OGALLALA, Neb. (AP) — A South Dakota man has died and his wife was hurt in a crash on Interstate 80 in western Nebraska. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports the crash happened late Wednesday afternoon just east of Ogallala when a car driven by 72-year-old Judy Kennedy crashed into the back of a U-Haul trailer stopped on the interstate for a vehicle fire ahead of it. 

The Nebraska State Patrol says Kennedy's husband and passenger in the car, 73-year-old William Kennedy of Watertown, South Dakota, was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Judy Kennedy was treated and released from an Ogallala hospital.

 The patrol says the occupants of the Jeep pulling the trailer that was hit were not injured.

OGALLALA, Neb. (AP) — A South Dakota man has died and his wife was hurt in a crash on Interstate 80 in western Nebraska. The Omaha World-Herald reports the crash happened late Wednesday afternoon just east of Ogallala when a car driven by 72-year-old Judy Kennedy crashed into the back of a U-Haul trailer stopped on the interstate for a vehicle fire ahead of it. The Nebraska State Patrol says Kennedy's husband and passenger in the car, 73-year-old William Kennedy of Watertown, South Dakota, was pronounced dead at the scene. Judy Kennedy was treated and released from an Ogallala hospital. The patrol says the occupants of the Jeep pulling the trailer that was hit were not injured.

SD man killed, wife hurt in crash near Ogallala

The 45th annual "Fur Trade Days" festival in Chadron runs July 8, 9, 10 and 11.&nbsp; The four-day celebration is full of great events for the whole community including history, food, music, a carnival and more.&nbsp; "The schedule is packed, it's more packed then we've ever had it," says Fur Trade Days Board President Dave Hockenbary. "Starting Thursday the carnival is going off at 5 p.m. There's 'Bands on&nbsp;Bordeaux' that starts on Thursday at 6 p.m. [The Bar Flies at 1st Street, between Main &amp; Bordeaux streets], the Buckskinners camp starts on Thursday. Friday is going to be such a great time. We got our downtown family fun events going on. So we got some presenters with the&nbsp;Nebraska Humanities who are going to be putting on a couple things. We got a trick roper [Joan Wells] and she's going to be here doing her thing. We also got The String Beans that night [Dawes County Courthouse Gazebo], we got a band called Second Avenue playing downtown that night [Downtown Plaza, Main &amp; 2nd streets], we got Tripwire going on a 9 p.m."

Saturday is full of events for Fur Trade Days as well. "We're going to fire off with our parade," Hockenbary said. "Actually before the parade, there's going to be a parade of puppies, which is kind of a new thing this year. That is where if you've got a pup that you want to show off then you can sign up for that on the website [<a href="http://furtradedays.com/" target="_blank">furtradedays.com</a>] and come on down...and show off your doggie. The parade starts at 10 a.m. [10th &amp; Main to 1st &amp; Main streets]. After that there's a whole day of stuff. Some of the highlights would be&nbsp;The Bald Mountain Rounders at the courthouse lawn. There's going to be 'Nebraska Putt Putt on the Fly' downtown. There's going to be a demolition derby out at the fairgrounds. Mac's carnival is going to continue Friday and Saturday. Dylan Bloom is going to be downtown from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Another new thing we're doing this year is the firework show." For a full list of events you can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.furtradedays.com/" target="_blank">www.furtradedays.com</a> Panhandle Post asked Hockenbary how Fur Trade Days benefits the community of Chadron.&nbsp; "We focus a lot on families...anything that we can do to provide entertainment for the entire family," Hockenbary said. "So when people are starting to make their travel decisions and their plans, they don't have to worry about what they're going to do with the kids...we've got that built in there for them. We're doing everything we can to get not just one or two people in, we're trying to get the entire family into town." There will also be reunions for the Chadron High School classes of 2020 and 2021 happening during Fur Trade Days.&nbsp; Another popular event is the&nbsp;Rotary Colter Run that will be on Saturday at 7:30 a.m. The Team George Running Club has been involved in this for 13 years.&nbsp; All team members and participants are encouraged to wear their race shirts in honor of former Chadron State College Legal Studies Professor George Watson.&nbsp; "So Jen [Tomka] and I have been coming back to Chadron for probably 30 plus years and most of the 30 years we have ran in the Colter Run," Team George Scholarship Co-Founder Nikki Masek said. "George Watson was always present. He was part of the Rotary Club that coordinates the entire run and he also was a participant. Every time I ran my goal was to keep him in my sight and that way I knew I was going to get a pretty decent time. He was just always there until 2008." Watson then started having health problems.&nbsp; "We found out that he had&nbsp;pancreatic cancer...so he was not at the race that year," Team George Scholarship Co-Founder Jen Tomka said. "We decided in his honor that we would get shirts that just said 'Team George' just to cheer George on and wish him well. "Jen and I and my sister Lindsey; who's a family friend of George's son, just ran down to Outlaw Printers and had them print up three tank-tops...and we wore those that year in his honor," Masek said. In 2009 the Team George Scholarship fund was created.&nbsp;

