City of Alliance releases Bands on the Bricks 2025 schedule 

last updated June 3, 2025 — Event times are tentative and subject to change

All Day&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/buckskinners/">Buckskinners primitive camp</a>, open to visitors&nbsp;(3 Miles East, ~8 miles south from Museum of the Fur Trade)

6-9 p.m.&nbsp;- Bands on Bordeaux - Ivory, (First Street, between Main &amp; Bordeaux streets)

6 p.m. - Midnight&nbsp;- Mac’s Carnival&nbsp;(East Second &amp; Bordeaux streets)

10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/activities/#hoopjam">Teammates Mentoring of Chadron 3-on-3 Hoop Jam</a>&nbsp;(901 Cedar Street)

10 a.m - noon&nbsp;- Nerf blaster war, by Thermopolis Nerf&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)

Noon - 7 p.m.&nbsp;- Traders’ Market Officially Opens&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)

12:30 p.m.&nbsp;- Black Hills Raptor Center&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)

1 - 5 p.m.&nbsp;- Inflatables! Slip ’n’ Slide &amp; Waterslide&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)

2 - 6 p.m.&nbsp;- Nerf blaster war, by Thermopolis Nerf&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)

5 - 7 p.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park Cruise&nbsp;(315 W Third Street, FNBO Parking Lot)

6 - 8 p.m.&nbsp;- Pete Butler, old time country music&nbsp;(Courthouse Gazebo)

9 p.m. - 1 a.m.&nbsp;- Live Entertainment,&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/events/schedule/#friday">Brandon Jones</a>&nbsp;(Downtown, West Second Street)

7:30 a.m.&nbsp;- Rotary Colter Run, 2-mile, 5k, 10k&nbsp;(CSC Nelson Physical Activity Center) must register in-person from 6:30-7:29 a.m. July 12

8 a.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park Registration&nbsp;(Wilson Park)

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.&nbsp;- Traders’ Market Opens&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)

9:15 - 9:40 a.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/parade/#flags">Parade of Historic Fur Trade Flags</a>&nbsp;(400 Block of Main Street)

9:45 - 10 a.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/parade/#puppies">Parade of Puppies</a>&nbsp;(400 Block of Main Street)

10 a.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/parade/#parade">49th Annual Lion’s Club Parade</a>&nbsp;(10th &amp; Main to First &amp; Main streets)

11 a.m.&nbsp;- Darrel Draper - Nebraska: Crossroads of the Western Fur Trade, Nebraska Humanities Speaker&nbsp;(Courthouse Gazebo)

11 a.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;NEW TIME!!&nbsp;Rotary World Championship Buffalo Chip Throw&nbsp;(400 Block of Main Street)

11 a.m.&nbsp;- Chadron Chamber of Commerce Ambassador’s BBQ&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)

11 a.m.&nbsp;- Ice Cream Social - First Congregational Church of Chadron&nbsp;(4th Street and Chadron Avenue)

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park, Show and Shine&nbsp;(Wilson Park)

2 p.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park, Judging Deadline&nbsp;(Wilson Park)

3 p.m.&nbsp;- Bump and Run&nbsp;(Dawes County Fairgrounds, Adults $10, Teens $5, 12 and under FREE!)

3 p.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park, Awards Presentation&nbsp;(Wilson Park)

4 p.m.&nbsp;- Historical Cemetery Tour&nbsp;(Greenwood Cemetery, 1588 US Highway 20, $10 admittance, under age 15 free!)

7 p.m.&nbsp;- Historical Cemetery Tour&nbsp;(Greenwood Cemetery, 1588 US Highway 20, $10 admittance, under age 15 free!)

9 p.m. - 1 a.m.&nbsp;- Live Entertainment,&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/events/schedule/#saturday">Judd Hoos &amp; Denham present Juliet Motel</a>&nbsp;(Downtown, West Second Street)

12:30 p.m.&nbsp;- Lions Club Horseshoe Tournament&nbsp;(North Main Street and Belle Fourche Avenue)

<h2>2025 Fur Trade Days events</h2>last updated June 3, 2025 — Event times are tentative and subject to change<h2>Thursday, July 10, 2025</h2>All Day&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/buckskinners/">Buckskinners primitive camp</a>, open to visitors&nbsp;(3 Miles East, ~8 miles south from Museum of the Fur Trade)6-9 p.m.&nbsp;- Bands on Bordeaux - Ivory, (First Street, between Main &amp; Bordeaux streets)6 p.m. - Midnight&nbsp;- Mac’s Carnival&nbsp;(East Second &amp; Bordeaux streets)<h2>Friday, July 11, 2025</h2>All Day&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/buckskinners/">Buckskinners primitive camp</a>, open to visitors&nbsp;(3 Miles East, ~8 miles south from Museum of the Fur Trade)10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/activities/#hoopjam">Teammates Mentoring of Chadron 3-on-3 Hoop Jam</a>&nbsp;(901 Cedar Street)10 a.m - noon&nbsp;- Nerf blaster war, by Thermopolis Nerf&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)Noon - 7 p.m.&nbsp;- Traders’ Market Officially Opens&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)12:30 p.m.&nbsp;- Black Hills Raptor Center&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)1 - 5 p.m.&nbsp;- Inflatables! Slip ’n’ Slide &amp; Waterslide&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)2 - 6 p.m.&nbsp;- Nerf blaster war, by Thermopolis Nerf&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)5 - 7 p.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park Cruise&nbsp;(315 W Third Street, FNBO Parking Lot)6 - 8 p.m.&nbsp;- Pete Butler, old time country music&nbsp;(Courthouse Gazebo)6 p.m. - Midnight&nbsp;- Mac’s Carnival&nbsp;(East Second &amp; Bordeaux streets)9 p.m. - 1 a.m.&nbsp;- Live Entertainment,&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/events/schedule/#friday">Brandon Jones</a>&nbsp;(Downtown, West Second Street)<h2>Saturday, July 12, 2025</h2>All Day&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/buckskinners/">Buckskinners primitive camp</a>, open to visitors&nbsp;(3 Miles East, ~8 miles south from Museum of the Fur Trade)7:30 a.m.&nbsp;- Rotary Colter Run, 2-mile, 5k, 10k&nbsp;(CSC Nelson Physical Activity Center) must register in-person from 6:30-7:29 a.m. July 128 a.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park Registration&nbsp;(Wilson Park)9 a.m. - 3 p.m.&nbsp;- Traders’ Market Opens&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)9:15 - 9:40 a.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/parade/#flags">Parade of Historic Fur Trade Flags</a>&nbsp;(400 Block of Main Street)9:45 - 10 a.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/parade/#puppies">Parade of Puppies</a>&nbsp;(400 Block of Main Street)10 a.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/parade/#parade">49th Annual Lion’s Club Parade</a>&nbsp;(10th &amp; Main to First &amp; Main streets)<h2>FOLLOWING THE PARADE</h2>11 a.m.&nbsp;- Darrel Draper - Nebraska: Crossroads of the Western Fur Trade, Nebraska Humanities Speaker&nbsp;(Courthouse Gazebo)11 a.m.&nbsp;-&nbsp;NEW TIME!!&nbsp;Rotary World Championship Buffalo Chip Throw&nbsp;(400 Block of Main Street)11 a.m.&nbsp;- Chadron Chamber of Commerce Ambassador’s BBQ&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)11 a.m.&nbsp;- Ice Cream Social - First Congregational Church of Chadron&nbsp;(4th Street and Chadron Avenue)11 a.m. - 4 p.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park, Show and Shine&nbsp;(Wilson Park)1 - 5 p.m.&nbsp;- Inflatables! Slip ’n’ Slide &amp; Waterslide&nbsp;(Dawes County Courthouse Lawn)2 p.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park, Judging Deadline&nbsp;(Wilson Park)3 p.m.&nbsp;- Bump and Run&nbsp;(Dawes County Fairgrounds, Adults $10, Teens $5, 12 and under FREE!)3 p.m.&nbsp;- Classics in the Park, Awards Presentation&nbsp;(Wilson Park)4 p.m.&nbsp;- Historical Cemetery Tour&nbsp;(Greenwood Cemetery, 1588 US Highway 20, $10 admittance, under age 15 free!)6 p.m. - Midnight&nbsp;- Mac’s Carnival&nbsp;(East Second &amp; Bordeaux streets)7 p.m.&nbsp;- Historical Cemetery Tour&nbsp;(Greenwood Cemetery, 1588 US Highway 20, $10 admittance, under age 15 free!)9 p.m. - 1 a.m.&nbsp;- Live Entertainment,&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/events/schedule/#saturday">Judd Hoos &amp; Denham present Juliet Motel</a>&nbsp;(Downtown, West Second Street)<h2>Sunday, July 13, 2025</h2>All Day&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="https://furtradedays.com/post/buckskinners/">Buckskinners primitive camp</a>, open to visitors&nbsp;(3 Miles East, ~8 miles south from Museum of the Fur Trade)12:30 p.m.&nbsp;- Lions Club Horseshoe Tournament&nbsp;(North Main Street and Belle Fourche Avenue)

Chadron Fur Trade Days schedule 

Summer means a little more time on your hands. Well, at least on “heat schedule” days at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center. The mercury crept above 90 degrees so we clocked out at 1 p.m. today. The heat coincides with the end of the second quarter and time to review recycling volumes for the first half of 2025. Total numbers still edge where we were a year ago – 461,668 pounds versus 454,725, in the quest for a million pounds within the confines of a calendar.

