Heat & Wildfire Risk: A brutal heat dome is pushing dangerous temperatures across the West, with tens of millions under heat alerts and record highs at risk; officials also warn of extreme fire danger in parts of the Northwest. Public Health: The U.S. public health system is facing a string of outbreaks amid funding cuts and vaccine resistance, with experts pointing to reduced protection from diseases once kept low. Nebraska Water Safety: Nebraska issued a Harmful Algal Blooms health alert for Maskenthine Reservoir in Stanton County after microcystin levels exceeded thresholds; swimming beaches are closed, while boating and fishing are allowed with caution. Rural Health Funding: Nebraska has awarded nearly $100 million of its first-year Rural Health Transformation Program allotment, with a DHHS dashboard tracking progress. Agriculture & Climate Resilience: USDA expanded drought disaster designations in Nebraska, making more producers eligible for emergency loans. Local Food Systems: Lincoln’s Mayor’s Local Food Challenge is underway, aiming to boost local sourcing by schools, restaurants, and community groups. Soil & Manure Tech: The North American Manure Expo in Wayne drew international farmers to see manure and organic fertilizer innovations. Energy & Growth: A proposed Falls City facility would turn corn ethanol into bio-based polypropylene, aiming to create new corn demand and rural jobs.