By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

Over the last three months we've seen several news stories about migrant child labor in the United States. What, exactly, is happening?

Last winter the Department of Homeland Security investigated the JBS Food Slaughterhouse and PSSI, Packers Sanitation Services, Inc. As many as 50 migrant children, some as young as 13, were employed cleaning the slaughterhouse at night, most in Grand Island. Yes, in Nebraska. PSSI argued that they were given fake identification with Social Security numbers that were verified by the federal government’s E-Verify system. Not their fault they were violating child labor laws.

The children who worked for PSSI attended school during the day and worked overnight at the JBS slaughterhouse. Conditions they faced included cleaning dangerous equipment, using strong cleaning chemicals that burned them, and navigating slick "kill floors". They had to wear protective equipment from head to toe, including hard hats, face shields, goggles, aprons, gloves, boots, etc.

The United States currently has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, and Nebraska's is 2.1%. This may sound great, but it has problems. Economists generally consider a healthy unemployment rate to be 4-5%. When the rate drops too low, it becomes difficult to hire people who will actually be productive employees. And a business's current employees are more likely to move to a better, higher paying job.

What does this have to do with migrant children? Over the past two years, more than 250,000 migrant children have come alone to the United States. Most of these children are escaping dangerous situations in Central America or Venezuela. Some are sent here to earn money to send back to families living in deep poverty. Some are trying to find relatives who moved to the United States years ago.

The federal Department of Health and Human Services is required to house unaccompanied children until they can be placed with sponsors. Typically, these sponsors are family members who are vetted to see if they are good placements - aunts and uncles, grandparents, cousins. However, because of the surge at the southern border, the government has relaxed sponsorship requirements.

Now the abuses begin. Relatives who are, shall we say, only loosely connected to children they've never met see an opportunity to have another income in their household. Businesses needing laborers appear to claim connections. Fake IDs abound, and dates of birth and Social Security numbers are falsified.

In February, the New York Times investigative reporters published some shocking stories, and other news outlets have followed up and verified their findings. Many of these migrant children, some as young as age 12, are working for some of the biggest corporations in the country, throughout the United States.

Children were working construction jobs. They ran saws, they roofed houses, they moved rocks. They were working assembly lines in factories at night. They made auto parts. They bagged cereal or dog food. They ran milking machines at dairies. They washed dishes at night. They washed sheets in hotel laundries. They operated sewing machines. They ran ovens in bakeries. They deboned chickens.

How are we reacting to this abuse of poor migrant children? Apparently corporate profits are more important than common human decency. Several states have introduced legislation to roll back these protections of our most vulnerable workers. Because we need the cheap labor.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityOver the last three months we've seen several news stories about migrant child labor in the United States. What, exactly, is happening?Last winter the Department of Homeland Security investigated the JBS Food Slaughterhouse and PSSI, Packers Sanitation Services, Inc. As many as 50 migrant children, some as young as 13, were employed cleaning the slaughterhouse at night, most in Grand Island. Yes, in Nebraska. PSSI argued that they were given fake identification with Social Security numbers that were verified by the federal government’s E-Verify system. Not their fault they were violating child labor laws.The children who worked for PSSI attended school during the day and worked overnight at the JBS slaughterhouse. Conditions they faced included cleaning dangerous equipment, using strong cleaning chemicals that burned them, and navigating slick "kill floors". They had to wear protective equipment from head to toe, including hard hats, face shields, goggles, aprons, gloves, boots, etc.The United States currently has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, and Nebraska's is 2.1%. This may sound great, but it has problems. Economists generally consider a healthy unemployment rate to be 4-5%. When the rate drops too low, it becomes difficult to hire people who will actually be productive employees. And a business's current employees are more likely to move to a better, higher paying job.What does this have to do with migrant children? Over the past two years, more than 250,000 migrant children have come alone to the United States. Most of these children are escaping dangerous situations in Central America or Venezuela. Some are sent here to earn money to send back to families living in deep poverty. Some are trying to find relatives who moved to the United States years ago.The federal Department of Health and Human Services is required to house unaccompanied children until they can be placed with sponsors. Typically, these sponsors are family members who are vetted to see if they are good placements - aunts and uncles, grandparents, cousins. However, because of the surge at the southern border, the government has relaxed sponsorship requirements.Now the abuses begin. Relatives who are, shall we say, only loosely connected to children they've never met see an opportunity to have another income in their household. Businesses needing laborers appear to claim connections. Fake IDs abound, and dates of birth and Social Security numbers are falsified.In February, the New York Times investigative reporters published some shocking stories, and other news outlets have followed up and verified their findings. Many of these migrant children, some as young as age 12, are working for some of the biggest corporations in the country, throughout the United States.Children were working construction jobs. They ran saws, they roofed houses, they moved rocks. They were working assembly lines in factories at night. They made auto parts. They bagged cereal or dog food. They ran milking machines at dairies. They washed dishes at night. They washed sheets in hotel laundries. They operated sewing machines. They ran ovens in bakeries. They deboned chickens.How are we reacting to this abuse of poor migrant children? Apparently corporate profits are more important than common human decency. Several states have introduced legislation to roll back these protections of our most vulnerable workers. Because we need the cheap labor.

Getting Ahead: Migrant child labor

By Nebraska Public Power District

Nebraska Public Power District will have planned outages next week of varying times for rural customers along highway 87, between Rushville and Whiteclay. The outages are being observed so crews can safely perform maintenance on the powerlines in this area.

There will be outages on Monday, May 22 and Friday, May 26 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. impacting customers in the area between 330th&nbsp;Lane and 610 Road near Rushville to the intersection of Highway 87 and 776th&nbsp;Trail near Whiteclay.

There will be some additional longer outages for two sections of customers within this area. Customers in the area of 330th&nbsp;Lane and 610 Road to 650&nbsp;Road and Highway 87 will experience an outage from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday May 22,&nbsp;and Tuesday, May 23.

Customers in the area of Scott road and Highway 87 north to the intersection of 776 Trail and Highway 87 will experience an outage from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 24 and Thursday, May 25.

NPPD will be reaching out by phone to customers who will impacted by an outage.

By Nebraska Public Power District Nebraska Public Power District will have planned outages next week of varying times for rural customers along highway 87, between Rushville and Whiteclay. The outages are being observed so crews can safely perform maintenance on the powerlines in this area.There will be outages on Monday, May 22 and Friday, May 26 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. impacting customers in the area between 330th&nbsp;Lane and 610 Road near Rushville to the intersection of Highway 87 and 776th&nbsp;Trail near Whiteclay.There will be some additional longer outages for two sections of customers within this area. Customers in the area of 330th&nbsp;Lane and 610 Road to 650&nbsp;Road and Highway 87 will experience an outage from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday May 22,&nbsp;and Tuesday, May 23.Customers in the area of Scott road and Highway 87 north to the intersection of 776 Trail and Highway 87 will experience an outage from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 24 and Thursday, May 25.NPPD will be reaching out by phone to customers who will impacted by an outage.

Power outage planned along HWY 87 near Rushville, Whiteclay 

Bands on Broadway in Scottsbluff has announced it's 2023 summer concert series line-up. 

The dates of the concerts are June 15, June 22, June 29, July 6, July 13, July 20, July 27, Aug. 3.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684362297645.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bands on Broadway in Scottsbluff has announced it's 2023 summer concert series line-up. The dates of the concerts are June 15, June 22, June 29, July 6, July 13, July 20, July 27, Aug. 3.&nbsp;

Bands on Broadway announced concert series line-up in Scottsbluff 

Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/sidney">HERE</a> to view Sidney High Graduates of 2023!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684163529320.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click <a href="https://graduation.eagleradio.net/schools/sidney">HERE</a> to view Sidney High Graduates of 2023!&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684163735571.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Sidney Graduates of 2023 

During National Safe Boating Week, May 20-26, Nebraska Game and Parks reminds boaters to brush up on safety rules in preparation for peak boating season.

Follow these 10 tips reduce the risk of incidents and help ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

Take a boater safety course&nbsp;— Though it’s only a legal requirement for those born after Dec. 31, 1985, consider completing the Nebraska boating safety course to learn the top things you need to know about navigating Nebraska waters, what to do in an emergency and more. Find an in-person or online class at OutdoorNebraska.gov; search for “boater education.”

