There is a common saying in public health: “Everything is public health.” That is because public health touches nearly every aspect of our daily lives. It is the clean water we drink, the air we breathe, the safety of the food we eat and the environments where we live, work, learn and play. These conditions do not happen by accident; they are shaped by policies, systems and collective investments. Much like public education, public health reflects a shared commitment to creating the conditions where all people have the opportunity to thrive.

Our country was founded on the belief that all Americans have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These building blocks make the American Dream possible. We live in a nation of opportunity. A nation that enables kids to have it better than their parents. A nation that believes that hard work leads to success. For the last 250 years, Americans from all backgrounds have achieved their American Dream.

After a natural disaster strikes, every day counts. Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers know this well. This spring and summer, Nebraska has been hit by some of the worst wildfires in state history. More than 800,000 acres burned, destroying pastureland, fences, and other farm and ranch infrastructure.

In 1789, the same year the first United States Congress met in Federal Hall in New York to declare the Constitution in effect, France was undergoing its own revolution. But within just a few years, the newly established French government fell apart, went into what was described as the “Reign of Terror,” and eventually paved the way for the dictatorship of Napoleon.

From our founding pioneers to today, Nebraskans have always been known for our grit, determination, and resilience. Unfortunately, this year those characteristics have been tested like never before as communities across our state faced the worst wildfires in Nebraska’s history.

Benny Jay Trosper “Gator” was born on February 15, 1964, to Mary (Ruppert) and Gary Trosper in Imperial, Nebraska. He was the middle child of three.

Karen Judy Brown, 87, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, at Hillcrest Nursing Home. Karen was born in Culbertson, Nebraska on April 24, 1939, to Willard and Caroline (Frick) Rippen. She lived a life filled with love, dedication and service to her family and community.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Lola Mae Moseley will be held on August 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Holdrege Methodist Church in Holdrege, Nebraska, with Pastor George Probasco officiating.

Daryl Dean Hansen was born on August 19, 1952, in Genoa, Nebraska to Vernon Louis and Eleanor Janet (Underwood) Hansen and passed away on June 24, 2026, surrounded by his family, in Seward, Nebraska at the age of 73 years, 10 months and 5 days.

Vivian M. Arent, age 89, of North Platte, Nebraska, passed away Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at the Maples Centennial Nursing Home.