Hitting a lofty goal is admirable though I am always happy to see an upward trend. The first quarter of 2025 (258,640) was slightly ahead of a million-pound pace. The average with two quarters in the books is nearly 10 tons behind. In fact, only two categories were higher than 2024: cardboard and automobile parts. Robust cardboard deposits continue to fill the three trailers along Second Street in Alliance and at least two trailers per week from Chadron. A pair of balers tasked with the job squeezed another 16 tons – 299,956 to 267,914 pounds respectively, this year versus last. Car parts from Todd’s Body and Frame shop accounted for 540 pounds whereas his 702 pounds of parts last year did not arrive until the fourth quarter.

Coincidently, contemplating the other categories, Dixie and I thought there had been fewer aluminum cans lately. Prices around 60 cents or better seem enough motivation to save cans for money again. During the first half of 2024 as the market began to warm up, as I recall, we baled 6,281 pounds while this year the amount is down nearly a third at 4,860 pounds.

Milk jugs in 2024 left the building in one load before June 30th. Now Spud takes them on demand, which, in large part, accounts for 3,221 pounds now and 11,120 then.

Other materials have been comparable 2024/2025: #1-7 plastics 19,962/18,307; steel/tin cans 12,244/11,226; mixed paper (including magazines/books) 70,388/68,528; and, Hefty bags 9,486/8,714. Electronics, 11,827/8,927, and glass, 39,292/33,138, were a bit farther apart. Also, we mailed 93 pounds of ink cartridges via UPS and sent 4,158 pounds of “other” recyclables with Spud, our hauler, to become something else useful down the line.

Now on the downward slide, I am sure our patrons are up to besting the 915,284 pounds recycled by midnight Dec. 31, 2024. One aspect in particular where I think local recyclers can gain ground is contamination. A new sorter found his first dirty diapers this past week. A rite of passage unfortunately. Save the trash for the landfill of your choice, please. We strive to pass along clean, dry items on our list. The weight of what was thrown away in the non-cardboard categories would have easily added another ton over three months.

Questions? Call the shop phone, 308-763-1410, or stop by 107 ½ Cheyenne. We’ll show you around if you have a few minutes. Bored and/or curious about what's in the big black bags? No problem, sort as many as you want. Thanks for keeping Alliance beautiful!

By JOHN E. WEARE KABSummer means a little more time on your hands. Well, at least on “heat schedule” days at the Keep Alliance Beautiful Recycling Center. The mercury crept above 90 degrees so we clocked out at 1 p.m. today. The heat coincides with the end of the second quarter and time to review recycling volumes for the first half of 2025. Total numbers still edge where we were a year ago – 461,668 pounds versus 454,725, in the quest for a million pounds within the confines of a calendar.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751891825177.jpeg" alt="A forklift operator loads empty IBC totes at Schekall's farm to donate to Keep Alliance Beautiful this summer. KAB appreciates having totes on hand as recycling volumes continue to increase year-to-date for the second quarter of 2025." />
 <figcaption>A forklift operator loads empty IBC totes at Schekall's farm to donate to Keep Alliance Beautiful this summer. KAB appreciates having totes on hand as recycling volumes continue to increase year-to-date for the second quarter of 2025.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hitting a lofty goal is admirable though I am always happy to see an upward trend. The first quarter of 2025 (258,640) was slightly ahead of a million-pound pace. The average with two quarters in the books is nearly 10 tons behind. In fact, only two categories were higher than 2024: cardboard and automobile parts. Robust cardboard deposits continue to fill the three trailers along Second Street in Alliance and at least two trailers per week from Chadron. A pair of balers tasked with the job squeezed another 16 tons – 299,956 to 267,914 pounds respectively, this year versus last. Car parts from Todd’s Body and Frame shop accounted for 540 pounds whereas his 702 pounds of parts last year did not arrive until the fourth quarter.Coincidently, contemplating the other categories, Dixie and I thought there had been fewer aluminum cans lately. Prices around 60 cents or better seem enough motivation to save cans for money again. During the first half of 2024 as the market began to warm up, as I recall, we baled 6,281 pounds while this year the amount is down nearly a third at 4,860 pounds.Milk jugs in 2024 left the building in one load before June 30th. Now Spud takes them on demand, which, in large part, accounts for 3,221 pounds now and 11,120 then.Other materials have been comparable 2024/2025: #1-7 plastics 19,962/18,307; steel/tin cans 12,244/11,226; mixed paper (including magazines/books) 70,388/68,528; and, Hefty bags 9,486/8,714. Electronics, 11,827/8,927, and glass, 39,292/33,138, were a bit farther apart. Also, we mailed 93 pounds of ink cartridges via UPS and sent 4,158 pounds of “other” recyclables with Spud, our hauler, to become something else useful down the line.Now on the downward slide, I am sure our patrons are up to besting the 915,284 pounds recycled by midnight Dec. 31, 2024. One aspect in particular where I think local recyclers can gain ground is contamination. A new sorter found his first dirty diapers this past week. A rite of passage unfortunately. Save the trash for the landfill of your choice, please. We strive to pass along clean, dry items on our list. The weight of what was thrown away in the non-cardboard categories would have easily added another ton over three months.Questions? Call the shop phone, 308-763-1410, or stop by 107 ½ Cheyenne. We’ll show you around if you have a few minutes. Bored and/or curious about what's in the big black bags? No problem, sort as many as you want. Thanks for keeping Alliance beautiful!

KAB: Recycling Volumes Still Ahead Of 2024 Pace

Recruiting contestants for the Box Butte Fair Queen Contest

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.

-Dustin L Doss, Class 2A Felony, Assault 2nd degree, Class 2 Felony, Use deadly weapon to commit a felony, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Assualt-cause bodily injury

-Stuart Campbell, Class 3A Felony, Assault by strangulation or suffocation, Terroristic threats

-Jason A Fisher, Class 4 Felony, Theft-unlawful taking $1,500-4,999, Unauth use fin tran device/$1,500-5,000

-Natalie Wentling,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para, Obstructing

-Shania Shepard,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss marijuana &lt; 10z.

-Lluvia Meza,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para, DUI

-Devonne Pandullo,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss drug para, Poss&nbsp;Marijuana &lt; 1oz.

-Cole Russell,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para, DUI-drugs

-Abraham Ladeaux, Class 3A Felony, Assault by strangulation or suffocation, Class 1 Misdemeanor, DV assault-3rd/threat/bodily injury&nbsp;

*All individuals included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The Panhandle Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint via the “Contact Us” tab on the homepage.Box Butte Co:-Dustin L Doss, Class 2A Felony, Assault 2nd degree, Class 2 Felony, Use deadly weapon to commit a felony, Class 1 Misdemeanor, Assualt-cause bodily injury-Stuart Campbell, Class 3A Felony, Assault by strangulation or suffocation, Terroristic threats-Jason A Fisher, Class 4 Felony, Theft-unlawful taking $1,500-4,999, Unauth use fin tran device/$1,500-5,000Scotts Bluff Co:-Natalie Wentling,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para, Obstructing-Shania Shepard,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss marijuana &lt; 10z.-Lluvia Meza,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para, DUI-Devonne Pandullo,&nbsp;Poss cont sub X2, Poss drug para, Poss&nbsp;Marijuana &lt; 1oz.-Cole Russell,&nbsp;Poss cont sub, Poss drug para, DUI-drugsDawes Co:&nbsp;-Abraham Ladeaux, Class 3A Felony, Assault by strangulation or suffocation, Class 1 Misdemeanor, DV assault-3rd/threat/bodily injury&nbsp;

Panhandle booking activity, June 24 - July 3

(Ogallala, NE) –&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lakemaccasinoresort.com/index.html">Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack</a>&nbsp;will host a job fair on July 5 and start conducting walk-in interviews on July 7, 2025.