Check equipment&nbsp;— Before you launch, ensure your boat or kayak is in good running condition and all essential equipment is present, including a life jacket for every person on board. Paddlers of kayaks or canoes also should physically inspect their planned take-out point to make sure it is accessible.

Tell someone your plans&nbsp;— Before leaving home, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Consider carrying a cellphone in a waterproof pouch, as well, in case an emergency occurs.

Wear a life jacket&nbsp;— Make your life jacket a statement piece and wear it, as it does no good stowed away if an emergency occurs. Children under age 13, those using personal watercraft and those being towed on skis or similar device must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device; it’s required by the law.

Be wary of surroundings&nbsp;— According to the National Safe Boating Council, nearly a quarter of all reported boating accidents in 2021 were caused by operator inattention or improper look-out. Pay attention to other boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, stumps and other hazards. Speeds in excess of 5 mph are prohibited if within 30 yards of any other vessel, swimming area or dock. If padding a kayak or canoe, be aware of possible debris below the surface or under bridges.

Have all required safety equipment&nbsp;— Life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers and bailing devices are required on most boats. An engine-cut-off device or switch also is a good idea.

Avoid alcohol&nbsp;— Nearly one-third of all recreational boating fatalities occur when someone is Boating Under the Influence, a criminal violation enforced in Nebraska. Always designate a sober driver.

Watch the weather&nbsp;— Storms can pop up quickly in Nebraska. Check the weather in advance and monitor it during the day, if necessary.

Avoid hypothermia&nbsp;— Even though temperatures are rising, the water still can be cold. Hypothermia is caused by exposure to cold weather or water. Take caution to prevent hypothermia.

Keep it legal&nbsp;— Make sure you’ve registered your boat and, if a nonresident, purchased an Aquatic Invasive Species stamp at OutdoorNebraska.gov. Also remember anyone operating a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must be at least 14 years of age. Learn more about Nebraska’s boating regulations at OutdoorNebraska.gov; search “Go boating.”

National Safe Boating Week is the annual kick-off of the Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that encourages boaters to make the most of their boating adventure by being responsible.

By Nebraska Game and ParksDuring National Safe Boating Week, May 20-26, Nebraska Game and Parks reminds boaters to brush up on safety rules in preparation for peak boating season.Follow these 10 tips reduce the risk of incidents and help ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the water.Take a boater safety course&nbsp;— Though it’s only a legal requirement for those born after Dec. 31, 1985, consider completing the Nebraska boating safety course to learn the top things you need to know about navigating Nebraska waters, what to do in an emergency and more. Find an in-person or online class at OutdoorNebraska.gov; search for “boater education.”Check equipment&nbsp;— Before you launch, ensure your boat or kayak is in good running condition and all essential equipment is present, including a life jacket for every person on board. Paddlers of kayaks or canoes also should physically inspect their planned take-out point to make sure it is accessible.Tell someone your plans&nbsp;— Before leaving home, let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Consider carrying a cellphone in a waterproof pouch, as well, in case an emergency occurs.Wear a life jacket&nbsp;— Make your life jacket a statement piece and wear it, as it does no good stowed away if an emergency occurs. Children under age 13, those using personal watercraft and those being towed on skis or similar device must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device; it’s required by the law.Be wary of surroundings&nbsp;— According to the National Safe Boating Council, nearly a quarter of all reported boating accidents in 2021 were caused by operator inattention or improper look-out. Pay attention to other boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, stumps and other hazards. Speeds in excess of 5 mph are prohibited if within 30 yards of any other vessel, swimming area or dock. If padding a kayak or canoe, be aware of possible debris below the surface or under bridges.Have all required safety equipment&nbsp;— Life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers and bailing devices are required on most boats. An engine-cut-off device or switch also is a good idea.Avoid alcohol&nbsp;— Nearly one-third of all recreational boating fatalities occur when someone is Boating Under the Influence, a criminal violation enforced in Nebraska. Always designate a sober driver.Watch the weather&nbsp;— Storms can pop up quickly in Nebraska. Check the weather in advance and monitor it during the day, if necessary.Avoid hypothermia&nbsp;— Even though temperatures are rising, the water still can be cold. Hypothermia is caused by exposure to cold weather or water. Take caution to prevent hypothermia.Keep it legal&nbsp;— Make sure you’ve registered your boat and, if a nonresident, purchased an Aquatic Invasive Species stamp at OutdoorNebraska.gov. Also remember anyone operating a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must be at least 14 years of age. Learn more about Nebraska’s boating regulations at OutdoorNebraska.gov; search “Go boating.”National Safe Boating Week is the annual kick-off of the Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that encourages boaters to make the most of their boating adventure by being responsible.

Boat safe this season with these 10 safety tips

&nbsp; BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/paulhammel/">PAUL HAMMEL</a>

LINCOLN — A grassroots effort to save the crumbling Virginia birthplace of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Willa Cather appears to have succeeded.

A Virginia realtor, Katherine Solenberger, has purchased the house to spare it from demolition, and she intends to donate it to a nonprofit within a year or so, according to Ashley Olson, executive director of the National Willa Cather Center in Red Cloud, Nebraska.

The organization had been seeking donations and benefactors to save the structure&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/07/cather-official-hopes-deteriorating-birthplace-of-famed-author-can-be-saved/">after it was announced last month</a>&nbsp;that the home, and surrounding acreage, was going up for sale.

Olson said publicity about the impending sale generated more than $30,000 in donations toward a purchase, as well as the offer by the local realtor.

“We are looking forward to working with a nonprofit collaborator to deploy these funds for the stabilization and preservation effort,” Olson said Tuesday.

“In Cather’s sesquicentennial year, it is wonderful to see her legacy embraced in Virginia,” she added.

Cather was born Dec. 7, 1873, in the white,&nbsp;clapboard home that sits along a turnpike near Gore, Virginia.

But the home, which has been vacant since the 1970s, has fallen into disrepair in recent years. It has been deemed unsafe for visitors because of its broken windows, rusty metal roofing and sagging front porch.

Olson said the Cather organization was connected with Solenberger via local Cather fans and members of the author’s family who live in the area.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/willa-cathers-150-years-to-be-celebrated-throughout-2023/">series of events is planned this year</a>&nbsp;to celebration the 150th anniversary of Cather’s birth.

Cather’s family moved to Nebraska when she was 9 years old, but her birthplace figured into some of her writings.

The birthplace has been on the Register of Historic Places since 1978. The owner lived in a second house on the premises and used the Cather birthplace as an office and writing studio.

But the former owner, Charles T. Brill Jr., who recently died, rebuffed an effort a few years ago to sell the property to a group that included some Cather descendants.

&nbsp; BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/paulhammel/">PAUL HAMMEL</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684339784955.jpeg" alt="The Virginia birthplace of Willa Cather is in sad shape, but a realtor has stepped up to purchase the property so it can be restored (Ashley Olson for the National Willa Cather Center)" />
 <figcaption>The Virginia birthplace of Willa Cather is in sad shape, but a realtor has stepped up to purchase the property so it can be restored (Ashley Olson for the National Willa Cather Center)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN — A grassroots effort to save the crumbling Virginia birthplace of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Willa Cather appears to have succeeded.A Virginia realtor, Katherine Solenberger, has purchased the house to spare it from demolition, and she intends to donate it to a nonprofit within a year or so, according to Ashley Olson, executive director of the National Willa Cather Center in Red Cloud, Nebraska.The organization had been seeking donations and benefactors to save the structure&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/07/cather-official-hopes-deteriorating-birthplace-of-famed-author-can-be-saved/">after it was announced last month</a>&nbsp;that the home, and surrounding acreage, was going up for sale.<h2>More than $30,000 donated</h2>Olson said publicity about the impending sale generated more than $30,000 in donations toward a purchase, as well as the offer by the local realtor.“We are looking forward to working with a nonprofit collaborator to deploy these funds for the stabilization and preservation effort,” Olson said Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684339812692.png" alt="A Virginia state historical marker stands just outside the home where Willa Cather was born. (Ashley Olson for the National Willa Cather Center)" />
 <figcaption>A Virginia state historical marker stands just outside the home where Willa Cather was born. (Ashley Olson for the National Willa Cather Center)</figcaption>
 </figure>“In Cather’s sesquicentennial year, it is wonderful to see her legacy embraced in Virginia,” she added.Cather was born Dec. 7, 1873, in the white,&nbsp;clapboard home that sits along a turnpike near Gore, Virginia.But the home, which has been vacant since the 1970s, has fallen into disrepair in recent years. It has been deemed unsafe for visitors because of its broken windows, rusty metal roofing and sagging front porch.Olson said the Cather organization was connected with Solenberger via local Cather fans and members of the author’s family who live in the area.A&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/willa-cathers-150-years-to-be-celebrated-throughout-2023/">series of events is planned this year</a>&nbsp;to celebration the 150th anniversary of Cather’s birth.<h2>Family moved to Nebraska</h2>Cather’s family moved to Nebraska when she was 9 years old, but her birthplace figured into some of her writings.The birthplace has been on the Register of Historic Places since 1978. The owner lived in a second house on the premises and used the Cather birthplace as an office and writing studio.But the former owner, Charles T. Brill Jr., who recently died, rebuffed an effort a few years ago to sell the property to a group that included some Cather descendants.

