discharge canal will remain closed to archery paddlefish fishing.The Commission renamed the Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center in Lincoln the Nebraska Game and Parks Turpin Outdoor Education Center in the memory of Dick Turpin, a longtime Game and Parks employee and outdoor enthusiast. A dedication and special event open to the public will be hosted at a later date.Ted LaGrange, wetlands program manager, was recognized for 30 years of service to the Commission and his contributions to Nebraska’s wetland resources and the wildlife that depend on them.He later presented on the recent Wetlands of Nebraska Outreach and Education project aimed at increasing awareness of the importance of wetlands in Nebraska. The project produced five documentary films and several publications, all available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.JrCrdhv4eXH1t2IcHyiA7ZPic9AfWnXg2gWILfeo48E/s/497221906/br/204632934908-l" target="_blank">NebraskaWetlands.com</a>.Game and Parks coordinated the project, which was funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Partners included the Platte Basin Timelapse group at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, and Ducks Unlimited.

2024 mountain lion season approved including Sheridan Co. 

The 2023 Alliance Bands on the Bricks season kicks off tonight in downtown Alliance starting at 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.&nbsp;

Tonight's entertainment will be provided by Avid Dischord and Kid Shelleen.&nbsp;

Bring your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes. There will be food, beverages, kid's activities and more.&nbsp;

Bands on the Bricks 2023 Sponsors include:

PREMA&nbsp; H&amp;H&nbsp; Highway 2 Threads Bolek Built Dustin White Irrigation&nbsp; Grocery Kart&nbsp;&nbsp; Tritle Plumbing&nbsp; Gibson Irrigation&nbsp;&nbsp; Wolfe Auto WESTCO Farm Bureau&nbsp; FNBO Shelmadine Print Shop Heartland real estate Keystone RX FNIC, your trusted insurance advisors Meridian trust Western Nebraska Community College Red Beard Garage and towing Box Butte General Hospital&nbsp; Gathering Spot BNSF Crossroads Music in Alliance/Scottsbluff Bernie's &amp; Girard Well Service Eagles Communications- 1400AM/92.5FM KCOW Radio&nbsp; Alliance Chamber of Commerce City of Alliance Parker Hanifan Fergie's K Lawn Webb Eyecare

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686328521082.jpeg" alt="Bands on the Bricks new official logo designed by Kathy Worley of Alliance.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Bands on the Bricks new official logo designed by Kathy Worley of Alliance.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686328546623.png" alt="Left logo designed by Aaron Wade." />
 <figcaption>Left logo designed by Aaron Wade.</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2023 Alliance Bands on the Bricks season kicks off tonight in downtown Alliance starting at 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.&nbsp;Tonight's entertainment will be provided by Avid Dischord and Kid Shelleen.&nbsp;Bring your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes. There will be food, beverages, kid's activities and more.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686329213866.jpeg" alt="Avid Dischord performing at Scottsbluff Elks Club 2023. Photo by Kalin Krohe" />
 <figcaption>Avid Dischord performing at Scottsbluff Elks Club 2023. Photo by Kalin Krohe</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686329249123.jpeg" alt="Kid Shelleen performs during the 2022 Bands on the Bricks in downtown Alliance. Photo by Kalin Krohe.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kid Shelleen performs during the 2022 Bands on the Bricks in downtown Alliance. Photo by Kalin Krohe.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Bands on the Bricks 2023 Sponsors include:PREMA&nbsp; H&amp;H&nbsp; Highway 2 Threads Bolek Built Dustin White Irrigation&nbsp; Grocery Kart&nbsp;&nbsp; Tritle Plumbing&nbsp; Gibson Irrigation&nbsp;&nbsp; Wolfe Auto WESTCO Farm Bureau&nbsp; FNBO Shelmadine Print Shop Heartland real estate Keystone RX FNIC, your trusted insurance advisors Meridian trust Western Nebraska Community College Red Beard Garage and towing Box Butte General Hospital&nbsp; Gathering Spot BNSF Crossroads Music in Alliance/Scottsbluff Bernie's &amp; Girard Well Service Eagles Communications- 1400AM/92.5FM KCOW Radio&nbsp; Alliance Chamber of Commerce City of Alliance Parker Hanifan Fergie's K Lawn Webb Eyecare

Avid Dischord, Kid Shelleen kick of 'Bands on the Bricks' in Alliance 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 6/9/23

Alliance– Share your talents with “All Together Now” events at the Alliance Public Library!

Sharing &amp; Caring Story Time for preschool through second grade is Tuesday, June 13th at 10 am with special guests, Brenda McDonald, Rita Fortner and Rylie Wright. Following Story Time, there is a Music Jam for all ages from 11-11:45 am. Bring your own instrument or we have rhythm instruments to play.

Together with 4-H is Wednesday, June 14th at 10 am and 1 pm for grades K-12. This event features “I Am Enough” from the 2023 4-H Reading Connections and includes creative projects, with all supplies provided.

Keep Alliance Beautiful will share creative endeavors on Thursday, June 15th from 2-4 pm for preschool through twelfth grade, with all supplies provided.

Registration continues for “All Together Now” Summer Reading with reading goals, prizes and more! For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

By City of AllianceAlliance– Share your talents with “All Together Now” events at the Alliance Public Library!Sharing &amp; Caring Story Time for preschool through second grade is Tuesday, June 13th at 10 am with special guests, Brenda McDonald, Rita Fortner and Rylie Wright. Following Story Time, there is a Music Jam for all ages from 11-11:45 am. Bring your own instrument or we have rhythm instruments to play.Together with 4-H is Wednesday, June 14th at 10 am and 1 pm for grades K-12. This event features “I Am Enough” from the 2023 4-H Reading Connections and includes creative projects, with all supplies provided.Keep Alliance Beautiful will share creative endeavors on Thursday, June 15th from 2-4 pm for preschool through twelfth grade, with all supplies provided.Registration continues for “All Together Now” Summer Reading with reading goals, prizes and more! For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686321004855.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686321016423.jpeg" alt="" />
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'All Together Now' comes to Alliance Public Library 

&nbsp; Northwest Community Action Partnership is conducting a Community Needs Assessment to evaluate the effectiveness of current programs as well as gaps in services in an effort to determine appropriate strategic goals. We would appreciate your input and answers to our survey questions. Your responses will remain anonymous. Thank you for taking the time to complete our survey.