Those eager to seek a new career in the exciting world of casino gaming may attend to learn more about available positions needed for the opening of the racetrack and temporary casino (pending Nebraska Racing &amp; Gaming approval). Positions include casino management, security, surveillance, slot technicians, slot attendants, cage cashiers, players club, accounting, administration and more.

Potential employees must be at least 19 years of age to work in the casino. For more information on the career fair, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@lakemacresort.com">info@lakemacresort.com</a>.

Follow Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack on social media, text MAC to 217777 or visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lakemaccasinoresort.com/index.html">website</a>&nbsp;for current project and employment information.

About Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lakemaccasinoresort.com/index.html">Lake Mac Casino Resort</a>&nbsp;&amp; Racetrack, an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.elitecasinoresorts.com/">Elite Casino Resorts</a>&nbsp;property, will be located conveniently off I-80 in Ogallala, Nebraska. A temporary casino facility opens first offering friendly service, 5/8-mile quarter horse track, 300+ slot machines and electronic table games, a sports book, live simulcast and a sports bar.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.elitecasinoresorts.com/index.html">Elite Casino Resorts</a>&nbsp;is a leading regional gaming operator in the Midwest and a privately-owned U.S. company known for premier casino resort destinations, first-class guest service and amenities, great entertainment, and exceptional food. With a strong commitment to community service, Elite was recognized as the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://raycenter.drake.edu/iowa-character-awards/">Iowa Character Counts</a>&nbsp;2024 Partner of the Year. Elite Casino Resorts operates five casino resorts:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.riversidecasinoandresort.com/index.html">Riverside Casino &amp; Golf Resort</a>&nbsp;, located just south of Iowa City, IA;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rhythmcitycasino.com/index.html">Rhythm City Casino Resort</a>, located in Davenport, IA;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.grandfallscasinoresort.com/index.html">Grand Falls Casino &amp; Golf Resort</a>, located in Larchwood, IA, just minutes from Sioux Falls, SD;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.grandislandresort.com/index.html">Grand Island Casino Resort</a>&nbsp;located in Grand Island, Nebraska and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkersbluffcasinoresort.com/index.html">Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort</a>, in Carterville, Illinois.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lakemaccasinoresort.com/index.html">Lake Mac Casino Resort and Racetrack</a>&nbsp;is under construction in Ogallala, NE.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751543708851.jpeg" alt="rendering of Lake Mac Casino in Ogallala once finished" />
 <figcaption>rendering of Lake Mac Casino in Ogallala once finished</figcaption>
 </figure>(Ogallala, NE) –&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lakemaccasinoresort.com/index.html">Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack</a>&nbsp;will host a job fair on July 5 and start conducting walk-in interviews on July 7, 2025.Those eager to seek a new career in the exciting world of casino gaming may attend to learn more about available positions needed for the opening of the racetrack and temporary casino (pending Nebraska Racing &amp; Gaming approval). Positions include casino management, security, surveillance, slot technicians, slot attendants, cage cashiers, players club, accounting, administration and more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751543590061.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Potential employees must be at least 19 years of age to work in the casino. For more information on the career fair, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@lakemacresort.com">info@lakemacresort.com</a>.Follow Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack on social media, text MAC to 217777 or visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lakemaccasinoresort.com/index.html">website</a>&nbsp;for current project and employment information.About Lake Mac Casino Resort &amp; Racetrack<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lakemaccasinoresort.com/index.html">Lake Mac Casino Resort</a>&nbsp;&amp; Racetrack, an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.elitecasinoresorts.com/">Elite Casino Resorts</a>&nbsp;property, will be located conveniently off I-80 in Ogallala, Nebraska. A temporary casino facility opens first offering friendly service, 5/8-mile quarter horse track, 300+ slot machines and electronic table games, a sports book, live simulcast and a sports bar.About Elite Casino Resorts<a target="_blank" href="https://www.elitecasinoresorts.com/index.html">Elite Casino Resorts</a>&nbsp;is a leading regional gaming operator in the Midwest and a privately-owned U.S. company known for premier casino resort destinations, first-class guest service and amenities, great entertainment, and exceptional food. With a strong commitment to community service, Elite was recognized as the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://raycenter.drake.edu/iowa-character-awards/">Iowa Character Counts</a>&nbsp;2024 Partner of the Year. Elite Casino Resorts operates five casino resorts:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.riversidecasinoandresort.com/index.html">Riverside Casino &amp; Golf Resort</a>&nbsp;, located just south of Iowa City, IA;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rhythmcitycasino.com/index.html">Rhythm City Casino Resort</a>, located in Davenport, IA;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.grandfallscasinoresort.com/index.html">Grand Falls Casino &amp; Golf Resort</a>, located in Larchwood, IA, just minutes from Sioux Falls, SD;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.grandislandresort.com/index.html">Grand Island Casino Resort</a>&nbsp;located in Grand Island, Nebraska and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.walkersbluffcasinoresort.com/index.html">Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort</a>, in Carterville, Illinois.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.lakemaccasinoresort.com/index.html">Lake Mac Casino Resort and Racetrack</a>&nbsp;is under construction in Ogallala, NE.

Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack Conducting Job Fair and Walk-In Interviews 

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

About a month ago Panhandle Post reported on the closure of the RSVP program in Chadron. Since that story aired, I've heard a lot of speculation about what would be happening to the RSVP program and all the activities at the Senior Center in Alliance.

Recently I met with Angie Flesner, Director of the Senior Center in Alliance. She assured me that RSVP has been funded through a grant until March 31, 2026.

RSVP is the nationwide Retired Senior Volunteer Program offered through AmeriCorps. RSVP encourages older adults to remain active and engaged in their communities while making a positive impact.&nbsp;Volunteers are age 55 and older, and Flesner reported that she has had several new volunteers sign up in the last few months.

Volunteers can choose activities that match their skills and interests. The Senior Center lines up delivery people for their noon meals and well as Meals on Wheels for the hospital. They serve regularly at Community Table. People can volunteer for any nonprofit, school, or government entity and report their volunteer hours. Those hours are used in the grant application process.

Currently Flesner is looking for people to help with the Extra Helpings Food Pantry operated by Northwest Community Action Partnership at 3rd and Flack streets in Alliance.&nbsp;This task involves stocking shelves, assisting the pantry's clients, helping staff track outgoing food, and helping to unload products from delivery trucks.

Flesner is especially excited about the Senior Center's newest program, the Volunteer Youth Alliance. The organization was approved by the Alliance City Council at their January meeting. Currently 33 youth volunteers work with RSVP volunteers on local events. She reported that they have logged about 300 hours of service so far.

The Volunteer Youth Alliance has a board of nine RSVP and two youth volunteers. They have painted fire hydrants throughout Alliance, sorted recyclables at KAB and created an art wall at the KAB facility, put out flags downtown over Memorial Day weekend, and helped at Horspice. Youth volunteers report projects they have been involved with at their churches. They regularly assist in serving the Nutrition Site meals at the Senior Center.

