The Alliance City Council is meeting tonight and there are several items of interest on the agenda.&nbsp;

One of the items is a resolution to accept and award Twin City Roofing and Sheet Metal Inc. for the Alliance Golf Facilities 2021 Hailstorm Project. The total amount is listed at $92,547.55.&nbsp;

There will also be a resolution for the Downtown Resolution Project, and a resolution to approve and accept the Blighted and Substandard Study for Ramblin Road.&nbsp;

Tonight’s Alliance City Council meeting will be held at 7 PM at the Alliance Learning Center at 1750 Sweetwater Ave.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Alliance City Council is meeting tonight and there are several items of interest on the agenda.&nbsp;One of the items is a resolution to accept and award Twin City Roofing and Sheet Metal Inc. for the Alliance Golf Facilities 2021 Hailstorm Project. The total amount is listed at $92,547.55.&nbsp;There will also be a resolution for the Downtown Resolution Project, and a resolution to approve and accept the Blighted and Substandard Study for Ramblin Road.&nbsp;Tonight’s Alliance City Council meeting will be held at 7 PM at the Alliance Learning Center at 1750 Sweetwater Ave.&nbsp;

Alliance City Council on Monday to consider several resolutions

The 137th&nbsp;Dawes County Fair is going on Friday, July 28th&nbsp;- Saturday, August 5th&nbsp;in Chadron at the Fairgrounds.

The theme is, "Roses are Red, Mud is Brown, Windows are up, and the Pedal is Down!"

Tuesday, Aug. 1st - 6 pm - Dawes County Fair Board Hog Wrestling &amp; Pig Wrangler Auction&nbsp;

Wednesday, Aug. 2nd - 6:30 pm - Tough Truck Driver Meeting - 6:45 Entries Close - 7 pm Tough Truck Show&nbsp;

(Registration begins at 5 pm and closes at 6:15pm)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday, Aug. 3rd - 6:00 pm - Rubber Check Race&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday, August 4th - 6 pm - 4-H Foundation Market Livestock Sale

Click <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/594080b0bebafbdca4b259e9/t/62956efda520674872a863fa/1653960484935/2022+DC+Fair+Book.pdf">HERE </a>to view the full Dawes County Fair events booklet.&nbsp;

By Panhandle&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690898379014.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The 137th&nbsp;Dawes County Fair is going on Friday, July 28th&nbsp;- Saturday, August 5th&nbsp;in Chadron at the Fairgrounds.The theme is, "Roses are Red, Mud is Brown, Windows are up, and the Pedal is Down!"Tuesday, Aug. 1st - 6 pm - Dawes County Fair Board Hog Wrestling &amp; Pig Wrangler Auction&nbsp;Wednesday, Aug. 2nd - 6:30 pm - Tough Truck Driver Meeting - 6:45 Entries Close - 7 pm Tough Truck Show&nbsp;(Registration begins at 5 pm and closes at 6:15pm)&nbsp;&nbsp;Thursday, Aug. 3rd - 6:00 pm - Rubber Check Race&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday, August 4th - 6 pm - 4-H Foundation Market Livestock SaleClick <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/594080b0bebafbdca4b259e9/t/62956efda520674872a863fa/1653960484935/2022+DC+Fair+Book.pdf">HERE </a>to view the full Dawes County Fair events booklet.&nbsp;

Dawes County Fair schedule, events 

Box Butte General Hospital announced that they have closed entrances to the Hospital Tuesday and Thursday. The announcement states that street entrances including the ER entrance will be closed. The entrances on Box Butte Ave. will have limited or no access, however, the entrances on the east side of campus will be accessible. 

BBGH advises to use Sweetwater or 25th St to enter the back entrance of the hospital and the parking lots will not be affected. 

Signage will be put up to direct traffic to an alternate entrance, any questions are to be directed to Werner Road Construction or Gary at 308-761-3367.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostBox Butte General Hospital announced that they have closed entrances to the Hospital Tuesday and Thursday. The announcement states that street entrances including the ER entrance will be closed. The entrances on Box Butte Ave. will have limited or no access, however, the entrances on the east side of campus will be accessible. BBGH advises to use Sweetwater or 25th St to enter the back entrance of the hospital and the parking lots will not be affected. Signage will be put up to direct traffic to an alternate entrance, any questions are to be directed to Werner Road Construction or Gary at 308-761-3367.

BBGH to close certain entrances on Tue, Thu

The Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center releases the estimated crop water use for Nebraska Panhandle crops weekly.  Nebraska Extension Educator Gary stone has an update for this week.

 "They will be needing more water, the corn is starting to tassel and will start to set on ears and so we need that water for grain fill," Stone said.&nbsp; "The same with sugar beats, they're starting to put on more roots, so they're going to need more water, just like dry beans."&nbsp;

Stone says this year’s temperamental weather has put alfalfa at various cuttings and water use has been all over the place. He says one grower he spoke to from just south of Torrington was just getting off their first cutting, when normally growers are on their 2nd cutting.

The estimated crop water use is based on data gathered and calculations made by Nebraska Extension personnel.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center releases the estimated crop water use for Nebraska Panhandle crops weekly. Nebraska Extension Educator Gary stone has an update for this week. "They will be needing more water, the corn is starting to tassel and will start to set on ears and so we need that water for grain fill," Stone said.&nbsp; "The same with sugar beats, they're starting to put on more roots, so they're going to need more water, just like dry beans."&nbsp;Stone says this year’s temperamental weather has put alfalfa at various cuttings and water use has been all over the place. He says one grower he spoke to from just south of Torrington was just getting off their first cutting, when normally growers are on their 2nd cutting.The estimated crop water use is based on data gathered and calculations made by Nebraska Extension personnel.&nbsp;

Update on crop water use in Panhandle

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 7/31/23

&nbsp;Big&nbsp; Blue Bay in Alliance announces&nbsp; hours to wrap up the 2023 swimming season. End of the season hours are as follows:

Monday – Friday, August 7 – 11th

Saturday &amp; Sunday, August 12 – 13th

5:00pm – 6:00pm - Lap Swim &amp; Tot swim

Monday – Wednesday, August 14-16th

By Panhandle Post&nbsp;Big&nbsp; Blue Bay in Alliance announces&nbsp; hours to wrap up the 2023 swimming season. End of the season hours are as follows:Monday – Friday, August 7 – 11th6:00am to 7:00am – Lap SwimNoon to 1:00pm - Lap Swim &amp; Tot swim1:00pm to 3:00pm – Open SwimSaturday &amp; Sunday, August 12 – 13thNoon to 1:00pm - Lap Swim &amp; Tot swim1:00pm to 5:00pm – Open Swim5:00pm – 6:00pm - Lap Swim &amp; Tot swimMonday – Wednesday, August 14-16th6:00am to 7:00am&nbsp; - Lap SwimNoon to 1:00pm - Lap Swim &amp; Tot swim1:00pm to 3:00pm – Open Swim

End of season hours at Big Blue Bay announced

Alliance, NE –&nbsp; The City of Alliance announced the&nbsp; Street Rehab Project&nbsp; &nbsp;on Monday that begins this week July 31, 2023, with the start of milling City streets on the west end of town including: West 14th Street, Grove Avenue, Hammond Lane and West 16th Street.