Click <a href="https://ncap.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_doPZp39bbQsEhIq">HERE</a> to take the survey.&nbsp;

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Northwest Community Action Counsel – now known as Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) – was federally designated in 1965 as the agency to carry out anti-poverty work in northwest Nebraska as a private non-profit corporation with a 501(c)(3) status.&nbsp; NCAP provides a broad range of community service programs designed to have a measurable impact on poverty.

The counties that NCAP serves are faced with numerous socioeconomic challenges and economic hardships. Without the services of NCAP, many people would go unserved, and it is apparent that those services are sorely needed.&nbsp; Historically, NCAP has served Dawes, Sioux, Sheridan, Cherry and Box Butte counties. In 2015, NCAP expanded its weatherization services to the 7 counties of the southern panhandle, Banner, Deuel, Scottsbluff, Cheyenne, Kimball, Garden and Morrill.

By Panhandle Post&nbsp; Northwest Community Action Partnership is conducting a Community Needs Assessment to evaluate the effectiveness of current programs as well as gaps in services in an effort to determine appropriate strategic goals. We would appreciate your input and answers to our survey questions. Your responses will remain anonymous. Thank you for taking the time to complete our survey.Click <a href="https://ncap.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_doPZp39bbQsEhIq">HERE</a> to take the survey.&nbsp;------------------------------------------------------Northwest Community Action Counsel – now known as Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) – was federally designated in 1965 as the agency to carry out anti-poverty work in northwest Nebraska as a private non-profit corporation with a 501(c)(3) status.&nbsp; NCAP provides a broad range of community service programs designed to have a measurable impact on poverty.The counties that NCAP serves are faced with numerous socioeconomic challenges and economic hardships. Without the services of NCAP, many people would go unserved, and it is apparent that those services are sorely needed.&nbsp; Historically, NCAP has served Dawes, Sioux, Sheridan, Cherry and Box Butte counties. In 2015, NCAP expanded its weatherization services to the 7 counties of the southern panhandle, Banner, Deuel, Scottsbluff, Cheyenne, Kimball, Garden and Morrill.

NCAP seeks input from Panhandle counties including Dawes, Box Butte

Chadron State Park will hold their 102nd Anniversary Celebration on June 9 and 10.&nbsp;

There will be many events including food, Canoe Regatta, beer garden, live music, "Run for the Hills" run, car-bike-truck show, children's activities and more.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684945501288.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684945512755.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chadron State Park will hold their 102nd Anniversary Celebration on June 9 and 10.&nbsp;There will be many events including food, Canoe Regatta, beer garden, live music, "Run for the Hills" run, car-bike-truck show, children's activities and more.&nbsp;

Chadron State Park to hold 102nd Anniversary Celebration

Alliance – The 300 block of West 6th Street will be closed to through traffic today, June 8 while crews demolish the house at 321 West 6th street.

 The street is anticipated to reopen on Friday, June 9 barring any unexpected circumstances.

For more information, please contact City Administrative Offices at 308-762-5400.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The 300 block of West 6th Street will be closed to through traffic today, June 8 while crews demolish the house at 321 West 6th street. The street is anticipated to reopen on Friday, June 9 barring any unexpected circumstances.For more information, please contact City Administrative Offices at 308-762-5400.

City of Alliance announces street closure effective today 

The Scottsbluff Police Department has been awarded a speed enforcement grant funded by the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office. 

Sergeant Philip Eckerberg said “This grant is for speed enforcement on Broadway and 27th Street every Friday and Saturday starting on June 9th, 2023 and ending August 5th, 2023. This grant will allow for two extra officers to patrol Broadway and 27th Street for speed and any other traffic violations every day of the grant.”

By Scottsbluff Police DepartmentThe Scottsbluff Police Department has been awarded a speed enforcement grant funded by the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office. Sergeant Philip Eckerberg said “This grant is for speed enforcement on Broadway and 27th Street every Friday and Saturday starting on June 9th, 2023 and ending August 5th, 2023. This grant will allow for two extra officers to patrol Broadway and 27th Street for speed and any other traffic violations every day of the grant.”

Scottsbluff Police Department awarded Speed Enforcement Grant 

Thanks to a new Summer of Youth grant that the Alliance Rec Center received, students in Alliance, Nebraska, will get to engage in outdoor and hands-on learning, explore careers, and enjoy unique activities with our community partners this summer.

Beyond School Bells, an initiative of Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Education, has selected Alliance Rec Center’s Summer Camp , as one of the Nebraska communities to receive a Summer of Youth grant to support summer learning opportunities. These funds were made available through federal dollars as well as private funds and are aimed at increasing high quality summer learning programs in communities where there simply aren't enough spots for the children who need them.

The Nebraska Department of Education launched the Summer of Youth grant program with $720,000 received from the Federal government’s COVID relief funding, termed ESSER III. Deputy Commissioner Dr. Deborah Frison celebrated this round of statewide grants. “NDE is thrilled to provide these communities with the additional Federal support they need to expand summer learning opportunities - especially since these grants reflect the kinds of programs youth want. Research confirms the vital role fun and engaging summer learning programs play in supporting student growth and positive youth development and we are thrilled to offer these communities additional funding to allow more Nebraska students to make lifelong memories of a great summer.”

Beyond School Bells is partnering with NDE to leverage these one-time Federal dollars with additional Nebraska philanthropic support, to create a pool of nearly $1 million to invest in select Nebraska communities through the Summer of Youth project. Jeff Cole, Network Lead of Beyond School Bells, noted “We are thrilled the Summer of Youth grant will help communities across the state provide more Nebraska youth with opportunities get out in their communities, get their hands dirty and have a summer learning experience.”

Nebraska’s summer programs provide a safe, supportive space for youth-led activities that are proven to help children and teens connect, learn, and grow. Summer programs offer hands-on engaging projects and team-building activities that foster resilience, confidence, and healthy relationships. These are local programs staffed by caring mentors.

“This Summer of Youth grant will allow us to offer a variety of experiences this summer including fishing with NE Game and Parks and trips to the Alliance High School to learn from high school athletic teams,” said Executive Director Mara Andersen. “We know that summer is a time when students have an opportunity to experience learning in different settings, and through this grant, more students will have a great summer and return to school in the fall better prepared to learn and grow.”