The Nutrition Site at the Senior Center feeds 65-70 people every day. Meals are available at the Senior Center at 11:45 am for $5.50 and home delivery for $6.00. The Aging Office of Western Nebraska in Scottsbluff oversees the Nutrition Program by setting menus and prices. (Prices did not change this year.) Menus are posted on Panhandle Post and&nbsp;<a href="http://facebook.com/Alliance.NE.Senior.Center" target="_blank">facebook.com/Alliance.NE.Senior.Center</a>. People are asked to contact the Senior Center if they want to receive meals. Most patrons are regulars who sign up for a week at a time. Others are asked to phone the center before 9:00 am, to ensure the right amount of food is prepared.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityAbout a month ago Panhandle Post reported on the closure of the RSVP program in Chadron. Since that story aired, I've heard a lot of speculation about what would be happening to the RSVP program and all the activities at the Senior Center in Alliance.Recently I met with Angie Flesner, Director of the Senior Center in Alliance. She assured me that RSVP has been funded through a grant until March 31, 2026.RSVP is the nationwide Retired Senior Volunteer Program offered through AmeriCorps. RSVP encourages older adults to remain active and engaged in their communities while making a positive impact.&nbsp;Volunteers are age 55 and older, and Flesner reported that she has had several new volunteers sign up in the last few months.Volunteers can choose activities that match their skills and interests. The Senior Center lines up delivery people for their noon meals and well as Meals on Wheels for the hospital. They serve regularly at Community Table. People can volunteer for any nonprofit, school, or government entity and report their volunteer hours. Those hours are used in the grant application process.Currently Flesner is looking for people to help with the Extra Helpings Food Pantry operated by Northwest Community Action Partnership at 3rd and Flack streets in Alliance.&nbsp;This task involves stocking shelves, assisting the pantry's clients, helping staff track outgoing food, and helping to unload products from delivery trucks.Flesner is especially excited about the Senior Center's newest program, the Volunteer Youth Alliance. The organization was approved by the Alliance City Council at their January meeting. Currently 33 youth volunteers work with RSVP volunteers on local events. She reported that they have logged about 300 hours of service so far.The Volunteer Youth Alliance has a board of nine RSVP and two youth volunteers. They have painted fire hydrants throughout Alliance, sorted recyclables at KAB and created an art wall at the KAB facility, put out flags downtown over Memorial Day weekend, and helped at Horspice. Youth volunteers report projects they have been involved with at their churches. They regularly assist in serving the Nutrition Site meals at the Senior Center.The Nutrition Site at the Senior Center feeds 65-70 people every day. Meals are available at the Senior Center at 11:45 am for $5.50 and home delivery for $6.00. The Aging Office of Western Nebraska in Scottsbluff oversees the Nutrition Program by setting menus and prices. (Prices did not change this year.) Menus are posted on Panhandle Post and&nbsp;<a href="http://facebook.com/Alliance.NE.Senior.Center" target="_blank">facebook.com/Alliance.NE.Senior.Center</a>. People are asked to contact the Senior Center if they want to receive meals. Most patrons are regulars who sign up for a week at a time. Others are asked to phone the center before 9:00 am, to ensure the right amount of food is prepared.

Getting Ahead: RSVP and the Volunteer Youth Alliance

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen has issued a proclamation marking Independence Day, in which he asked Nebraskans to take due notice of the federal holiday, display their American flags and reflect on the profound words of the Founding Fathers who declared:&nbsp; “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Gov. Pillen added, “By declaring our independence 249 years ago, the United States became the world’s beacon of liberty. Today, we proudly celebrate freedom, and American greatness, with family friends and of course, fireworks. Happy 4th of July!”

Next year, America will celebrate its 250th birthday, the Semiquincentennial.

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Jim Pillen has issued a proclamation marking Independence Day, in which he asked Nebraskans to take due notice of the federal holiday, display their American flags and reflect on the profound words of the Founding Fathers who declared:&nbsp; “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”Gov. Pillen added, “By declaring our independence 249 years ago, the United States became the world’s beacon of liberty. Today, we proudly celebrate freedom, and American greatness, with family friends and of course, fireworks. Happy 4th of July!”Next year, America will celebrate its 250th birthday, the Semiquincentennial.<figure>
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Governor Pillen issues Independence Day Proclamation

Chadron, NE – Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services will implement a new patient payment policy beginning July 1, 2025, aimed at improving financial transparency and expanding payment options for patients. Under the updated policy, all patient account balances must be paid in full within 12 months of the date of service. Patients who are unable to pay in full are strongly encouraged to contact the Hospital’s Billing Office at (308) 432-3897 to discuss alternative arrangements.

Expanded Payment and Support Options Include:

· Hospital Payment Plans: Interest-free plans with structured minimum payments over a 12-month period.

· AblePay: A new partnership offering discounted rates and customized payment flexibility for patients.

· Security First Bank Financing: A financing option for those needing extended repayment beyond 12 months.

· Financial Assistance Program: Income-based assistance is available for qualifying individuals.

In addition, the hospital is introducing a pre-collection outreach process through a third-party partner, Encore, to help patients avoid collections and maintain financial health. Accounts with no payments after 90 days, or that fall below minimum payment standards, will be referred to Encore for further communication and resolution support.

To reward prompt payment, the hospital will continue offering a discount to patients who pay their full balance within 30 days of billing.

“Chadron Community Hospital remains committed to delivering compassionate care while supporting our patients' financial well-being,” said Jennifer Brown, CFO. “These updates are designed to create flexibility, improve communication, and ensure patients have access to the resources they need.”

By Chadron Community HospitalChadron, NE – Chadron Community Hospital &amp; Health Services will implement a new patient payment policy beginning July 1, 2025, aimed at improving financial transparency and expanding payment options for patients. Under the updated policy, all patient account balances must be paid in full within 12 months of the date of service. Patients who are unable to pay in full are strongly encouraged to contact the Hospital’s Billing Office at (308) 432-3897 to discuss alternative arrangements.Expanded Payment and Support Options Include:· Hospital Payment Plans: Interest-free plans with structured minimum payments over a 12-month period.· AblePay: A new partnership offering discounted rates and customized payment flexibility for patients.· Security First Bank Financing: A financing option for those needing extended repayment beyond 12 months.· Financial Assistance Program: Income-based assistance is available for qualifying individuals.In addition, the hospital is introducing a pre-collection outreach process through a third-party partner, Encore, to help patients avoid collections and maintain financial health. Accounts with no payments after 90 days, or that fall below minimum payment standards, will be referred to Encore for further communication and resolution support.To reward prompt payment, the hospital will continue offering a discount to patients who pay their full balance within 30 days of billing.“Chadron Community Hospital remains committed to delivering compassionate care while supporting our patients' financial well-being,” said Jennifer Brown, CFO. “These updates are designed to create flexibility, improve communication, and ensure patients have access to the resources they need.”

Chadron Community Hospital announces updated Patient Payment Policy

Alliance, NE – Due to the recent failure of the pool heater, water temperatures at Big Blue Bay will be slightly cooler than usual over the next few days.

City staff had previously identified issues with the heater and, several weeks ago, requested and received City Council approval to order a replacement. The new heater has arrived on-site.

Installation will take place as soon as a few additional parts are delivered.

Under normal conditions, the pool water temperature is maintained between 78–80°F. For the coming week, temperatures are expected to range from approximately 75°F in the early morning to around 78°F by late afternoon. These fluctuations will vary slightly based on overnight lows and daily highs.

Based on current weather forecasts, we do not anticipate a significant impact on visitors’ swimming experience.

For additional information please contact Shana Brown at 762-2384.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – Due to the recent failure of the pool heater, water temperatures at Big Blue Bay will be slightly cooler than usual over the next few days.City staff had previously identified issues with the heater and, several weeks ago, requested and received City Council approval to order a replacement. The new heater has arrived on-site.Installation will take place as soon as a few additional parts are delivered.Under normal conditions, the pool water temperature is maintained between 78–80°F. For the coming week, temperatures are expected to range from approximately 75°F in the early morning to around 78°F by late afternoon. These fluctuations will vary slightly based on overnight lows and daily highs.Based on current weather forecasts, we do not anticipate a significant impact on visitors’ swimming experience.For additional information please contact Shana Brown at 762-2384.

Alliance Big Blue Bay pool heater update

At approximately 5:00 am this morning (7-1-25), the Alliance Fire Department was dispatched to a fully involved attached garage fire in the 1600 block of Emerson Avenue.

The fire department responded with a fire engine, an aerial ladder platform, an ambulance, and a heavy rescue truck. Upon our arrival, the sole occupant was outside of the home. Crews made quick work of containing the main fire to the garage with limited spread into the house. The inside of the home suffered from water and smoke damage, as well as extreme heat throughout. Unfortunately, one pet did perish inside the home from smoke inhalation.

The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Investigator from Ogallala was called to the scene to assist in determining the cause and origin of the fire. Their expertise and resources will be crucial in our investigation. 