Efforts to save crumbling Willa Cather birthplace have succeeded

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 5/17/23

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson

Announcing the arrival of Vibrant Voracity by Carolyn Albracht. Dr. Carolyn is Assistant Professor of Art Education in the department of Art and Design at Wayne State College. She is also owner and director of Blue Cat Gallery &amp; Studio in downtown Wayne, NE. She formerly owned and operated L’eglise Art Center &amp; Gallery in Aurora, NE and taught K-12 art at Hampton Public School in Hampton, NE. Carolyn also served as the Visual Arts Coordinator for the Fall Arts &amp; Music Festival in Aurora from 2004-2007, and served on the Fine Arts Board of the Hamilton Community Foundation for ten years.

She has been a member of the Nebraska Art Teachers Association since 2008, serving as the organization’s secretary since 2016, and also served as the 2014 Fall Conference Chair in Aurora. Carolyn studied Studio Art and Psychology at the University of Nebraska at Kearney where she earned her BA in 1999. She continued her studies at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, receiving an MA in Museum Studies in 2003. She completed a K-12 Art Education teaching endorsement in 2009. And finally, she earned her PhD in Education Studies at UNL in August 2016. Carolyn’s personal artistic and teaching philosophy includes the idea that the arts are a necessity and not a luxury, and so she strives to make the visual arts as accessible as possible to people in her corner of the world.

ARTIST STATEMENT: My current works are created with watercolor and Prismacolor markers, a combination I stumbled upon several years ago when I first created a series of drawings done solely with Prismacolor markers. I found that the markers were transparent, as were the watercolors, and together I could create layered images that were much more visually appealing to me than using the markers alone. I enjoy the accidental quality of creating different effects with the watercolors, and the addition of the very controlled and deliberate marking of the Prismacolors to create finished images. The mediums together reflect my interest in contrast and contradiction, and the layered effect reflects my view of life and the world around me as it communicates ideas of interconnection.

More recently I have been adding other media to my paintings, such as embroidery thread, acrylic paint, and collage elements, adding more visual appeal and adding to the intended communication of layers as metaphor for my world view. Many of my compositions are culled from imagery I create intuitively while doodling and listening to music. I have filled doodle books off and on since I began teaching formally in 2009. When I sit down to create a doodle, I try not to consciously direct the images that spill forth from my pens. In this way, I view them as a kind of creative temperature-taking. Those that seem to have a strong composition and aesthetically pleasing imagery suggest that my mind is in an optimal place for creative mark-making, while others that are not so pleasing suggest to me that my creative mind is temporarily being pushed aside while I focus on other aspects of life. In a sense, the practice of creating these doodles reflects a striving for balance, which I hope is conveyed in the finished mixed-media watercolor paintings I create.

As always, we want to thank the incredible local businesses that support arts opportunities for our community. Thank you to our&nbsp;May Business Sponsors Dietrich and Sautter CPAs, First National Bank of Omaha, and Western Potato of Alliance.&nbsp;We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding, the Nebraska Arts Council, and Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support. Thank you DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

By Kyren Gibson, Carnegie Arts CenterAnnouncing the arrival of Vibrant Voracity by Carolyn Albracht. Dr. Carolyn is Assistant Professor of Art Education in the department of Art and Design at Wayne State College. She is also owner and director of Blue Cat Gallery &amp; Studio in downtown Wayne, NE. She formerly owned and operated L’eglise Art Center &amp; Gallery in Aurora, NE and taught K-12 art at Hampton Public School in Hampton, NE. Carolyn also served as the Visual Arts Coordinator for the Fall Arts &amp; Music Festival in Aurora from 2004-2007, and served on the Fine Arts Board of the Hamilton Community Foundation for ten years.She has been a member of the Nebraska Art Teachers Association since 2008, serving as the organization’s secretary since 2016, and also served as the 2014 Fall Conference Chair in Aurora. Carolyn studied Studio Art and Psychology at the University of Nebraska at Kearney where she earned her BA in 1999. She continued her studies at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, receiving an MA in Museum Studies in 2003. She completed a K-12 Art Education teaching endorsement in 2009. And finally, she earned her PhD in Education Studies at UNL in August 2016. Carolyn’s personal artistic and teaching philosophy includes the idea that the arts are a necessity and not a luxury, and so she strives to make the visual arts as accessible as possible to people in her corner of the world.ARTIST STATEMENT: My current works are created with watercolor and Prismacolor markers, a combination I stumbled upon several years ago when I first created a series of drawings done solely with Prismacolor markers. I found that the markers were transparent, as were the watercolors, and together I could create layered images that were much more visually appealing to me than using the markers alone. I enjoy the accidental quality of creating different effects with the watercolors, and the addition of the very controlled and deliberate marking of the Prismacolors to create finished images. The mediums together reflect my interest in contrast and contradiction, and the layered effect reflects my view of life and the world around me as it communicates ideas of interconnection.More recently I have been adding other media to my paintings, such as embroidery thread, acrylic paint, and collage elements, adding more visual appeal and adding to the intended communication of layers as metaphor for my world view. Many of my compositions are culled from imagery I create intuitively while doodling and listening to music. I have filled doodle books off and on since I began teaching formally in 2009. When I sit down to create a doodle, I try not to consciously direct the images that spill forth from my pens. In this way, I view them as a kind of creative temperature-taking. Those that seem to have a strong composition and aesthetically pleasing imagery suggest that my mind is in an optimal place for creative mark-making, while others that are not so pleasing suggest to me that my creative mind is temporarily being pushed aside while I focus on other aspects of life. In a sense, the practice of creating these doodles reflects a striving for balance, which I hope is conveyed in the finished mixed-media watercolor paintings I create.As always, we want to thank the incredible local businesses that support arts opportunities for our community. Thank you to our&nbsp;May Business Sponsors Dietrich and Sautter CPAs, First National Bank of Omaha, and Western Potato of Alliance.&nbsp;We also want to thank our generous grantors who provide operational funding, the Nebraska Arts Council, and Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Last but certainly not least, we want to thank our grantors that make free and reduced cost art classes available through educational grant support. Thank you DF Dillon Foundation, Snow Redfern Foundation, Mission Store, CA Story Foundation, Kimmel Foundation, and St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Carnegie Arts Center welcomes 'Vibrant Voracity' by Carolyn Albracht 

A fundraiser event will be held May 21 for Ross Grant at Alliance Eagles Club.

Grant was involved in a car accident March 19. He is currently ongoing treatments in a local hospital.&nbsp;

"We are trying to keep costs down low so that Ross will benefit 100% of the funds," Event member Cheryl Johnson said. "He has a long road ahead of him with many medical expenses ahead."

Donations are currently being accepted and all proceeds will benefit the Grant family.&nbsp;

Grant and his family have been Alliance residents for a long time. He currently is employed as the City of Alliance&nbsp;Public Works Superintendent.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1682963268519.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A fundraiser event will be held May 21 for Ross Grant at Alliance Eagles Club.Grant was involved in a car accident March 19. He is currently ongoing treatments in a local hospital.&nbsp;"We are trying to keep costs down low so that Ross will benefit 100% of the funds," Event member Cheryl Johnson said. "He has a long road ahead of him with many medical expenses ahead."Donations are currently being accepted and all proceeds will benefit the Grant family.&nbsp;Grant and his family have been Alliance residents for a long time. He currently is employed as the City of Alliance&nbsp;Public Works Superintendent.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1682963529798.jpeg" alt="Grant addresses the Alliance City Council at many council meetings.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Grant addresses the Alliance City Council at many council meetings.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ross Grant Fundraiser Benefit to be held at Alliance Eagles Club 

Alliance – Box Butte County RSVP will be hosting a mobile food pantry in conjunction with Northwest Community Action Partnership and Food bank for the Heartland on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. This is a free program which distributes food to families in Alliance, serving one distribution per car.

