By Karen Benzel, United Way of Western Nebraska

&nbsp; This is a 42 hole tournament with 21 holes in the morning and 21 holes in the afternoon. The course will change for the afternoon round, so it will be like playing two different courses. 18 holes are the regular course with three bonus holes per round. 

$1,000 added cash payout for pro. Cash added to payout in pro division.

 This is a fundraiser to benefit United Way of Western Nebraska serving Box Butte and Dawes Counties. 

Winning players will be able to choose their prizes and cash payouts will be paid via PayPal. Disc Golf Clinic Friday evening (8/20) at 6 p.m. $10 with Justin Cournoyer, Clinician. Sponsored by Latitude 64 with the first 50 players receiving discs and/or other items from Latitude 64. No preregistration for the clinic. Food trucks onsite and beverage cart.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Karen Benzel, United Way of Western Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627659734911.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; This is a 42 hole tournament with 21 holes in the morning and 21 holes in the afternoon. The course will change for the afternoon round, so it will be like playing two different courses. 18 holes are the regular course with three bonus holes per round. $1,000 added cash payout for pro. Cash added to payout in pro division. This is a fundraiser to benefit United Way of Western Nebraska serving Box Butte and Dawes Counties. Winning players will be able to choose their prizes and cash payouts will be paid via PayPal. Disc Golf Clinic Friday evening (8/20) at 6 p.m. $10 with Justin Cournoyer, Clinician. Sponsored by Latitude 64 with the first 50 players receiving discs and/or other items from Latitude 64. No preregistration for the clinic. Food trucks onsite and beverage cart.&nbsp;&nbsp;

United Way to hold disc golf tournament, clinic with Pro JC Cournoyer

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

Including the cities of Chadron, Chadron St Park, Alliance, Hemingford, Scottsbluff, Gering, Harrisburg, Angora, Bridgeport, Bayard, Redington, Kimball, Sidney, Brownson, Harrison, and Agate

...DEGRADED AIR QUALITY UNTIL 8PM MDT FRIDAY...

The following message is transmitted in collaboration with the Nebraska Emergency Management Office through 8 PM Friday.

WHAT...Degraded air quality from smoke from western wildfires.

IMPACTS...Heavy smoke from western wildfires will continue over the Nebraska Panhandle through at least Thursday morning.

HEALTH INFORMATION...Recommended the elderly, young children, and individuals with respiratory problems avoid excessive physical exertion and minimize outdoor activities during this time. Wildfire smoke is made up of a variety of pollutants, including particulate matter and ozone, which can cause respiratory health effect. Although these people are most susceptible to health impacts, we advise that everyone should avoid prolonged exposure to poor air quality conditions.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYIncluding the cities of Chadron, Chadron St Park, Alliance, Hemingford, Scottsbluff, Gering, Harrisburg, Angora, Bridgeport, Bayard, Redington, Kimball, Sidney, Brownson, Harrison, and Agate...DEGRADED AIR QUALITY UNTIL 8PM MDT FRIDAY...The following message is transmitted in collaboration with the Nebraska Emergency Management Office through 8 PM Friday.WHAT...Degraded air quality from smoke from western wildfires.WHERE...All Nebraska Panhandle counties.WHEN...Through 8 PM ADT Friday eveningIMPACTS...Heavy smoke from western wildfires will continue over the Nebraska Panhandle through at least Thursday morning.HEALTH INFORMATION...Recommended the elderly, young children, and individuals with respiratory problems avoid excessive physical exertion and minimize outdoor activities during this time. Wildfire smoke is made up of a variety of pollutants, including particulate matter and ozone, which can cause respiratory health effect. Although these people are most susceptible to health impacts, we advise that everyone should avoid prolonged exposure to poor air quality conditions.

NWS issues degraded air quality statement for Panhandle 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire Saturday, after the Biden administration extended the original date by a month. The moratorium put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.

Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access nearly $47 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.

Advocates for tenants said the distribution of the money had been slow and that more time was needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to oust tenants who were behind on their rents.

Even with the delay, roughly 3.6 million people in the U.S. as of July 5 said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.

WHAT’S THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts temporarily banned evictions for 2 1/2 months near the start of the pandemic, but it expired in May 2020. Unlike in some states, Nebraska cities don't have their own eviction moratoriums.

WHAT’S BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?

Nebraska has earmarked $200 million from the coronavirus aid package Congress passed in December to help tenants with back rent, utility bills and other expenses.

The program offers up to $20,000 in assistance to renters or homeowners who need help paying up to 15 months of their bills. But the aid is only available to people who make 80% or less of their county’s median income and can show they are unable to pay rent because of a financial hardship caused by the pandemic or are at risk of becoming homeless.

The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority said that so far, nearly $24.6 million has been distributed to 6,292 households in Nebraska by the state and local programs in Lincoln and Omaha.

HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?

Eviction cases have generally been put on hold or dismissed by Nebraska judges after tenants raised the CDC moratorium as a defense. Scott Mertz, an attorney with Legal Aid of Nebraska, said the number of eviction lawsuits fell by more than 40% last year after the moratoriums were put in place. About 5,300 eviction cases were filed in Nebraska courts last year, which was down from roughly 9,300 in 2019. So far this year, about 2,800 eviction cases have been filed in the state, which is similar to the number last year at this time. That is expected to increase after the moratorium ends.

WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATE’S MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?

The rental market in Nebraska remained tight last year as the state continued to have a shortage of affordable housing. The state finance authority said the vacancy rate for apartments statewide was 3.7% last year, which was significantly lower than the 7% national average. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Nebraska increased by nearly 20% from 2015 through 2020, reaching $770.60 last year. In the Omaha metropolitan area, rent for a two-bedroom apartment averaged $974.20 last year. In the Lincoln area, that figure was $802.80.

ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?

Nebraska's homeless ranks could swell once the eviction moratorium ends because evictions and homelessness are closely linked and there is a lack of low-income housing in the state, Mertz said. Although the number of evictions in Nebraska is expected to jump after the moratorium ends, it's not clear how many landlords are waiting to act once it expires.

“It’s going to be overwhelming. It’s just a question of how overwhelming,” Mertz said.