ARC AfterSchool’s Summer Camp currently has 60 K-5th grade students enrolled for 10 weeks during the summer break.

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Nebraska Children and Families Foundation partners with communities to create a well-being system that strengthens families, supports unconnected young people, creates learning opportunities for Nebraska’s future workforce, and empowers parents to raise healthy children. To learn more about our work, visit www.NebraskaChildren.org. For more specific information about Beyond School Bells, visit www.BeyondSchoolBells.org.

By Alliance Rec CenterThanks to a new Summer of Youth grant that the Alliance Rec Center received, students in Alliance, Nebraska, will get to engage in outdoor and hands-on learning, explore careers, and enjoy unique activities with our community partners this summer.Beyond School Bells, an initiative of Nebraska Children and Families Foundation, in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Education, has selected Alliance Rec Center’s Summer Camp , as one of the Nebraska communities to receive a Summer of Youth grant to support summer learning opportunities. These funds were made available through federal dollars as well as private funds and are aimed at increasing high quality summer learning programs in communities where there simply aren't enough spots for the children who need them.The Nebraska Department of Education launched the Summer of Youth grant program with $720,000 received from the Federal government’s COVID relief funding, termed ESSER III. Deputy Commissioner Dr. Deborah Frison celebrated this round of statewide grants. “NDE is thrilled to provide these communities with the additional Federal support they need to expand summer learning opportunities - especially since these grants reflect the kinds of programs youth want. Research confirms the vital role fun and engaging summer learning programs play in supporting student growth and positive youth development and we are thrilled to offer these communities additional funding to allow more Nebraska students to make lifelong memories of a great summer.”Beyond School Bells is partnering with NDE to leverage these one-time Federal dollars with additional Nebraska philanthropic support, to create a pool of nearly $1 million to invest in select Nebraska communities through the Summer of Youth project. Jeff Cole, Network Lead of Beyond School Bells, noted “We are thrilled the Summer of Youth grant will help communities across the state provide more Nebraska youth with opportunities get out in their communities, get their hands dirty and have a summer learning experience.”Nebraska’s summer programs provide a safe, supportive space for youth-led activities that are proven to help children and teens connect, learn, and grow. Summer programs offer hands-on engaging projects and team-building activities that foster resilience, confidence, and healthy relationships. These are local programs staffed by caring mentors.“This Summer of Youth grant will allow us to offer a variety of experiences this summer including fishing with NE Game and Parks and trips to the Alliance High School to learn from high school athletic teams,” said Executive Director Mara Andersen. “We know that summer is a time when students have an opportunity to experience learning in different settings, and through this grant, more students will have a great summer and return to school in the fall better prepared to learn and grow.”ARC AfterSchool’s Summer Camp currently has 60 K-5th grade students enrolled for 10 weeks during the summer break.-------------------------------------------------------Nebraska Children and Families Foundation partners with communities to create a well-being system that strengthens families, supports unconnected young people, creates learning opportunities for Nebraska’s future workforce, and empowers parents to raise healthy children. To learn more about our work, visit www.NebraskaChildren.org. For more specific information about Beyond School Bells, visit www.BeyondSchoolBells.org.

Alliance Rec Center’s Summer Camp receives Summer of Youth grant 

Alliance – The Alliance Public Library will host a Macramé Rainbow Adult Summer Reading Craft Class on Thursday, June 15th at 6pm in the APL community room. The cost of the class is $15. Call 308.762.1387 or stop by the circulation desk to sign up.

Contact the Adult Services Librarian, Nalani Stewart for more information at 308-762-1387.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Alliance Public Library will host a Macramé Rainbow Adult Summer Reading Craft Class on Thursday, June 15th at 6pm in the APL community room. The cost of the class is $15. Call 308.762.1387 or stop by the circulation desk to sign up.Contact the Adult Services Librarian, Nalani Stewart for more information at 308-762-1387.

Alliance library  to hold Adult Summer Reading Macramé Craft Class

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 6/7/23

On May 30, 2023, I signed LB753 into law. LB753, known as the Opportunity Scholarship Act, will provide parents the choice in which school to send their children.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This bill is a historic step forward for the state of Nebraska. Before the passage of this legislation, Nebraska was only one of two states, North Dakota being the other, that had no form of school choice.&nbsp;

Our kids are our future, and we all believe that every Nebraska kid should be given the opportunity to have their educational needs met – from the river to Harrison.&nbsp;LB753 creates a tax credit program to which Nebraskans can donate. Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) will administer the scholarships.&nbsp;

Students should not be tied down by the zip code they are born in. Our current education system does not allow for underprivileged students to attend a private school or choose a different school district to live in. You need money and wealth to live in neighboring districts that are performing higher than others.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Nebraska, we need to be funding students, not systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;

These scholarships will go to those students who need them most. They will provide students the ability to attend a school they otherwise could never afford.&nbsp;

LB753 gives priority for these scholarships to those who live in poverty, foster care, experience bullying, harassment, or other victimizing behaviors, or have a parent or guardian who is serving in the military.&nbsp;

As Nebraskans, we believe we should never, ever give up on a kid. This piece of legislation is part of my continuing commitment to put kids first so we can make our state a place where future generations can grow and thrive.&nbsp;

If you have any questions about our vision for Nebraska, please call my office at 402-471-2244 or email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jim.pillen@nebraska.gov">jim.pillen@nebraska.gov</a>. Together we can!