To ensure safe access to the Senior Center located at 212 Yellowstone Avenue, the Alliance Police Department are asking patrons to begin at the northeast corner of East 2nd Street and Yellowstone Avenue. Traffic will line up down East 2nd to Potash Avenue on the north side of the street. Please make sure to leave intersections open. Any overflow traffic will continue on Potash Avenue to East 3rd Street parking along the south curb on East 3rd Street. Please stay in your vehicle at time of delivery.

If you are homebound, and unable to drive thru to pick up your food, please call Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293 to make your delivery arrangements by 2pm on Tuesday, May 23rd. Delivery services are only available to homebound individuals.

For more information about the food drive, please contact Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

By City of AllianceAlliance – Box Butte County RSVP will be hosting a mobile food pantry in conjunction with Northwest Community Action Partnership and Food bank for the Heartland on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. This is a free program which distributes food to families in Alliance, serving one distribution per car.To ensure safe access to the Senior Center located at 212 Yellowstone Avenue, the Alliance Police Department are asking patrons to begin at the northeast corner of East 2nd Street and Yellowstone Avenue. Traffic will line up down East 2nd to Potash Avenue on the north side of the street. Please make sure to leave intersections open. Any overflow traffic will continue on Potash Avenue to East 3rd Street parking along the south curb on East 3rd Street. Please stay in your vehicle at time of delivery.If you are homebound, and unable to drive thru to pick up your food, please call Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293 to make your delivery arrangements by 2pm on Tuesday, May 23rd. Delivery services are only available to homebound individuals.For more information about the food drive, please contact Angie Flesner at (308) 762-1293.

NCAP, Box Butte Co. RSVP to host mobile food pantry in Alliance

WASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE)&nbsp;raised concerns about the Biden administration’s nuclear strategy in the midst of growing threats from Vladimir Putin’s Russia, which&nbsp;has&nbsp;refused&nbsp;to comply with treaties they’ve signed with the United States.

“Vladimir Putin believes he’s at war with the United States, and certainly, that is the way he is behaving when you think about what he’s done in regard to our nuclear treaties,”&nbsp;said Ricketts during the hearing.&nbsp;

Ricketts went on to outline how Putin has repeatedly refused to comply with U.S.-Russia arms control agreements including the 1987 INF (Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces) Treaty, the Treaty on Open Skies, and the present-day New START Treaty, which the Biden administration unconditionally extended in February 2021.

“Russia’s history of cheating by ignoring requirements in these agreements paired with their increasingly aggressive posture on the global stage are a major national security concern,”&nbsp;Ricketts said after the hearing. “Ambassador Sullivan was right today when he said the old adage ‘trust, but verify’ cannot apply to our dealings with Putin. The Biden administration needs to open their eyes and ensure the U.S. remains vigilant and competitive with our nuclear strategy. It can start by accelerating efforts to modernize our nation’s nuclear forces.”

Ricketts comments came during a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations&nbsp;Committee&nbsp;entitled “What Comes Next for U.S. Policy Towards Russia.”&nbsp;

Watch the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okL3o_Bj9bs" target="_blank">HERE</a>

By Office of Sen. Pete RickettsWASHINGTON, D.C. –&nbsp;Today,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE)&nbsp;raised concerns about the Biden administration’s nuclear strategy in the midst of growing threats from Vladimir Putin’s Russia, which&nbsp;has&nbsp;refused&nbsp;to comply with treaties they’ve signed with the United States.“Vladimir Putin believes he’s at war with the United States, and certainly, that is the way he is behaving when you think about what he’s done in regard to our nuclear treaties,”&nbsp;said Ricketts during the hearing.&nbsp;Ricketts went on to outline how Putin has repeatedly refused to comply with U.S.-Russia arms control agreements including the 1987 INF (Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces) Treaty, the Treaty on Open Skies, and the present-day New START Treaty, which the Biden administration unconditionally extended in February 2021.“Russia’s history of cheating by ignoring requirements in these agreements paired with their increasingly aggressive posture on the global stage are a major national security concern,”&nbsp;Ricketts said after the hearing. “Ambassador Sullivan was right today when he said the old adage ‘trust, but verify’ cannot apply to our dealings with Putin. The Biden administration needs to open their eyes and ensure the U.S. remains vigilant and competitive with our nuclear strategy. It can start by accelerating efforts to modernize our nation’s nuclear forces.”Ricketts comments came during a hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations&nbsp;Committee&nbsp;entitled “What Comes Next for U.S. Policy Towards Russia.”&nbsp;Watch the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okL3o_Bj9bs" target="_blank">HERE</a>

Ricketts concerned with Nuclear Strategy amid growing threat from Russia

Alliance – The City of Alliance would like to remind residents of the upcoming planned power outage for the Alliance area. The outage will be Sunday, May 21st, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This power outage will affect all City of Alliance Utility Customers. We ask that residents conserve water during this outage.

The reason for the outage is to install new hardware on the switch that feeds the City of Alliance. This work will be in the WAPA 10th street substation.

For more information, contact Electric Superintendent, Kirby Bridge at 308-762-1907.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The City of Alliance would like to remind residents of the upcoming planned power outage for the Alliance area. The outage will be Sunday, May 21st, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This power outage will affect all City of Alliance Utility Customers. We ask that residents conserve water during this outage.The reason for the outage is to install new hardware on the switch that feeds the City of Alliance. This work will be in the WAPA 10th street substation.For more information, contact Electric Superintendent, Kirby Bridge at 308-762-1907.

City of Alliance reminds community of scheduled power outage 

LINCOLN, NEB. — Summer is on the way! Memorial Day is right around the corner, which means the summer travel season is coming up quickly.

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, along with officers and deputies from dozens of agencies across Nebraska, are participating in the annual&nbsp;Click It or Ticket&nbsp;campaign. The effort began Monday, May 15, and runs through Sunday, June 4, encompassing the weeks before and after Memorial Day.

“Statistics show that seatbelt use increases your chance of surviving a serious crash by 45 percent,” said Colonel John Bolduc at Tuesday's kick-off event at NSP State Headquarters in Lincoln. “Seatbelts make a difference. Seatbelts save lives.”

NSP was joined by the Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska Highway Safety Office, and advocate Jackie Rowan to announce this year’s campaign.

“All of her hopes and dreams went into the casket with her,” said Jackie Rowan, whose daughter Erika lost her life in a crash when she wasn’t wearing a seat belt. “You don’t get over this kind of loss. My life is now based on the before and after. My life will never be okay, not ever. By sharing her story, in all its brokenness, I’m hoping you will see the lessons and apply them to your life.”

Troopers and NSP dispatchers will be working overtime to provide additional coverage during the busy start to the summer travel season. NSP's portion of this campaign is made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation - Highway Safety Office.

Traffic fatalities on Nebraska roadways this year are down 26 percent from this time in 2022. NSP encourages all motorists to do their part to provide safe travel on Nebraska roadways. Always drive sober, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt no matter how far your travels take you, from across town to across the state.

By NSPLINCOLN, NEB. — Summer is on the way! Memorial Day is right around the corner, which means the summer travel season is coming up quickly.Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, along with officers and deputies from dozens of agencies across Nebraska, are participating in the annual&nbsp;Click It or Ticket&nbsp;campaign. The effort began Monday, May 15, and runs through Sunday, June 4, encompassing the weeks before and after Memorial Day.“Statistics show that seatbelt use increases your chance of surviving a serious crash by 45 percent,” said Colonel John Bolduc at Tuesday's kick-off event at NSP State Headquarters in Lincoln. “Seatbelts make a difference. Seatbelts save lives.”NSP was joined by the Lincoln Police Department, Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska Highway Safety Office, and advocate Jackie Rowan to announce this year’s campaign.“All of her hopes and dreams went into the casket with her,” said Jackie Rowan, whose daughter Erika lost her life in a crash when she wasn’t wearing a seat belt. “You don’t get over this kind of loss. My life is now based on the before and after. My life will never be okay, not ever. By sharing her story, in all its brokenness, I’m hoping you will see the lessons and apply them to your life.”Troopers and NSP dispatchers will be working overtime to provide additional coverage during the busy start to the summer travel season. NSP's portion of this campaign is made possible thanks in part to a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation - Highway Safety Office.Traffic fatalities on Nebraska roadways this year are down 26 percent from this time in 2022. NSP encourages all motorists to do their part to provide safe travel on Nebraska roadways. Always drive sober, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt no matter how far your travels take you, from across town to across the state.