Recent census data shows there were 21,641 adults in the state who feared they could be evicted within two months.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire Saturday, after the Biden administration extended the original date by a month. The moratorium put in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September has been the only tool keeping millions of tenants in their homes. Many of them lost jobs during the coronavirus pandemic and have fallen months behind on their rent.Landlords successfully challenged the order in court, arguing that they also had bills to pay. They pointed out that tenants could access nearly $47 billion in federal money set aside to help pay rents and related expenses.Advocates for tenants said the distribution of the money had been slow and that more time was needed to distribute it and repay landlords. Without an extension, they feared a spike in evictions and lawsuits seeking to oust tenants who were behind on their rents.Even with the delay, roughly 3.6 million people in the U.S. as of July 5 said they would face eviction within the next two months, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey. The survey measures the social and economic effects of the pandemic every two weeks through online responses from a representative sample of U.S. households.Here’s the situation in Nebraska:WHAT’S THE STATUS OF EVICTION MORATORIUMS IN THE STATE?Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts temporarily banned evictions for 2 1/2 months near the start of the pandemic, but it expired in May 2020. Unlike in some states, Nebraska cities don't have their own eviction moratoriums.WHAT’S BEING DONE TO HELP PEOPLE FACING EVICTION?Nebraska has earmarked $200 million from the coronavirus aid package Congress passed in December to help tenants with back rent, utility bills and other expenses.The program offers up to $20,000 in assistance to renters or homeowners who need help paying up to 15 months of their bills. But the aid is only available to people who make 80% or less of their county’s median income and can show they are unable to pay rent because of a financial hardship caused by the pandemic or are at risk of becoming homeless.The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority said that so far, nearly $24.6 million has been distributed to 6,292 households in Nebraska by the state and local programs in Lincoln and Omaha.HOW ARE THE COURTS HANDLING EVICTION HEARINGS?Eviction cases have generally been put on hold or dismissed by Nebraska judges after tenants raised the CDC moratorium as a defense. Scott Mertz, an attorney with Legal Aid of Nebraska, said the number of eviction lawsuits fell by more than 40% last year after the moratoriums were put in place. About 5,300 eviction cases were filed in Nebraska courts last year, which was down from roughly 9,300 in 2019. So far this year, about 2,800 eviction cases have been filed in the state, which is similar to the number last year at this time. That is expected to increase after the moratorium ends.WHAT IS THE AFFORDABILITY IN THE STATE’S MAJOR RENTAL MARKETS?The rental market in Nebraska remained tight last year as the state continued to have a shortage of affordable housing. The state finance authority said the vacancy rate for apartments statewide was 3.7% last year, which was significantly lower than the 7% national average. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Nebraska increased by nearly 20% from 2015 through 2020, reaching $770.60 last year. In the Omaha metropolitan area, rent for a two-bedroom apartment averaged $974.20 last year. In the Lincoln area, that figure was $802.80.ARE EVICTIONS EXPECTED TO CREATE A SURGE IN HOMELESSNESS?Nebraska's homeless ranks could swell once the eviction moratorium ends because evictions and homelessness are closely linked and there is a lack of low-income housing in the state, Mertz said. Although the number of evictions in Nebraska is expected to jump after the moratorium ends, it's not clear how many landlords are waiting to act once it expires.“It’s going to be overwhelming. It’s just a question of how overwhelming,” Mertz said.Recent census data shows there were 21,641 adults in the state who feared they could be evicted within two months.

EXPLAINER: Evictions are expected to increase in Nebraska

Alliance – The final day for open swim at Big Blue Bay will be Sunday Aug. 8. 

The pool will remain open for morning and evening lap swim Aug. 9 to the 13. 

Residents are encouraged to enjoy the final few days of pool season. 

The schedule for the final two weeks at the pool is as follows:

Noon to 1:00 p.m. Adult Lap Swim &amp; 8 and under Family Swim

5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Adult Lap Swim &amp; 8 and under Family Swim

For more information, please contact Shana Brown at (308) 762-2384.

Alliance – The final day for open swim at Big Blue Bay will be Sunday Aug. 8. The pool will remain open for morning and evening lap swim Aug. 9 to the 13. Residents are encouraged to enjoy the final few days of pool season. The schedule for the final two weeks at the pool is as follows:Aug. 2 – 66:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. Adult Lap SwimNoon to 1:00 p.m. Adult Lap Swim &amp; 8 and under Family Swim1:00 p.m. to 5: 00 p.m. Open Swim5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Adult Lap Swim &amp; 8 and under Family SwimAugust 7 - 8Noon to 1:00 p.m. Adult Lap Swim &amp; 8 and under Family Swim1:00 p.m. to 5: 00 p.m. Open Swim5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Adult Lap Swim &amp; 8 and under Family SwimAugust 9 - 136:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. Adult Lap Swim5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Adult Lap SwimFor more information, please contact Shana Brown at (308) 762-2384.

Big Blue Bay releases end of summer swimming schedule

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — An attempt to include gender identity lessons in Nebraska’s public school curriculum was largely scrapped after an uproar from conservatives, including top state officials, who argued that the topics weren’t appropriate for children. 

The Nebraska Department of Education announced that it had stricken most of the proposed standards in a new draft released Thursday. 

The move came after state education officials faced intense criticism from many parents, school boards, state lawmakers and Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts, who held town hall events to blast the proposal. 

Opponents flooded a meeting of the Nebraska State Board of Education, an elected board that oversees the agency.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — An attempt to include gender identity lessons in Nebraska’s public school curriculum was largely scrapped after an uproar from conservatives, including top state officials, who argued that the topics weren’t appropriate for children. The Nebraska Department of Education announced that it had stricken most of the proposed standards in a new draft released Thursday. The move came after state education officials faced intense criticism from many parents, school boards, state lawmakers and Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts, who held town hall events to blast the proposal. Opponents flooded a meeting of the Nebraska State Board of Education, an elected board that oversees the agency.

Nebraska largely scraps gender identity lessons after uproar

Box Butte Co. Fair Shooting Results: (Exhibitor Name, Class Description, Ribbon, Special Placing)