By Gov. Jim PillenOn May 30, 2023, I signed LB753 into law. LB753, known as the Opportunity Scholarship Act, will provide parents the choice in which school to send their children.&nbsp;&nbsp;This bill is a historic step forward for the state of Nebraska. Before the passage of this legislation, Nebraska was only one of two states, North Dakota being the other, that had no form of school choice.&nbsp;Our kids are our future, and we all believe that every Nebraska kid should be given the opportunity to have their educational needs met – from the river to Harrison.&nbsp;LB753 creates a tax credit program to which Nebraskans can donate. Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs) will administer the scholarships.&nbsp;Students should not be tied down by the zip code they are born in. Our current education system does not allow for underprivileged students to attend a private school or choose a different school district to live in. You need money and wealth to live in neighboring districts that are performing higher than others.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Nebraska, we need to be funding students, not systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;These scholarships will go to those students who need them most. They will provide students the ability to attend a school they otherwise could never afford.&nbsp;LB753 gives priority for these scholarships to those who live in poverty, foster care, experience bullying, harassment, or other victimizing behaviors, or have a parent or guardian who is serving in the military.&nbsp;As Nebraskans, we believe we should never, ever give up on a kid. This piece of legislation is part of my continuing commitment to put kids first so we can make our state a place where future generations can grow and thrive.&nbsp;If you have any questions about our vision for Nebraska, please call my office at 402-471-2244 or email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jim.pillen@nebraska.gov">jim.pillen@nebraska.gov</a>. Together we can!

Gov. Pillen: School choice puts kids first

Join Ackerman Ag this Friday, June 9 for Customer Appreciation Day.

"We appreciate the honesty, integrity and loyalty of our customers," Akerman Ag owner Callan Akerman said.&nbsp;

Throughout the day multiple suppliers will be on-site to answer questions about their products.&nbsp;

For FRIDAY ONLY, guns and ammo will be 10% OFF.&nbsp;

There will also be door prizes given away throughout the day and free brisket sandwiches for all customers from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Friday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Saturday CLOSED Sunday CLOSED

Like them on Facebook for the latest events and specials, or call them at 308-762-2144

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686148645639.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Join Ackerman Ag this Friday, June 9 for Customer Appreciation Day."We appreciate the honesty, integrity and loyalty of our customers," Akerman Ag owner Callan Akerman said.&nbsp;Throughout the day multiple suppliers will be on-site to answer questions about their products.&nbsp;For FRIDAY ONLY, guns and ammo will be 10% OFF.&nbsp;There will also be door prizes given away throughout the day and free brisket sandwiches for all customers from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.Ackerman Ag Business Hours:&nbsp;Monday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Friday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Saturday CLOSED Sunday CLOSED Like them on Facebook for the latest events and specials, or call them at 308-762-2144

Getting Ahead: Language patterns

Seeing young wild animals alone is common this time of year. Though some may wish to “rescue” these animals, don’t. Wildlife parents are doing their part to make sure their babies survive.

Here are some rules of thumb from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regarding wildlife babies:

By Nebraska Game and ParksSeeing young wild animals alone is common this time of year. Though some may wish to “rescue” these animals, don’t. Wildlife parents are doing their part to make sure their babies survive.Here are some rules of thumb from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regarding wildlife babies:<ul>
 <li>Young non-feathered birds and nests with eggs discovered on the ground should be placed back in the tree. Baby birds covered in feathers found on the ground are being tended to by their parents; leave them alone.</li><li>A lone fawn may appear to be abandoned or injured, but the mother frequently is off feeding or drinking. Do not move it. The longer the fawn is separated from its mother, the slimmer the chance it will be reunited with her. Know it is normal for a doe to leave its fawn to keep it from being detected by predators. Predators can see the doe as it feeds, so she leaves the fawn hidden and leaves the area to draw attention away from the fawn’s location.</li><li>Baby rabbits are left unattended through much of the day and night. Mother cottontails do this to prevent drawing predators to the nest. If you see the rabbits, leave them alone.</li><li>Do not try to raise wildlife babies as pets. As animals mature, they become more independent and follow natural instincts to leave and establish their own territories. Rescued animals are poorly prepared for life in the wild.</li><li>Most wildlife babies are protected by state or federal law, and it is illegal to possess them.</li>
 </ul>

Game and Parks: Please leave wildlife babies alone

Alliance – The City of Alliance Streets Department will be closing the intersection of Cody and Kansas Avenue beginning Monday, June 5 through Thursday, June 8 for concrete repairs.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance Streets Department will be closing the intersection of Cody and Kansas Avenue beginning Monday, June 5 through Thursday, June 8 for concrete repairs.

City of Alliance announces street closure 

A Scottsbluff woman has been cited in connection with an injury crash investigated by Scottsbluff Police on Sunday.

Krista Hernandez, 39, was cited for not having proof of insurance. Hernandez was identified as the owner of the vehicle driven by Cadence DuBray, 17, of Scottsbluff.

DuBray was headed eastbound on East 19th Street in a passenger vehicle when she struck James Nathaniel Adams, 17, of rural Morrill, who was traveling northbound on First Avenue on a motorcycle.

Adams was transported to Regional West Medical Center for treatment of injuries. The extent of his injuries was not immediately known.

No other citations have been issued, pending completion of a traffic crash reconstruction. 

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostA Scottsbluff woman has been cited in connection with an injury crash investigated by Scottsbluff Police on Sunday.Krista Hernandez, 39, was cited for not having proof of insurance. Hernandez was identified as the owner of the vehicle driven by Cadence DuBray, 17, of Scottsbluff.DuBray was headed eastbound on East 19th Street in a passenger vehicle when she struck James Nathaniel Adams, 17, of rural Morrill, who was traveling northbound on First Avenue on a motorcycle.Adams was transported to Regional West Medical Center for treatment of injuries. The extent of his injuries was not immediately known.No other citations have been issued, pending completion of a traffic crash reconstruction. The investigation is ongoing.

Scottsbluff woman cited in car-motorcycle crash

Union Pacific’s famed Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest steam locomotive built to haul heavy freight over steep mountain passes during World War II, will be traveling across Nebraska en route to Omaha in June for the 2023 College World Series.

The train will be making whistle-stops during its journey, with stops scheduled in Gering, Broadwater, Lemoyne, North Platte, Cozad, Kearney, Grand Island, Columbus, and Fremont. The whistle-stops will give train enthusiasts of all ages a chance to hear, smell and see the train as it passes through their community.

June 7 (all times are estimated and subject to change):

June 8 (all times are estimated and subject to change):

June 10 (all times are estimated and subject to change):

June 11 (all times are estimated and subject to change):

Big Boy will leave Cheyenne, Wyoming, on June 7, for its 590-mile journey to Omaha. It will be on display for 11 days during the College World Series in Omaha, before returning to Cheyenne, Wyoming on July 3.