NSP, NDOT kick-off 'Click It or Ticket' Campaign

Alliance – The Carhenge Pitstop Gift Shop is scheduled to open Wednesday, May 17. 

Hours for the Gift Shop will be from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm daily. 

The Carhenge monument itself is a free attraction that is open from Dusk to Dawn. 

The Gift Shop is also online at: <a href="http://www.carhenge.com">www.carhenge.com</a> under the Pitstop Gift Shop tab.

<figure>
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 </figure>Alliance – The Carhenge Pitstop Gift Shop is scheduled to open Wednesday, May 17. Hours for the Gift Shop will be from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm daily. The Carhenge monument itself is a free attraction that is open from Dusk to Dawn. The Gift Shop is also online at: <a href="http://www.carhenge.com">www.carhenge.com</a> under the Pitstop Gift Shop tab.<figure>
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Carhenge Pitstop gift shop set to open 

Click <a href="https://kcowradio.com/#//">HERE </a>to enter to win $100!&nbsp;

KCOW 1400AM/92.5FM listeners remember to listen for the CODEWORD on your radio&nbsp; then go to <a href="http://kcowradio.com">kcowradio.com</a> to enter the CODEWORD. The more you listen, the more chances you have to win!&nbsp;You can win $100 thanks to Alliance Community Pharmacy, Far West Cuisine Restaurant in Chadron, Chadron Federal Credit Union!&nbsp;

KCOW would like to congratulate the $100 Ca$hcode winners recently: - Linda F of Alliance.

Our contest times are 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and 10 chances to win on Thursday with our&nbsp;$1,000.00 THURSDAYS!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682521084797.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click <a href="https://kcowradio.com/#//">HERE </a>to enter to win $100!&nbsp;KCOW 1400AM/92.5FM listeners remember to listen for the CODEWORD on your radio&nbsp; then go to <a href="http://kcowradio.com">kcowradio.com</a> to enter the CODEWORD. The more you listen, the more chances you have to win!&nbsp;You can win $100 thanks to Alliance Community Pharmacy, Far West Cuisine Restaurant in Chadron, Chadron Federal Credit Union!&nbsp;KCOW would like to congratulate the $100 Ca$hcode winners recently: - Linda F of Alliance.-Carol M. of Alliance.&nbsp;-Mark D.&nbsp;-Joshua D.&nbsp;-Jon L.&nbsp;Our contest times are 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and 10 chances to win on Thursday with our&nbsp;$1,000.00 THURSDAYS!

Ca$hBack FlashBack winners of $100! Enter to win from KCOW! 

There is no doubt the fish species that can send the largest number of anglers to the banks during the spring outbreak of fishing fever is crappies.

Everyone loves to sit on a shoreline on a warm afternoon and experience a good crappie bite. What can an angler do to maximize the number of spring days catching crappies?

Crappies love warm areas; they also love bays, coves, corners and similar areas that are protected from the wind, especially cold north and northwest winds. Find cover in those warming areas — emergent vegetation, stalks of last summer’s submerged vegetation, brush piles, fallen trees or beaver lodges — and you likely will find some spring crappies. Rocks and rocky habitats also hold fish, but, on many Nebraska reservoirs, those hold more crappies later in the spring after the water has warmed more.

Fish for crappies on a beautiful spring afternoon and everything can be grand. Go back the next day when the wind is blowing and you will be lucky to dry off one crappie. In some cases, those crappies may be in the same spot, just tucked deeper into cover, but it is more likely they went toward deeper water.

Depending on where they started, how shallow they were, and the severity of the weather change, crappie may not have moved far. Or they may have moved hundreds of yards back to the relative stability of deeper water.

If those crappies moved out of the shallows with the weather change, they likely will not be as active or as easy to catch. Vertical presentations probably will be the best way to catch a few fish.

As spring progresses, the water warms and the weather stabilizes, the wild shifts in crappie location and feeding attitude will lessen. Pick your days and fish when the crappies are most likely to be shallow and catchable or follow the movements and catch fish even when the weather changes.

Presentations for spring crappies should be relatively simple.

Crappies will chase prey, and at times, they can be quite aggressive. Much of the time, however, they are a lot more laid back. Even though their intent is just as deadly as a muskellunge or flathead catfish, their feeding strategy is completely different. Remember that and you will catch more crappies at all times of year.

Slow and steady, nothing fancy, nothing too aggressive usually is best for crappies, especially in the cold water of early spring. Put a bait in their vicinity, keep it there and give them a chance to move in and eat it.

Where allowed, nothing is simpler than a bobber, split shot, light wire hook, and a small, lively minnow. Dabble that in front of a crappie most anytime and they will eat; that is predator/prey dynamics at its simplest and rawest.

I like light wire hooks because they keep minnows lively. Even with 8-pound test line, you usually can straighten the hook when you get snagged in the woody cover you likely will be fishing. Hook the minnows through the back, just under the dorsal fin.

Use bobbers only as large as needed to suspend the bait. Bobbers that are too big inhibit bite detection and result in less fish caught.

Crappie jigs are a popular option. A selection of 1/64- to 1/8-ounce jig heads and a variety of plastic bodies will give you the tools you need and an infinite variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Other options include tube bodies, imitation minnows, marabou jigs and wax worms.

Jigs are meant to be cast and retrieved but remember slow and steady is usually best for crappies, especially in the spring. Bobbers are not just for fishing live bait. Attach a bobber on your line at the depth you want to fish and you can fish a jig slower.

The spring crappie bite can be good weeks before the fish are thinking about nesting and spawning. That means when the fish are shallow, they may be in some of the same areas over a couple of months. As they get closer to spawning, the crappies, especially males, will become darker colored. Expect the bite to slow as the fish get closer to spawning. Males will select small territories, then build and defend their nests, which often are located next to shallow water cover objects.

When spawning behavior starts, males stay close to their nests and will not move far to take baits. Fish slowly and put baits right on the crappies to get them to bite during the spawn. Females may stage close by until they are ready to move onto a nest and deposit eggs; they also tend to have something other than feeding on their mind during the spawn.

Once the spawn is over, crappies tend to disperse and head toward more open waters. Depending on the water body, available habitat, and prey, they may venture to emerging beds of aquatic vegetation, wander in the middle of the lake, or utilize some other type of deeper-water habitat.

Some crappies will remain in shallow cover year-round, but most crappies become more difficult to catch as they disperse and roam open water feeding on abundant prey during summer.

Crappies still can be caught during the summer, but the fishing usually is not as easy as it was during those warm, spring days when everyone wants to go crappie fishing.

Daryl Bauer is the fisheries outreach program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