Ainslee Woltman, BB Gun - Intermediate, Blue	

Ashley Carr, BB Gun - Intermediate, Purple, Champion Intermediate BB Gun

Ashley Carr, Air Rifle - Intermediate, Purple, Champion Intermediate Air Rifle

Ashley Carr, Trap - Intermediate, Purple, Reserve Intermediate Trap Shooter

Bayden Solberg, Trap - Senior, Purple, Overall Trap Shooter

Braden Myers, BB Gun - Junior, Blue, Champion Junior BB Gun

Caysen Robertson, Trap - Intermediate, Blue	

Dallas Woltman, BB Gun - Junior, Blue, Reserve Junior BB Gun

Garrett Myers, BB Gun - Intermediate	Purple	

Katrina Karell, BB Gun - Intermediate, Purple	

Makenna Quick, BB Gun - Intermediate, Purple, Reserve Intermediate BB Gun

Makenna Quick, Air Rifle - Intermediate, Purple, Reserve Intermediate Air Rifle

Rasine Bolek, Air Rifle - Senior, Purple, Reserve Senior Air Rifle

Ryan Ragsdale, Trap - Intermediate, Purple, Champion Intermediate Trap Shooter

Shelby Carr, Air Rifle - Senior, Purple, Champion Senior Air Rifle

Shelby Carr, Trap - Senior, Purple, Champion Senior Trap Shooter

Box Butte Co. Fair Shooting Results: (Exhibitor Name, Class Description, Ribbon, Special Placing) Ainslee Woltman, BB Gun - Intermediate, Blue	Ashley Carr, BB Gun - Intermediate, Purple, Champion Intermediate BB GunAshley Carr, Air Rifle - Intermediate, Purple, Champion Intermediate Air RifleAshley Carr, Trap - Intermediate, Purple, Reserve Intermediate Trap ShooterBayden Solberg, Trap - Senior, Purple, Overall Trap ShooterBraden Connor, Trap - Senior, Blue	Braden Myers, BB Gun - Junior, Blue, Champion Junior BB GunBrayden McGowan, Trap - Senior	Blue	Caysen Robertson, Trap - Intermediate, Blue	Dallas Woltman, BB Gun - Junior, Blue, Reserve Junior BB GunDaniel Steele, Trap - Senior, Purple	Daren McConville, Trap - Senior, Purple	Garrett Myers, BB Gun - Intermediate	Purple	Gattlen Bell, Trap - Intermediate, Blue	Hayden McDonald, Trap - Senior, Blue	Ian Thompson, Trap - Senior, Blue	Jett Eggers, Trap - Senior, Blue	Joseph Steele, Trap - Senior, Red	Katrina Karell, BB Gun - Intermediate, Purple	Logan Thompson, Trap - Senior, Blue	Makenna Quick, BB Gun - Intermediate, Purple, Reserve Intermediate BB GunMakenna Quick, Air Rifle - Intermediate, Purple, Reserve Intermediate Air RifleRasine Bolek, Air Rifle - Senior, Purple, Reserve Senior Air RifleRJ Riggs, Trap - Senior, Blue	Ryan Ragsdale, Trap - Intermediate, Purple, Champion Intermediate Trap ShooterShelby Carr, Air Rifle - Senior, Purple, Champion Senior Air RifleShelby Carr, Trap - Senior, Purple, Champion Senior Trap ShooterTate Thompson, Trap - Senior, Blue	Wyatt Walker, Trap - Senior, Blue

Box Butte Co. Fair Shooting Results

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska State Patrol says troopers arrested a 31-year-old man who jumped the fence surrounding the Governor's Mansion in Lincoln and sat down in the mansion's back yard. 

The Lincoln Journal Star reports the incident happened Wednesday afternoon, when Gov. Pete Ricketts was not in the mansion. 

The patrol says State Capitol security spotted the man as he scaled the fence and entered the back yard. 

He was quickly arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, trespassing and criminal impersonation, because police say he gave officers a fake name.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska State Patrol says troopers arrested a 31-year-old man who jumped the fence surrounding the Governor's Mansion in Lincoln and sat down in the mansion's back yard. The Lincoln Journal Star reports the incident happened Wednesday afternoon, when Gov. Pete Ricketts was not in the mansion. The patrol says State Capitol security spotted the man as he scaled the fence and entered the back yard. He was quickly arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, trespassing and criminal impersonation, because police say he gave officers a fake name.

Patrol: Man arrested for jumping fence at Governor's Mansion

The Alliance Police Department will be holding a Bicycle Rodeo and Auction on Aug. 1 at the Alliance High School parking lot.&nbsp;

The bicycle rodeo will start at 2 p.m. and is free to the public.&nbsp;

APD will also be registering bikes for free.&nbsp;

 APD will have an&nbsp; agility course hosted by Bike Patrol Officers. 

"Come take a look at our selection of bicycles that were recovered and unclaimed," Alliance Police Department said. "If you find one you like, make a silent bid."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627576773690.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Alliance Police Department will be holding a Bicycle Rodeo and Auction on Aug. 1 at the Alliance High School parking lot.&nbsp;The bicycle rodeo will start at 2 p.m. and is free to the public.&nbsp;APD will also be registering bikes for free.&nbsp;The event is for ages 14 and under. APD will have an&nbsp; agility course hosted by Bike Patrol Officers. "Come take a look at our selection of bicycles that were recovered and unclaimed," Alliance Police Department said. "If you find one you like, make a silent bid."

Alliance Police Department to hold 'Bicycle Rodeo and Auction'

By&nbsp;Blanche Randolph, Hemingford Chamber President

Hemingford Chamber of Commerce is reaching out to the churches, church families, and businesses in Box Butte County for assistance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Box Butte County Fair is just a week away and the Chamber will once again be sponsoring the Diorama Food Booth at the Fair.

As a bit of background, the Christmas Diorama, a beautiful, depiction of the life of Christ spanning nearly the length of three football fields, is displayed on the west edge of Hemingford each Christmas Season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This unique display is an awesome attraction for which our entire county can be proud.&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course there are costs involved in constructing, repairing and maintaining a scene of this magnitude.&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from the Diorama Food Booth are the only source of revenue we have to sustain the Diorama.

In order to enhance profitability of this fund raiser, the Chamber is once again requesting your assistance in the following two ways:

1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Donation of fruit pies to be sold at the Food Booth.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pies may be dropped off at the Diorama Food Booth, located on the Fair Grounds, Hemingford Cooperative Telephone Company or at Dave’s Pharmacy in Alliance, beginning Tuesday, August 3rd&nbsp;through Friday, August 6.

2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Volunteers are needed to serve in the Food Booth on Thursday, August 5 and Saturday, August 7 between the hours of 10:30 A.M. and 8:30 P.M.

If you can help out by volunteering a few hours on one of those days, please either text the Chamber or give us a call at 308-487-3300.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leave a message and we will get back with you to schedule a time that works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;OR we have a link to sign up online:&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/fH74sA3T8qXyrNaq5" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/fH74sA3T8qXyrNaq5</a>