"George was back then and walked in the Colter Run that time and that was an awesome year for him," Tomka said. That year there were over 100 runners wearing the Team George shirt.&nbsp; "What was awesome was after the race; during the Fur Trade Parade, most of the runners kept their shirts on," Masek said. "Mr. Rishchling's high school band purchased shirts for all his band kids. So they were marching down the street in Team George shirts as well. It was just a great year to establish the running team." Watson passed away on June 28, 2010. In his honor, the Team George Scholarship Fund has continued and shirts are still sold each year.&nbsp; Proceeds from the run help fund annual scholarships for CSC Justice Studies students to participate in the Study Abroad Program. "Over the years we've probably raised over $20,000 in proceeds to go back to the scholarship fund," Masek said. "Each year we sell a few more shirts and a few more dollars into the fund. We kind of want to keep it a good foundation there so that they can continue to offer that and hopefully take some students in 2022. We hope that people continue to wear their shirts this year and anybody that wants to purchase a shirt can do so as well. We always have a table set up at the Colter Run registration area." Another new event this year is the Demolition Derby. That will be held at the Dawes County Fairgrounds on Saturday at 1 p.m.&nbsp; "This is the first year so we're pretty excited," Demolition Derby organizer Kevin Wohlers said. "Hopefully it is going to be a good turn out. Me and my buddy were talking about it and thought that Chadron needed to get one again because it's been probably 20 some years since we've had one. We approached the fair board and they thought it was a great idea. There's going to be food vendors there. The Chadron High School will be doing the vending for the Washington, D.C. trip so that's a plus." Panhandle Post asked Dave Hockenbary what his favorite part about Fur Trade Days is.&nbsp; "There's so much to Fur Trade Days," Hockenbary said. "Being a musical person myself I always enjoy that aspect of it. But I'd probably have to say the carnival man, the carnival is fun." Hockenbary said planning Fur Trade Days is hard work.&nbsp; "It really is a ton of work," Hockenbary said. "There's a fantastic group of people who come together for the Fur Trade Board. We've spent essentially the last two years planning this because last year we didn't have it. A lot of our entertainment was already booked last year so we were able to carry that over for this year such as Dylan Bloom and the carnival. It's literally an entire year of planning and scheduling...and booking and trying to piece things together so that it all flows." Hockenbary said carnival tickets are still available. He urges the community to purchase tickets from the local banks in Chadron or order them at furtradedays.com.&nbsp; &nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe 45th annual "Fur Trade Days" festival in Chadron runs July 8, 9, 10 and 11.&nbsp; The four-day celebration is full of great events for the whole community including history, food, music, a carnival and more.&nbsp; "The schedule is packed, it's more packed then we've ever had it," says Fur Trade Days Board President Dave Hockenbary. "Starting Thursday the carnival is going off at 5 p.m. There's 'Bands on&nbsp;Bordeaux' that starts on Thursday at 6 p.m. [The Bar Flies at 1st Street, between Main &amp; Bordeaux streets], the Buckskinners camp starts on Thursday. Friday is going to be such a great time. We got our downtown family fun events going on. So we got some presenters with the&nbsp;Nebraska Humanities who are going to be putting on a couple things. We got a trick roper [Joan Wells] and she's going to be here doing her thing. We also got The String Beans that night [Dawes County Courthouse Gazebo], we got a band called Second Avenue playing downtown that night [Downtown Plaza, Main &amp; 2nd streets], we got Tripwire going on a 9 p.m."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625787701187.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Dave Hockenbary" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Dave Hockenbary</figcaption>
 </figure>Saturday is full of events for Fur Trade Days as well. "We're going to fire off with our parade," Hockenbary said. "Actually before the parade, there's going to be a parade of puppies, which is kind of a new thing this year. That is where if you've got a pup that you want to show off then you can sign up for that on the website [<a href="http://furtradedays.com/" target="_blank">furtradedays.com</a>] and come on down...and show off your doggie. The parade starts at 10 a.m. [10th &amp; Main to 1st &amp; Main streets]. After that there's a whole day of stuff. Some of the highlights would be&nbsp;The Bald Mountain Rounders at the courthouse lawn. There's going to be 'Nebraska Putt Putt on the Fly' downtown. There's going to be a demolition derby out at the fairgrounds. Mac's carnival is going to continue Friday and Saturday. Dylan Bloom is going to be downtown from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Another new thing we're doing this year is the firework show." For a full list of events you can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.furtradedays.com/" target="_blank">www.furtradedays.com</a> Panhandle Post asked Hockenbary how Fur Trade Days benefits the community of Chadron.&nbsp; "We focus a lot on families...anything that we can do to provide entertainment for the entire family," Hockenbary said. "So when people are starting to make their travel decisions and their plans, they don't have to worry about what they're going to do with the kids...we've got that built in there for them. We're doing everything we can to get not just one or two people in, we're trying to get the entire family into town." There will also be reunions for the Chadron High School classes of 2020 and 2021 happening during Fur Trade Days.&nbsp; Another popular event is the&nbsp;Rotary Colter Run that will be on Saturday at 7:30 a.m. The Team George Running Club has been involved in this for 13 years.&nbsp; All team members and participants are encouraged to wear their race shirts in honor of former Chadron State College Legal Studies Professor George Watson.&nbsp; "So Jen [Tomka] and I have been coming back to Chadron for probably 30 plus years and most of the 30 years we have ran in the Colter Run," Team George Scholarship Co-Founder Nikki Masek said. "George Watson was always present. He was part of the Rotary Club that coordinates the entire run and he also was a participant. Every time I ran my goal was to keep him in my sight and that way I knew I was going to get a pretty decent time. He was just always there until 2008." Watson then started having health problems.&nbsp; "We found out that he had&nbsp;pancreatic cancer...so he was not at the race that year," Team George Scholarship Co-Founder Jen Tomka said. "We decided in his honor that we would get shirts that just said 'Team George' just to cheer George on and wish him well. "Jen and I and my sister Lindsey; who's a family friend of George's son, just ran down to Outlaw Printers and had them print up three tank-tops...and we wore those that year in his honor," Masek said. In 2009 the Team George Scholarship fund was created.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625787856828.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"George was back then and walked in the Colter Run that time and that was an awesome year for him," Tomka said. That year there were over 100 runners wearing the Team George shirt.&nbsp; "What was awesome was after the race; during the Fur Trade Parade, most of the runners kept their shirts on," Masek said. "Mr. Rishchling's high school band purchased shirts for all his band kids. So they were marching down the street in Team George shirts as well. It was just a great year to establish the running team." Watson passed away on June 28, 2010. In his honor, the Team George Scholarship Fund has continued and shirts are still sold each year.&nbsp; Proceeds from the run help fund annual scholarships for CSC Justice Studies students to participate in the Study Abroad Program. "Over the years we've probably raised over $20,000 in proceeds to go back to the scholarship fund," Masek said. "Each year we sell a few more shirts and a few more dollars into the fund. We kind of want to keep it a good foundation there so that they can continue to offer that and hopefully take some students in 2022. We hope that people continue to wear their shirts this year and anybody that wants to purchase a shirt can do so as well. We always have a table set up at the Colter Run registration area." Another new event this year is the Demolition Derby. That will be held at the Dawes County Fairgrounds on Saturday at 1 p.m.&nbsp; "This is the first year so we're pretty excited," Demolition Derby organizer Kevin Wohlers said. "Hopefully it is going to be a good turn out. Me and my buddy were talking about it and thought that Chadron needed to get one again because it's been probably 20 some years since we've had one. We approached the fair board and they thought it was a great idea. There's going to be food vendors there. The Chadron High School will be doing the vending for the Washington, D.C. trip so that's a plus." Panhandle Post asked Dave Hockenbary what his favorite part about Fur Trade Days is.&nbsp; "There's so much to Fur Trade Days," Hockenbary said. "Being a musical person myself I always enjoy that aspect of it. But I'd probably have to say the carnival man, the carnival is fun." Hockenbary said planning Fur Trade Days is hard work.&nbsp; "It really is a ton of work," Hockenbary said. "There's a fantastic group of people who come together for the Fur Trade Board. We've spent essentially the last two years planning this because last year we didn't have it. A lot of our entertainment was already booked last year so we were able to carry that over for this year such as Dylan Bloom and the carnival. It's literally an entire year of planning and scheduling...and booking and trying to piece things together so that it all flows." Hockenbary said carnival tickets are still available. He urges the community to purchase tickets from the local banks in Chadron or order them at furtradedays.com.&nbsp; &nbsp;

'Fur Trade Days' returns to Chadron with many new events 

The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) held the second annual amateur photo contest, in search of natural resources related photos from residents within the District encompassing Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan and Sioux counties. This year the NRD photo contest doubled the number of entries from the previous year, receiving nearly 100 beautiful photos of wildlife, nature, agriculture, recreation and much more.

“With so many beautiful photos submitted, choosing a winner was difficult,” noted Mike Strasburger, UNWNRD Director. The Board chose winners for first, second and third places with cash prizes awarded to the winners. The first-place photo will be made into a canvas print and displayed in the UNWNRD office for the next year, after that time the print will be returned to the winner when a new winner is selected.

The 2020 winner was Eric Arneson of Alliance with his winning photo of a storm cloud over a corn field titled “Panhandle Light Show” taken near Hemingford. This breathtaking photo is currently displayed in the UNWNRD Office until the new winning photo arrives, after that it will be Mr. Arneson’s print to keep.

The 2021 winners are Devin Codina of Chadron in third place with his photo of a windmill at dusk near King Canyon Road titled “Fly Me to the Moon”. In second place is Krista Moore of Whitney with her photo titled “The Barn” taken near Whitney. Finally in first place is Ruthe Meter of Alliance with her photo of a mother goose and her goslings titled “Peek-a-Boo” taken at Laing Lake Park in Alliance.