The city says that contractors have placed “no parking” signs on many streets in preparation for this work. and to be aware that parking on these streets will be prohibited during the project.

For questions or concerns,&nbsp; call the City of Alliance at (308)-762-5400 or Ross Grant, Public Works Director at (308) 762-1907.

By Alex Benzegala&nbsp;Alliance, NE –&nbsp; The City of Alliance announced the&nbsp; Street Rehab Project&nbsp; &nbsp;on Monday that begins this week July 31, 2023, with the start of milling City streets on the west end of town including: West 14th Street, Grove Avenue, Hammond Lane and West 16th Street.The city says that contractors have placed “no parking” signs on many streets in preparation for this work. and to be aware that parking on these streets will be prohibited during the project.For questions or concerns,&nbsp; call the City of Alliance at (308)-762-5400 or Ross Grant, Public Works Director at (308) 762-1907.

Street Rehab Project begins in Alliance Monday

The Nebraska Historical Society Foundation had their “Walk to the Rock,” public ceremony and dedication on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp; Panhandle Post was at Chimney Rock for the celebration and talked to Leslie&nbsp;Fattig who  is the Executive Director of the Nebraska Historical Society Foundation an she explains what the event was all about. "This is the public dedication to welcome the public to our trails," Fattig said. The response has been overwhelmingly positive."

 Fattig says that Walk To The Rock includes four, ten-foot-wide hiking trails, ranging in length from .20 miles to 1.76 miles, and two&nbsp;bridges that span 130 feet in length. bridges spanning ravines. The two bridges make the path crossable for all visitors, including the elderly and those using a wheelchair, walkers, and strollers. 

The finely crushed gravel trail bed allows wheeled transportation and maintenance equipment to easily glide over the pathway.&nbsp;

Gail Debuse Potter, President of the Nebraska Historical Society Foundation explained that with the opening of the trails it will get hikers the closest to Chimney Rock possible.

Trail signs will honor donors to this project. Trail A is named for the Ethel S. Abbott Charitable Foundation, Trail C for Crete Carrier, and Trail D will be the Community Trail. 

All donors over $1,000 will be recognized on this Trail. The bridge situated in front of Chimney Rock is named for D F Dillion. Trail B has not been named at this time. Trail signs will be installed as they are completed.&nbsp;

By ALEX BENZEGALA Panhandle PostThe Nebraska Historical Society Foundation had their “Walk to the Rock,” public ceremony and dedication on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp; Panhandle Post was at Chimney Rock for the celebration and talked to Leslie&nbsp;Fattig who is the Executive Director of the Nebraska Historical Society Foundation an she explains what the event was all about. "This is the public dedication to welcome the public to our trails," Fattig said. The response has been overwhelmingly positive." Fattig says that Walk To The Rock includes four, ten-foot-wide hiking trails, ranging in length from .20 miles to 1.76 miles, and two&nbsp;bridges that span 130 feet in length. bridges spanning ravines. The two bridges make the path crossable for all visitors, including the elderly and those using a wheelchair, walkers, and strollers. The finely crushed gravel trail bed allows wheeled transportation and maintenance equipment to easily glide over the pathway.&nbsp;Gail Debuse Potter, President of the Nebraska Historical Society Foundation explained that with the opening of the trails it will get hikers the closest to Chimney Rock possible.Trail signs will honor donors to this project. Trail A is named for the Ethel S. Abbott Charitable Foundation, Trail C for Crete Carrier, and Trail D will be the Community Trail. All donors over $1,000 will be recognized on this Trail. The bridge situated in front of Chimney Rock is named for D F Dillion. Trail B has not been named at this time. Trail signs will be installed as they are completed.&nbsp;

Nebraska Historical Society Foundation holds 'Walk to the Rock' Event

The Chadron Police Department asks all businesses and citizens to be on the look out for what the Police Department refers to “Motion Picture Money” or “Copy Money.” 

 Chadron Police Chief Richard Hickstein says that the money looks real enough but that they have received dollar bills that have the fake money on the currency.&nbsp;

Hickstein advises that if you come across the motion picture money or copy money in your transactions, please contact the Chadron Police Department at their Communications Center at 308-432-0510.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Chadron Police Department asks all businesses and citizens to be on the look out for what the Police Department refers to “Motion Picture Money” or “Copy Money.” Chadron Police Chief Richard Hickstein says that the money looks real enough but that they have received dollar bills that have the fake money on the currency.&nbsp;Hickstein advises that if you come across the motion picture money or copy money in your transactions, please contact the Chadron Police Department at their Communications Center at 308-432-0510.

Chadron Police Department advises public on 'Copy money'

A central Nebraska woman was in Box Butte County Court Wednesday on felony drug charges. 19-year-old Kyah Cordell of Grand Island was ordered to serve three years probation on a felony conviction of Distribution of Fentanyl. 

Cordell was arrested on August 22 of last year after a traffic stop near Berea, where Authorities found Fentanyl pills in her vehicle.

 She entered a plea on No Contest in May, and in exchange for that plea a Box Butte County court drug case against Cordell will be dismissed.&nbsp;

By Panhandle PostA central Nebraska woman was in Box Butte County Court Wednesday on felony drug charges. 19-year-old Kyah Cordell of Grand Island was ordered to serve three years probation on a felony conviction of Distribution of Fentanyl. Cordell was arrested on August 22 of last year after a traffic stop near Berea, where Authorities found Fentanyl pills in her vehicle. She entered a plea on No Contest in May, and in exchange for that plea a Box Butte County court drug case against Cordell will be dismissed.&nbsp;

Grand Island woman convicted of distributing Fentanyl in Box Butte County

Author’s Note: This is the second of a two-part series featuring the two Rural Fellows (UNL students) who interned this summer at Box Butte Development Corporation through Rural Prosperity Nebraska.

I grew up in Ahmedabad city, Gujarat state, western India.

&gt;Hobbies, interests? In my free time, I like to swim, read books, play volleyball, visit art shows, museums and travel.

&gt;Why did you choose this university/the degree you are pursuing? My advisor suggested that I pursue the Merchandising doctoral degree and the University of Nebraska has a good program in the Department of Textiles Merchandising and Fashion Design. So, UNL seemed like a suitable choice. After finishing my program, I would like to teach, so a terminal degree is a must. The University of Nebraska offered me an assistantship, and hence I decided to come to UNL.

&gt;Why did you think being interns for part of the summer at BBDC would be a good opportunity? After working in rural India for about 10 years, I wanted to work in rural communities in another country. The Rural Fellowship through the Rural Prosperity Nebraska offered this fellowship for a summer semester to work in Alliance, rural Nebraska. My background is in entrepreneurship and sustainability, and hence I got matched with BBDC as a part of my application process. I thought this would be a good opportunity, as I would get a chance to work in rural communities, help the local people, learn from the community leader and get a diverse experience. As a part of the internship, I have had a chance to stay with a local host family, help local businesses with marketing and Google presence. This internship has given me a chance to apply my entrepreneurship experiences and research education and I think this is a good opportunity for me and the community, both!