By&nbsp;Blanche Randolph, Hemingford Chamber PresidentHemingford Chamber of Commerce is reaching out to the churches, church families, and businesses in Box Butte County for assistance.&nbsp;&nbsp;Box Butte County Fair is just a week away and the Chamber will once again be sponsoring the Diorama Food Booth at the Fair.As a bit of background, the Christmas Diorama, a beautiful, depiction of the life of Christ spanning nearly the length of three football fields, is displayed on the west edge of Hemingford each Christmas Season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This unique display is an awesome attraction for which our entire county can be proud.&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course there are costs involved in constructing, repairing and maintaining a scene of this magnitude.&nbsp;&nbsp;Proceeds from the Diorama Food Booth are the only source of revenue we have to sustain the Diorama.In order to enhance profitability of this fund raiser, the Chamber is once again requesting your assistance in the following two ways:1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Donation of fruit pies to be sold at the Food Booth.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pies may be dropped off at the Diorama Food Booth, located on the Fair Grounds, Hemingford Cooperative Telephone Company or at Dave’s Pharmacy in Alliance, beginning Tuesday, August 3rd&nbsp;through Friday, August 6.2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Volunteers are needed to serve in the Food Booth on Thursday, August 5 and Saturday, August 7 between the hours of 10:30 A.M. and 8:30 P.M.If you can help out by volunteering a few hours on one of those days, please either text the Chamber or give us a call at 308-487-3300.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leave a message and we will get back with you to schedule a time that works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;OR we have a link to sign up online:&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/fH74sA3T8qXyrNaq5" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/fH74sA3T8qXyrNaq5</a>

Donations, volunteers needed for Hemingford Diorama Food Booth

SIDNEY -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College and the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) will host free&nbsp;"Modern Marketing for Small Business" workshops in Kimball and Sidney in August.

The Kimball workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 11 from 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Kimball County Transit Service Center. The workshop in Sidney will be Thursday, Aug. 12 from 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on the WNCC Sidney Campus.

Complimentary tuition for residents of Cheyenne, Kimball, Deuel, Garden, and Keith counties is provided by a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration administered through the NBDC.&nbsp;Lunch will also be provided.&nbsp;

Anyone who is responsible for planning and/or implementing marketing for a business is encouraged to attend. The workshops, conducted by Don Osborne of DBO Digital Marketing, will focus on challenges business owners face in a do-it-yourself marketing situation. Topics include how to use digital and traditional media to reach new customers, creating Facebook ads, and creating professional looking graphics.&nbsp;Attendees can bring their laptops and participate with hands-on help from Osborne or just observe and take notes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Register online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Qyjf6Ask77s6JwDHeKubQ5K8EYKAeH-bCxEKv6EYwzghfj8JBGm4VO564Mw3kLBHdWFY91XnThnyPZJ6dKin4wGBcrKh16rftEQXB6oKY3WlQJ2UHhFMdnz4uFJIdZdhs5fKfNohco3HVHtuFOm5zKZ0s7059TcS-8tZxH5weoo=&amp;c=82XL2ew7P5f5_yEoyUCBa9xl_LHJ7fcVeND3dL1tp-4kQ-Arad0sDw==&amp;ch=qJClgK4oZbYq_6Jndojcngdnbj6Yp_RWlEDBBshT_kzrHHhwwpW2JQ==" target="_blank">nbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/9575</a>&nbsp;for the Kimball class or&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Qyjf6Ask77s6JwDHeKubQ5K8EYKAeH-bCxEKv6EYwzghfj8JBGm4VO564Mw3kLBH2JKPZ1b9GFUV4chHJdThncOOhe32ZccBxRPqeXfHl6no6Q7zP_PuHcoNwg0pAnmNJ-AvkfqiTilbho_VG6-7gew0Vwasy69UkV19EbKFaNo=&amp;c=82XL2ew7P5f5_yEoyUCBa9xl_LHJ7fcVeND3dL1tp-4kQ-Arad0sDw==&amp;ch=qJClgK4oZbYq_6Jndojcngdnbj6Yp_RWlEDBBshT_kzrHHhwwpW2JQ==" target="_blank">nbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/9574</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;for the class in Sidney. For more information, please call 308.635.6335.

SIDNEY -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College and the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) will host free&nbsp;"Modern Marketing for Small Business" workshops in Kimball and Sidney in August.The Kimball workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 11 from 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Kimball County Transit Service Center. The workshop in Sidney will be Thursday, Aug. 12 from 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on the WNCC Sidney Campus.Complimentary tuition for residents of Cheyenne, Kimball, Deuel, Garden, and Keith counties is provided by a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration administered through the NBDC.&nbsp;Lunch will also be provided.&nbsp;Anyone who is responsible for planning and/or implementing marketing for a business is encouraged to attend. The workshops, conducted by Don Osborne of DBO Digital Marketing, will focus on challenges business owners face in a do-it-yourself marketing situation. Topics include how to use digital and traditional media to reach new customers, creating Facebook ads, and creating professional looking graphics.&nbsp;Attendees can bring their laptops and participate with hands-on help from Osborne or just observe and take notes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Register online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Qyjf6Ask77s6JwDHeKubQ5K8EYKAeH-bCxEKv6EYwzghfj8JBGm4VO564Mw3kLBHdWFY91XnThnyPZJ6dKin4wGBcrKh16rftEQXB6oKY3WlQJ2UHhFMdnz4uFJIdZdhs5fKfNohco3HVHtuFOm5zKZ0s7059TcS-8tZxH5weoo=&amp;c=82XL2ew7P5f5_yEoyUCBa9xl_LHJ7fcVeND3dL1tp-4kQ-Arad0sDw==&amp;ch=qJClgK4oZbYq_6Jndojcngdnbj6Yp_RWlEDBBshT_kzrHHhwwpW2JQ==" target="_blank">nbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/9575</a>&nbsp;for the Kimball class or&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Qyjf6Ask77s6JwDHeKubQ5K8EYKAeH-bCxEKv6EYwzghfj8JBGm4VO564Mw3kLBH2JKPZ1b9GFUV4chHJdThncOOhe32ZccBxRPqeXfHl6no6Q7zP_PuHcoNwg0pAnmNJ-AvkfqiTilbho_VG6-7gew0Vwasy69UkV19EbKFaNo=&amp;c=82XL2ew7P5f5_yEoyUCBa9xl_LHJ7fcVeND3dL1tp-4kQ-Arad0sDw==&amp;ch=qJClgK4oZbYq_6Jndojcngdnbj6Yp_RWlEDBBshT_kzrHHhwwpW2JQ==" target="_blank">nbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/9574</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;for the class in Sidney. For more information, please call 308.635.6335.

WNCC partners with NBDC to bring marketing workshops to Sidney, Kimball

In the western part of Dobby’s Frontier Town along the south boardwalk is the Slagle Building. Like many buildings in frontier towns, this building houses three professions: barber, dentist, and doctor. The doctor’s office is in the back room; more on the other two next week.

A hundred years ago most doctor’s visits were in their home offices or were house calls. Most people gave birth and endured sickness, injuries, even surgeries at home. Broken bones were serious, often deadly injuries. A closed fracture could be set in plaster until it healed. Open fractures might require moving the bone into place and then splinting it with boards. Serious breaks might be set with pulleys and sandbags, but doctors often amputated. Until the 20th century most doctors did not understand the importance of sterilization, so patients often died of infection. Laudanum, a mixture of alcohol and opium, was a common painkiller.