The intent behind the photo contest is to get the residents of the District outside to enjoy and capture the beauty in our natural resources close to home. “The residents of the District were able to display some of the most beautiful aspects of the natural resources in Northwest Nebraska,” commented Dave Kadlecek, UNWNRD Director.

The UNWNRD will continue to host the photo contest in years to come and will hope to receive even more unbelievable photos as this contest moves forward. Please look for more information on the NRD website www.unwnrd.org or stop by the office at 430 East 2nd Street to see the 2021 winning photo.

The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) held the second annual amateur photo contest, in search of natural resources related photos from residents within the District encompassing Box Butte, Dawes, Sheridan and Sioux counties. This year the NRD photo contest doubled the number of entries from the previous year, receiving nearly 100 beautiful photos of wildlife, nature, agriculture, recreation and much more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625842900299.jpeg" alt="Fly me to the moon - Devin Codina" />
 <figcaption>Fly me to the moon - Devin Codina</figcaption>
 </figure>“With so many beautiful photos submitted, choosing a winner was difficult,” noted Mike Strasburger, UNWNRD Director. The Board chose winners for first, second and third places with cash prizes awarded to the winners. The first-place photo will be made into a canvas print and displayed in the UNWNRD office for the next year, after that time the print will be returned to the winner when a new winner is selected.The 2020 winner was Eric Arneson of Alliance with his winning photo of a storm cloud over a corn field titled “Panhandle Light Show” taken near Hemingford. This breathtaking photo is currently displayed in the UNWNRD Office until the new winning photo arrives, after that it will be Mr. Arneson’s print to keep.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625842847835.jpeg" alt="The Barn - Krista Moore" />
 <figcaption>The Barn - Krista Moore</figcaption>
 </figure>The 2021 winners are Devin Codina of Chadron in third place with his photo of a windmill at dusk near King Canyon Road titled “Fly Me to the Moon”. In second place is Krista Moore of Whitney with her photo titled “The Barn” taken near Whitney. Finally in first place is Ruthe Meter of Alliance with her photo of a mother goose and her goslings titled “Peek-a-Boo” taken at Laing Lake Park in Alliance.The intent behind the photo contest is to get the residents of the District outside to enjoy and capture the beauty in our natural resources close to home. “The residents of the District were able to display some of the most beautiful aspects of the natural resources in Northwest Nebraska,” commented Dave Kadlecek, UNWNRD Director.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625842939089.jpeg" alt="Peek-a-Boo - Ruthe Meter" />
 <figcaption>Peek-a-Boo - Ruthe Meter</figcaption>
 </figure>The UNWNRD will continue to host the photo contest in years to come and will hope to receive even more unbelievable photos as this contest moves forward. Please look for more information on the NRD website www.unwnrd.org or stop by the office at 430 East 2nd Street to see the 2021 winning photo.

Upper Niobrara White NRD announces photo contest winners

Phyllis Jungck Krotz of Rushville is a “Heritage Hero.”

Krotz was surprised with History Nebraska’s Heritage Hero Award July 2 for her volunteer work with the Sheridan County Historical Society at the museum in Rushville. The award was presented by History Nebraska board member and former state senator Bob Wickersham.

History Nebraska’s Heritage Hero program recognizes and encourages local volunteers who have made significant contributions to preserving the state’s history.

Krotz has been an energetic promoter and supporter of the Armstrong House Museum in Rushville, a part of the Sheridan County Historical Society. She is also one of founding members and the director of the Sheridan County History Center, an archive of Sheridan County family histories launched in 2019. She began volunteering with the historical society in 2004 after moving back to the area following retirement. Krotz was born and raised in the Rushville area but lived in Illinois, Seward, North Platte and Lincoln until retirement.

“I hope folks will honor the work of our many volunteers with a visit to the History Center at 403 Second Street in Rushville and bring with them a copy of their family history when they come,” Krotz said.

Phyllis Jungck Krotz of Rushville is a “Heritage Hero.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625842105389.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Krotz was surprised with History Nebraska’s Heritage Hero Award July 2 for her volunteer work with the Sheridan County Historical Society at the museum in Rushville. The award was presented by History Nebraska board member and former state senator Bob Wickersham.History Nebraska’s Heritage Hero program recognizes and encourages local volunteers who have made significant contributions to preserving the state’s history.Krotz has been an energetic promoter and supporter of the Armstrong House Museum in Rushville, a part of the Sheridan County Historical Society. She is also one of founding members and the director of the Sheridan County History Center, an archive of Sheridan County family histories launched in 2019. She began volunteering with the historical society in 2004 after moving back to the area following retirement. Krotz was born and raised in the Rushville area but lived in Illinois, Seward, North Platte and Lincoln until retirement.“I hope folks will honor the work of our many volunteers with a visit to the History Center at 403 Second Street in Rushville and bring with them a copy of their family history when they come,” Krotz said.

Sheridan County volunteer named 'Heritage Hero'

KEARNEY (AP) — A Grand Island man has been charged with vehicular homicide in the March crash near Ravenna that killed a Chadron man. 

The Kearney Hub reports that 26-year-old Sergio Tinajero has been charged with misdemeanor motor vehicle homicide and driving an unregistered vehicle. 

Prosecutors say Tinajero was behind the wheel of a pickup truck just before 5 a.m. on March 19 when it collided with a sport utility vehicle at a rural intersection east of Ravenna. 

A passenger in the SUV, 52-year-old Curtis Deines of Chadron, died at the scene and three others in the SUV were injured.

KEARNEY (AP) — A Grand Island man has been charged with vehicular homicide in the March crash near Ravenna that killed a Chadron man. The Kearney Hub reports that 26-year-old Sergio Tinajero has been charged with misdemeanor motor vehicle homicide and driving an unregistered vehicle. Prosecutors say Tinajero was behind the wheel of a pickup truck just before 5 a.m. on March 19 when it collided with a sport utility vehicle at a rural intersection east of Ravenna. A passenger in the SUV, 52-year-old Curtis Deines of Chadron, died at the scene and three others in the SUV were injured.

Man charged with vehicular homicide that killed Chadron man

SCOTTSBLUFF&nbsp; — As thousands gather for the 100th&nbsp;annual Oregon Trail Days, troopers will be working hard to keep the roads of Scotts Bluff County safe throughout the event. Scotts Bluff County is a priority county for the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

“Oregon Trail Days is a great event for our community and this milestone year makes it even more special,” said Captain Kurt Von Minden, Commander of NSP Troop E. “Our troopers will be on patrol to make sure residents and visitors for this event have safe travels around the area.”

Troopers will perform high-visibility patrols throughout the county, as well as conduct check points throughout the weekend. The campaign will run from Thursday, July 8 through Sunday, July 11.

This effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $1,770 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

SCOTTSBLUFF&nbsp; — As thousands gather for the 100th&nbsp;annual Oregon Trail Days, troopers will be working hard to keep the roads of Scotts Bluff County safe throughout the event. Scotts Bluff County is a priority county for the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.“Oregon Trail Days is a great event for our community and this milestone year makes it even more special,” said Captain Kurt Von Minden, Commander of NSP Troop E. “Our troopers will be on patrol to make sure residents and visitors for this event have safe travels around the area.”Troopers will perform high-visibility patrols throughout the county, as well as conduct check points throughout the weekend. The campaign will run from Thursday, July 8 through Sunday, July 11.This effort is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $1,770 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Troopers on patrol during Oregon Trail Days in Scotts Bluff Co. 

By Scott Carlson-North Platte Post

OGALLALA, Neb.-Dry, hot weather is the perfect recipe for grass fires, especially when you throw lightning into the mix.