&gt;Did you know each other before then, and what did you like about having the experience together than if it had been solo? Marissa and I met in February 2023, after we were matched through the Rural Prosperity program. I appreciate that we both come from different backgrounds and bring in diverse experiences to the projects. We both have individual skills and strengths, which help make the projects more promising. Had I worked on these projects solo, they would have come out good, but in a team, they are better! As a team, we have had a chance to visit Hemingford, walk around local businesses in Box Butte County, travel to Scottsbluff, work on many projects and ideate better ways of serving the community under Chelsie’s guidance.

&gt;Most memorable things you learned and how are they relevant to your education/life on campus?

The most memorable things that I have learned are listening to the community, having empathy for them and crafting solutions as per their needs. No two communities can be the same; hence solutions need to be very carefully shaped for the community challenges. Secondly, working in diverse teams helps add a different perspective to problem solving. Third, living with an American host family has taught me a lot about the local culture, lifestyle and Alliance in general. All these learnings are very important in education to have a rich experience to move ahead in life on campus and off campus.

&gt;Surprises and had you ever been to the Panhandle before? Kindness and community spirit. The kindness of the people and willingness to help each one was very pleasantly surprising for me. The community spirit to work together and in collaboration for the betterment of the social good is something I really appreciate. Apart from this, the lack of public transport system to connect to other close by towns or in the town was a big surprise for me.

&gt;How did you work with Chelsie Herian? &nbsp;As a part of the Rural Fellow application, we applied and mentioned our skill sets and experiences. Each community also applies and submits their project as a part of their application. Then communities and students are matched. Thus, Marissa and I, both were matched with each other and with Chelsie for the projects at BBDC. It has been wonderful to work with Chelsie, she is a great leader, supporter, initiator and collaborator. I could not have asked for a better community leader. We work in team to ideate projects and collaborate on many solutions. Apart from this, we individually also work on projects where we can use our skills and strengths.

&gt;Takeaways from visiting KAB? KAB is doing some really good work. I was very surprised to see that a small community like Alliance can be so mindful at recycling. I really commend that! I have worked in sustainability as a part of my textile initiative Namaste NYC, and recycling at the University of Nebraska. Seeing the back end of the waste collection at KAB, was truly an ideal learning for me. I hope more local businesses and individuals sign up for the recycling program and help reduce waste. Waste collection, separation, selling and dispatch are not easy tasks and I hope the community sees value that KAB is creating for the locals.

&gt;Advice for us? Perhaps look into textile recycling, as fashion and textile are the second most polluting industry. Collect textile waste and see where it can be used or diverted to. Give businesses and individuals some incentives to recycle as a part of their sustainability or corporate social responsibility program. Partner with local or international artists to create some murals, installations using the waste. This could be a creative district project. Initiate and host educational programs to educate the community on the importance of recycling. Teach the community members about composting or recycling at home and benefits for recycling. Partner with universities to share and learn best practices, which can lead to collaborative projects or grants. In the current scenario of global warming and temperature fluctuations across the world, being sustainable and embracing recycling is the only way we can try to save the environment for the next generation.

&gt;State of recycling at UNL? &nbsp;As a part of the Pilot program, the University of Nebraska in Lincoln has implemented recycling containers in many buildings to encourage the community to recycle. The waste is segregated by plastic, paper, landfill and this has helped reduce the waste to a very large extent. I was a part of the project to map the trash cans and replace them with recycling bins. To see the project from start to end is commendable. At the Department of Textiles, Merchandising &amp; Fashion Design we collect fabric waste, and recycle it to create unique garments. There are special classes that students can take to learn about sustainability and create zero waste design garments. Thus, recycling at UNL is popular to make the campus a sustainable community.

When recycling or speaking of sustainability, often I see that people are not aware of sustainability and the importance of recycling. Thus, I feel that educational awareness programs are the first step to create

a change in the mindset, followed by actions. I hope we are able to create a more sustainable, mindful community.

Author’s Note: This is the second of a two-part series featuring the two Rural Fellows (UNL students) who interned this summer at Box Butte Development Corporation through Rural Prosperity Nebraska.By JOHN E. WEARE KABRitu Jadwani&gt;What is your hometown? I grew up in Ahmedabad city, Gujarat state, western India.&gt;Hobbies, interests? In my free time, I like to swim, read books, play volleyball, visit art shows, museums and travel.&gt;Why did you choose this university/the degree you are pursuing? My advisor suggested that I pursue the Merchandising doctoral degree and the University of Nebraska has a good program in the Department of Textiles Merchandising and Fashion Design. So, UNL seemed like a suitable choice. After finishing my program, I would like to teach, so a terminal degree is a must. The University of Nebraska offered me an assistantship, and hence I decided to come to UNL.&gt;Why did you think being interns for part of the summer at BBDC would be a good opportunity? After working in rural India for about 10 years, I wanted to work in rural communities in another country. The Rural Fellowship through the Rural Prosperity Nebraska offered this fellowship for a summer semester to work in Alliance, rural Nebraska. My background is in entrepreneurship and sustainability, and hence I got matched with BBDC as a part of my application process. I thought this would be a good opportunity, as I would get a chance to work in rural communities, help the local people, learn from the community leader and get a diverse experience. As a part of the internship, I have had a chance to stay with a local host family, help local businesses with marketing and Google presence. This internship has given me a chance to apply my entrepreneurship experiences and research education and I think this is a good opportunity for me and the community, both!&gt;Did you know each other before then, and what did you like about having the experience together than if it had been solo? Marissa and I met in February 2023, after we were matched through the Rural Prosperity program. I appreciate that we both come from different backgrounds and bring in diverse experiences to the projects. We both have individual skills and strengths, which help make the projects more promising. Had I worked on these projects solo, they would have come out good, but in a team, they are better! As a team, we have had a chance to visit Hemingford, walk around local businesses in Box Butte County, travel to Scottsbluff, work on many projects and ideate better ways of serving the community under Chelsie’s guidance.&gt;Most memorable things you learned and how are they relevant to your education/life on campus? The most memorable things that I have learned are listening to the community, having empathy for them and crafting solutions as per their needs. No two communities can be the same; hence solutions need to be very carefully shaped for the community challenges. Secondly, working in diverse teams helps add a different perspective to problem solving. Third, living with an American host family has taught me a lot about the local culture, lifestyle and Alliance in general. All these learnings are very important in education to have a rich experience to move ahead in life on campus and off campus.&gt;Surprises and had you ever been to the Panhandle before? Kindness and community spirit. The kindness of the people and willingness to help each one was very pleasantly surprising for me. The community spirit to work together and in collaboration for the betterment of the social good is something I really appreciate. Apart from this, the lack of public transport system to connect to other close by towns or in the town was a big surprise for me.&gt;How did you work with Chelsie Herian? &nbsp;As a part of the Rural Fellow application, we applied and mentioned our skill sets and experiences. Each community also applies and submits their project as a part of their application. Then communities and students are matched. Thus, Marissa and I, both were matched with each other and with Chelsie for the projects at BBDC. It has been wonderful to work with Chelsie, she is a great leader, supporter, initiator and collaborator. I could not have asked for a better community leader. We work in team to ideate projects and collaborate on many solutions. Apart from this, we individually also work on projects where we can use our skills and strengths.&gt;Takeaways from visiting KAB? KAB is doing some really good work. I was very surprised to see that a small community like Alliance can be so mindful at recycling. I really commend that! I have worked in sustainability as a part of my textile initiative Namaste NYC, and recycling at the University of Nebraska. Seeing the back end of the waste collection at KAB, was truly an ideal learning for me. I hope more local businesses and individuals sign up for the recycling program and help reduce waste. Waste collection, separation, selling and dispatch are not easy tasks and I hope the community sees value that KAB is creating for the locals.&gt;Advice for us? Perhaps look into textile recycling, as fashion and textile are the second most polluting industry. Collect textile waste and see where it can be used or diverted to. Give businesses and individuals some incentives to recycle as a part of their sustainability or corporate social responsibility program. Partner with local or international artists to create some murals, installations using the waste. This could be a creative district project. Initiate and host educational programs to educate the community on the importance of recycling. Teach the community members about composting or recycling at home and benefits for recycling. Partner with universities to share and learn best practices, which can lead to collaborative projects or grants. In the current scenario of global warming and temperature fluctuations across the world, being sustainable and embracing recycling is the only way we can try to save the environment for the next generation.&gt;State of recycling at UNL? &nbsp;As a part of the Pilot program, the University of Nebraska in Lincoln has implemented recycling containers in many buildings to encourage the community to recycle. The waste is segregated by plastic, paper, landfill and this has helped reduce the waste to a very large extent. I was a part of the project to map the trash cans and replace them with recycling bins. To see the project from start to end is commendable. At the Department of Textiles, Merchandising &amp; Fashion Design we collect fabric waste, and recycle it to create unique garments. There are special classes that students can take to learn about sustainability and create zero waste design garments. Thus, recycling at UNL is popular to make the campus a sustainable community.Other comments:When recycling or speaking of sustainability, often I see that people are not aware of sustainability and the importance of recycling. Thus, I feel that educational awareness programs are the first step to createa change in the mindset, followed by actions. I hope we are able to create a more sustainable, mindful community.