By Daryl Bauer<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684249576503.jpeg" alt="This crappie was caught on a jig during an April fishing trip in Douglas County. (Nebraskaland Magazine/ Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)" />
 <figcaption>This crappie was caught on a jig during an April fishing trip in Douglas County. (Nebraskaland Magazine/ Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)</figcaption>
 </figure>There is no doubt the fish species that can send the largest number of anglers to the banks during the spring outbreak of fishing fever is crappies.Everyone loves to sit on a shoreline on a warm afternoon and experience a good crappie bite. What can an angler do to maximize the number of spring days catching crappies?Crappies love warm areas; they also love bays, coves, corners and similar areas that are protected from the wind, especially cold north and northwest winds. Find cover in those warming areas — emergent vegetation, stalks of last summer’s submerged vegetation, brush piles, fallen trees or beaver lodges — and you likely will find some spring crappies. Rocks and rocky habitats also hold fish, but, on many Nebraska reservoirs, those hold more crappies later in the spring after the water has warmed more.Where did they go?Fish for crappies on a beautiful spring afternoon and everything can be grand. Go back the next day when the wind is blowing and you will be lucky to dry off one crappie. In some cases, those crappies may be in the same spot, just tucked deeper into cover, but it is more likely they went toward deeper water.Depending on where they started, how shallow they were, and the severity of the weather change, crappie may not have moved far. Or they may have moved hundreds of yards back to the relative stability of deeper water.If those crappies moved out of the shallows with the weather change, they likely will not be as active or as easy to catch. Vertical presentations probably will be the best way to catch a few fish.As spring progresses, the water warms and the weather stabilizes, the wild shifts in crappie location and feeding attitude will lessen. Pick your days and fish when the crappies are most likely to be shallow and catchable or follow the movements and catch fish even when the weather changes.Keep it simplePresentations for spring crappies should be relatively simple.Crappies will chase prey, and at times, they can be quite aggressive. Much of the time, however, they are a lot more laid back. Even though their intent is just as deadly as a muskellunge or flathead catfish, their feeding strategy is completely different. Remember that and you will catch more crappies at all times of year.Slow and steady, nothing fancy, nothing too aggressive usually is best for crappies, especially in the cold water of early spring. Put a bait in their vicinity, keep it there and give them a chance to move in and eat it.Where allowed, nothing is simpler than a bobber, split shot, light wire hook, and a small, lively minnow. Dabble that in front of a crappie most anytime and they will eat; that is predator/prey dynamics at its simplest and rawest.I like light wire hooks because they keep minnows lively. Even with 8-pound test line, you usually can straighten the hook when you get snagged in the woody cover you likely will be fishing. Hook the minnows through the back, just under the dorsal fin.Use bobbers only as large as needed to suspend the bait. Bobbers that are too big inhibit bite detection and result in less fish caught.Crappie jigs are a popular option. A selection of 1/64- to 1/8-ounce jig heads and a variety of plastic bodies will give you the tools you need and an infinite variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Other options include tube bodies, imitation minnows, marabou jigs and wax worms.Jigs are meant to be cast and retrieved but remember slow and steady is usually best for crappies, especially in the spring. Bobbers are not just for fishing live bait. Attach a bobber on your line at the depth you want to fish and you can fish a jig slower.The spawnThe spring crappie bite can be good weeks before the fish are thinking about nesting and spawning. That means when the fish are shallow, they may be in some of the same areas over a couple of months. As they get closer to spawning, the crappies, especially males, will become darker colored. Expect the bite to slow as the fish get closer to spawning. Males will select small territories, then build and defend their nests, which often are located next to shallow water cover objects.When spawning behavior starts, males stay close to their nests and will not move far to take baits. Fish slowly and put baits right on the crappies to get them to bite during the spawn. Females may stage close by until they are ready to move onto a nest and deposit eggs; they also tend to have something other than feeding on their mind during the spawn.Once the spawn is over, crappies tend to disperse and head toward more open waters. Depending on the water body, available habitat, and prey, they may venture to emerging beds of aquatic vegetation, wander in the middle of the lake, or utilize some other type of deeper-water habitat.Some crappies will remain in shallow cover year-round, but most crappies become more difficult to catch as they disperse and roam open water feeding on abundant prey during summer.Crappies still can be caught during the summer, but the fishing usually is not as easy as it was during those warm, spring days when everyone wants to go crappie fishing.Daryl Bauer is the fisheries outreach program manager for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Neb. Game and Parks: Get hooked on crappies this spring

Alliance – The Alliance Learning Center (Library), will be reopened to the public effective tomorrow, Tuesday May 16, 2023.

&nbsp;A roofing failure lead to water getting into the electrical system. The electrical system has been safely reenergized.

For more information, please contact Alliance City Hall at (308) 762-5400.

By City of AllianceAlliance – The Alliance Learning Center (Library), will be reopened to the public effective tomorrow, Tuesday May 16, 2023.&nbsp;A roofing failure lead to water getting into the electrical system. The electrical system has been safely reenergized.For more information, please contact Alliance City Hall at (308) 762-5400.

Alliance Public Library reopens to community 

By: Mike Glesinger&nbsp; Panhandle Post

Hyannis Area Schools&nbsp;Principal/Superintendent Travis Hawk announced Monday, the hiring of Randy Hiemstra as high school Physical Education teacher and the Career and College Readiness Coordinator in the counseling department at Hyannis.&nbsp;

Hiemstra is a 1979 graduate of Chamberlain, South Dakota, High School. He earned his undergraduate degree in education from Northern State University in Aberdeen South Dakota, where he was a 2-year starter on the Men's basketball team.&nbsp;

Hiemstra spent the first 8 years of his educational career teaching and coaching in South Dakota before taking a position with the Alliance Public Schools in 1994.&nbsp; He went on to teach and coach at both Alliance and Hemingford schools for 26 years, serving as a head coach, assistant coach, activities director, assistant principal and strength and conditioning coordinator.&nbsp; He retired from Hemingford Schools several years ago, but continued to serve as a volunteer assistant coach.&nbsp;

Hiemstra's Coaching honors include: Scottsbluff Star Herald Girls Basketball Coach of the Year in 1997 and 2000.&nbsp; &nbsp;State Tournament qualifiers in girls and boys basketball in 1992, 1996,1997, 1998, 2000 and 2017. His Alliance girls team was Class B State runner-up in 2000.&nbsp; As a football coach, his teams competed in the playoffs&nbsp; in 1990, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999,&nbsp; 2012,&nbsp; 2013 and 2014. As defensive coordinator at Hemingford, the Bobcats were the Nebraska Class D-1 runner up in 2013 and State Champions in 2014.&nbsp; He has also coached track and field.

Hiemstra is married to Angie (Brown) Hiemstra with three grown children, Sydnie, Madison and Mason. The couple are also proud grandparents of two boys, Park and Kenzo.&nbsp;

Thanks to Hyannis Principal/Supt. Travis Hawk

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683047501154.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Mike Glesinger&nbsp; Panhandle PostHyannis Area Schools&nbsp;Principal/Superintendent Travis Hawk announced Monday, the hiring of Randy Hiemstra as high school Physical Education teacher and the Career and College Readiness Coordinator in the counseling department at Hyannis.&nbsp;Hiemstra is a 1979 graduate of Chamberlain, South Dakota, High School. He earned his undergraduate degree in education from Northern State University in Aberdeen South Dakota, where he was a 2-year starter on the Men's basketball team.&nbsp;Hiemstra spent the first 8 years of his educational career teaching and coaching in South Dakota before taking a position with the Alliance Public Schools in 1994.&nbsp; He went on to teach and coach at both Alliance and Hemingford schools for 26 years, serving as a head coach, assistant coach, activities director, assistant principal and strength and conditioning coordinator.&nbsp; He retired from Hemingford Schools several years ago, but continued to serve as a volunteer assistant coach.&nbsp;Hiemstra's Coaching honors include: Scottsbluff Star Herald Girls Basketball Coach of the Year in 1997 and 2000.&nbsp; &nbsp;State Tournament qualifiers in girls and boys basketball in 1992, 1996,1997, 1998, 2000 and 2017. His Alliance girls team was Class B State runner-up in 2000.&nbsp; As a football coach, his teams competed in the playoffs&nbsp; in 1990, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999,&nbsp; 2012,&nbsp; 2013 and 2014. As defensive coordinator at Hemingford, the Bobcats were the Nebraska Class D-1 runner up in 2013 and State Champions in 2014.&nbsp; He has also coached track and field.Hiemstra is married to Angie (Brown) Hiemstra with three grown children, Sydnie, Madison and Mason. The couple are also proud grandparents of two boys, Park and Kenzo.&nbsp;Thanks to Hyannis Principal/Supt. Travis Hawk

Hiemstra hired at Hyannis Area Schools

By Game and Parks Commission&nbsp;

Ash Hollow State Historical Park near Lewellen has reopened after minor flooding over the weekend.

Visitors should continue to use caution when entering park areas during or after rain events, as Ash Hollow is a natural water pathway for water runoff and drainage.

Questions can be directed to the Park Superintendent Tamara Cooper at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tamara.cooper@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">tamara.cooper@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 308-778-7708.

By Game and Parks Commission&nbsp;Ash Hollow State Historical Park near Lewellen has reopened after minor flooding over the weekend.Visitors should continue to use caution when entering park areas during or after rain events, as Ash Hollow is a natural water pathway for water runoff and drainage.Questions can be directed to the Park Superintendent Tamara Cooper at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tamara.cooper@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">tamara.cooper@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 308-778-7708.