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AlliancePoliceDept?__cft__[0]=AZVhkh-rwleNCyeN0NkaUsLE4VH8s_TolemVmJTe-POahcngC8y4y-Cu23me6U-Ua7s5Ocb-L2T4owRfvzfqk1DvPkDW38u78w6m3UHsV-R9Tw82T__SZ73H4BNMJGYpJUnylLrz1Ygdr4wAfPt4rPgRuMDAjhUnpu6WL0yc-dpSMD05NmMRBGn7nUCnZCCPn146RsHKZ_HN5WkWvB4fKCqI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Alliance Nebraska Police Department</a>, our Public Safety Dispatchers, the Alliance Electric, Water, and Streets Department, and Black Hills Energy all played a crucial role in our response. Their assistance was invaluable and greatly appreciated.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/FirefighterMinistry/?__cft__[0]=AZVhkh-rwleNCyeN0NkaUsLE4VH8s_TolemVmJTe-POahcngC8y4y-Cu23me6U-Ua7s5Ocb-L2T4owRfvzfqk1DvPkDW38u78w6m3UHsV-R9Tw82T__SZ73H4BNMJGYpJUnylLrz1Ygdr4wAfPt4rPgRuMDAjhUnpu6WL0yc-dpSMD05NmMRBGn7nUCnZCCPn146RsHKZ_HN5WkWvB4fKCqI&amp;__tn__=-UK-R">Firefighter Ministry</a> out of Scottsbluff was also contacted to assist the home owner. They have been in contact with him and offering all the assistance that they can.

By Alliance Volunteer Fire DepartmentAt approximately 5:00 am this morning (7-1-25), the Alliance Fire Department was dispatched to a fully involved attached garage fire in the 1600 block of Emerson Avenue.The fire department responded with a fire engine, an aerial ladder platform, an ambulance, and a heavy rescue truck. Upon our arrival, the sole occupant was outside of the home. Crews made quick work of containing the main fire to the garage with limited spread into the house. The inside of the home suffered from water and smoke damage, as well as extreme heat throughout. Unfortunately, one pet did perish inside the home from smoke inhalation.The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Investigator from Ogallala was called to the scene to assist in determining the cause and origin of the fire. Their expertise and resources will be crucial in our investigation. The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AlliancePoliceDept?__cft__[0]=AZVhkh-rwleNCyeN0NkaUsLE4VH8s_TolemVmJTe-POahcngC8y4y-Cu23me6U-Ua7s5Ocb-L2T4owRfvzfqk1DvPkDW38u78w6m3UHsV-R9Tw82T__SZ73H4BNMJGYpJUnylLrz1Ygdr4wAfPt4rPgRuMDAjhUnpu6WL0yc-dpSMD05NmMRBGn7nUCnZCCPn146RsHKZ_HN5WkWvB4fKCqI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Alliance Nebraska Police Department</a>, our Public Safety Dispatchers, the Alliance Electric, Water, and Streets Department, and Black Hills Energy all played a crucial role in our response. Their assistance was invaluable and greatly appreciated.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/FirefighterMinistry/?__cft__[0]=AZVhkh-rwleNCyeN0NkaUsLE4VH8s_TolemVmJTe-POahcngC8y4y-Cu23me6U-Ua7s5Ocb-L2T4owRfvzfqk1DvPkDW38u78w6m3UHsV-R9Tw82T__SZ73H4BNMJGYpJUnylLrz1Ygdr4wAfPt4rPgRuMDAjhUnpu6WL0yc-dpSMD05NmMRBGn7nUCnZCCPn146RsHKZ_HN5WkWvB4fKCqI&amp;__tn__=-UK-R">Firefighter Ministry</a> out of Scottsbluff was also contacted to assist the home owner. They have been in contact with him and offering all the assistance that they can.<figure>
 <img src="https://scontent.flnk2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/514477670_1117987083699208_5961966416028734931_n.jpg?stp=cp6_dst-jpg_s600x600_tt6&amp;_nc_cat=106&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=127cfc&amp;_nc_ohc=NA-cfeAR8DkQ7kNvwFDrwsC&amp;_nc_oc=AdleVokp_tgvB3i6C4e76Xr_KokdeGKaTDYf_LZzMj4Dn04lFjIj6OS1gwcM8w9JoXU&amp;_nc_zt=23&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.flnk2-1.fna&amp;_nc_gid=4AJHOiwcscE4rUrXO0ERuA&amp;oh=00_AfPWFGxFuF-KOACgVPeurhaS95Yc5m3_qhP2LmP20FdNhQ&amp;oe=686A1500" alt="All photos courtesy of Alliance Volunteer Fire Department" />
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Alliance Fire Department battle early morning fire 

Alliance, NE – The City of Alliance Facilities will be closed Friday, July 4, 2025 in observance of Independence Day. This closure includes the Utility Office, Public Works, Alliance Public Library, Sallows Military Museum, Knight Museum, Public Transit, Alliance Municipal Landfill and the Municipal Building. All offices will resume their regular hours on Monday, July 7 th .

Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

By City of AllianceAlliance, NE – The City of Alliance Facilities will be closed Friday, July 4, 2025 in observance of Independence Day. This closure includes the Utility Office, Public Works, Alliance Public Library, Sallows Military Museum, Knight Museum, Public Transit, Alliance Municipal Landfill and the Municipal Building. All offices will resume their regular hours on Monday, July 7 th .Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

City of Alliance 4th of July closures 

Western & Wildlife Art Show performance schedule at Fort Robinson

Scottsbluff, NE – United Way of Western Nebraska is proud to announce the 2025–2026 grant recipients: twenty-two local nonprofit organizations that will receive funding to support impactful community programs. These grants are made possible through generous contributions to the 2024–2025 United Way fundraising campaign, including direct donations and community events such as the popular United Way Duck Draw.

Funding decisions were made by United Way Partner Business representatives and community volunteers who carefully reviewed applications and conducted interviews with each nonprofit applicant. Funds Distribution Committees convened in Scottsbluff, Alliance, and Chadron to recommend funding levels tailored to the needs of each community.

The selected nonprofits align with United Way’s four key impact areas: Healthy Community, Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, and Community Resilience. These organizations have been named 2025–2026 United Way Partner Agencies.

These agencies work to improve health and well-being for all:

· Camp Scott (Summer Program for Handicapped Children)

· Panhandle Partnership (Lifespan Respite)

· Western Community Health Resources (Community Essentials Pantry)

These organizations help young people reach their full potential:

These nonprofits support financial stability and empowerment:

· Community Action Partnership of Western Nebraska (Family Stabilization)

These agencies address urgent needs and build stronger futures:

United Way of Western Nebraska serves thirteen counties in the Nebraska Panhandle, as well as Goshen and Platte Counties in Wyoming. All funds raised remain in the communities where they were donated, ensuring local impact.

For more information about United Way of Western Nebraska and how to get involved, please visit uwwn.org.

United Way of Western Nebraska is a nonprofit organization that unites people and resources to build a stronger, healthier and more compassionate community. Supporting 23 local nonprofit agencies in the areas of youth opportunity, healthy community, community resiliency and financial security and reinvesting in Western Nebraska since their inception in 1945. For more information, visit www.uwwn.org.

Scottsbluff, NE – United Way of Western Nebraska is proud to announce the 2025–2026 grant recipients: twenty-two local nonprofit organizations that will receive funding to support impactful community programs. These grants are made possible through generous contributions to the 2024–2025 United Way fundraising campaign, including direct donations and community events such as the popular United Way Duck Draw.Funding decisions were made by United Way Partner Business representatives and community volunteers who carefully reviewed applications and conducted interviews with each nonprofit applicant. Funds Distribution Committees convened in Scottsbluff, Alliance, and Chadron to recommend funding levels tailored to the needs of each community.The selected nonprofits align with United Way’s four key impact areas: Healthy Community, Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, and Community Resilience. These organizations have been named 2025–2026 United Way Partner Agencies.Healthy CommunityThese agencies work to improve health and well-being for all:· Alliance Bulldog Backpack Program· Buckboard Therapeutic Riding Academy· Camp Scott (Summer Program for Handicapped Children)· Carpenter Center· Community Table· East Point Hospice· Nebraska Diaper Bank· Panhandle Partnership (Lifespan Respite)· Scottsbluff/Gering Soup Kitchen· Western Community Health Resources (Community Essentials Pantry)Youth OpportunityThese organizations help young people reach their full potential:· Alliance Aftershock Softball· Alliance Recreation Center· Banisters Leadership Academy· Cirrus House (Youth Services)Financial SecurityThese nonprofits support financial stability and empowerment:· Community Action Partnership of Western Nebraska (Family Stabilization)· Guadalupe Center· Northfield Haven· Scotts Bluff County Volunteer CenterCommunity ResilienceThese agencies address urgent needs and build stronger futures:· American Red Cross· CASA of Scotts Bluff County· Plains West CASA· The DOVES ProgramUnited Way of Western Nebraska serves thirteen counties in the Nebraska Panhandle, as well as Goshen and Platte Counties in Wyoming. All funds raised remain in the communities where they were donated, ensuring local impact.For more information about United Way of Western Nebraska and how to get involved, please visit uwwn.org.United Way of Western Nebraska is a nonprofit organization that unites people and resources to build a stronger, healthier and more compassionate community. Supporting 23 local nonprofit agencies in the areas of youth opportunity, healthy community, community resiliency and financial security and reinvesting in Western Nebraska since their inception in 1945. For more information, visit www.uwwn.org.