Larger communities built hospitals, primarily to help the poor. All hospitals before the 1920s operated without much money. Physicians donated their time, and costs for nurses and staff (often Catholic nuns) tended to be low. Alliance’s first hospital was Saint Joseph’s, a 23-bed facility established in 1910. When Box Butte General Hospital was built in the 1970’s, they held a yard sale of old equipment from St. Joseph’s Hospital. The tools you see on the wall and the jars of bone screws are from this sale.

In 1920 the Slagle Clinic was built, with doctors Charles Slagle, Joseph Kuncl and George Johnston serving the Alliance area. The reference books, dating back to 1922, were from Dr. Slagle’s library. The examination table was used by Dr. Slagle, and then Dr. Wilkinson here in Alliance. The optometric equipment was purchased by Dobby at various auctions in the area.

The diathermic equipment concentrated heat to sore or damaged muscles. After a football injury, Dobby’s doctor put the pads on the front and back of his injured leg. He went to treat another patient and then went to lunch, forgetting about Dobby. Serious burns left permanent scars. When the same machine was sold at auction, Dobby decided he had to have it for his collection.

Dobby’s Frontier Town is located at 320 East 25th Street/ Nance Road, Alliance. The town is open 10:00-6:00 daily for self-guided tours. Donations are appreciated and much needed for repairs after our recent hail and windstorm.

SLAGLE DOCTOR’S OFFICEBy&nbsp;Patricia JonesIn the western part of Dobby’s Frontier Town along the south boardwalk is the Slagle Building. Like many buildings in frontier towns, this building houses three professions: barber, dentist, and doctor. The doctor’s office is in the back room; more on the other two next week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627570220293.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A hundred years ago most doctor’s visits were in their home offices or were house calls. Most people gave birth and endured sickness, injuries, even surgeries at home. Broken bones were serious, often deadly injuries. A closed fracture could be set in plaster until it healed. Open fractures might require moving the bone into place and then splinting it with boards. Serious breaks might be set with pulleys and sandbags, but doctors often amputated. Until the 20th century most doctors did not understand the importance of sterilization, so patients often died of infection. Laudanum, a mixture of alcohol and opium, was a common painkiller.Larger communities built hospitals, primarily to help the poor. All hospitals before the 1920s operated without much money. Physicians donated their time, and costs for nurses and staff (often Catholic nuns) tended to be low. Alliance’s first hospital was Saint Joseph’s, a 23-bed facility established in 1910. When Box Butte General Hospital was built in the 1970’s, they held a yard sale of old equipment from St. Joseph’s Hospital. The tools you see on the wall and the jars of bone screws are from this sale.In 1920 the Slagle Clinic was built, with doctors Charles Slagle, Joseph Kuncl and George Johnston serving the Alliance area. The reference books, dating back to 1922, were from Dr. Slagle’s library. The examination table was used by Dr. Slagle, and then Dr. Wilkinson here in Alliance. The optometric equipment was purchased by Dobby at various auctions in the area.The diathermic equipment concentrated heat to sore or damaged muscles. After a football injury, Dobby’s doctor put the pads on the front and back of his injured leg. He went to treat another patient and then went to lunch, forgetting about Dobby. Serious burns left permanent scars. When the same machine was sold at auction, Dobby decided he had to have it for his collection.Dobby’s Frontier Town is located at 320 East 25th Street/ Nance Road, Alliance. The town is open 10:00-6:00 daily for self-guided tours. Donations are appreciated and much needed for repairs after our recent hail and windstorm.

Dobby's History: Slagle building

Scottsbluff – Want to help protect the health of your employees during flu season?&nbsp;Regional West Community Health&nbsp;makes it easy with onsite flu shot clinics for local businesses with seven or more employees.

 Community Health also offers free COVID-19 vaccines at all worksite clinics.

Clinics are now being scheduled for October and November. Businesses with fewer than seven employees may provide vaccinations for spouses, or partner with a nearby business.

To schedule a clinic at your worksite, please call Terri Allen, Community Health Outreach, at 308-630-1821, or on her cell phone at 308-641-1185. You will need to provide the approximate number of employees who will be vaccinated, the date and time you prefer, and the location for the clinic at your worksite.

For more information about flu vaccinations, contact the Regional West Community Health office at 308-630-1580.

Scottsbluff – Want to help protect the health of your employees during flu season?&nbsp;Regional West Community Health&nbsp;makes it easy with onsite flu shot clinics for local businesses with seven or more employees. Community Health also offers free COVID-19 vaccines at all worksite clinics.Clinics are now being scheduled for October and November. Businesses with fewer than seven employees may provide vaccinations for spouses, or partner with a nearby business.To schedule a clinic at your worksite, please call Terri Allen, Community Health Outreach, at 308-630-1821, or on her cell phone at 308-641-1185. You will need to provide the approximate number of employees who will be vaccinated, the date and time you prefer, and the location for the clinic at your worksite.For more information about flu vaccinations, contact the Regional West Community Health office at 308-630-1580.

Regional West delivers flu, COVID-19 vaccines to worksites

The Box Butte County Fair will be held July 29 through Aug. 8 in Hemingford.&nbsp;

This years theme is "Tails, Trails and Tales of the Box Butte County Fair."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627498811628.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627498830043.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Box Butte County Fair will be held July 29 through Aug. 8 in Hemingford.&nbsp;This years theme is "Tails, Trails and Tales of the Box Butte County Fair."

Box Butte County fair schedule of events 

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyoming

Including the cities of Chadron, Chadron St Park, Alliance, Hemingford, Scottsbluff, Gering, Harrison, Agate, Lusk, Redbird, and Torrington

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT MDT TONIGHT...

* WHAT...Heat index values up to 103 degrees expected.

* WHERE...In Wyoming, Niobrara County and Goshen County. In&nbsp;  Nebraska, Dawes County, Box Butte County, Scotts Bluff County,&nbsp;  Northern Sioux County and Southern Sioux County.

* WHEN...Until Midnight MDT Wednesday night.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat&nbsp;  related illnesses to occur.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Low temperatures will likely exceed 70&nbsp;  degrees, which may not give relief from the daytime heat.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WyomingIncluding the cities of Chadron, Chadron St Park, Alliance, Hemingford, Scottsbluff, Gering, Harrison, Agate, Lusk, Redbird, and Torrington...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL MIDNIGHT MDT TONIGHT...* WHAT...Heat index values up to 103 degrees expected.* WHERE...In Wyoming, Niobrara County and Goshen County. In&nbsp; Nebraska, Dawes County, Box Butte County, Scotts Bluff County,&nbsp; Northern Sioux County and Southern Sioux County.* WHEN...Until Midnight MDT Wednesday night.* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat&nbsp; related illnesses to occur.* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Low temperatures will likely exceed 70&nbsp; degrees, which may not give relief from the daytime heat.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627489504875.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Please stay hydrated.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

Heat Advisory issued for the Panhandle 

For Alliance Grocery Kart manager Becky Maser her journey at the store began as so many other employees have started out there.&nbsp; "Upon graduating from high school I applied to Grocery Kart for a summer job before I headed off to college." Some years later, Becky was working at the store full-time when the manager position opened up.&nbsp; "When [former manager] Shawn Black left I took the position on and went forward."