Ash Hollow State Historical Park near Lewellen reopens

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Conservative Nebraska lawmakers are taking what could be an all-or-nothing bet by proposing to merge two of the legislative session’s most contentious proposals — one to restrict abortion and another that would ban gender-affirming care for minors.

The unconventional move follows conservatives' failure by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-heartbeat-bill-nebraska-78b861951e8cc0ca92fa320820e2cbee">a single vote</a>&nbsp;last month to advance a bill that would have banned abortion at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-laws-government-and-politics-health-77c9ba98c4f4ab46fdbd5bcc47b5b938">around six weeks of pregnancy</a>. Now, conservatives are backing an effort to amend the transgender health bill to include restricting abortion to 12 weeks of gestation.

The strategy sets up a vote on Tuesday that could give conservatives a win on both abortion and trans health bans this year — or could see them lose both.

Here’s a look at the combination of the trans and abortion bans proposals and how the process of debating and voting on them is expected to play out this week:

Nebraska has the only one-chamber, nonpartisan Legislature in the country, meaning its process of passing bills is also uncommon.

Bills introduced at the beginning of the legislative session all get public committee hearings, and the committee later decides whether to advance a given bill to the full Legislature of 49 lawmakers.

If advanced, the bill must survive three rounds of debate to be passed. Noncontroversial bills tend to sail through the process. But Nebraska lawmakers rely heavily on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-filibuster-nebraska-transgender-legislature-71fbda330ed7f1225475c614630b488d">filibuster</a>&nbsp;to stall contested bills. Each round has a set amount of time allowed for debate: Eight hours for the first round, four hours for the second and two hours for the third.

At the end of the allotted time, a vote is taken to end debate, called a cloture vote. It takes a supermajority of 33 lawmakers to end debate. If the vote fails, the bill is shelved for the remainder of the session. If it gets enough votes to end debate, only a simple majority is needed to advance it to the next round or pass it in the final round.

While officially nonpartisan, lawmakers self-identify as Republican, Democrat or independent and tend to propose and vote for legislation along party lines.

Republicans currently hold 32 seats, while Democrats hold 16 and one is a progressive independent who votes with Democrats. With such a slim margin, the defection of a single lawmaker from either side can derail efforts to pass or block bills.

Late in the afternoon, lawmakers are set to begin what would have been the final round of debate on a bill banning gender-affirming care for minors. But because legislative rules don’t allow amendments to be attached in the final round, lawmakers will instead debate for two hours on whether to send the bill back to the second round of debate with the abortion amendment attached.

If the motion garners at least 33 votes to end debate, the combination bill is certain to get enough votes to return for a second round of debate Tuesday night. The combined bill would have to survive another filibuster vote to advance to a final round likely to be held Thursday.

But if the first vote to end debate Tuesday fails, both the abortion amendment and the underlying trans health ban bill will be shelved for the year, according to the clerk of the Legislature’s office.

The trans health bill would ban hormone treatments, puberty blockers and gender reassignment surgery for anyone 18 and younger.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-ban-bill-nebraska-60d64c873ef9279b607f5c172b366473">bill advanced</a>&nbsp;to a final round of debate last month on the promise from its author, freshman Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha, and Speaker of the Legislature Sen. John Arch to hammer out a compromise between supporters and opponents before a final vote.

Instead, bill opponents say, Kauth unilaterally put forth an amended version that would make exceptions for minors who were already on hormone treatments before the ban takes effect. It also would give the state's chief medical officer — currently an ear, nose and throat doctor appointed by the Republican governor -- wide-ranging authority to set rules for use of use of hormone treatments for transgender minors. Opponents say that would give a political appointee the power to block such treatments, even for those minors grandfathered in.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-abortion-restrictions-3c0938049b10271452898d9a86fa298c">abortion amendment</a>&nbsp;would ban the procedure at 12 weeks of gestation, making exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the mother. Sen. Ben Hansen, a chiropractor from Blair, characterized his proposal as a reboot of a compromise amendment introduced during the abortion debate last month by Republican Sen. Merv Riepe that was initially rejected by conservative lawmakers.

Opponents note that Hansen's measure differs from Riepe's proposal in that it provides no exceptions for fatal fetal anomalies and doesn't explicitly protect doctors who perform abortions from criminal prosecution.

The trans health bill has been the most contentious this session, prompting Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh to follow through on a promise to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/filibuster-transgender-gender-affirming-therapy-bill-nebraska-cavanaugh-b9018fd1bf72112ca984ff58679eda6d">filibuster every single bill</a>&nbsp;before the body — even ones she supports — unless conservative supporters pull it. Her efforts greatly slowed the work of the Legislature this year, forcing lawmakers to package bills together and endure grueling 12-hour and sometimes 15-hour days to pass legislation.

Omaha Sen. Megan Hunt joined Cavanaugh's effort when the bill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/filibuster-gender-affirming-bill-nebraska-64a472a752c9e8e156e7bca929d90a34">advanced from the first round</a>&nbsp;of debate in March, revealing during the debate that her 12-year-old son is transgender.

The proposed abortion restrictions have drawn fierce pushback from those who argue that the state already limits abortion to 20 weeks of pregnancy and that restricting access further violates women's rights to have autonomy over their own bodies.

The six-week ban was derailed last month when Riepe withheld his vote to end a filibuster over it. Riepe was an original cosigner of the bill, but later worried that six weeks wouldn't give women enough time to even know they're pregnant. Since then, he has been praised by abortion rights proponents, but he's also endured calls from fellow Republicans for his resignation and censure.

“I've taken a lot of heat in the last several days,” the 80-year-old Riepe said.

Riepe has refused to say how he will vote on the 12-week abortion ban amendment.