Rural Fellows Visit KAB:

An Alliance man on Wednesday pleaded guilty&nbsp;on two drug charges in Box Butte County District Court. 61-year-old Frankie Buresh of Alliance pled guilty on two counts of Distribution of Methamphetamine.&nbsp;

Buresh was originally charged with six counts of drug distribution, but four of the counts were dismissed in exchange for his guilty plea. 

&nbsp;Sentencing is set for September 27.&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690562254244.png" alt="Frankie Buresh" />
 <figcaption>Frankie Buresh</figcaption>
 </figure>An Alliance man on Wednesday pleaded guilty&nbsp;on two drug charges in Box Butte County District Court. 61-year-old Frankie Buresh of Alliance pled guilty on two counts of Distribution of Methamphetamine.&nbsp;Buresh was originally charged with six counts of drug distribution, but four of the counts were dismissed in exchange for his guilty plea. &nbsp;Sentencing is set for September 27.&nbsp;

Alliance man pleads guilty for meth distribution 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 7/28/23

POST BOBCAST: Bob's Plans for the Fair

Nebraska Senator Pete Ricketts made comments on Wednesday highlighting the efforts of railroads to reduce emissions while supporting the economy.&nbsp;



“In some cases, renewable diesel and biodiesel can reduce carbon emissions by 25%,”&nbsp;Ricketts&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“Utilizing more renewable diesel and biodiesel is a win-win scenario. Renewable diesel and biodiesel are produced from agricultural by-products… Creating value through by-products sustains value for farmers across the country, decreases emissions, and supports renewable refining jobs across rural America."

  Ricketts continued by expressing that renewable fuels&nbsp;are the here and now solution to&nbsp;maintain rail efficiency, while emissions can be decreased by 25%.&nbsp;

&nbsp; The deployment of unique locomotive technology (such as all-electric trains) would creative captive fleets that serve small geographic regions, harming the efficiency of railroad operations and disrupting entire supply chains,”&nbsp;Ricketts said. &nbsp;“State and federal regulations cannot put the cart in front of the horse when it comes to reliability and safety.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ricketts also said that he has concerns with the current efforts with the electrification of the rail system. 

"

The deployment of unique locomotive technology (such as all-electric trains) would creative captive fleets that serve small geographic regions, harming the efficiency of railroad operations and disrupting entire supply chains,”&nbsp;Ricketts added.&nbsp;

“State and federal regulations cannot put the cart in front of the horse when it comes to reliability and safety.”&nbsp; 

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostNebraska Senator Pete Ricketts made comments on Wednesday highlighting the efforts of railroads to reduce emissions while supporting the economy.&nbsp;

“In some cases, renewable diesel and biodiesel can reduce carbon emissions by 25%,”&nbsp;Ricketts&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“Utilizing more renewable diesel and biodiesel is a win-win scenario. Renewable diesel and biodiesel are produced from agricultural by-products… Creating value through by-products sustains value for farmers across the country, decreases emissions, and supports renewable refining jobs across rural America." Ricketts continued by expressing that renewable fuels&nbsp;are the here and now solution to&nbsp;maintain rail efficiency, while emissions can be decreased by 25%.&nbsp;&nbsp; The deployment of unique locomotive technology (such as all-electric trains) would creative captive fleets that serve small geographic regions, harming the efficiency of railroad operations and disrupting entire supply chains,”&nbsp;Ricketts said. &nbsp;“State and federal regulations cannot put the cart in front of the horse when it comes to reliability and safety.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Ricketts also said that he has concerns with the current efforts with the electrification of the rail system. "

The deployment of unique locomotive technology (such as all-electric trains) would creative captive fleets that serve small geographic regions, harming the efficiency of railroad operations and disrupting entire supply chains,”&nbsp;Ricketts added.&nbsp;“State and federal regulations cannot put the cart in front of the horse when it comes to reliability and safety.”&nbsp;

Senator Ricketts comments on renewable fuels and railroad industry

There has been a project underway called the Taxiway &amp; Apron rehabilitation project that began in the fall of 2022 at the Alliance Municipal Airport. City Manager Seth Sorensen who explained the project.&nbsp;

"It's a mill and overlay of asphalt pavement at the airport for the taxiway," Sorensen said.