Maser tells Panhandle Post that among the many changes at the store over the years--including the building expansion, new deli, and more--the creation of the liquor store presented the most challenges.&nbsp; "With the liquor license..and the IDs, and how we have to follow all the procedures back there...the liquor department has done very well."

Maser has a team made up of young employees (many of whom on their first job) combined with long-term staff. "It's always nice to keep an employee a long time and get them part of the family."

You can hear our complete interview with Alliance Grocery Kart manager Becky Maser below, including her discussion of things people might not know about the store.

For Alliance Grocery Kart manager Becky Maser her journey at the store began as so many other employees have started out there.&nbsp; "Upon graduating from high school I applied to Grocery Kart for a summer job before I headed off to college." Some years later, Becky was working at the store full-time when the manager position opened up.&nbsp; "When [former manager] Shawn Black left I took the position on and went forward."Maser tells Panhandle Post that among the many changes at the store over the years--including the building expansion, new deli, and more--the creation of the liquor store presented the most challenges.&nbsp; "With the liquor license..and the IDs, and how we have to follow all the procedures back there...the liquor department has done very well."Maser has a team made up of young employees (many of whom on their first job) combined with long-term staff. "It's always nice to keep an employee a long time and get them part of the family."You can hear our complete interview with Alliance Grocery Kart manager Becky Maser below, including her discussion of things people might not know about the store.<div><iframe title="SUMMER OF SMALL BUSINESS: Becky Maser, Alliance Grocery Kart" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ggkv9-1063f0c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div><figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PWf7BHqth6g"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

SUMMER OF SMALL BUSINESS: Grocery Kart Manager Becky Maser 

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

Beginning July 15, many parents started receiving advance payments of the Federal Child Tax Credit. The IRS is paying half the total credit amount, $300 a month for each child under age 6 and $250 for each child age 6 to 17, on a monthly basis from now until the end of the year. The payments are being made on the 15th of each month, unless it falls on a weekend or holiday. They can claim the other half when they file their 2021 taxes next year.

Congress chose to have the child tax credit payments sent to families monthly as a way to help parents with their expenses, including housing, food, clothing, and school supplies. Parents of nearly 60 million children are receiving the monthly payments through direct deposit, paper checks or debit cards, according to the IRS. With this additional monthly income for families, more than four million children will be lifted out of poverty.

Families should be aware, however, that this means a smaller tax refund next spring. Many families count on receiving a refund of several thousand dollars so they can make a major purchase. Some have less withheld from their paychecks, hoping to have their refund as close as possible to zero, believing that overpaying means they are giving the government an interest-free loan. These people may end up owing money when they file their 2021 taxes.

Families who would rather take the entire credit in a lump sum next year can do so by opting out of monthly payments through an IRS portal. Go to www.irs.gov and search for child tax credit. So far, about 1 million households have opted out of the payments.

Families receive a federal income tax credit of up to $3,600 for each child under age 6 and $3,000 for each child age 6 to 17 for 2021. That's an increase from the 2020 child tax credit of $2,000 for each child up to age 17. Congress decided to divide this credit into twelve monthly amounts.

Low-income parents will receive more money through this child tax credit because the new law makes it fully refundable. It had been only partially refundable, up to the amount paid in taxes, leaving more than 26 million children unable to get the full credit because their families' incomes were too low, according to Treasury Department estimates. Higher income families may receive less than the full credit, down to $2,000 per child if the family’s income is over $400,000.

Parents who aren't citizens can receive the payments for their citizen children as long as they have individual taxpayer identification numbers and their children have Social Security numbers.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceBeginning July 15, many parents started receiving advance payments of the Federal Child Tax Credit. The IRS is paying half the total credit amount, $300 a month for each child under age 6 and $250 for each child age 6 to 17, on a monthly basis from now until the end of the year. The payments are being made on the 15th of each month, unless it falls on a weekend or holiday. They can claim the other half when they file their 2021 taxes next year.Congress chose to have the child tax credit payments sent to families monthly as a way to help parents with their expenses, including housing, food, clothing, and school supplies. Parents of nearly 60 million children are receiving the monthly payments through direct deposit, paper checks or debit cards, according to the IRS. With this additional monthly income for families, more than four million children will be lifted out of poverty.Families should be aware, however, that this means a smaller tax refund next spring. Many families count on receiving a refund of several thousand dollars so they can make a major purchase. Some have less withheld from their paychecks, hoping to have their refund as close as possible to zero, believing that overpaying means they are giving the government an interest-free loan. These people may end up owing money when they file their 2021 taxes.Families who would rather take the entire credit in a lump sum next year can do so by opting out of monthly payments through an IRS portal. Go to www.irs.gov and search for child tax credit. So far, about 1 million households have opted out of the payments.Families receive a federal income tax credit of up to $3,600 for each child under age 6 and $3,000 for each child age 6 to 17 for 2021. That's an increase from the 2020 child tax credit of $2,000 for each child up to age 17. Congress decided to divide this credit into twelve monthly amounts.Low-income parents will receive more money through this child tax credit because the new law makes it fully refundable. It had been only partially refundable, up to the amount paid in taxes, leaving more than 26 million children unable to get the full credit because their families' incomes were too low, according to Treasury Department estimates. Higher income families may receive less than the full credit, down to $2,000 per child if the family’s income is over $400,000.Parents who aren't citizens can receive the payments for their citizen children as long as they have individual taxpayer identification numbers and their children have Social Security numbers.

Poverty In Our Area: Advance child tax credit payments

University of Nebraska Medical Center researchers have discovered a potential new therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer, detailed in a paper in a recent issue of the journal Gastroenterology.

The team established a new way to target pancreatic cancer cells by developing inhibitors that, when combined with existing chemotherapies, can diminish pancreatic cancer in mouse models. The discovery was a culmination of about seven years of work with collaborators from the Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Germany, India, China, Italy and Switzerland.

The research was funded primarily by a $2.6 million grant from the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health and an Italian cancer research grant.