Both the trans health and abortion bans proposals have brought hundreds of protesters to the Capitol on the days they've been debated, leading to speculation that thousands of protesters could descend Tuesday on Lincoln when the combination proposal is up for debate.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684170768697.jpeg" alt="Nebraska state Sen. John Arch, R-La Vista, speaks Jan. 4, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. Conservative Nebraska lawmakers are taking what could be an all-or-nothing bet by proposing to merge two of the session's most contentious proposals — one to restrict abortion access and another that would ban gender-affirming care for transgender minors. The strategy sets up a vote on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 that could give conservatives a win on both abortion and trans health bans this year — or could see them lose both. (Eileen T. Meslar/Omaha World-Herald via AP)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska state Sen. John Arch, R-La Vista, speaks Jan. 4, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. Conservative Nebraska lawmakers are taking what could be an all-or-nothing bet by proposing to merge two of the session's most contentious proposals — one to restrict abortion access and another that would ban gender-affirming care for transgender minors. The strategy sets up a vote on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 that could give conservatives a win on both abortion and trans health bans this year — or could see them lose both. (Eileen T. Meslar/Omaha World-Herald via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Conservative Nebraska lawmakers are taking what could be an all-or-nothing bet by proposing to merge two of the legislative session’s most contentious proposals — one to restrict abortion and another that would ban gender-affirming care for minors.The unconventional move follows conservatives' failure by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-heartbeat-bill-nebraska-78b861951e8cc0ca92fa320820e2cbee">a single vote</a>&nbsp;last month to advance a bill that would have banned abortion at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-laws-government-and-politics-health-77c9ba98c4f4ab46fdbd5bcc47b5b938">around six weeks of pregnancy</a>. Now, conservatives are backing an effort to amend the transgender health bill to include restricting abortion to 12 weeks of gestation.The strategy sets up a vote on Tuesday that could give conservatives a win on both abortion and trans health bans this year — or could see them lose both.Here’s a look at the combination of the trans and abortion bans proposals and how the process of debating and voting on them is expected to play out this week:___HOW THE NEBRASKA LEGISLATURE WORKS:Nebraska has the only one-chamber, nonpartisan Legislature in the country, meaning its process of passing bills is also uncommon.Bills introduced at the beginning of the legislative session all get public committee hearings, and the committee later decides whether to advance a given bill to the full Legislature of 49 lawmakers.If advanced, the bill must survive three rounds of debate to be passed. Noncontroversial bills tend to sail through the process. But Nebraska lawmakers rely heavily on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-filibuster-nebraska-transgender-legislature-71fbda330ed7f1225475c614630b488d">filibuster</a>&nbsp;to stall contested bills. Each round has a set amount of time allowed for debate: Eight hours for the first round, four hours for the second and two hours for the third.At the end of the allotted time, a vote is taken to end debate, called a cloture vote. It takes a supermajority of 33 lawmakers to end debate. If the vote fails, the bill is shelved for the remainder of the session. If it gets enough votes to end debate, only a simple majority is needed to advance it to the next round or pass it in the final round.While officially nonpartisan, lawmakers self-identify as Republican, Democrat or independent and tend to propose and vote for legislation along party lines.Republicans currently hold 32 seats, while Democrats hold 16 and one is a progressive independent who votes with Democrats. With such a slim margin, the defection of a single lawmaker from either side can derail efforts to pass or block bills.___WHAT HAPPENS ON TUESDAY?Late in the afternoon, lawmakers are set to begin what would have been the final round of debate on a bill banning gender-affirming care for minors. But because legislative rules don’t allow amendments to be attached in the final round, lawmakers will instead debate for two hours on whether to send the bill back to the second round of debate with the abortion amendment attached.If the motion garners at least 33 votes to end debate, the combination bill is certain to get enough votes to return for a second round of debate Tuesday night. The combined bill would have to survive another filibuster vote to advance to a final round likely to be held Thursday.But if the first vote to end debate Tuesday fails, both the abortion amendment and the underlying trans health ban bill will be shelved for the year, according to the clerk of the Legislature’s office.___WHAT'S PROPOSED IN THE TWO MEASURES?The trans health bill would ban hormone treatments, puberty blockers and gender reassignment surgery for anyone 18 and younger.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-ban-bill-nebraska-60d64c873ef9279b607f5c172b366473">bill advanced</a>&nbsp;to a final round of debate last month on the promise from its author, freshman Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha, and Speaker of the Legislature Sen. John Arch to hammer out a compromise between supporters and opponents before a final vote.Instead, bill opponents say, Kauth unilaterally put forth an amended version that would make exceptions for minors who were already on hormone treatments before the ban takes effect. It also would give the state's chief medical officer — currently an ear, nose and throat doctor appointed by the Republican governor -- wide-ranging authority to set rules for use of use of hormone treatments for transgender minors. Opponents say that would give a political appointee the power to block such treatments, even for those minors grandfathered in.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-abortion-restrictions-3c0938049b10271452898d9a86fa298c">abortion amendment</a>&nbsp;would ban the procedure at 12 weeks of gestation, making exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the mother. Sen. Ben Hansen, a chiropractor from Blair, characterized his proposal as a reboot of a compromise amendment introduced during the abortion debate last month by Republican Sen. Merv Riepe that was initially rejected by conservative lawmakers.Opponents note that Hansen's measure differs from Riepe's proposal in that it provides no exceptions for fatal fetal anomalies and doesn't explicitly protect doctors who perform abortions from criminal prosecution.___HOW CONTENTIOUS ARE THE MEASURES?The trans health bill has been the most contentious this session, prompting Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh to follow through on a promise to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/filibuster-transgender-gender-affirming-therapy-bill-nebraska-cavanaugh-b9018fd1bf72112ca984ff58679eda6d">filibuster every single bill</a>&nbsp;before the body — even ones she supports — unless conservative supporters pull it. Her efforts greatly slowed the work of the Legislature this year, forcing lawmakers to package bills together and endure grueling 12-hour and sometimes 15-hour days to pass legislation.Omaha Sen. Megan Hunt joined Cavanaugh's effort when the bill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/filibuster-gender-affirming-bill-nebraska-64a472a752c9e8e156e7bca929d90a34">advanced from the first round</a>&nbsp;of debate in March, revealing during the debate that her 12-year-old son is transgender.The proposed abortion restrictions have drawn fierce pushback from those who argue that the state already limits abortion to 20 weeks of pregnancy and that restricting access further violates women's rights to have autonomy over their own bodies.The six-week ban was derailed last month when Riepe withheld his vote to end a filibuster over it. Riepe was an original cosigner of the bill, but later worried that six weeks wouldn't give women enough time to even know they're pregnant. Since then, he has been praised by abortion rights proponents, but he's also endured calls from fellow Republicans for his resignation and censure.“I've taken a lot of heat in the last several days,” the 80-year-old Riepe said.Riepe has refused to say how he will vote on the 12-week abortion ban amendment.Both the trans health and abortion bans proposals have brought hundreds of protesters to the Capitol on the days they've been debated, leading to speculation that thousands of protesters could descend Tuesday on Lincoln when the combination proposal is up for debate.

Neb. conservatives gamble on combining abortion, trans health bans

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 5/15/23

Nebraska Extension and Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Public Health, have announced dates for the annual “tractor safety” training courses scheduled at sites across Nebraska in early June. Students will complete the first day of the course by attending online training through the eXtension Foundation Campus website. The required driving test will be offered on June 1 in Gering and June 5 in Gordon.&nbsp;

Federal law prohibits children under 16 years of age from using certain equipment on a farm unless their parents or legal guardians own the farm. However, certification received through the course grants an exemption to the law allowing 14- and 15-year-olds to drive a tractor and to do field work with certain mechanized equipment.

The online course will cover the required elements of the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program, including quizzes that students must pass to attend the driving portion of the training. Once registered, students will be sent instructions, materials, course paperwork, and a link to the online course.

The onsite driving training and exam will include a driving test, equipment operation, and ATV safety lessons. Students must demonstrate competence in hitching and unhitching equipment and driving a tractor and trailer through a standardized course. Instructors will also offer education about safe behaviors and laws for ATVs, utility-task vehicles (UTVs), and other off-road vehicles (ORVs).

The course costs $35 and includes educational materials, the online learning link, and supplies. Payment will be made at the time of the driving exam. Only checks and cash can be accepted.

• June 1 – Legacy of the Plains Museum, 2930 Old Oregon Trail in Gering Contacts: John Thomas at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jthomas2@unl.edu" target="_blank">jthomas2@unl.edu</a>&nbsp;or Stacy Brown at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sbrown7@unl.edu" target="_blank">sbrown7@unl.edu</a>, 308-632-1480

• June 5 – Gordon Fairgrounds, 613 E. 3rd Street, Gordon Contacts: Marie Nelson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mnelson82@unl.edu" target="_blank">mnelson82@unl.edu</a>&nbsp;308-327-2312 or John Thomas at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jthomas2@unl.edu" target="_blank">jthomas2@unl.edu</a>

To register visit, <a href="http://go.unl.edu/2023tractorsafety">go.unl.edu/2023tractorsafety</a>

By UNMCNebraska Extension and Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Public Health, have announced dates for the annual “tractor safety” training courses scheduled at sites across Nebraska in early June. Students will complete the first day of the course by attending online training through the eXtension Foundation Campus website. The required driving test will be offered on June 1 in Gering and June 5 in Gordon.&nbsp;Federal law prohibits children under 16 years of age from using certain equipment on a farm unless their parents or legal guardians own the farm. However, certification received through the course grants an exemption to the law allowing 14- and 15-year-olds to drive a tractor and to do field work with certain mechanized equipment.The online course will cover the required elements of the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program, including quizzes that students must pass to attend the driving portion of the training. Once registered, students will be sent instructions, materials, course paperwork, and a link to the online course.The onsite driving training and exam will include a driving test, equipment operation, and ATV safety lessons. Students must demonstrate competence in hitching and unhitching equipment and driving a tractor and trailer through a standardized course. Instructors will also offer education about safe behaviors and laws for ATVs, utility-task vehicles (UTVs), and other off-road vehicles (ORVs).The course costs $35 and includes educational materials, the online learning link, and supplies. Payment will be made at the time of the driving exam. Only checks and cash can be accepted.Tractor Driving Days• June 1 – Legacy of the Plains Museum, 2930 Old Oregon Trail in Gering Contacts: John Thomas at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jthomas2@unl.edu" target="_blank">jthomas2@unl.edu</a>&nbsp;or Stacy Brown at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sbrown7@unl.edu" target="_blank">sbrown7@unl.edu</a>, 308-632-1480• June 5 – Gordon Fairgrounds, 613 E. 3rd Street, Gordon Contacts: Marie Nelson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mnelson82@unl.edu" target="_blank">mnelson82@unl.edu</a>&nbsp;308-327-2312 or John Thomas at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jthomas2@unl.edu" target="_blank">jthomas2@unl.edu</a>To register visit, <a href="http://go.unl.edu/2023tractorsafety">go.unl.edu/2023tractorsafety</a>

 Tractor safety courses offered in Gordon, Gering 

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