&nbsp;Simons Contractors is the company who is doing the paving part of the project and the FAA is paying 90% of the work. One concern at the beginning of the project would affect was&nbsp;any flights at the airport, but all parties involved&nbsp; met last summer to make sure flights and air travel would not be affected

Sorensen says that the hope of the contractor is that the project is completed within the next month or so.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThere has been a project underway called the Taxiway &amp; Apron rehabilitation project that began in the fall of 2022 at the Alliance Municipal Airport. City Manager Seth Sorensen who explained the project.&nbsp; "It's a mill and overlay of asphalt pavement at the airport for the taxiway," Sorensen said.&nbsp;Simons Contractors is the company who is doing the paving part of the project and the FAA is paying 90% of the work. One concern at the beginning of the project would affect was&nbsp;any flights at the airport, but all parties involved&nbsp; met last summer to make sure flights and air travel would not be affectedSorensen says that the hope of the contractor is that the project is completed within the next month or so.&nbsp;

Updates to Alliance Municipal Airport continues

NEW YORK (AP) — Randy Meisner, a founding member of the Eagles who added high harmonies to such favorites as “Take It Easy” and “The Best of My Love” and stepped out front for the waltz-time ballad “Take It to the Limit,” has died, the band said Thursday.

Meisner died Wednesday night in Los Angeles of complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the Eagles said in a statement. He was 77.

The bassist had endured numerous afflictions in recent years and personal tragedy in 2016 when his wife, Lana Rae Meisner, accidentally shot herself and died. Meanwhile, Randy Meisner had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and had severe issues with alcohol, according to court records and comments made during a 2015 hearing in which a judge ordered Meisner to receive constant medical care.

Called “the sweetest man in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/music">music</a>&nbsp;business” by former bandmate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/don-felder">Don Felder</a>, the baby-faced Meisner joined Don Henley,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8169f05ac21d43dda4b1c1dd8b065e28">Glenn Frey</a>&nbsp;and Bernie Leadon in the early 1970s to form a quintessential Los Angeles band and one of the most popular acts in history.

“Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band,” the Eagles’ statement said. “His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.’”

Evolving from country rock to hard rock, the Eagles turned out a run of hit singles and albums over the next decade, starting with “Take It Easy” and continuing with “Desperado,” “Hotel California” and “Life In the Fast Lane” among others. Although chastised by many critics as slick and superficial, the Eagles released two of the most popular albums of all time, “Hotel California” and “Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975),” which with sales at 38 million the Recording Industry Association of America ranked with Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” as the No. 1 seller.

Led by singer-songwriters Henley and Frey, the Eagles were initially branded as “mellow” and “easy listening.” But by their third album, the 1974 release “On the Border,” they had added a rock guitarist, Felder, and were turning away from country and bluegrass.

Leadon, an old-fashioned bluegrass picker, was unhappy with the new sound and left after the 1975 album “One of These Nights.” (He was replaced by another rock guitarist, Joe Walsh.) Meisner stayed on through the 1976 release of “Hotel California,” the band’s most acclaimed record, but was gone soon after. His departure, ironically, was touched off by the song he cowrote and was best known for, “Take It to the Limit.”

A shy Nebraskan torn between fame and family life, Meisner had been ill and homesick during the “Hotel California” tour (his first marriage was breaking up) and was reluctant to have the spotlight for “Take It to the Limit,” a showcase for his nasally tenor. His objections during a Knoxville, Tennessee, concert in the summer of 1977 so angered Frey that the two argued backstage and Meisner left soon after. His replacement, Timothy B. Schmit, remained with the group over the following decades, along with Henley, Walsh and Frey, who died in 2016.

As a solo artist, Meisner never approached the success of the Eagles, but did have hits with “Hearts On Fire” and “Deep Inside My Heart” and played on records by Walsh, James Taylor and Dan Fogelberg among others. Meanwhile, the Eagles ended a 14-year hiatus in 1994 and toured with Schmit even though Meisner had played on all but one of their earlier studio albums. He did join group members past and present in 1998 when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and performed “Take It Easy” and “Hotel California.” For a decade, he was part of World Classic Rockers, a touring act that at various times included Donovan, Spencer Davis and Denny Laine.

Meisner was married twice, the first time when he was still in his teens, and had three kids.

The son of sharecroppers and grandson of a classical violinist, Meisner was playing in local bands as a teenager and by the end of the 1960s had moved to California and joined a country rock group, Poco, along with Richie Furay and Jimmy Messina. But he would remember being angered that Furay wouldn’t let him listen to the studio mix of their first album and left the group before it came out: His successor was Timothy B. Schmit.

Meisner backed Ricky Nelson, played on Taylor’s “Sweet Baby James” album and befriended Henley and Frey when all were performing in Linda Ronstadt’s band. With Ronstadt’s blessing, they formed the Eagles, were signed up by David Geffen for his Asylum Records label and released their self-titled debut album in 1972.

Frey and Henley sang lead most of the time, but Meisner was the key behind “Take It the Limit.” It appeared on the “One of These Nights” album from 1975 and became a top 5 single, a weary, plaintive song later covered by Etta James and as a duet by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings.