Lightning from passing thunderstorms sparked a grass fire north of Ogallala just after midnight on Friday.

The fire, which was north of Ogallala, near the north side of Lake McConaughy, burned about 50 acres of standing wheat before being brought under control. Officials say the exact amount of burned property will be determined today.

Fire departments from Ogallala, Brule, Paxton, Grant, Big Springs, and Madrid responded to the fire.

No injuries to fire personnel were reported.

The fire was considered controlled at about 4:30 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625831224290.png" alt="Photo: Crystal Rodman (Facebook)" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Crystal Rodman (Facebook)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostOGALLALA, Neb.-Dry, hot weather is the perfect recipe for grass fires, especially when you throw lightning into the mix.Lightning from passing thunderstorms sparked a grass fire north of Ogallala just after midnight on Friday.The fire, which was north of Ogallala, near the north side of Lake McConaughy, burned about 50 acres of standing wheat before being brought under control. Officials say the exact amount of burned property will be determined today.Fire departments from Ogallala, Brule, Paxton, Grant, Big Springs, and Madrid responded to the fire.No injuries to fire personnel were reported.The fire was considered controlled at about 4:30 a.m.

Lightning sparks grass fire near Lake McConaughy

Alliance – The City of Alliance Public Transit telephone lines will be non-operational on Friday, July 9 from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. for maintenance.

 During this time please call 308-760-6169 to schedule services.

For more information, please contact Paige Johnson at 308-762-1907.

The City of Alliance Public Works phone system will be non-operational on Friday, July 9 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. for maintenance as well.

 During this time please call City Hall at 308-762-5400 for your needs.

Alliance – The City of Alliance Public Transit telephone lines will be non-operational on Friday, July 9 from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. for maintenance. During this time please call 308-760-6169 to schedule services.For more information, please contact Paige Johnson at 308-762-1907.The City of Alliance Public Works phone system will be non-operational on Friday, July 9 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. for maintenance as well. During this time please call City Hall at 308-762-5400 for your needs.

Alliance Public Transit, Public Works phones down for maintenance

Beginning Wednesday, July 7, Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) will implement changes to the temporary visitor policy put in place.

Non-COVID 19 admitted patients of BBGH may now have two visitors, including minors age 14 and older, at a time and the visitors may be a different person throughout the day. Arrangements may be made for end-of-life patients.

Non-COVID 19 emergency room patients of BBGH may have one adult accompany them. Infants that are six months and younger may accompany their parent/guardian, as long as the infant can remain in a baby carrier.

COVID-19 patients admitted to BBGH may have one fully vaccinated adult visitor for the entire duration of their admission. The visitor must remain the same individual throughout the entire period. Arrangements may be made for end-of-life patients.

All visitors must enter through the emergency room entrance between 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM Monday through Friday and all-day Saturday and Sunday. The reason for this is to ensure visitors are being screened upon entrance to the hospital and are wearing a mask. The emergency room entrance is off of Box Butte Ave. on the West side of the hospital.

Patients with an appointment at the Greater Nebraska Medical and Surgical Services (GNMSS) clinic, radiology, laboratory, and specialty clinic may have one adult and up to two children and one infant six months of age or younger accompany them. Children may not be left unattended in waiting rooms.

Surgery patients may have one adult visitor and an infant six months or younger in an infant seat accompany them.

Beginning Wednesday, July 7, Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) will implement changes to the temporary visitor policy put in place.Non-COVID 19 admitted patients of BBGH may now have two visitors, including minors age 14 and older, at a time and the visitors may be a different person throughout the day. Arrangements may be made for end-of-life patients.Non-COVID 19 emergency room patients of BBGH may have one adult accompany them. Infants that are six months and younger may accompany their parent/guardian, as long as the infant can remain in a baby carrier.COVID-19 patients admitted to BBGH may have one fully vaccinated adult visitor for the entire duration of their admission. The visitor must remain the same individual throughout the entire period. Arrangements may be made for end-of-life patients.All visitors must enter through the emergency room entrance between 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM Monday through Friday and all-day Saturday and Sunday. The reason for this is to ensure visitors are being screened upon entrance to the hospital and are wearing a mask. The emergency room entrance is off of Box Butte Ave. on the West side of the hospital.Patients with an appointment at the Greater Nebraska Medical and Surgical Services (GNMSS) clinic, radiology, laboratory, and specialty clinic may have one adult and up to two children and one infant six months of age or younger accompany them. Children may not be left unattended in waiting rooms.Surgery patients may have one adult visitor and an infant six months or younger in an infant seat accompany them.

BBGH implement new visitor policy 

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Media mogul and billionaire bison rancher Ted Turner is donating an 80,000-acre ranch he owns in western Nebraska to a nonprofit agriculture ecosystem research institute and says he might do the same with four other ranches in Nebraska’s Sand Hills. But he says he'll continue to pay taxes on the land. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that news comes as a relief to state and local officials who had feared Turner might donate the nearly 500,000 acres of Nebraska ranchland he owns and remove them from property tax rolls. 

Turner Enterprises Inc. and Turner Ranches recently announced the launch of the Turner Institute of Ecoagriculture.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Media mogul and billionaire bison rancher Ted Turner is donating an 80,000-acre ranch he owns in western Nebraska to a nonprofit agriculture ecosystem research institute and says he might do the same with four other ranches in Nebraska’s Sand Hills. But he says he'll continue to pay taxes on the land. The Omaha World-Herald reports that news comes as a relief to state and local officials who had feared Turner might donate the nearly 500,000 acres of Nebraska ranchland he owns and remove them from property tax rolls. Turner Enterprises Inc. and Turner Ranches recently announced the launch of the Turner Institute of Ecoagriculture.

Ted Turner to give western NE land to nonprofit, but keep paying taxes

Lincoln - In October of 2019, History Nebraska began renovations to expand and enhance the visitor experience at the Chimney Rock Museum. The expansion project included new interactive exhibits, expanded education rooms, storm shelter, and conference space. After a soft reopening in 2020, the Chimney Rock Museum is fully open this season to visitors. To celebrate the reopening, History Nebraska is holding a special reopening ceremony on Saturday, July 17th. The public is invited to attend.

Festivities will be held in the morning,&nbsp;with refreshments and ribbon-cutting starting at 10:30 am MDT. History Nebraska Director and CEO Trevor Jones and History Nebraska Board of Trustees President Marilyn Moore will speak at the ribbon-cutting event. Admission to Chimney Rock Museum will be free for the entire day, 9 am - 4 pm.&nbsp; The NEBRASKAland&nbsp;Foundation will also present History Nebraska with the annual Rising Star Award.&nbsp;The award recognizes outstanding new tourism attractions or significant expansions to existing attractions and economic and social development efforts.&nbsp;The NEBRASKAland Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit corporation with the Governor as the honorary chairperson formed to enhance Nebraskans' pride in the Good Life and display this quality of life to guests visiting the great state of Nebraska, according to their website. It was established in 1962.&nbsp;The award was created in 1999 and was first presented in 2000 to the Kearney Archway.

About History Nebraska History Nebraska collects, preserves, and shares Nebraska’s history for all people. &nbsp;History Nebraska operates the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln and historic sites around the state including Chimney Rock Museum, Fort Robinson History Center, Neligh Mill State Historic Site, Thomas Kennard State Historic Site, Senator George Norris State Historic Site, John Neihardt State Historic Site, and over 570 historical markers placed across Nebraska. History Nebraska administers the State Archives and Library; the State Historic Preservation Office; the Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center; the Office of the State Archeologist; publishes Nebraska History Magazine and books; and is responsible for the administration of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission. More at&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=9081126fa8&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank">https://history.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and follow us on&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=c9ab326882&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=e9cfdc4629&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=c18214d94d&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.