United Way of Western Nebraska Announces '25-'26 Partner Agencies

CRAWFORD, Neb. — The Crawford Chamber of Commerce will kick off its annual Independence Day Parade with a thrilling F-16 flyover on July 4, 2025, performed by Kent Moody, call sign “Levi.”

Moody, a commander with the 162nd Wing of the Air National Guard in Tucson, Arizona, will lead the aerial salute. The 162nd is the largest flying wing in the Air National Guard and plays a key role in training both U.S. and foreign military pilots — including personnel from Ukraine — on the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

The unit also maintains a 24/7 Aerospace Control Alert (ACA) mission, where pilots and ground crew remain on constant standby to defend U.S. airspace. Moody currently serves as the commander of the ACA detachment.

The flyover will mark the start of Crawford’s patriotic celebration, continuing a proud tradition of honoring military service and American independence.

CRAWFORD, Neb. — The Crawford Chamber of Commerce will kick off its annual Independence Day Parade with a thrilling F-16 flyover on July 4, 2025, performed by Kent Moody, call sign “Levi.”Moody, a commander with the 162nd Wing of the Air National Guard in Tucson, Arizona, will lead the aerial salute. The 162nd is the largest flying wing in the Air National Guard and plays a key role in training both U.S. and foreign military pilots — including personnel from Ukraine — on the F-16 Fighting Falcon.The unit also maintains a 24/7 Aerospace Control Alert (ACA) mission, where pilots and ground crew remain on constant standby to defend U.S. airspace. Moody currently serves as the commander of the ACA detachment.The flyover will mark the start of Crawford’s patriotic celebration, continuing a proud tradition of honoring military service and American independence.<figure>
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F-16 Flyover to launch Crawford’s July 4th Parade

CHADRON – It was a class scavenger hunt on the Chadron State College campus that led Kevin Coy Jr. to Project Strive, CSC’s name for a group of federal Department of Education programs that assist low-income, first generation, and individuals with disabilities earn post-secondary educational degrees.

Immediately after learning of Project Strive’s benefits and that he was eligible from Director Jennifer Schaer, Coy applied to join as a way to help navigate the unfamiliar academic and cultural environment.

A native of Davenport, Florida, who came to CSC in 2014 on a football scholarship, Coy said he had almost no academic background, and knew no one on campus, so support from Project Strive was welcome.

Four years as a Project Strive student paid off for Coy in Dec. 2018 when he graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in sports management from Chadron State College, becoming the first member of his family to attain a college degree.

“The biggest help was the mentoring, counseling, and academic advising with classes,” Coy said. “The support that was given, and the knowledge that was gained, definitely helped me. It propelled me to graduate and become successful in life.”

Coy’s college career also included athletic honors earned as a running back for the football team, including being selected to the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference All-Academic first team and the Academic All-America Division II Second Team.

Coy’s experience with helping students deepened in 2017, when he became a team leader for Upward Bound, a program that brings younger students to campus to build familiarity with college work and an academic setting.

“I actually worked with a Boys and Girls Club back in Florida, so I already had experience working with kids from those backgrounds,” he said. “I was one of those kids and want the impact I can possibly have on the future generations.”

As team leader, Coy was a residential advisor in the dormitory with about 20 younger students, ate all meals with them, and planned their after-class activities.

“You get to wear a lot of hats being a team leader,” he said. “It’s pretty hands-on.”

After graduation from CSC, Coy’s dedication, enthusiasm, and ability to relate to students landed him the job of CSC’s Upward Bound academic advisor for Alliance and Chadron High Schools.

With a roster of nearly 50 students in the two high schools during the school year, and 21 on CSC’s campus this summer, the work keeps Coy busy. Throughout the school year, he monitors students’ grades, hosts monthly academic planning meetings, and visits with parents when needed.&nbsp;

“I help the students throughout school and give them that extra support,” he said.

Coy also helps create assignments that students can complete to earn a small stipend and takes groups on visits to area colleges and technical colleges as a way of exposing them to their options following high school graduation.

“It’s rewarding to give those students that access to post-secondary education,” he said.

Recruiting new students for Upward Bound is also part of his work. Coy speaks to middle school graduates and consults with school counselors to find students who could benefit from the program.

Coy said his own life experience helps him relate to Upward Bound participants, who often lack self-confidence.

“They really can’t see that far ahead that they have the abilities to go on to post-secondary education,” he said. “I’ve been there and am able to connect on a deeper level.”

Not every Upward Bound student goes on to college or a trade school, Coy said, but after several years with the program and working with more than 100 students, he has seen many participants go on to achieve success. One Upward Bound student just graduated from Chadron State in May, he said, and a previous participant who graduated from South Dakota State University has just become an Upward Bound Academic Advisor there.

The program also opens opportunities for technical careers. Coy knows an Upward Bound student who earned HVAC certification at Southeast Community College and has returned to a good job in his hometown, and another one who completed diesel mechanic courses and has returned to Alliance.

Talk of possible federal cuts to funding for the Project Strive suite of programs, which include Upward Bound and Student Support Services at Chadron State, has Coy worried, not only for his job, but also about the impact on people with a background like his.

“Low-income, first-generation background students will take a huge blow,” he said. “Students won’t have access, or more accessibility to post-secondary education.”

Cutting the programs will affect teachers and administrators too, said Coy.

“Upward Bound is a tangible hope that kids, teachers, and administrators could grab. If it’s not there, I don’t know where that hope will go,” he said.

And Coy knows personally how Upward Bound can help a person achieve their dreams.

“It wasn’t until I got to college when I realized how far education can take you,” he said. “It’s a really important program to help students get more educated so they can make a better life for themselves.”