“The purpose of the whole Eagles thing to me was that combination and the chemistry that made all the harmonies just sound perfect,” Meisner told the music web site www.lobstergottalent.com in 2015. “The funny thing is after we made those albums I never listened to them and it is only when someone comes over or I am at somebody’s house and it gets played in the background that is when I’ll tell myself, ‘Damn, these records are good.’”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690504367608.png" alt="“Randy, born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band,” the Eagles’ statement said. “His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.’”" />
 <figcaption>“Randy, born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band,” the Eagles’ statement said. “His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.’”</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Randy Meisner, a founding member of the Eagles who added high harmonies to such favorites as “Take It Easy” and “The Best of My Love” and stepped out front for the waltz-time ballad “Take It to the Limit,” has died, the band said Thursday.Meisner died Wednesday night in Los Angeles of complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the Eagles said in a statement. He was 77.The bassist had endured numerous afflictions in recent years and personal tragedy in 2016 when his wife, Lana Rae Meisner, accidentally shot herself and died. Meanwhile, Randy Meisner had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and had severe issues with alcohol, according to court records and comments made during a 2015 hearing in which a judge ordered Meisner to receive constant medical care.Called “the sweetest man in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/music">music</a>&nbsp;business” by former bandmate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/don-felder">Don Felder</a>, the baby-faced Meisner joined Don Henley,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8169f05ac21d43dda4b1c1dd8b065e28">Glenn Frey</a>&nbsp;and Bernie Leadon in the early 1970s to form a quintessential Los Angeles band and one of the most popular acts in history.“Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band,” the Eagles’ statement said. “His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.’”Evolving from country rock to hard rock, the Eagles turned out a run of hit singles and albums over the next decade, starting with “Take It Easy” and continuing with “Desperado,” “Hotel California” and “Life In the Fast Lane” among others. Although chastised by many critics as slick and superficial, the Eagles released two of the most popular albums of all time, “Hotel California” and “Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975),” which with sales at 38 million the Recording Industry Association of America ranked with Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” as the No. 1 seller.Led by singer-songwriters Henley and Frey, the Eagles were initially branded as “mellow” and “easy listening.” But by their third album, the 1974 release “On the Border,” they had added a rock guitarist, Felder, and were turning away from country and bluegrass.Leadon, an old-fashioned bluegrass picker, was unhappy with the new sound and left after the 1975 album “One of These Nights.” (He was replaced by another rock guitarist, Joe Walsh.) Meisner stayed on through the 1976 release of “Hotel California,” the band’s most acclaimed record, but was gone soon after. His departure, ironically, was touched off by the song he cowrote and was best known for, “Take It to the Limit.”A shy Nebraskan torn between fame and family life, Meisner had been ill and homesick during the “Hotel California” tour (his first marriage was breaking up) and was reluctant to have the spotlight for “Take It to the Limit,” a showcase for his nasally tenor. His objections during a Knoxville, Tennessee, concert in the summer of 1977 so angered Frey that the two argued backstage and Meisner left soon after. His replacement, Timothy B. Schmit, remained with the group over the following decades, along with Henley, Walsh and Frey, who died in 2016.As a solo artist, Meisner never approached the success of the Eagles, but did have hits with “Hearts On Fire” and “Deep Inside My Heart” and played on records by Walsh, James Taylor and Dan Fogelberg among others. Meanwhile, the Eagles ended a 14-year hiatus in 1994 and toured with Schmit even though Meisner had played on all but one of their earlier studio albums. He did join group members past and present in 1998 when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and performed “Take It Easy” and “Hotel California.” For a decade, he was part of World Classic Rockers, a touring act that at various times included Donovan, Spencer Davis and Denny Laine.Meisner was married twice, the first time when he was still in his teens, and had three kids.The son of sharecroppers and grandson of a classical violinist, Meisner was playing in local bands as a teenager and by the end of the 1960s had moved to California and joined a country rock group, Poco, along with Richie Furay and Jimmy Messina. But he would remember being angered that Furay wouldn’t let him listen to the studio mix of their first album and left the group before it came out: His successor was Timothy B. Schmit.Meisner backed Ricky Nelson, played on Taylor’s “Sweet Baby James” album and befriended Henley and Frey when all were performing in Linda Ronstadt’s band. With Ronstadt’s blessing, they formed the Eagles, were signed up by David Geffen for his Asylum Records label and released their self-titled debut album in 1972.Frey and Henley sang lead most of the time, but Meisner was the key behind “Take It the Limit.” It appeared on the “One of These Nights” album from 1975 and became a top 5 single, a weary, plaintive song later covered by Etta James and as a duet by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings.“The purpose of the whole Eagles thing to me was that combination and the chemistry that made all the harmonies just sound perfect,” Meisner told the music web site www.lobstergottalent.com in 2015. “The funny thing is after we made those albums I never listened to them and it is only when someone comes over or I am at somebody’s house and it gets played in the background that is when I’ll tell myself, ‘Damn, these records are good.’”

Nebraska native Randy Meisner, founding member of the Eagles, has died

A Hemingford native and a future University of Nebraska-Lincoln&nbsp; student earlier this month earned recognition by the University. 

Rylie Wright of Hemingford is entering her&nbsp;freshman year next fall, and&nbsp; was one of 40 high-achieving first year students to be selected to the Nebraska's Business Honors Academy for the fall of 2023. 

Wright is listed as a marketing student and is a part of the academy’s 11th cohort that includes students from nine U.S. states, 12 Nebraska communities and two countries.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostA Hemingford native and a future University of Nebraska-Lincoln&nbsp; student earlier this month earned recognition by the University. Rylie Wright of Hemingford is entering her&nbsp;freshman year next fall, and&nbsp; was one of 40 high-achieving first year students to be selected to the Nebraska's Business Honors Academy for the fall of 2023. Wright is listed as a marketing student and is a part of the academy’s 11th cohort that includes students from nine U.S. states, 12 Nebraska communities and two countries.&nbsp;

Hemingford student chosen for Business Honors Academy

&nbsp;The Scottsbluff Police Department&nbsp; announced on Wednesday that it has been recognized for excellence in training management in 2022 by Lexipol, the nation’s leading provider of policy, training and wellness support for first responders and public servants.

The Lexipol Connect program tracks Scottsbluff Police Department performance on five metrics proven to measure success in&nbsp; training management. The department achieved Bronze recognition for consistent and effective online training management, which includes training hours assigned and completions tracked, personnel engagement, and external training activities logged.

“We are truly proud to be recognized by Lexipol Connect for ensuring our personnel are prepared to respond to the needs of the citizens of Scottsbluff” says Captain Lance Kite.

The Scottsbluff Police Department says that their excellence in training management enhances community safety by helping personnel remain up to date with the latest tactics, technologies and strategies.

Captain Kite also said that; “By utilizing Lexipol’s online training, it has allowed the Scottsbluff Police Department to have a cost-effective solution to state mandated training requirements. It is also critically important to maintain training standards to provide the best services to our citizens.”

For more information, visit www.lexipol.com.

By Scottsbluff Police Department&nbsp;The Scottsbluff Police Department&nbsp; announced on Wednesday that it has been recognized for excellence in training management in 2022 by Lexipol, the nation’s leading provider of policy, training and wellness support for first responders and public servants.The Lexipol Connect program tracks Scottsbluff Police Department performance on five metrics proven to measure success in&nbsp; training management. The department achieved Bronze recognition for consistent and effective online training management, which includes training hours assigned and completions tracked, personnel engagement, and external training activities logged.“We are truly proud to be recognized by Lexipol Connect for ensuring our personnel are prepared to respond to the needs of the citizens of Scottsbluff” says Captain Lance Kite.The Scottsbluff Police Department says that their excellence in training management enhances community safety by helping personnel remain up to date with the latest tactics, technologies and strategies.Captain Kite also said that; “By utilizing Lexipol’s online training, it has allowed the Scottsbluff Police Department to have a cost-effective solution to state mandated training requirements. It is also critically important to maintain training standards to provide the best services to our citizens.”For more information, visit www.lexipol.com.

Scottsbluff Police Department Recognized for Excellence in Training Management

Road projects are currently underway in Alliance, and City Administrator Seth Sorensen has a little more information about that. "We have road projects going on right now that includes a lot of different streets," Sorensen said. "The one you will most likely see people on is Box Butte."&nbsp;

Sorensen says that crews are looking to start pouring asphalt next week on 16th and 14th avenues.

He advises that there may be some one-way traffic with flaggers at times depending on what road is being worked on.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostRoad projects are currently underway in Alliance, and City Administrator Seth Sorensen has a little more information about that. "We have road projects going on right now that includes a lot of different streets," Sorensen said. "The one you will most likely see people on is Box Butte."&nbsp;Sorensen says that crews are looking to start pouring asphalt next week on 16th and 14th avenues.He advises that there may be some one-way traffic with flaggers at times depending on what road is being worked on.&nbsp;

Alliance City Manager comments on City road projects 

In Gordon this evening (Thursday there will be&nbsp;the third Annual Summer Concert on Green, a live free country music concert at the Gordon Country Club &amp;  Golf. 