Big Boy No. 4014 was delivered to Union Pacific in December of 1941. This powerful machine was built to cross the Wasatch Mountain Range east of Ogden, Utah. It was retired in 1961 after traveling a little over a million miles, reacquired by Union Pacific in 2013 and restored to service in 2019.

A steam tracking map showing No. 4014's location and route will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/up/heritage/steam/index.htm">upsteam.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685992443613.jpeg" alt="Union Pacific Big Boy NO. 4014&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Union Pacific Big Boy NO. 4014&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Union Pacific’s famed Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest steam locomotive built to haul heavy freight over steep mountain passes during World War II, will be traveling across Nebraska en route to Omaha in June for the 2023 College World Series.The train will be making whistle-stops during its journey, with stops scheduled in Gering, Broadwater, Lemoyne, North Platte, Cozad, Kearney, Grand Island, Columbus, and Fremont. The whistle-stops will give train enthusiasts of all ages a chance to hear, smell and see the train as it passes through their community.June 7 (all times are estimated and subject to change):<ul>
 <li>4:30 p.m. MDT – Gering, 2005 7th St.</li>
 </ul>June 8 (all times are estimated and subject to change):<ul>
 <li>9 a.m. MDT – Departs Gering, will follow State Highway 92 until just south of Bayard</li><li>10:30 a.m. MDT – Broadwater, Wehn and Ohio St.</li><li>12:45 p.m. MDT – Lemoyne, Lemoyne Road Crossing</li><li>4:45 p.m. CDT – North Platte, E Front St. and N. Cottonwood St.</li>
 </ul>June 10 (all times are estimated and subject to change):<ul>
 <li>9 a.m. CDT – Departs North Platte, E Front St and N. Cottonwood St.</li><li>10:30 a.m. CDT – Cozad, Meridian and Highway 30</li><li>12:45 p.m. CDT – Kearney, Central Avenue Crossing</li><li>3 p.m. CDT – Grand Island, Walnut St. Crossing</li>
 </ul>June 11 (all times are estimated and subject to change):<ul>
 <li>9:45 a.m. CDT – Columbus, 26th Avenue Crossing</li><li>11:45 a.m. CDT – Fremont, 10 S. Main St</li>
 </ul>Big Boy will leave Cheyenne, Wyoming, on June 7, for its 590-mile journey to Omaha. It will be on display for 11 days during the College World Series in Omaha, before returning to Cheyenne, Wyoming on July 3.Big Boy No. 4014 was delivered to Union Pacific in December of 1941. This powerful machine was built to cross the Wasatch Mountain Range east of Ogden, Utah. It was retired in 1961 after traveling a little over a million miles, reacquired by Union Pacific in 2013 and restored to service in 2019.A steam tracking map showing No. 4014's location and route will be available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.up.com/up/heritage/steam/index.htm">upsteam.com</a>.&nbsp;

World’s Largest Operating Steam Locomotive Returns to Nebraska with Home Run Express Tour in June

Bridgeport City Administrator Dawn Martin has resigned after two-and-a-half months on the job.

In a monthly update, Mayor Gail Beyer announced that Martin’s resignation was effective May 30. Beyer expressed her appreciation for Martin’s work during her brief tenure.

Beyer said the city will advertise to fill the position, but will not rush into hiring until they find a great match.

Martin began her duties on March 13. Prior to coming to Bridgeport, she was the Assistant City Manager and Emergency Manager for Sidney.

The reasons for Martin’s resignation were not immediately clear.

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostBridgeport City Administrator Dawn Martin has resigned after two-and-a-half months on the job.In a monthly update, Mayor Gail Beyer announced that Martin’s resignation was effective May 30. Beyer expressed her appreciation for Martin’s work during her brief tenure.Beyer said the city will advertise to fill the position, but will not rush into hiring until they find a great match.Martin began her duties on March 13. Prior to coming to Bridgeport, she was the Assistant City Manager and Emergency Manager for Sidney.The reasons for Martin’s resignation were not immediately clear.

City Admin resigns in Bridgeport 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Norfolk Southern became the first major North American freight railroad with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-engineers-sick-time-norfolk-southern-contract-1a48b079655c28acdc2444f41949f5d8">deals</a>&nbsp;to provide paid sick time to all of its workers Monday, but the other railroads are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/labor-unions-kansas-city-southern-strikes-business-6e66b66a99415e12c2c1fa642d6a842f">making progress</a>, with nearly 65% of all rail workers securing this basic benefit since the start of the year.

All of the major freight railroads have said they are committed to resolving this key issue that nearly led to a strike in last year's bitter contract talks. But most of those railroads — which include CSX, Union Pacific, BNSF, Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Kansas City — are still negotiating with a number of their unions.

Also Monday, Union Pacific announced a deal that will provide paid sick leave to about 5,600 engineers in the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union that gives that railroad agreements with 12 of its 13 unions.

Most of the sick time deals, including the one Norfolk Southern announced for yardmasters Monday, provide four days of paid sick time and give workers the option to convert three days of personal leave time into sick days. The conductors and engineers who endure the most unpredictable schedules while operating the trains have been getting five days of paid sick leave with the option to convert two leave days into sick time. The Union Pacific deal follows that five-day model.

So all of these deals provide up to seven days of paid sick time, and the railroads promised to pay workers for any unused sick time at the end of each year.

Last fall, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-business-strikes-940da8fc519f8c526ca614e201d01216">railroads refused</a>&nbsp;to add paid sick time to the deal they had already been negotiating for several years, but they relented this year after intense pressure from the public, the Biden administration and several key lawmakers, including Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. Rail workers were forced to accept a five-year deal that provided 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses after Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-politics-pete-buttigieg-strikes-congress-c95510555dcd4cdc2d839e61d1195b06">blocked their ability to strike</a>&nbsp;because of fears of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-strikes-climate-and-environment-government-politics-92ea7632a29f807ccc0e2658c50d731e">economic catastrophe</a>, but that agreement didn't address their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-strikes-congress-d2ae4d3aecb27f176418518d977e69e1">quality-of-life concerns</a>.

The engineers' union said providing sick time to train crews can help make sure they aren't fatigued while at the controls of a locomotive.

“This agreement is really about health and safety,” said Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen National President Eddie Hall. “It’s not in our members’, the public’s or the railroad’s best interest for engineers to be operating trains when they’re sick."