BY GEORGE LEDBETTER, CSC&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751311516780.jpeg" alt="Academic Advisor Kevin Coy, Jr. leads PCA 1 class in Old Admin, June 9, 2025. (Photo by Sydney Brown/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Academic Advisor Kevin Coy, Jr. leads PCA 1 class in Old Admin, June 9, 2025. (Photo by Sydney Brown/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – It was a class scavenger hunt on the Chadron State College campus that led Kevin Coy Jr. to Project Strive, CSC’s name for a group of federal Department of Education programs that assist low-income, first generation, and individuals with disabilities earn post-secondary educational degrees.Immediately after learning of Project Strive’s benefits and that he was eligible from Director Jennifer Schaer, Coy applied to join as a way to help navigate the unfamiliar academic and cultural environment.A native of Davenport, Florida, who came to CSC in 2014 on a football scholarship, Coy said he had almost no academic background, and knew no one on campus, so support from Project Strive was welcome.Four years as a Project Strive student paid off for Coy in Dec. 2018 when he graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in sports management from Chadron State College, becoming the first member of his family to attain a college degree.“The biggest help was the mentoring, counseling, and academic advising with classes,” Coy said. “The support that was given, and the knowledge that was gained, definitely helped me. It propelled me to graduate and become successful in life.”Coy’s college career also included athletic honors earned as a running back for the football team, including being selected to the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference All-Academic first team and the Academic All-America Division II Second Team.Coy’s experience with helping students deepened in 2017, when he became a team leader for Upward Bound, a program that brings younger students to campus to build familiarity with college work and an academic setting.“I actually worked with a Boys and Girls Club back in Florida, so I already had experience working with kids from those backgrounds,” he said. “I was one of those kids and want the impact I can possibly have on the future generations.”As team leader, Coy was a residential advisor in the dormitory with about 20 younger students, ate all meals with them, and planned their after-class activities.“You get to wear a lot of hats being a team leader,” he said. “It’s pretty hands-on.”After graduation from CSC, Coy’s dedication, enthusiasm, and ability to relate to students landed him the job of CSC’s Upward Bound academic advisor for Alliance and Chadron High Schools.With a roster of nearly 50 students in the two high schools during the school year, and 21 on CSC’s campus this summer, the work keeps Coy busy. Throughout the school year, he monitors students’ grades, hosts monthly academic planning meetings, and visits with parents when needed.&nbsp;“I help the students throughout school and give them that extra support,” he said.Coy also helps create assignments that students can complete to earn a small stipend and takes groups on visits to area colleges and technical colleges as a way of exposing them to their options following high school graduation.“It’s rewarding to give those students that access to post-secondary education,” he said.Recruiting new students for Upward Bound is also part of his work. Coy speaks to middle school graduates and consults with school counselors to find students who could benefit from the program.Coy said his own life experience helps him relate to Upward Bound participants, who often lack self-confidence.“They really can’t see that far ahead that they have the abilities to go on to post-secondary education,” he said. “I’ve been there and am able to connect on a deeper level.”Not every Upward Bound student goes on to college or a trade school, Coy said, but after several years with the program and working with more than 100 students, he has seen many participants go on to achieve success. One Upward Bound student just graduated from Chadron State in May, he said, and a previous participant who graduated from South Dakota State University has just become an Upward Bound Academic Advisor there.The program also opens opportunities for technical careers. Coy knows an Upward Bound student who earned HVAC certification at Southeast Community College and has returned to a good job in his hometown, and another one who completed diesel mechanic courses and has returned to Alliance.Talk of possible federal cuts to funding for the Project Strive suite of programs, which include Upward Bound and Student Support Services at Chadron State, has Coy worried, not only for his job, but also about the impact on people with a background like his.“Low-income, first-generation background students will take a huge blow,” he said. “Students won’t have access, or more accessibility to post-secondary education.”Cutting the programs will affect teachers and administrators too, said Coy.“Upward Bound is a tangible hope that kids, teachers, and administrators could grab. If it’s not there, I don’t know where that hope will go,” he said.And Coy knows personally how Upward Bound can help a person achieve their dreams.“It wasn’t until I got to college when I realized how far education can take you,” he said. “It’s a really important program to help students get more educated so they can make a better life for themselves.”

CSC’s Project Strive helps students find success

Nebraska Game and Parks reminds campers and other outdoor recreationists to be safe with fire this coming Fourth of July holiday weekend.

While no campfire bans are in place at Nebraska State Parks or on state wildlife management areas, campers and recreationists should be aware that local entities may have burn restrictions in place.

Despite recent rains, guests should exercise caution when having a campfire. They should:

Visitors also should follow these fire safety practices:

Fireworks are allowed to be touched off on July 4 only at designated areas of Branched Oak, Wagon Train and Pawnee state recreation areas.

By Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska Game and Parks reminds campers and other outdoor recreationists to be safe with fire this coming Fourth of July holiday weekend.While no campfire bans are in place at Nebraska State Parks or on state wildlife management areas, campers and recreationists should be aware that local entities may have burn restrictions in place.Despite recent rains, guests should exercise caution when having a campfire. They should:<ul>
 <li>keep fires small;</li><li>keep them contained in provided fire rings;</li><li>never leave any open flame unattended;</li><li>have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of spread; and</li><li>ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving the site.</li>
 </ul>Visitors also should follow these fire safety practices:<ul>
 <li>Dispose of cigarettes and other flammable objects appropriately.</li><li>Avoid activities that could create sparks.</li><li>Restrict driving to established roads and trails.</li><li>Avoid parking vehicles in tall vegetation.</li><li>Make sure no chains or metal parts or objects are hanging or dragging from your vehicle or towed trailer.</li><li>In the morning, before driving and while the exhaust/catalytic converter system is cool, inspect it to see no debris is clinging to it.</li>
 </ul>Fireworks are allowed to be touched off on July 4 only at designated areas of Branched Oak, Wagon Train and Pawnee state recreation areas.

Keep fire safety in mind on Fourth of July

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk: He Writes The Songs

Whenever I have had occasion to travel for work there are always windows for walkabout. Exploration typically strikes me on the second day, after weariness inherent with driving for hours evaporates following a good night’s sleep. Keep Nebraska Beautiful hosted its annual conference in Lincoln this spring. When I attended the previous time KNB picked our capital city, my early morning walk wound through the City Campus of the University of Nebraska. A few receptacles and signs hinted at UNL’s position on recycling. This year’s conference allowed affiliates from throughout the state to look behind the curtain – not just at Big Red recycling, rather we saw a comprehensive and evolving commitment to sustainability.

Looking at the agenda the week before, “Sustainability at UNL” promised to be a highlight that Thursday. Organizers paired an interesting topic with a tour, hard to go wrong with that setup. Faculty members Morgan Hartman and Madeline Yeatts highlighted advancements centering on progress since 2020. The mission of UNL’s Office of Sustainability: We want to make UNL more sustainable, efficient, and resilient by leading and implementing practices that positively impact the environmental, social, and economic prosperity of the UNL community and the larger world.

Morgan, who has taught Environmental Engagement and the Community and was hired as campus recycling coordinator in 2020, touted achievements such as a Tree Campus designation, Foam Free (no Styrofoam) Campus, and 2022 gold rating within the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment &amp; Rating System.

The University sits at a 50 percent diversion rate now, they explained, noting in-building recycling is being promoted “in an area we identified where we can make some progress.” A recycling pilot project started in 2020. Slides showed a move to uniform containers and signage.

“We tow the line on advocacy vs. . . . (we) try to help students realize they have a voice. . . . (absence of) Styrofoam and BikeLink are a couple big examples of student led advocacy.”

The presenters pointed out both examples and the meat of what they talked about on the walking tour that followed.

BikeLink allows students to check out electric or human-powered bicycles at six locations on campus. A year’s subscription is only $25. A few bikes were gone at the location we passed despite most of the student body being gone for the summer.

Selleck Dining Center, last on the tour, was a great place to view the demand for reusable containers called Ozzi’s. Matt, the manager, said, “When they get food they can get a reusable container and get a pass getting them back when they’re washed. (Students) get a reminder every two days if they don’t return them.” The return rate, however, has continued to climb. Selleck also features a hydroponic farm for micro greens featured in the meals.

When we first crossed the street onto campus, split into two groups, Madeline led us to what appeared to be a customized golf cart under a shade tree. Jeff Culbertson, head of Facilities, Maintenance and Operations (and a panelist on Nebraska Public Media’s “Backyard Farmer”) described the electric vehicle and aspects of sustainability within his department.

The cart charges and transports batteries that power portable trimmers and other tools that traditionally depended on gasoline engines. Now his suitably stealthy crew can work without scheduling around classes in session. Jeff, with UNL for 35 years, said there are 7,500 trees on

campus. All the mulch in their landscaping comes from trimming the trees. His department also recycles all grass clippings through composting. Prefood waste, like peelings, amounts to about 50 gallons a day. Jeff said the composting operation is at East Campus: six 200-yard piles in addition to a 300-400 yard covered pile. The process takes about a year.

Bike sharing, micro greens, reusable food containers, electric vehicles, composting – all of it is familiar to some degree. Located next to a storm water infrastructure, the Willa Cather Dining Center held something I had only read about. We were privileged to watch a food digester in action!

Selleck hosted the campus’ first digester in 2019. What we saw at Cather was the fourth. They all run 24/7. The LSC 200 model at Cather has a 400-pound capacity and digests 250-280 pounds of waste a day. Combined, the four centers diverted 135,000 pounds of waste from the landfill in 2024. It is an aerobic process with a food-grade enzyme. The digesters are as smart as any cell phone: the equipment is online. AI tells where the leftovers are from as the digesters track food waste and cost. Each leg is a scale that measures the amount of food being digested. Water that comes out from the process goes to the waste water treatment center.

Conversation on the walk between buildings speculated on the size of the student body at UNL. A ballpark figure of 30,000 is what sticks in my memory although UNL’s website reported the September 2024 census at 23,992. That total is on par with Alliance and the combined population of the northern Panhandle (Box Butte, Dawes, Sioux and Sheridan). Granted, we were talking about sustainability at the University of Nebraska and just in Lincoln at that. Yet, I wonder if this level of coordination and innovation is possible with enough commitment by the powers that be in Northwest Nebraska?