The event starts at 5  PM with solo artist BJ Jamison performing.&nbsp;

By Panhandle PostIn Gordon this evening (Thursday there will be&nbsp;the third Annual Summer Concert on Green, a live free country music concert at the Gordon Country Club &amp; Golf. The event starts at 5 PM with solo artist BJ Jamison performing.&nbsp;

Gordon Country Club & Golf hosting free concert

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Access to safe and affordable drinking water and wastewater services is a fundamental element of health, safety, and well-being for households in Nebraska. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) offers a Low Income Household Water Assistance Program, called LIHWAP. This information is from their website.

The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) helps low-income households with water utility services costs, including deposits, reconnect fees, standard charges, standard fees, and taxes included in the household's water utility services bill. The program is designed to cover both drinking water and wastewater.

DHHS provides two different types of water assistance, rate reduction or priority assistance. Eligible households may receive one payment from LIHWAP from October through September unless extenuating circumstances exist.

Rate Reduction Assistance: A one-time payment is made to a water utility provider. The payment amount, from $50 up to $500, is based on a calculation that accounts for the household's income and costs for water utility services. These payments may result in a credit balance and do not require the household to have a past-due balance.

Priority Assistance: A one-time payment of up to $2,500 issued to a water utility provider to restore water utility services or eliminate a past-due balance for water utility services for an eligible household. A priority payment cannot result in a credit balance.

The City of Alliance includes all utilities—water, electric, sewer, and refuse—in one bill. A DHHS payment is made once a year and is applied to the total amount owed. It may result in a credit that carries over to the next month's bill.

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) received federal funds as a result of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act to administer LIHWAP. LIHWAP in Nebraska is 100% federally funded.

To qualify for LIHWAP, a household must be responsible for water utility payments and must meet the citizenship and residency requirements of DHHS. The household must include an individual that has an active Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) case, or their gross countable household income must be equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For a household of four, the income amount is $41,625.00. The income chart is on the website.

To receive assistance from DHHS, your household must submit an agency-approved application. If your household has an active or pending Economic Assistance (EA) case, you may request LIHWAP without submitting a new application.

You can request assistance or apply online at dhhs.ne.gov. You can phone 800-383-4278. The Box Butte County DHHS office is at 411 Black Hills Avenue in Alliance. Their office hours are 8-5, Monday through Friday, and the phone number is 308-763-2900.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityAccess to safe and affordable drinking water and wastewater services is a fundamental element of health, safety, and well-being for households in Nebraska. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) offers a Low Income Household Water Assistance Program, called LIHWAP. This information is from their website.The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) helps low-income households with water utility services costs, including deposits, reconnect fees, standard charges, standard fees, and taxes included in the household's water utility services bill. The program is designed to cover both drinking water and wastewater.DHHS provides two different types of water assistance, rate reduction or priority assistance. Eligible households may receive one payment from LIHWAP from October through September unless extenuating circumstances exist.Rate Reduction Assistance: A one-time payment is made to a water utility provider. The payment amount, from $50 up to $500, is based on a calculation that accounts for the household's income and costs for water utility services. These payments may result in a credit balance and do not require the household to have a past-due balance.Priority Assistance: A one-time payment of up to $2,500 issued to a water utility provider to restore water utility services or eliminate a past-due balance for water utility services for an eligible household. A priority payment cannot result in a credit balance.The City of Alliance includes all utilities—water, electric, sewer, and refuse—in one bill. A DHHS payment is made once a year and is applied to the total amount owed. It may result in a credit that carries over to the next month's bill.The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) received federal funds as a result of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act to administer LIHWAP. LIHWAP in Nebraska is 100% federally funded.To qualify for LIHWAP, a household must be responsible for water utility payments and must meet the citizenship and residency requirements of DHHS. The household must include an individual that has an active Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) case, or their gross countable household income must be equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For a household of four, the income amount is $41,625.00. The income chart is on the website.To receive assistance from DHHS, your household must submit an agency-approved application. If your household has an active or pending Economic Assistance (EA) case, you may request LIHWAP without submitting a new application.You can request assistance or apply online at dhhs.ne.gov. You can phone 800-383-4278. The Box Butte County DHHS office is at 411 Black Hills Avenue in Alliance. Their office hours are 8-5, Monday through Friday, and the phone number is 308-763-2900.

Getting Ahead:  LOW INCOME HOUSEHOLD WATER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (LIHWAP)

Chadron State College announced on Tuesday that there will be additional hours of the CSC Food Pantry for the 2023-24 school year. Food Pantry coordinator Kate Pope announced that the hours of the pantry, which is located on the main level of King Library will be Tuesday’s and Thursday’s from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday's.&nbsp;

Pope says that fewer students used the pantry in 2022-23 compared to the previous year and hopes that more hours and different foods will encourage students to use the pantry.&nbsp;

Some of the foods they are adding includes shredded cheese, tortillas, carrots, and celery based on student feedback.&nbsp;

The Food Pantry is also partnering with CSC Wellness to provide monthly recipes students can make using ingredients from the Food Pantry. Another new feature Pope plans to offer is a food kit once a semester.&nbsp;

For individuals interested in donating to the Food Pantry, visit its donation page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/foodpantry/donate/" target="_blank">https://www.csc.edu/foodpantry/donate/</a>.&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostChadron State College announced on Tuesday that there will be additional hours of the CSC Food Pantry for the 2023-24 school year. Food Pantry coordinator Kate Pope announced that the hours of the pantry, which is located on the main level of King Library will be Tuesday’s and Thursday’s from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday's.&nbsp;Pope says that fewer students used the pantry in 2022-23 compared to the previous year and hopes that more hours and different foods will encourage students to use the pantry.&nbsp;Some of the foods they are adding includes shredded cheese, tortillas, carrots, and celery based on student feedback.&nbsp;The Food Pantry is also partnering with CSC Wellness to provide monthly recipes students can make using ingredients from the Food Pantry. Another new feature Pope plans to offer is a food kit once a semester.&nbsp;For individuals interested in donating to the Food Pantry, visit its donation page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/foodpantry/donate/" target="_blank">https://www.csc.edu/foodpantry/donate/</a>.&nbsp;

CSC adding hours to Food Pantry

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific hired the CEO Wednesday that a hedge fund pressuring the railroad to improve recommended earlier this year, and it cut its outlook after reporting disappointing results driven by weakening consumer demand.

The Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad said its former chief operating officer Jim Vena will take over as CEO next month. The Soroban Capital Partners hedge fund that holds a $1.6 billion stake in Union Pacific had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/labor-unions-transportation-and-shipping-omaha-business-b62a0068b4af75042e4c869ef2927418">urging</a>&nbsp;the railroad to hire Vena because of his expertise in streamlining operations.

The hedge fund&nbsp;<a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/60ad6c502b44e43fe7a303b9/t/63fbc01f43115a3c065fa353/1677443103154/Soroban+-+Letter+to+Union+Pacific%27s+Board+of+Directors.pdf">said</a>&nbsp;that UP lagged behind its peers during Lance Fritz' tenure in all key measures over the past 8 years. Soroban declined to comment on the hiring news Wednesday morning, but investors resoundingly endorsed it by sending Union Pacific's stock soaring more than 9% to $235.54 in early trading.