Union Pacific CEO Lance Fritz said these agreements show “the well-being and quality of life for all employees are critically important to us.”

About 300 workers are covered by this latest Norfolk Southern agreement. Jeremy Ferguson, president of the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers union that represents the Norfolk Southern yardmasters and conductors nationwide, praised the progress that has been made.

“This agreement will provide our hardworking yardmasters the time they need and deserve to take care of their personal wellbeing,” Ferguson said.

A separate larger agreement between SMART-TD and Norfolk Southern that also addresses schedule concerns for conductors was ratified Friday.

“Following national labor negotiations, we committed to address quality of life issues for our craft railroaders. With today’s agreement, we make good on that promise,” said Norfolk Southern President and CEO Alan Shaw.

Norfolk Southern and the other major railroads tout the progress they have made so far, but officials with the Transportation Trades Department — the AFL-CIO labor coalition that includes all the rail unions — said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-workers-unions-paid-sick-time-negotiations-10c5e688b85ef9be4f231499666ab756">much work remains</a>&nbsp;to address workers' concerns.

“For months, railroads have been at the table individually with their unions to find a path forward on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-contract-engineers-demanding-schedules-union-pacific-e2ffdb4830a313249ca2281de360acca">quality-of-life matters</a>&nbsp;that came into the spotlight during the round’s final days. Today, railroads have new paid sick leave agreements in place to cover the majority of the unionized rail workforce," said Ian Jefferies, who leads the Association of American Railroads trade group. "Additionally, multiple railroads have secured deals to give operating craft employees greater scheduling predictability."

Greg Regan, president of the TTD labor coalition, said the unions have been keeping up the pressure on the railroads ever since last year's contract talks.

“I think the the railroads probably realize the only way this is going to go away is if they actually bargain in good faith. And you know, so far it has yielded some decent results,” Regan said.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Norfolk Southern became the first major North American freight railroad with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-engineers-sick-time-norfolk-southern-contract-1a48b079655c28acdc2444f41949f5d8">deals</a>&nbsp;to provide paid sick time to all of its workers Monday, but the other railroads are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/labor-unions-kansas-city-southern-strikes-business-6e66b66a99415e12c2c1fa642d6a842f">making progress</a>, with nearly 65% of all rail workers securing this basic benefit since the start of the year.All of the major freight railroads have said they are committed to resolving this key issue that nearly led to a strike in last year's bitter contract talks. But most of those railroads — which include CSX, Union Pacific, BNSF, Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Kansas City — are still negotiating with a number of their unions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686067574107.jpeg" alt="A Norfolk Southern freight train rolls through downtown Pittsburgh, on March 26, 2018. Norfolk Southern became the first major freight railroad with deals to provide sick time to all of its workers Monday, June 5, 2023 but the other railroads are making progress with nearly 60% of all rail workers securing this basic benefit. All of the major freight railroads have said they're committed to resolving this key issue that nearly led to a strike last year. But most of those railroads are still negotiating with a number of their unions. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)" />
 <figcaption>A Norfolk Southern freight train rolls through downtown Pittsburgh, on March 26, 2018. Norfolk Southern became the first major freight railroad with deals to provide sick time to all of its workers Monday, June 5, 2023 but the other railroads are making progress with nearly 60% of all rail workers securing this basic benefit. All of the major freight railroads have said they're committed to resolving this key issue that nearly led to a strike last year. But most of those railroads are still negotiating with a number of their unions. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>Also Monday, Union Pacific announced a deal that will provide paid sick leave to about 5,600 engineers in the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union that gives that railroad agreements with 12 of its 13 unions.Most of the sick time deals, including the one Norfolk Southern announced for yardmasters Monday, provide four days of paid sick time and give workers the option to convert three days of personal leave time into sick days. The conductors and engineers who endure the most unpredictable schedules while operating the trains have been getting five days of paid sick leave with the option to convert two leave days into sick time. The Union Pacific deal follows that five-day model.So all of these deals provide up to seven days of paid sick time, and the railroads promised to pay workers for any unused sick time at the end of each year.Last fall, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-business-strikes-940da8fc519f8c526ca614e201d01216">railroads refused</a>&nbsp;to add paid sick time to the deal they had already been negotiating for several years, but they relented this year after intense pressure from the public, the Biden administration and several key lawmakers, including Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. Rail workers were forced to accept a five-year deal that provided 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses after Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-politics-pete-buttigieg-strikes-congress-c95510555dcd4cdc2d839e61d1195b06">blocked their ability to strike</a>&nbsp;because of fears of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-strikes-climate-and-environment-government-politics-92ea7632a29f807ccc0e2658c50d731e">economic catastrophe</a>, but that agreement didn't address their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-economy-strikes-congress-d2ae4d3aecb27f176418518d977e69e1">quality-of-life concerns</a>.The engineers' union said providing sick time to train crews can help make sure they aren't fatigued while at the controls of a locomotive.“This agreement is really about health and safety,” said Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen National President Eddie Hall. “It’s not in our members’, the public’s or the railroad’s best interest for engineers to be operating trains when they’re sick."Union Pacific CEO Lance Fritz said these agreements show “the well-being and quality of life for all employees are critically important to us.”About 300 workers are covered by this latest Norfolk Southern agreement. Jeremy Ferguson, president of the Transportation Division of the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers union that represents the Norfolk Southern yardmasters and conductors nationwide, praised the progress that has been made.“This agreement will provide our hardworking yardmasters the time they need and deserve to take care of their personal wellbeing,” Ferguson said.A separate larger agreement between SMART-TD and Norfolk Southern that also addresses schedule concerns for conductors was ratified Friday.“Following national labor negotiations, we committed to address quality of life issues for our craft railroaders. With today’s agreement, we make good on that promise,” said Norfolk Southern President and CEO Alan Shaw.Norfolk Southern and the other major railroads tout the progress they have made so far, but officials with the Transportation Trades Department — the AFL-CIO labor coalition that includes all the rail unions — said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-workers-unions-paid-sick-time-negotiations-10c5e688b85ef9be4f231499666ab756">much work remains</a>&nbsp;to address workers' concerns.“For months, railroads have been at the table individually with their unions to find a path forward on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-contract-engineers-demanding-schedules-union-pacific-e2ffdb4830a313249ca2281de360acca">quality-of-life matters</a>&nbsp;that came into the spotlight during the round’s final days. Today, railroads have new paid sick leave agreements in place to cover the majority of the unionized rail workforce," said Ian Jefferies, who leads the Association of American Railroads trade group. "Additionally, multiple railroads have secured deals to give operating craft employees greater scheduling predictability."Greg Regan, president of the TTD labor coalition, said the unions have been keeping up the pressure on the railroads ever since last year's contract talks.“I think the the railroads probably realize the only way this is going to go away is if they actually bargain in good faith. And you know, so far it has yielded some decent results,” Regan said.