For information on how Big Red is turning green visit sustainability.unl.edu

By JOHN E. WEARE KABWhenever I have had occasion to travel for work there are always windows for walkabout. Exploration typically strikes me on the second day, after weariness inherent with driving for hours evaporates following a good night’s sleep. Keep Nebraska Beautiful hosted its annual conference in Lincoln this spring. When I attended the previous time KNB picked our capital city, my early morning walk wound through the City Campus of the University of Nebraska. A few receptacles and signs hinted at UNL’s position on recycling. This year’s conference allowed affiliates from throughout the state to look behind the curtain – not just at Big Red recycling, rather we saw a comprehensive and evolving commitment to sustainability.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751039638751.jpeg" alt="Madeline Yeatts, UNL sustainability coordinator, leads Keep Nebraska Beautiful affiliates on a tour of City Campus during their recent conference.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Madeline Yeatts, UNL sustainability coordinator, leads Keep Nebraska Beautiful affiliates on a tour of City Campus during their recent conference.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751039663097.jpeg" alt="Dave Annis, UNL director of dining services, shows off the food digester at the Willa Cather Dining Center." />
 <figcaption>Dave Annis, UNL director of dining services, shows off the food digester at the Willa Cather Dining Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>Looking at the agenda the week before, “Sustainability at UNL” promised to be a highlight that Thursday. Organizers paired an interesting topic with a tour, hard to go wrong with that setup. Faculty members Morgan Hartman and Madeline Yeatts highlighted advancements centering on progress since 2020. The mission of UNL’s Office of Sustainability: We want to make UNL more sustainable, efficient, and resilient by leading and implementing practices that positively impact the environmental, social, and economic prosperity of the UNL community and the larger world.Morgan, who has taught Environmental Engagement and the Community and was hired as campus recycling coordinator in 2020, touted achievements such as a Tree Campus designation, Foam Free (no Styrofoam) Campus, and 2022 gold rating within the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment &amp; Rating System.The University sits at a 50 percent diversion rate now, they explained, noting in-building recycling is being promoted “in an area we identified where we can make some progress.” A recycling pilot project started in 2020. Slides showed a move to uniform containers and signage.“We tow the line on advocacy vs. . . . (we) try to help students realize they have a voice. . . . (absence of) Styrofoam and BikeLink are a couple big examples of student led advocacy.”The presenters pointed out both examples and the meat of what they talked about on the walking tour that followed.BikeLink allows students to check out electric or human-powered bicycles at six locations on campus. A year’s subscription is only $25. A few bikes were gone at the location we passed despite most of the student body being gone for the summer.Selleck Dining Center, last on the tour, was a great place to view the demand for reusable containers called Ozzi’s. Matt, the manager, said, “When they get food they can get a reusable container and get a pass getting them back when they’re washed. (Students) get a reminder every two days if they don’t return them.” The return rate, however, has continued to climb. Selleck also features a hydroponic farm for micro greens featured in the meals.When we first crossed the street onto campus, split into two groups, Madeline led us to what appeared to be a customized golf cart under a shade tree. Jeff Culbertson, head of Facilities, Maintenance and Operations (and a panelist on Nebraska Public Media’s “Backyard Farmer”) described the electric vehicle and aspects of sustainability within his department.The cart charges and transports batteries that power portable trimmers and other tools that traditionally depended on gasoline engines. Now his suitably stealthy crew can work without scheduling around classes in session. Jeff, with UNL for 35 years, said there are 7,500 trees oncampus. All the mulch in their landscaping comes from trimming the trees. His department also recycles all grass clippings through composting. Prefood waste, like peelings, amounts to about 50 gallons a day. Jeff said the composting operation is at East Campus: six 200-yard piles in addition to a 300-400 yard covered pile. The process takes about a year.Bike sharing, micro greens, reusable food containers, electric vehicles, composting – all of it is familiar to some degree. Located next to a storm water infrastructure, the Willa Cather Dining Center held something I had only read about. We were privileged to watch a food digester in action!Selleck hosted the campus’ first digester in 2019. What we saw at Cather was the fourth. They all run 24/7. The LSC 200 model at Cather has a 400-pound capacity and digests 250-280 pounds of waste a day. Combined, the four centers diverted 135,000 pounds of waste from the landfill in 2024. It is an aerobic process with a food-grade enzyme. The digesters are as smart as any cell phone: the equipment is online. AI tells where the leftovers are from as the digesters track food waste and cost. Each leg is a scale that measures the amount of food being digested. Water that comes out from the process goes to the waste water treatment center.Conversation on the walk between buildings speculated on the size of the student body at UNL. A ballpark figure of 30,000 is what sticks in my memory although UNL’s website reported the September 2024 census at 23,992. That total is on par with Alliance and the combined population of the northern Panhandle (Box Butte, Dawes, Sioux and Sheridan). Granted, we were talking about sustainability at the University of Nebraska and just in Lincoln at that. Yet, I wonder if this level of coordination and innovation is possible with enough commitment by the powers that be in Northwest Nebraska?For information on how Big Red is turning green visit sustainability.unl.edu

KAB: A Peak At Sustainability On UNL’s City Campus

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751297353684.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Firework display at Laing Lake in Alliance

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) is excited to announce the establishment of the Panhandle Corn Growers Association, representing corn growers in Banner, Box Butte, Garden, Morrill, Scotts Bluff and Sioux counties. The announcement follows the acceptance of a formal request to the NeCGA Board of Directors during its board meeting on June 17th in Broken Bow.

Andy Groskopf, president of the newly founded local association, presented the letter and officially requested affiliate status. Groskopf said the Panhandle Corn Growers Association aims to unify corn growers in western Nebraska under the shared belief of advancing the corn industry through leadership, advocacy, policy development and education.

Warnar Schaneman has been selected to serve as the Panhandle representative on the NeCGA state board. In this role, Schaneman will help ensure the voice and interests of Panhandle growers are represented at the state level.

“The formation of the Panhandle Corn Growers Association is a major milestone in the continued growth of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association,” said Michael Dibbern, president of NeCGA. “Our mission has always been to serve grassroots corn farmers across the entire state, and the need for local representation in western Nebraska has never been greater. We’re excited to welcome these growers and look forward to the leadership and perspective they’ll bring to the Association.”

In alignment with NeCGA’s mission, the Panhandle Corn Growers Association is committed to hosting annual promotional and educational events and actively participating in statewide activities. The group has also appointed a vice president and treasurer to support the local leadership structure and ensure operational effectiveness.

The addition of the local reinforces NeCGA’s commitment to building a statewide grassroots network of leaders dedicated to advancing Nebraska’s corn industry.

For more information about the Nebraska Corn Growers Association, please visit necga.org or call (402) 438-6459.

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) is excited to announce the establishment of the Panhandle Corn Growers Association, representing corn growers in Banner, Box Butte, Garden, Morrill, Scotts Bluff and Sioux counties. The announcement follows the acceptance of a formal request to the NeCGA Board of Directors during its board meeting on June 17th in Broken Bow.Andy Groskopf, president of the newly founded local association, presented the letter and officially requested affiliate status. Groskopf said the Panhandle Corn Growers Association aims to unify corn growers in western Nebraska under the shared belief of advancing the corn industry through leadership, advocacy, policy development and education.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNeCGA%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0MLjKH5dwYjhAypaxbeBtiBUWnS8QNB18ci8MMU6AceEzDiQUzeTsLh8v6RotFYPPl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="757" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Warnar Schaneman has been selected to serve as the Panhandle representative on the NeCGA state board. In this role, Schaneman will help ensure the voice and interests of Panhandle growers are represented at the state level.“The formation of the Panhandle Corn Growers Association is a major milestone in the continued growth of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association,” said Michael Dibbern, president of NeCGA. “Our mission has always been to serve grassroots corn farmers across the entire state, and the need for local representation in western Nebraska has never been greater. We’re excited to welcome these growers and look forward to the leadership and perspective they’ll bring to the Association.”In alignment with NeCGA’s mission, the Panhandle Corn Growers Association is committed to hosting annual promotional and educational events and actively participating in statewide activities. The group has also appointed a vice president and treasurer to support the local leadership structure and ensure operational effectiveness.The addition of the local reinforces NeCGA’s commitment to building a statewide grassroots network of leaders dedicated to advancing Nebraska’s corn industry.For more information about the Nebraska Corn Growers Association, please visit necga.org or call (402) 438-6459.

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