Lincoln - In October of 2019, History Nebraska began renovations to expand and enhance the visitor experience at the Chimney Rock Museum. The expansion project included new interactive exhibits, expanded education rooms, storm shelter, and conference space. After a soft reopening in 2020, the Chimney Rock Museum is fully open this season to visitors. To celebrate the reopening, History Nebraska is holding a special reopening ceremony on Saturday, July 17th. The public is invited to attend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140302816.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, <a href="http://www.greatplainsjames.com">www.greatplainsjames.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, <a href="http://www.greatplainsjames.com">www.greatplainsjames.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Festivities will be held in the morning,&nbsp;with refreshments and ribbon-cutting starting at 10:30 am MDT. History Nebraska Director and CEO Trevor Jones and History Nebraska Board of Trustees President Marilyn Moore will speak at the ribbon-cutting event. Admission to Chimney Rock Museum will be free for the entire day, 9 am - 4 pm.&nbsp; The NEBRASKAland&nbsp;Foundation will also present History Nebraska with the annual Rising Star Award.&nbsp;The award recognizes outstanding new tourism attractions or significant expansions to existing attractions and economic and social development efforts.&nbsp;The NEBRASKAland Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit corporation with the Governor as the honorary chairperson formed to enhance Nebraskans' pride in the Good Life and display this quality of life to guests visiting the great state of Nebraska, according to their website. It was established in 1962.&nbsp;The award was created in 1999 and was first presented in 2000 to the Kearney Archway.About History Nebraska History Nebraska collects, preserves, and shares Nebraska’s history for all people. &nbsp;History Nebraska operates the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln and historic sites around the state including Chimney Rock Museum, Fort Robinson History Center, Neligh Mill State Historic Site, Thomas Kennard State Historic Site, Senator George Norris State Historic Site, John Neihardt State Historic Site, and over 570 historical markers placed across Nebraska. History Nebraska administers the State Archives and Library; the State Historic Preservation Office; the Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center; the Office of the State Archeologist; publishes Nebraska History Magazine and books; and is responsible for the administration of the Nebraska Hall of Fame Commission. More at&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=9081126fa8&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank">https://history.nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;and follow us on&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=c9ab326882&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=e9cfdc4629&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraska.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4af6c119278bab53245cdd3e6&amp;id=c18214d94d&amp;e=d72844982a" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.

Chimney Rock Museum to celebrate reopening

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota National Guard will send 125 soldiers to the United States border with Mexico as part of a federal government mission. 

The deployment is expected to last up to a year. 

It is in addition to the National Guard force South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is sending as part of a separate effort initiated by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. 

Noem faced backlash last week after using a $1 million donation from a billionaire GOP donor to send up to 50 troops to Texas.

 She has defended the move as a way to defray the cost to taxpayers. 

The latest National Guard deployment will be paid for with federal funds.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota National Guard will send 125 soldiers to the United States border with Mexico as part of a federal government mission. The deployment is expected to last up to a year. It is in addition to the National Guard force South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is sending as part of a separate effort initiated by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. Noem faced backlash last week after using a $1 million donation from a billionaire GOP donor to send up to 50 troops to Texas. She has defended the move as a way to defray the cost to taxpayers. The latest National Guard deployment will be paid for with federal funds.

Noem deploys more Guard troops to border on federal mission

LINCOLN&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) has launched a new incentive program, designed to increase the number of bilingual troopers and investigators serving Nebraska. The program provides a 2.5% salary increase to troopers who speak another language. The program applies both to current troopers and new hires.

“We are proud to have a number of bilingual troopers already working across Nebraska and we’d love to increase that number,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As a law enforcement agency, we strive to serve all Nebraskans and visitors to our state, regardless of the language they speak. Recruiting more bilingual troopers is part of that mission.”

The bilingual incentive is part of the new labor agreement between the Nebraska State Patrol and the State Law Enforcement Bargaining Council. The new contract took effect this month. Troopers will be able to test for fluency on dozens of commonly spoken languages, including American Sign Language, to be eligible for the bilingual incentive.

NSP is currently accepting applications for the next recruiting camp, Camp 66, which is scheduled to begin in January. The 2.5% salary increase would increase their starting pay as a State Trooper to approximately $50,600 per year.

Applications for Camp 66 are available at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/nebraska?keywords=trooper" target="_blank">Nebraska State Jobs website.</a>&nbsp;Interested candidates should search for the word “Trooper”. Additional information about pay, benefits, duty stations, and the hiring process is available at the&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/become-trooper/nsp-application-process" target="_blank">Become A Trooper</a>&nbsp;page of the NSP website. Applications for Camp 66 are open until July 12, 2021.

LINCOLN&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) has launched a new incentive program, designed to increase the number of bilingual troopers and investigators serving Nebraska. The program provides a 2.5% salary increase to troopers who speak another language. The program applies both to current troopers and new hires.“We are proud to have a number of bilingual troopers already working across Nebraska and we’d love to increase that number,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “As a law enforcement agency, we strive to serve all Nebraskans and visitors to our state, regardless of the language they speak. Recruiting more bilingual troopers is part of that mission.”The bilingual incentive is part of the new labor agreement between the Nebraska State Patrol and the State Law Enforcement Bargaining Council. The new contract took effect this month. Troopers will be able to test for fluency on dozens of commonly spoken languages, including American Sign Language, to be eligible for the bilingual incentive.NSP is currently accepting applications for the next recruiting camp, Camp 66, which is scheduled to begin in January. The 2.5% salary increase would increase their starting pay as a State Trooper to approximately $50,600 per year.Applications for Camp 66 are available at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/nebraska?keywords=trooper" target="_blank">Nebraska State Jobs website.</a>&nbsp;Interested candidates should search for the word “Trooper”. Additional information about pay, benefits, duty stations, and the hiring process is available at the&nbsp;<a href="https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/become-trooper/nsp-application-process" target="_blank">Become A Trooper</a>&nbsp;page of the NSP website. Applications for Camp 66 are open until July 12, 2021.

NSP launches incentive program for bilingual troopers

In the early 1900’s most American communities were served by a general store, filled with all kinds of merchandise. Dobby’s Frontier Town used an old schoolhouse to create a replica of what a general store may have looked like.

Any time farmers or ranchers came to town, they would have needed supplies for the home. Visitors can look around at the variety of products that would have been for sale: fabric, pots and pans, seeds, shoes, hardware, nails, or food. What was not in stock at the General Store could be ordered and shipped in. Visitors to Dobby’s Frontier Town spend a lot of time looking at the antiques and guessing what they were used for!

Ladies especially spent a lot of time in general stores, trading news and gossip, finding out who was sick, and where there were jobs. (Men were sharing news in the saloon, where women weren’t welcome.) Women often traded eggs, butter, milk, and things they had made at home for merchandise in the General Store.

Commodities often came in crates or kegs. Things like nails, crackers, molasses, or pickles could be found in open barrels sitting on the floor of the store. The General Store proprietor would have waited on each customer, measuring and wrapping their purchases. Many of the things you see here, like the crocks on the top shelf, are modeled after Dobby’s father’s store in downtown Alliance. Marvin Lee ran the IGA Palace Meat Market until 1954.