“I am excited about returning to Union Pacific and look forward to the journey to be the safest, most reliable and most efficient railroad in the industry,” Vena said in a statement. “Working closely with the entire team, my focus from day one will be to ensure the company delivers industry-leading customer and operating excellence, cultivates and empowers our employees, and cares for the communities in which we operate."

Fritz acknowledged that the railroad didn't deliver “consistent and reliable” service during his tenure. He said proving to Union Pacific customers they can count on good service will help the railroad attract new business and improve profits in the future. At times, UP has struggled to handle everything companies wanted to ship and regulators had to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/28652f6baad4048b30315d9e6a58a3e7">twice order</a>&nbsp;the railroad to deliver emergency shipments to livestock producer Foster Farms to ensure that company wouldn’t run out of feed for the millions of chickens it raises.

The rail industry has also been under pressure to improve safety ever since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/64908a6416662b5866809387f210aee5">fiery Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;in Ohio in February prompted evacuations and sent a towering plume of black smoke over the town of East Palestine. Lawmakers and regulators are considering imposing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">new rules</a>&nbsp;on railroads.

Vena was brought in to Union Pacific in 2019 from Canadian National to help the railroad change to a new operating model that relies on fewer, longer trains and significantly fewer employees and locomotives to move freight, but Vena left after less than two years on the job.

Union Pacific also promoted board member Mike McCarthy to chairman and named its chief human resources officer Beth Whited president Wednesday and added two new independent directors.

In addition to the hiring news, Union Pacific said its second-quarter profit declined 14.5% to $1.5.7 billion, or $2.57 per share, as it hauled 2% less freight and dealt with rising costs, including higher wages promised to workers in last year's bitter contract fight. That's down from $1.835 billion, or $2.93 per share, a year ago.

That fell short of the $2.74 per share that the analysts surveyed by FactSet Research were generally expecting.

The railroad's 5% decline in revenue to $5.96 billion also disappointed. Analysts had been expecting $6.09 billion.

Union Pacific said the weakening consumer demand and higher costs will now make it hard to meet its previous goal of seeing the number of shipments it hauls grow more than industrial production. The railroad said its volume will likely will likely fall short of the current forecast for industrial production to grow by 0.1% this year.

Union Pacific is one of the nation’s largest railroads with a network of 32,400 miles (52,000 kilometers) of track in 23 Western states.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Union Pacific hired the CEO Wednesday that a hedge fund pressuring the railroad to improve recommended earlier this year, and it cut its outlook after reporting disappointing results driven by weakening consumer demand.The Omaha, Nebraska-based railroad said its former chief operating officer Jim Vena will take over as CEO next month. The Soroban Capital Partners hedge fund that holds a $1.6 billion stake in Union Pacific had been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/labor-unions-transportation-and-shipping-omaha-business-b62a0068b4af75042e4c869ef2927418">urging</a>&nbsp;the railroad to hire Vena because of his expertise in streamlining operations.The hedge fund&nbsp;<a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/60ad6c502b44e43fe7a303b9/t/63fbc01f43115a3c065fa353/1677443103154/Soroban+-+Letter+to+Union+Pacific%27s+Board+of+Directors.pdf">said</a>&nbsp;that UP lagged behind its peers during Lance Fritz' tenure in all key measures over the past 8 years. Soroban declined to comment on the hiring news Wednesday morning, but investors resoundingly endorsed it by sending Union Pacific's stock soaring more than 9% to $235.54 in early trading.“I am excited about returning to Union Pacific and look forward to the journey to be the safest, most reliable and most efficient railroad in the industry,” Vena said in a statement. “Working closely with the entire team, my focus from day one will be to ensure the company delivers industry-leading customer and operating excellence, cultivates and empowers our employees, and cares for the communities in which we operate."Fritz acknowledged that the railroad didn't deliver “consistent and reliable” service during his tenure. He said proving to Union Pacific customers they can count on good service will help the railroad attract new business and improve profits in the future. At times, UP has struggled to handle everything companies wanted to ship and regulators had to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/28652f6baad4048b30315d9e6a58a3e7">twice order</a>&nbsp;the railroad to deliver emergency shipments to livestock producer Foster Farms to ensure that company wouldn’t run out of feed for the millions of chickens it raises.The rail industry has also been under pressure to improve safety ever since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/64908a6416662b5866809387f210aee5">fiery Norfolk Southern derailment</a>&nbsp;in Ohio in February prompted evacuations and sent a towering plume of black smoke over the town of East Palestine. Lawmakers and regulators are considering imposing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">new rules</a>&nbsp;on railroads.Vena was brought in to Union Pacific in 2019 from Canadian National to help the railroad change to a new operating model that relies on fewer, longer trains and significantly fewer employees and locomotives to move freight, but Vena left after less than two years on the job.Union Pacific also promoted board member Mike McCarthy to chairman and named its chief human resources officer Beth Whited president Wednesday and added two new independent directors.In addition to the hiring news, Union Pacific said its second-quarter profit declined 14.5% to $1.5.7 billion, or $2.57 per share, as it hauled 2% less freight and dealt with rising costs, including higher wages promised to workers in last year's bitter contract fight. That's down from $1.835 billion, or $2.93 per share, a year ago.That fell short of the $2.74 per share that the analysts surveyed by FactSet Research were generally expecting.The railroad's 5% decline in revenue to $5.96 billion also disappointed. Analysts had been expecting $6.09 billion.Union Pacific said the weakening consumer demand and higher costs will now make it hard to meet its previous goal of seeing the number of shipments it hauls grow more than industrial production. The railroad said its volume will likely will likely fall short of the current forecast for industrial production to grow by 0.1% this year.Union Pacific is one of the nation’s largest railroads with a network of 32,400 miles (52,000 kilometers) of track in 23 Western states.

UP hires CEO hedge fund recommended as 2Q profit fell 15% on weaker demand

The City of Alliance experienced a power outage around 7:10 am Wednesday morning.&nbsp; City Electric Superintendent Kirby Bridge tells Panhandlepost News...The power outage was due to an auto accident, with&nbsp; two poles being hit and knocked down near the intersection of 3rd and Black Hills, resulting in a thrown switch.&nbsp; Power has now been restored to most customers and crews will be working to reestablish the affected poles throughout the day.&nbsp; The outage lasted approximately 40 minutes.

By City of AllianceThe City of Alliance experienced a power outage around 7:10 am Wednesday morning.&nbsp; City Electric Superintendent Kirby Bridge tells Panhandlepost News...The power outage was due to an auto accident, with&nbsp; two poles being hit and knocked down near the intersection of 3rd and Black Hills, resulting in a thrown switch.&nbsp; Power has now been restored to most customers and crews will be working to reestablish the affected poles throughout the day.&nbsp; The outage lasted approximately 40 minutes.

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