Norfolk Southern is 1st railroad to give all workers sick time

P202300365 10:41 TRAFFIC STOP : Officer observed a female, who did not have a valid license, driving near the area of 7th Street and Flack Avenue. A traffic stop was conducted. The female had an active Box Butte County Warrant. Female was taken into custody and cited for driving under revocation. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300366 15:33 OFFICERS RESPONDED TO AN ACTIVE PHYSICAL ASSAULT ON THE 900 BLOCK OF BLACK HILLS AVENUE / OFFICERS ARRESTED A WHITE, MALE INDIVIDUAL / THE INDIVIDUAL IS BEING CHARGED WITH THIRD DEGREE ASSAULT AND DISORDERLY CONDUCT&nbsp; Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300367 12:36 OFFICERS WERE DISPATCHED TO ACTIVE PHYSICAL ASSAULT / ONE MALE STRUCK AFEMALE AND MALE IN THE HEAD WITH HIS FIST / ONE MALE WAS ARRESTED / CHARGES ARE PENDING Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300368 16:45 THEFT : THEFT Officers were informed that a juvenile male had gone to the Big Blue Bay. As the juvenile was going to leave, the scooter he rode in was gone. There were no known witnesses. Open - Under Investigation

P202300369 17:24 DRUGS : DRUGS Officers made a traffic stop on a gold Dodge Durango near 3rd Street and Yellowstone Avenue. The odor of marijuana emitted from the vehicle. Probable Cause search was conducted and drugs were located. The female driver was charged. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300370 17:24 DRUGS : DRUGS Officers initiated a traffic stop on a gold Dodge Durango near 3rd Street and Yellowstone. The odor of marijuana emitted from the vehicle. A male passenger had drug paraphernalia on his person. Citation issued. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300371 21:56 Officers were called to the residence for a physical disturbance no longer in progress, were later told it was just verbal. Upon investigation it was determined an assault had occurred. Closed - Charges, Recommended

P202300372 07:23 THEFT : THEFT Tower Apartments/ Reported theft of phone/ Case taken Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300373 08:36 FOUND : FOUND 100 W. 4th Street/ Found bicycle/ Found Property case taken Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300374 12:53 WARRANT : ARREST 600 Sweetwater Avenue/ Individual with warrant located/ Warrant for failure to pay ticket confirmed/ Individual arrested Closed - Resolved

P202300375 00:19 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Investigation of a male who struck a female with a baseball bat multiple times in the Haven Trailer Court. Male was located and arrested. Female was transported to BBGH for her injuries. Case has been forwarded to the Box Butte County Attorney Closed - Charges

P202300376 08:28 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : 500 block of Niobrara Avenue/ Report of Criminal Mischief/ Paint used to cover window and deck/ Citation issued Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300377 13:31 THEFT : THEFT Theft at Goodwill / Unknown suspect / case inactive pending further leads Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300378 16:51 TRESPASS : TRESPASS 300 W. 3rd Street/ Report of trespasser in home/ Individual cited/ Case closed and charges recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300379 17:14 TRESPASS : TRESPASS Kloch's Liquor/ Trespasser/ Individual arrested Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300380 21:31 DEATH : UNATTENDED Investigation into the death of an elderly female. Female was transported to Bates Gould Funeral home. Closed - Resolved

P202300382 09:58 Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300383 16:01 FOUND : FOUND 200 W. 3rd Street/ Found property brought to station/ Case taken/ Inactivated and Suspended Inactive - Case Suspended

P202300384 06:07 ASSAULT : ASSAULT INVESTIGATED A DOMESTIC ASSAULT AT THE 1200 BLOCK OF W 14TH ST. / ARRESTED ONE MALE / CHARGES INCLUDING THIRD-DEGREEDOMESTIC ASSAULT, FALSE IMPRISONMENT AND STRANGULATION Closed - Charges Recommended

P202300386 12:02 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYRESPONDED TO A TWO VEHICLE MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT AT THE 300 BLOCK OF FLACK AVENUE / DAMAGES RESULTED IN OVER $1500 WORTH OF DAMAGE / ACCIDENT DID NOT RESULT IN ANY INJURIES /