Pancreatic cancer is a lethal malignancy with a five-year survival rate of less than 10%. Pancreatic cancer cells tend to reprogram how they feed themselves and are able to survive and grow under harsh conditions, said Pankaj Singh, PhD, professor in the Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer at UNMC. Dr. Singh is the senior author of the paper.

“Our lab found that deleting the enzyme SIRT5 in pancreatic cancer cells accelerates tumor growth and correlates with poor survival in both pancreatic cancer patients and genetically engineered mouse models,” said Dr. Singh, who also is co-leader of the Cancer Biology Program at the&nbsp;Fred &amp; Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. “The study provides the first evidence in support of activating SIRT5 as a therapeutic strategy.

“The ability to ‘turn on’ SIRT5 in pancreatic cancer cells inhibits tumor growth. Developing drugs that do this is the next step and will help diminish tumors in patients with low SIRT5 expression in the tumors,” Dr. Singh said.

The team used a public database to identify the role of SIRT5 in pancreatic cancer and generated new animal models to study its role in the disease. It also developed various cell line models and tissue-like structures, and it conducted various molecular and biochemical studies. The studies also used human tumor specimens.

Dr. Singh said SIRT5 deletion enhanced the formation of early tumor lesions in mice in response to inflammation and in response to mutations in the KRAS and p53 genes. KRAS belongs to a class of genes known as oncogenes and when mutated have the potential to cause normal cells to become cancerous.&nbsp;The p53 gene stops the formation of tumors.

“While mutations in the KRAS oncogene are the main driver for the disease, how KRAS drives healthy cells to become cancer cells is not fully understood,” he said. “Also, new therapies are very much in need to target the oncogenesis induced by KRAS.”

The study also identified the basis of how pancreatic cancer cells reroute the metabolic dependencies under conditions of nutrient deprivation in the tumors.

Dr. Singh said studies need to be conducted in human patients to evaluate the effectiveness of SIRT5 against pancreatic cancer.

UNMC collaborators included first author Fang Yu, PhD, Audrey Lazenby, MD, and Kamiya Mehla, PhD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627484943240.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release UNMCUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center researchers have discovered a potential new therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer, detailed in a paper in a recent issue of the journal Gastroenterology.The team established a new way to target pancreatic cancer cells by developing inhibitors that, when combined with existing chemotherapies, can diminish pancreatic cancer in mouse models. The discovery was a culmination of about seven years of work with collaborators from the Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Germany, India, China, Italy and Switzerland.The research was funded primarily by a $2.6 million grant from the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health and an Italian cancer research grant.Pancreatic cancer is a lethal malignancy with a five-year survival rate of less than 10%. Pancreatic cancer cells tend to reprogram how they feed themselves and are able to survive and grow under harsh conditions, said Pankaj Singh, PhD, professor in the Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer at UNMC. Dr. Singh is the senior author of the paper.“Our lab found that deleting the enzyme SIRT5 in pancreatic cancer cells accelerates tumor growth and correlates with poor survival in both pancreatic cancer patients and genetically engineered mouse models,” said Dr. Singh, who also is co-leader of the Cancer Biology Program at the&nbsp;Fred &amp; Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. “The study provides the first evidence in support of activating SIRT5 as a therapeutic strategy.“The ability to ‘turn on’ SIRT5 in pancreatic cancer cells inhibits tumor growth. Developing drugs that do this is the next step and will help diminish tumors in patients with low SIRT5 expression in the tumors,” Dr. Singh said.The team used a public database to identify the role of SIRT5 in pancreatic cancer and generated new animal models to study its role in the disease. It also developed various cell line models and tissue-like structures, and it conducted various molecular and biochemical studies. The studies also used human tumor specimens.Dr. Singh said SIRT5 deletion enhanced the formation of early tumor lesions in mice in response to inflammation and in response to mutations in the KRAS and p53 genes. KRAS belongs to a class of genes known as oncogenes and when mutated have the potential to cause normal cells to become cancerous.&nbsp;The p53 gene stops the formation of tumors.“While mutations in the KRAS oncogene are the main driver for the disease, how KRAS drives healthy cells to become cancer cells is not fully understood,” he said. “Also, new therapies are very much in need to target the oncogenesis induced by KRAS.”The study also identified the basis of how pancreatic cancer cells reroute the metabolic dependencies under conditions of nutrient deprivation in the tumors.Dr. Singh said studies need to be conducted in human patients to evaluate the effectiveness of SIRT5 against pancreatic cancer.UNMC collaborators included first author Fang Yu, PhD, Audrey Lazenby, MD, and Kamiya Mehla, PhD.

U. of Nebraska Med Center team finds potential 'target' for pancreatic cancer

LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance attempting to re-impose mask guidance for vaccinated people.

“The CDC’s new guidance suggesting that vaccinated people wear masks indoors flies in the face of the public health goals that should guide the agency’s decision making," said Ricketts.&nbsp; "The CDC announcement only furthers the distrust many have with the CDC and does not help to encourage more people to get the vaccines that are helping bring the pandemic to a conclusion.&nbsp; The State of Nebraska will not be adopting their mask guidance.”

“Furthermore, I will reiterate my expectations for schools and universities in the fall.&nbsp; Schools should convene in person without mask or vaccine requirements,” said Ricketts.

“Nebraskans exercise personal responsibility for their own health, and are encouraged to have a conversation with their doctor about the vaccine.&nbsp; These conversations will be important because the virus will be with us forever," said Ricketts.&nbsp; "Working together, we’ve successfully protected hospital capacity throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; It’s time for the CDC and the government to get out of the way, and to stop trying to tell people how to live their lives.”

LINCOLN-Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance attempting to re-impose mask guidance for vaccinated people.“The CDC’s new guidance suggesting that vaccinated people wear masks indoors flies in the face of the public health goals that should guide the agency’s decision making," said Ricketts.&nbsp; "The CDC announcement only furthers the distrust many have with the CDC and does not help to encourage more people to get the vaccines that are helping bring the pandemic to a conclusion.&nbsp; The State of Nebraska will not be adopting their mask guidance.”“Furthermore, I will reiterate my expectations for schools and universities in the fall.&nbsp; Schools should convene in person without mask or vaccine requirements,” said Ricketts.“Nebraskans exercise personal responsibility for their own health, and are encouraged to have a conversation with their doctor about the vaccine.&nbsp; These conversations will be important because the virus will be with us forever," said Ricketts.&nbsp; "Working together, we’ve successfully protected hospital capacity throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; It’s time for the CDC and the government to get out of the way, and to stop trying to tell people how to live their lives.”

Gov. Ricketts scoffs at new CDC mask guidance

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. –&nbsp;A B-1B from the 28th Bomb Wing is scheduled to conduct a flyover as part of the Wings over Warren airshow at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming today.&nbsp;

The B-1 bomber is slated to be over the show site shortly before 10 a.m.