The General Store is located behind the main house in the central part of Dobby’s Frontier Town. On the counter is one of Dobby’s two guest books, signed by visitors from all fifty states and several foreign countries, and a barrel for cash donations sits by the door.

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, and donations are appreciated.

By&nbsp;Patricia JonesIn the early 1900’s most American communities were served by a general store, filled with all kinds of merchandise. Dobby’s Frontier Town used an old schoolhouse to create a replica of what a general store may have looked like.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625755677889.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Any time farmers or ranchers came to town, they would have needed supplies for the home. Visitors can look around at the variety of products that would have been for sale: fabric, pots and pans, seeds, shoes, hardware, nails, or food. What was not in stock at the General Store could be ordered and shipped in. Visitors to Dobby’s Frontier Town spend a lot of time looking at the antiques and guessing what they were used for!Ladies especially spent a lot of time in general stores, trading news and gossip, finding out who was sick, and where there were jobs. (Men were sharing news in the saloon, where women weren’t welcome.) Women often traded eggs, butter, milk, and things they had made at home for merchandise in the General Store.Commodities often came in crates or kegs. Things like nails, crackers, molasses, or pickles could be found in open barrels sitting on the floor of the store. The General Store proprietor would have waited on each customer, measuring and wrapping their purchases. Many of the things you see here, like the crocks on the top shelf, are modeled after Dobby’s father’s store in downtown Alliance. Marvin Lee ran the IGA Palace Meat Market until 1954.The General Store is located behind the main house in the central part of Dobby’s Frontier Town. On the counter is one of Dobby’s two guest books, signed by visitors from all fifty states and several foreign countries, and a barrel for cash donations sits by the door.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, and donations are appreciated.

Dobby's History: General store 

In an effort to make our region’s residents aware of local COVID-19 vaccination opportunities, we have created shareable social media options. We invite you to choose a post or two that best fits your communication needs and share them on your social media platforms.&nbsp;

Did you know Scotts Bluff County Public Health offers free COVID-19 clinics at multiple locations across the panhandle? We currently offer a clinic at 313 West 38th Street, Scottsbluff, with both appointments and walk-ins available, as well as a mobile work site clinic. We will also offer a walk-in clinic at Regional West Physicians Clinic-Family Medicine, Morrill, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on July 21, Aug. 11, and Sept. 1. The Pfizer vaccine is currently available to people 12 and older, and the Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines are available for those 18 and older. All vaccines are free of charge.

Thank you for sharing our message and helping educate the panhandle’s residents on their COVID-19 vaccine options. 

For more information about COVID-19 vaccination in our region, call 308-630-1126 or visit PPHD.org.

By PPHDIn an effort to make our region’s residents aware of local COVID-19 vaccination opportunities, we have created shareable social media options. We invite you to choose a post or two that best fits your communication needs and share them on your social media platforms.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625701598637.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Did you know Scotts Bluff County Public Health offers free COVID-19 clinics at multiple locations across the panhandle? We currently offer a clinic at 313 West 38th Street, Scottsbluff, with both appointments and walk-ins available, as well as a mobile work site clinic. We will also offer a walk-in clinic at Regional West Physicians Clinic-Family Medicine, Morrill, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on July 21, Aug. 11, and Sept. 1. The Pfizer vaccine is currently available to people 12 and older, and the Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccines are available for those 18 and older. All vaccines are free of charge.Thank you for sharing our message and helping educate the panhandle’s residents on their COVID-19 vaccine options. For more information about COVID-19 vaccination in our region, call 308-630-1126 or visit PPHD.org.

PPHD: Scotts Bluff County Public Health offering vaccination clinics

By Scott Carlson-North Platte Post

MAXWELL, Neb.-Authorities said an Oregon man was uninjured after he drove his vehicle into a canal in Lincoln County on Tuesday.

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office said deputies responded to the report of a vehicle in the Central Nebraska Public Power District canal in the 14000 block of South Cottonwood Canyon Rd., just south of Maxwell.

Officials said it appears the minivan, driven by Tucker Mortensen, 43, of Tualatin, Oregon, was northbound when it left the roadway and entered the canal.

Mortensen told deputies he failed to negotiate a curve and slid into the canal, but was able to exit the vehicle. Deputies said evidence at the scene corroborated his account.

Upon further investigation, deputies became suspicious that Mortensen was under the influence of liquor.

Officials said Mortensen was administered several field sobriety tests, which determined he was impaired. Furthermore, a breath test indicated he was over the legal limit to drive in Nebraska.

As a result, Mortensen was issued a citation for driving under the influence. Officials said he was not incarcerated due to possible injuries sustained in the accident.

The Lincoln County Dive Team removed the vehicle from the canal.

By Scott Carlson-North Platte PostMAXWELL, Neb.-Authorities said an Oregon man was uninjured after he drove his vehicle into a canal in Lincoln County on Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625700718675.png" alt="LCSO Photo" />
 <figcaption>LCSO Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office said deputies responded to the report of a vehicle in the Central Nebraska Public Power District canal in the 14000 block of South Cottonwood Canyon Rd., just south of Maxwell.Officials said it appears the minivan, driven by Tucker Mortensen, 43, of Tualatin, Oregon, was northbound when it left the roadway and entered the canal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625700739028.png" alt="LCSO Photo" />
 <figcaption>LCSO Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Mortensen told deputies he failed to negotiate a curve and slid into the canal, but was able to exit the vehicle. Deputies said evidence at the scene corroborated his account.Upon further investigation, deputies became suspicious that Mortensen was under the influence of liquor.Officials said Mortensen was administered several field sobriety tests, which determined he was impaired. Furthermore, a breath test indicated he was over the legal limit to drive in Nebraska.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625700760390.png" alt="LCSO Photo" />
 <figcaption>LCSO Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result, Mortensen was issued a citation for driving under the influence. Officials said he was not incarcerated due to possible injuries sustained in the accident.Mortensen's injuries were not serious.The Lincoln County Dive Team removed the vehicle from the canal.

Oregon man drives vehicle into canal near Maxwell, cited for DUI

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of COVID-19 cases reported in Nebraska jumped last week, but the rate of new cases remained below the national average. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that the state recorded 456 virus cases last week, which was up from 253 and 181 in the two previous weeks.

 Data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that the state’s rate of new cases per capita ranked 23rd among the states last week. 

Dr. James Lawler with the University of Nebraska Medical Center said the increase isn’t a surprise given the presence of the highly contagious delta variant of the coronavirus and the number of people in the state who haven’t gotten vaccinated.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of COVID-19 cases reported in Nebraska jumped last week, but the rate of new cases remained below the national average. The Omaha World-Herald reports that the state recorded 456 virus cases last week, which was up from 253 and 181 in the two previous weeks. Data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that the state’s rate of new cases per capita ranked 23rd among the states last week. Dr. James Lawler with the University of Nebraska Medical Center said the increase isn’t a surprise given the presence of the highly contagious delta variant of the coronavirus and the number of people in the state who haven’t gotten vaccinated.

Nebraska COVID-19 cases jump to 456 last week

LINCOLN&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is seeking any information regarding the disappearance of a Jefferson County woman. Linda Dillard, 55, has been missing since the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 16, when she was last seen in the rural Table Rock area.

Dillard is believed to be missing under suspicious circumstances. She is described as a white female, 5’0”, 130 lbs., with blue eyes and brown hair (possibly dyed blonde or wearing a wig). She was last seen wearing a white tank top, jean shorts, a white and purple wig, and brown, lace-up sandal boots. She has several tattoos. Dillard sometimes walks with a cane and has a medical condition that makes it difficult for her to walk long distances.

Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts or information about her disappearance is urged to submit a tip through Nebraska Crime Stoppers. Tips are completely anonymous and can be submitted via the&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskacrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=450&amp;" target="_blank">Nebraska Crime Stoppers website,</a>&nbsp;the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-800-422-1494.

Nebraska Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information in this investigation. Tips to Nebraska Crime Stoppers can be made anonymously.

LINCOLN&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol is seeking any information regarding the disappearance of a Jefferson County woman. Linda Dillard, 55, has been missing since the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 16, when she was last seen in the rural Table Rock area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625684690010.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dillard is believed to be missing under suspicious circumstances. She is described as a white female, 5’0”, 130 lbs., with blue eyes and brown hair (possibly dyed blonde or wearing a wig). She was last seen wearing a white tank top, jean shorts, a white and purple wig, and brown, lace-up sandal boots. She has several tattoos. Dillard sometimes walks with a cane and has a medical condition that makes it difficult for her to walk long distances.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625684707381.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts or information about her disappearance is urged to submit a tip through Nebraska Crime Stoppers. Tips are completely anonymous and can be submitted via the&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskacrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?ID=450&amp;" target="_blank">Nebraska Crime Stoppers website,</a>&nbsp;the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-800-422-1494.Nebraska Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information in this investigation. Tips to Nebraska Crime Stoppers can be made anonymously.

NSP seeks information regarding missing Jefferson Co. woman

Alliance – The City of Alliance Water Department would like to remind the community to practice water conservation during high temperature months. 

High water demand places a strain on the City’s water system.

Different ways residents can aid with water conservation is by watering lawns in the early morning and less frequent; use a broom to clear walkways/driveways; and refrain from running faucets and other household appliances such as; washing machines and dishwashers excessively.

Please contact the Public Works Facility at (308) 762-1907 for more information or with questions on how you can practice water conservation.

Alliance – The City of Alliance Water Department would like to remind the community to practice water conservation during high temperature months. High water demand places a strain on the City’s water system.Different ways residents can aid with water conservation is by watering lawns in the early morning and less frequent; use a broom to clear walkways/driveways; and refrain from running faucets and other household appliances such as; washing machines and dishwashers excessively.Please contact the Public Works Facility at (308) 762-1907 for more information or with questions on how you can practice water conservation.

City of Alliance reminds residents about water conservation 

Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson discusses items on the agenda of the 7/6/21 city council meeting.

<div><iframe title="🎙 Post Podcast: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson" 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=fzspi-1081f59-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson discusses items on the agenda of the 7/6/21 city council meeting.

🎙 Post Podcast: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson

The 45th Annual "Fur Trade Days" in Chadron will be July 8, 9, 10.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625670984888.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625671031600.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625671073266.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The 45th Annual "Fur Trade Days" in Chadron will be July 8, 9, 10.&nbsp;

Chadron 'Fur Trade Days' schedule of events 

A Wyoming man was arrested for possession of&nbsp;methamphetamine and marijuana in Chadron.&nbsp;

On Tuesday July 6 at approximately 10:13 p.m. Chadron police officer Seth Orsborn conducted a traffic stop with a white Honda Accord for a violation of a stop sign along Highway 20.&nbsp;

Officer Orsborn detected the odor of marijuana coming from within the vehicle. 

"A search of the motor vehicle was conducted," Chadron Police Chief Richard Hickstein said. "As a result several grams of suspected marijuana and suspected methamphetamine were discovered concealed within the vehicle. 36 year-old Garret R. Smith of Cheyenne, Wyoming was also found to be driving on a suspended Wyoming driver’s license."

Smith was arrested for possession of methamphetamine (Class IV Felony), possession of marijuana less than one ounce (Infraction), possession of drug paraphernalia (Infraction) and driving under suspension (Class II Misdemeanor).&nbsp;

Smith was transported to the Dawes County Jail. Bond was set at 10% of $10,000.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostA Wyoming man was arrested for possession of&nbsp;methamphetamine and marijuana in Chadron.&nbsp;On Tuesday July 6 at approximately 10:13 p.m. Chadron police officer Seth Orsborn conducted a traffic stop with a white Honda Accord for a violation of a stop sign along Highway 20.&nbsp;Officer Orsborn detected the odor of marijuana coming from within the vehicle. "A search of the motor vehicle was conducted," Chadron Police Chief Richard Hickstein said. "As a result several grams of suspected marijuana and suspected methamphetamine were discovered concealed within the vehicle. 36 year-old Garret R. Smith of Cheyenne, Wyoming was also found to be driving on a suspended Wyoming driver’s license."Smith was arrested for possession of methamphetamine (Class IV Felony), possession of marijuana less than one ounce (Infraction), possession of drug paraphernalia (Infraction) and driving under suspension (Class II Misdemeanor).&nbsp;Smith was transported to the Dawes County Jail. Bond was set at 10% of $10,000.

Chadron police arrest Wyoming man for possession of methamphetamine

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

Social Security distributes benefits for more than four million children each month if one or both of their parents are disabled, retired, or deceased. Those dollars help to provide the necessities of life for family members to keep them out of poverty and help make it possible for those children to complete high school.

A child must have a parent who’s disabled or retired and entitled to Social Security benefits, or a parent who died after having worked long enough in a job where they paid Social Security taxes.

Unmarried children can get benefits if they are younger than 18, a full-time student up to age 19 and two months or until high school graduation, or 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22. Social Security can also pay benefits to a stepchild, grandchild, step-grandchild, or adopted child depending on guardianship. Most benefits end at age 18, and proof will be required if a child meets either the age or disability exception.

If a child is disabled, benefits will continue beyond age 18, after providing medical evidence of the disability. Childhood disability benefits are payable after reaching age 18, if the disability began before age 22. Disabled children may also be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

For students who have not yet graduated from high school, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will send you a notice three months before your child’s 18th birthday, letting you know that benefits will end when your child turns 18. If your child is younger than 19 and still attending a secondary or elementary school, the school must notify SSA and complete a statement of attendance certified by a school official. The benefits will then continue until your child graduates, or until two months after reaching age 19, whichever comes first. Benefits are not paid for college students.

Within a family, a child can receive up to half of the parent’s full retirement or disability benefit. If a child receives survivors benefits, they can get up to 75 percent of the deceased parent’s basic Social Security benefit. There is a limit, however, to the amount of money that the Social Security Administration (SSA) can pay to a family. The family maximum payment is determined as part of every Social Security benefit computation. It can be from 150 to 180 percent of the parent’s full benefit amount. If the total amount payable to all family members exceeds this limit, SSA reduces each child’s benefit proportionately until the total equals the maximum allowable amount.

When parents or guardians apply for benefits for a child, they need the child’s birth certificate and the parent’s and child’s Social Security numbers. Depending on the type of benefit involved, other documents may be required. For example, if you’re applying for survivors benefits for the child, you’ll need to furnish proof of the parent’s death. If you’re applying for benefits for a disabled child, you’ll need to furnish medical evidence to prove the child’s disability.

For more information or to apply for benefits, go to www.socialsecurity.gov. You can telephone 1-800-772-1213 seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Or you can visit the Social Security office in Scottsbluff, at 415 Valley View Drive.