By Alliance Police DepartmentP202300365 10:41 TRAFFIC STOP : Officer observed a female, who did not have a valid license, driving near the area of 7th Street and Flack Avenue. A traffic stop was conducted. The female had an active Box Butte County Warrant. Female was taken into custody and cited for driving under revocation. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300366 15:33 OFFICERS RESPONDED TO AN ACTIVE PHYSICAL ASSAULT ON THE 900 BLOCK OF BLACK HILLS AVENUE / OFFICERS ARRESTED A WHITE, MALE INDIVIDUAL / THE INDIVIDUAL IS BEING CHARGED WITH THIRD DEGREE ASSAULT AND DISORDERLY CONDUCT&nbsp; Closed - Charges Recommended05/28/23 Total: 205/29/23P202300367 12:36 OFFICERS WERE DISPATCHED TO ACTIVE PHYSICAL ASSAULT / ONE MALE STRUCK AFEMALE AND MALE IN THE HEAD WITH HIS FIST / ONE MALE WAS ARRESTED / CHARGES ARE PENDING Closed - Charges Recommended05/29/23 Total: 105/30/23P202300368 16:45 THEFT : THEFT Officers were informed that a juvenile male had gone to the Big Blue Bay. As the juvenile was going to leave, the scooter he rode in was gone. There were no known witnesses. Open - Under InvestigationP202300369 17:24 DRUGS : DRUGS Officers made a traffic stop on a gold Dodge Durango near 3rd Street and Yellowstone Avenue. The odor of marijuana emitted from the vehicle. Probable Cause search was conducted and drugs were located. The female driver was charged. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300370 17:24 DRUGS : DRUGS Officers initiated a traffic stop on a gold Dodge Durango near 3rd Street and Yellowstone. The odor of marijuana emitted from the vehicle. A male passenger had drug paraphernalia on his person. Citation issued. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300371 21:56 Officers were called to the residence for a physical disturbance no longer in progress, were later told it was just verbal. Upon investigation it was determined an assault had occurred. Closed - Charges, Recommended05/30/23 Total: 405/31/23P202300372 07:23 THEFT : THEFT Tower Apartments/ Reported theft of phone/ Case taken Inactive - Case SuspendedP202300373 08:36 FOUND : FOUND 100 W. 4th Street/ Found bicycle/ Found Property case taken Inactive - Case SuspendedP202300374 12:53 WARRANT : ARREST 600 Sweetwater Avenue/ Individual with warrant located/ Warrant for failure to pay ticket confirmed/ Individual arrested Closed - Resolved05/31/23 Total: 306/01/23P202300375 00:19 ASSAULT : ASSAULT Investigation of a male who struck a female with a baseball bat multiple times in the Haven Trailer Court. Male was located and arrested. Female was transported to BBGH for her injuries. Case has been forwarded to the Box Butte County Attorney Closed - ChargesRecommendedP202300376 08:28 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : 500 block of Niobrara Avenue/ Report of Criminal Mischief/ Paint used to cover window and deck/ Citation issued Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300377 13:31 THEFT : THEFT Theft at Goodwill / Unknown suspect / case inactive pending further leads Inactive - Case SuspendedP202300378 16:51 TRESPASS : TRESPASS 300 W. 3rd Street/ Report of trespasser in home/ Individual cited/ Case closed and charges recommended Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300379 17:14 TRESPASS : TRESPASS Kloch's Liquor/ Trespasser/ Individual arrested Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300380 21:31 DEATH : UNATTENDED Investigation into the death of an elderly female. Female was transported to Bates Gould Funeral home. Closed - Resolved06/01/23 Total: 606/02/23P202300382 09:58 Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300383 16:01 FOUND : FOUND 200 W. 3rd Street/ Found property brought to station/ Case taken/ Inactivated and Suspended Inactive - Case Suspended06/02/23 Total: 206/03/23P202300384 06:07 ASSAULT : ASSAULT INVESTIGATED A DOMESTIC ASSAULT AT THE 1200 BLOCK OF W 14TH ST. / ARRESTED ONE MALE / CHARGES INCLUDING THIRD-DEGREEDOMESTIC ASSAULT, FALSE IMPRISONMENT AND STRANGULATION Closed - Charges RecommendedP202300386 12:02 10-44 : MVA NON INJURYRESPONDED TO A TWO VEHICLE MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT AT THE 300 BLOCK OF FLACK AVENUE / DAMAGES RESULTED IN OVER $1500 WORTH OF DAMAGE / ACCIDENT DID NOT RESULT IN ANY INJURIES /Closed - Resolved06/03/23 Total: 2Total Records: 20

Alliance Police Department: The media report

Residents and nonresidents may apply for a draw status Nebraska deer permit in three mule deer conservation areas June 12-23.&nbsp;

In 2023, the Platte Mule Deer Conservation Area, Pine Ridge MDCA and the Frenchman MDCA are the only deer permits in the drawing. A preference point may be purchased in lieu of participating in the drawing.

Residents and eligible landowners also may apply for a firearm or muzzleloader antelope permit, nonresidents may apply for an archery antelope permit and residents may apply for a general elk permit. An antelope preference point and an elk bonus point may be purchased in lieu of participating in the drawing.

The application period opens June 12 at 1 p.m. Central time. Applications must be received by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission by 5 p.m. Central time – or by 11:59 p.m. for online applications – on June 23. One application is allowed per person per species.

Draws are used to provide equal opportunity to obtain high demand permits. Resident and nonresidents are separated in the drawing, with at least 85% of permits reserved for residents.

Applications may be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MDUuNzc3ODIyMzEifQ.ifOowQ_0TqCN2l0v3SLFMWKZVL3iYsxhJtE7uKgVsjw/s/497221906/br/204256784923-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>, via application form in the 2023 Big Game Guide, or in person at a Game and Parks permitting office. A list of offices is in the Big Game Guide.

Results of the draw will be available by the first Friday in July.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuT3V0ZG9vck5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MDUuNzc3ODIyMzEifQ.MKEHQPpeIt-sFUHONWtgUVLyyxirJIo1Xx1V8F2zaK4/s/497221906/br/204256784923-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>, which includes a digital version of the Big Game Guide, for more information.

By Nebraska Game and ParksResidents and nonresidents may apply for a draw status Nebraska deer permit in three mule deer conservation areas June 12-23.&nbsp;In 2023, the Platte Mule Deer Conservation Area, Pine Ridge MDCA and the Frenchman MDCA are the only deer permits in the drawing. A preference point may be purchased in lieu of participating in the drawing.Residents and eligible landowners also may apply for a firearm or muzzleloader antelope permit, nonresidents may apply for an archery antelope permit and residents may apply for a general elk permit. An antelope preference point and an elk bonus point may be purchased in lieu of participating in the drawing.The application period opens June 12 at 1 p.m. Central time. Applications must be received by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission by 5 p.m. Central time – or by 11:59 p.m. for online applications – on June 23. One application is allowed per person per species.Draws are used to provide equal opportunity to obtain high demand permits. Resident and nonresidents are separated in the drawing, with at least 85% of permits reserved for residents.Applications may be made at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MDUuNzc3ODIyMzEifQ.ifOowQ_0TqCN2l0v3SLFMWKZVL3iYsxhJtE7uKgVsjw/s/497221906/br/204256784923-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>, via application form in the 2023 Big Game Guide, or in person at a Game and Parks permitting office. A list of offices is in the Big Game Guide.Results of the draw will be available by the first Friday in July.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuT3V0ZG9vck5lYnJhc2thLmdvdiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA2MDUuNzc3ODIyMzEifQ.MKEHQPpeIt-sFUHONWtgUVLyyxirJIo1Xx1V8F2zaK4/s/497221906/br/204256784923-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>, which includes a digital version of the Big Game Guide, for more information.

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