B-1 flyovers are allowed as part of approved training missions. Residents living in and around the Black Hills and in the vicinity of Cheyenne, Wyoming, could experience an increased noise level related to the flyover.

Individuals who witness the flyover are encouraged to share their photos and videos on Ellsworth Air Force Base’s official Facebook and Instagram pages available at: www.Facebook.com/ellsworthairforcebase and @ellsworthafb on Instagram.

For more information about the Wings over Warren airshow visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.warren.af.mil/About-Us/Wings-over-Warren-Air-Show/" target="_blank">https://www.warren.af.mil/About-Us/Wings-over-Warren-Air-Show/</a>

For more imagery related to the 28th Bomb Wing and B-1B, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/28BWPA" target="_blank">https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/28BWPA</a>

For more information, contact the 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs office at (605) 385-5056, or by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:28bw.public.affairs@us.af.mil" target="_blank">28bw.public.affairs@us.af.mil</a>.

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. –&nbsp;A B-1B from the 28th Bomb Wing is scheduled to conduct a flyover as part of the Wings over Warren airshow at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming today.&nbsp;The B-1 bomber is slated to be over the show site shortly before 10 a.m.B-1 flyovers are allowed as part of approved training missions. Residents living in and around the Black Hills and in the vicinity of Cheyenne, Wyoming, could experience an increased noise level related to the flyover.Individuals who witness the flyover are encouraged to share their photos and videos on Ellsworth Air Force Base’s official Facebook and Instagram pages available at: www.Facebook.com/ellsworthairforcebase and @ellsworthafb on Instagram.For more information about the Wings over Warren airshow visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.warren.af.mil/About-Us/Wings-over-Warren-Air-Show/" target="_blank">https://www.warren.af.mil/About-Us/Wings-over-Warren-Air-Show/</a>For more imagery related to the 28th Bomb Wing and B-1B, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/28BWPA" target="_blank">https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/28BWPA</a>For more information, contact the 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs office at (605) 385-5056, or by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:28bw.public.affairs@us.af.mil" target="_blank">28bw.public.affairs@us.af.mil</a>.

Ellsworth B-1 Flyover Part of Wings over Warren

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Public health officials have expressed growing concern about an increase in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations in Nebraska, primarily among residents who haven’t been vaccinated.

 Officials say they were worried about the slow-but-steady increase in infected people who end up hospitalized, putting pressure on COVID-19 treatment units. 

Nebraska reported 978 new cases in the week ending Thursday. 

That's a 42% increase over the previous week and exactly double the 489 new cases logged two weeks earlier.

 Most other states have seen larger increases, especially Southern states with lower vaccination rates. 

Nebraska’s growth rate ranks 41st nationally.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Public health officials have expressed growing concern about an increase in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations in Nebraska, primarily among residents who haven’t been vaccinated. Officials say they were worried about the slow-but-steady increase in infected people who end up hospitalized, putting pressure on COVID-19 treatment units. Nebraska reported 978 new cases in the week ending Thursday. That's a 42% increase over the previous week and exactly double the 489 new cases logged two weeks earlier. Most other states have seen larger increases, especially Southern states with lower vaccination rates. Nebraska’s growth rate ranks 41st nationally.

Nebraska health officials worry about uptick in COVID cases

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The running mate for Nebraska governor hopeful Charles Herbster has announced that she's bowing out of the race, citing the time commitment required to campaign. 

Theresa Thibodeau, a former state lawmaker and Douglas County Republican Party leader, says she would withdraw from the ticket. 

Thibodeau says she didn't think she'd be able to devote the time necessary to continue with the campaign. 

Herbster had selected Thibodeau even though the state Republican Party hasn’t yet held its primary election to name its gubernatorial nominee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627472914871.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The running mate for Nebraska governor hopeful Charles Herbster has announced that she's bowing out of the race, citing the time commitment required to campaign. Theresa Thibodeau, a former state lawmaker and Douglas County Republican Party leader, says she would withdraw from the ticket. Thibodeau says she didn't think she'd be able to devote the time necessary to continue with the campaign. Herbster had selected Thibodeau even though the state Republican Party hasn’t yet held its primary election to name its gubernatorial nominee.

Nebraska governor hopeful Herbster loses running mate

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A private LGBTQ event that was to be held at the Lincoln Children's Museum has been canceled following a barrage of threats — including death threats — against the museum and the nonprofit group putting on the event. 

The Lincoln Journal Star reports that the children’s museum announced the change Monday in a social media post, saying both it and OutNebraska faced a flood of threats after revealing plans to hold a private drag queen story hour Saturday after business hours. 

Lincoln Police Officer Luke Bonkiewicz says police are investigating the threats. 

Bonkiewicz declined to give details about the threats, but said they caused concern for the safety and well-being of potential attendees of the now-canceled event.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A private LGBTQ event that was to be held at the Lincoln Children's Museum has been canceled following a barrage of threats — including death threats — against the museum and the nonprofit group putting on the event. The Lincoln Journal Star reports that the children’s museum announced the change Monday in a social media post, saying both it and OutNebraska faced a flood of threats after revealing plans to hold a private drag queen story hour Saturday after business hours. Lincoln Police Officer Luke Bonkiewicz says police are investigating the threats. Bonkiewicz declined to give details about the threats, but said they caused concern for the safety and well-being of potential attendees of the now-canceled event.

LGBTQ event at children's museum canceled following threats

LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) — Two 19-year-old men have appeared in court on charges in the drive-by shooting death of another man in the southwestern Nebraska city of Lexington earlier this month. 

Station KRVN reports that Adalberto Saenz-Gonzalez and Francisco Hernandez-Corona were each arraigned Monday on charges of first-degree murder for the shooting death of 23-year-old Marcus Keyser.

 Police have said Keyser was found around 3 a.m. July 6 on the ground in front of a residential garage with gunshot wounds.

 He was pronounced dead at the scene. Saenz-Gonzalez and Hernandez-Corona are being held on $1 million bond each. 

Their preliminary hearings are set for Aug. 10.

LEXINGTON, Neb. (AP) — Two 19-year-old men have appeared in court on charges in the drive-by shooting death of another man in the southwestern Nebraska city of Lexington earlier this month. Station KRVN reports that Adalberto Saenz-Gonzalez and Francisco Hernandez-Corona were each arraigned Monday on charges of first-degree murder for the shooting death of 23-year-old Marcus Keyser. Police have said Keyser was found around 3 a.m. July 6 on the ground in front of a residential garage with gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Saenz-Gonzalez and Hernandez-Corona are being held on $1 million bond each. Their preliminary hearings are set for Aug. 10.

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