Social Security benefits play a vital role in reducing poverty, lifting more Americans above the poverty line than any other program.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceSocial Security distributes benefits for more than four million children each month if one or both of their parents are disabled, retired, or deceased. Those dollars help to provide the necessities of life for family members to keep them out of poverty and help make it possible for those children to complete high school.A child must have a parent who’s disabled or retired and entitled to Social Security benefits, or a parent who died after having worked long enough in a job where they paid Social Security taxes.Unmarried children can get benefits if they are younger than 18, a full-time student up to age 19 and two months or until high school graduation, or 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22. Social Security can also pay benefits to a stepchild, grandchild, step-grandchild, or adopted child depending on guardianship. Most benefits end at age 18, and proof will be required if a child meets either the age or disability exception.If a child is disabled, benefits will continue beyond age 18, after providing medical evidence of the disability. Childhood disability benefits are payable after reaching age 18, if the disability began before age 22. Disabled children may also be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.For students who have not yet graduated from high school, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will send you a notice three months before your child’s 18th birthday, letting you know that benefits will end when your child turns 18. If your child is younger than 19 and still attending a secondary or elementary school, the school must notify SSA and complete a statement of attendance certified by a school official. The benefits will then continue until your child graduates, or until two months after reaching age 19, whichever comes first. Benefits are not paid for college students.Within a family, a child can receive up to half of the parent’s full retirement or disability benefit. If a child receives survivors benefits, they can get up to 75 percent of the deceased parent’s basic Social Security benefit. There is a limit, however, to the amount of money that the Social Security Administration (SSA) can pay to a family. The family maximum payment is determined as part of every Social Security benefit computation. It can be from 150 to 180 percent of the parent’s full benefit amount. If the total amount payable to all family members exceeds this limit, SSA reduces each child’s benefit proportionately until the total equals the maximum allowable amount.When parents or guardians apply for benefits for a child, they need the child’s birth certificate and the parent’s and child’s Social Security numbers. Depending on the type of benefit involved, other documents may be required. For example, if you’re applying for survivors benefits for the child, you’ll need to furnish proof of the parent’s death. If you’re applying for benefits for a disabled child, you’ll need to furnish medical evidence to prove the child’s disability.For more information or to apply for benefits, go to www.socialsecurity.gov. You can telephone 1-800-772-1213 seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Or you can visit the Social Security office in Scottsbluff, at 415 Valley View Drive.Social Security benefits play a vital role in reducing poverty, lifting more Americans above the poverty line than any other program.

Poverty In Our Area: Social security benefits for children

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is encouraging the public’s participation in its annual summer turkey survey July 1-Aug. 31.

The survey provides useful estimates about annual production by wild turkey hens and how many poults, or young turkeys, survive the summer brood-rearing period. These records and observations inform management decisions regarding wild turkeys.

During the months of July and August, survey participants may report all turkey observations they make. Visit outdoornebraska.gov/turkeybroodsurvey for instructions and the survey link. The link can be bookmarked on a phone for easy use in the field.

“We had great participation last year and had more observations than the rest of the Great Plains states combined,” said Luke Meduna, Game and Parks’ big game program manager. “Please consider participating so we can use this information in our management and keep Nebraska as a great place to hunt turkeys.”

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is encouraging the public’s participation in its annual summer turkey survey July 1-Aug. 31.The survey provides useful estimates about annual production by wild turkey hens and how many poults, or young turkeys, survive the summer brood-rearing period. These records and observations inform management decisions regarding wild turkeys.During the months of July and August, survey participants may report all turkey observations they make. Visit outdoornebraska.gov/turkeybroodsurvey for instructions and the survey link. The link can be bookmarked on a phone for easy use in the field.“We had great participation last year and had more observations than the rest of the Great Plains states combined,” said Luke Meduna, Game and Parks’ big game program manager. “Please consider participating so we can use this information in our management and keep Nebraska as a great place to hunt turkeys.”

NGPC: Participate in summer turkey survey during July, August

By Erin Lee,&nbsp;Groundwater Management Coordinator -&nbsp;Upper Niobrara White NRD

This is the Crop Water Use Report for the week of July 6, 2021.

Over the past week, wheat used 0.95 inches.

Expected use by wheat for this week is 1.0 inches.

Over the past week, corn used 0.67 inches.

Expected use by corn for this week is 0.70 inches.

Over the past week, beets used 0.40 inches.

Expected use by beets for this week is 0.42 inches.

Over the past week, potatoes used 1.44 inches.

Expected use by potatoes for this week is 1.52 inches.

Over the past week, dry beans used 0.11 inches.

Expected use by dry beans for this week is 0.12 inches.

Over the past week, soybeans used 0.76 inches.

Expected use by soybeans for this week is 0.80 inches.

Over the past week, sunflowers used 0.19 inches.

Expected use by sunflowers for this week is 0.20 inches.

Over the past week, alfalfa used 1.90 inches.

Expected use by alfalfa for this week is 2 inches.

Over past week, actively growing lawns used 2.8 inches.

Expected use by actively growing lawns for this week 2.90 inches.

In the past week average ET gauge readings were 1.90 inches.

The average rainfall for the district was 0.19 inches.

The weather forecast for the next week shows highs ranging from the upper 70s to upper 90s, and lows in the 60s. It will be mostly sunny and hot with chances of showers and thunderstorms early in the week, then again later in the week and into the weekend.

In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 2 showed 48% water available at 12”, 67% water available at 24”, and 78% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Loam soil type with Beets planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.

The crop water use report is completed using the average growth stage for each crop and ET gauge reading from across the district. To find the conversion for your specific crop growth stage, visit <a href="https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData">https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData</a>.

For more information or to inquire about ET gauges or soil moisture monitoring equipment, please contact Erin Lee at the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District at 308.432.6190 or visit our website at www.unwnrd.org. We are committed to helping Nebraskans conserve and protect groundwater.


By Erin Lee,&nbsp;Groundwater Management Coordinator -&nbsp;Upper Niobrara White NRDThis is the Crop Water Use Report for the week of July 6, 2021.Over the past week, wheat used 0.95 inches.Expected use by wheat for this week is 1.0 inches.Over the past week, corn used 0.67 inches.Expected use by corn for this week is 0.70 inches.Over the past week, beets used 0.40 inches.Expected use by beets for this week is 0.42 inches.Over the past week, potatoes used 1.44 inches.Expected use by potatoes for this week is 1.52 inches.Over the past week, dry beans used 0.11 inches.Expected use by dry beans for this week is 0.12 inches.Over the past week, soybeans used 0.76 inches.Expected use by soybeans for this week is 0.80 inches.Over the past week, sunflowers used 0.19 inches.Expected use by sunflowers for this week is 0.20 inches.Over the past week, alfalfa used 1.90 inches.Expected use by alfalfa for this week is 2 inches.Over past week, actively growing lawns used 2.8 inches.Expected use by actively growing lawns for this week 2.90 inches.In the past week average ET gauge readings were 1.90 inches.The average rainfall for the district was 0.19 inches.The weather forecast for the next week shows highs ranging from the upper 70s to upper 90s, and lows in the 60s. It will be mostly sunny and hot with chances of showers and thunderstorms early in the week, then again later in the week and into the weekend.In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 2 showed 48% water available at 12”, 67% water available at 24”, and 78% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Loam soil type with Beets planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.The crop water use report is completed using the average growth stage for each crop and ET gauge reading from across the district. To find the conversion for your specific crop growth stage, visit <a href="https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData">https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData</a>.For more information or to inquire about ET gauges or soil moisture monitoring equipment, please contact Erin Lee at the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District at 308.432.6190 or visit our website at www.unwnrd.org. We are committed to helping Nebraskans conserve and protect groundwater.

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