As of 7 p.m. on Sept. 20, the Post Fire transitioned from the NEMA Type 3 Incident Management Assistance Team to a local Type 4 Team led by Incident Commander Tyler Hunter and Crawford VFD Fire Chief, Brian Prosser.

“We would like to thank the NEMA Team for their quick deployment to northwest Nebraska and diligent efforts in managing the Post Fire,” said Prosser.

The Post Fire remains at 5,444 acres and is now 65% contained.

 Crews continued to work through the rainstorm last night and the burn area received approximately 0.3 inches of rain. 

Over 160 personnel remain on scene, but with the moisture today and increased containment, some resources will begin their travel home.

In addition, all evacuation notices have been lifted. Residents south of 4-Mile Road, west of Highway 71/2, east of Deadman Road, and north of W. Bellmont Road. may return home. 


By Nebraska Forest ServiceAs of 7 p.m. on Sept. 20, the Post Fire transitioned from the NEMA Type 3 Incident Management Assistance Team to a local Type 4 Team led by Incident Commander Tyler Hunter and Crawford VFD Fire Chief, Brian Prosser.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632235480873.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“We would like to thank the NEMA Team for their quick deployment to northwest Nebraska and diligent efforts in managing the Post Fire,” said Prosser.The Post Fire remains at 5,444 acres and is now 65% contained. Crews continued to work through the rainstorm last night and the burn area received approximately 0.3 inches of rain. Over 160 personnel remain on scene, but with the moisture today and increased containment, some resources will begin their travel home.In addition, all evacuation notices have been lifted. Residents south of 4-Mile Road, west of Highway 71/2, east of Deadman Road, and north of W. Bellmont Road. may return home.

Post Fire Update: 65% contained

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers will have to negotiate new legislative and congressional maps now that both of the original Republican-backed measures have stalled in the Legislature. 

Opponents blocked the proposed legislative map with a filibuster on Monday, and the congressional map stalled on Friday amid similar objections. 

Critics say the maps unfairly benefited the GOP by making it harder for Democrats to win in certain districts where they might otherwise be competitive. 

The votes came as no surprise, given that Republicans don’t have the super-majority they need to overcome a filibuster in the one-house Legislature, as they did during the 2011 redistricting. 

That means lawmakers will have to reach some sort of compromise.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers will have to negotiate new legislative and congressional maps now that both of the original Republican-backed measures have stalled in the Legislature. Opponents blocked the proposed legislative map with a filibuster on Monday, and the congressional map stalled on Friday amid similar objections. Critics say the maps unfairly benefited the GOP by making it harder for Democrats to win in certain districts where they might otherwise be competitive. The votes came as no surprise, given that Republicans don’t have the super-majority they need to overcome a filibuster in the one-house Legislature, as they did during the 2011 redistricting. That means lawmakers will have to reach some sort of compromise.

Nebraska lawmakers to negotiate new redistricting maps

The Alliance Eagles Club will hold a benefit for Laura (Fankhauser) Ylander on Oct. 30 from 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.&nbsp;

All proceeds will help with medical costs for a liver transplant.&nbsp;

There will be a silent auction, a dinner and live music from Shane Keane.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632164148451.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Eagles Club will hold a benefit for Laura (Fankhauser) Ylander on Oct. 30 from 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.&nbsp;All proceeds will help with medical costs for a liver transplant.&nbsp;There will be a silent auction, a dinner and live music from Shane Keane.&nbsp;

Alliance Eagles Club to hold benefit for Laura Fankhauser Ylander

The Panhandle COVID dashboard continues to be updated to help residents understand and inform the current COVID risk in the area. The Governor has announced the state COVID dashboard will be accessible again starting today.

Vaccinations have protection against all known variants, including Delta. For anyone age 12 and older, please get vaccinated. COVID vaccine is widely available across the Panhandle and there is no charge for the vaccine.

If you are homebound or have a condition that makes it hard for you to access a COVID vaccine, please call Kim Engel at 308-633-2866 ext 101.

People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

Unified Command confirms 223 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, September 13.

Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html" target="_blank">http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html</a>.

By PPHDThe Panhandle COVID dashboard continues to be updated to help residents understand and inform the current COVID risk in the area. The Governor has announced the state COVID dashboard will be accessible again starting today.Vaccinations have protection against all known variants, including Delta. For anyone age 12 and older, please get vaccinated. COVID vaccine is widely available across the Panhandle and there is no charge for the vaccine.<ul>
 <li><a>Box Butte/Grant:&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Dave's Pharmacy Hemingford &amp; Alliance, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5:30 PM (Pfizer 2 PM- 5:30 PM)</li><li>Alliance Community Pharmacy, Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 6 PM</li><li>Cheyenne/Deuel:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>During COVID clinic hours visit&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>&nbsp;for days and hours</li><li>Dawes/Sioux:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Western Community Health Resources, Monday-Friday, 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM</li><li>Garden: To schedule an appointment visit&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;- provider will call you</li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Regional West Garden County Clinic Front Desk, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM</li><li>Kimball:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Kimball Health Services, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM</li><li>Morrill:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Morrill County Hospital Clinic, Wednesdays, 8 AM - 4 PM</li><li>Sheridan:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Gordon Rural Health Clinic, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM- 9:30 AM</li><li>Scotts Bluff/Banner:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/hkw7wk2p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/hkw7wk2p</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/vaccination/covid-19?ban=covid_vaccine1_landing_schedule" target="_blank">walgreens.com</a></li><li>Walk-ins welcome</li><li>Gering CAPWN Health Center, Monday-Friday, 9 AM-12 PM &amp; 1 PM-4 PM</li><li>Scottsbluff County Immunization Clinic, Monday-Friday, 9:40 AM-12:30 PM &amp; 1:30 PM-5:30 PM</li>
 </ul>If you are homebound or have a condition that makes it hard for you to access a COVID vaccine, please call Kim Engel at 308-633-2866 ext 101.People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>. Unified Command confirms 223 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, September 13.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632179278945.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-September 20, 2021<ul>
 <li>Positive: 10,766</li><li>Last week’s cases: (cases/100,000): 258.5</li><li>Last week’s cases: 223</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 12.3%</li><li>Deaths: 200</li><li>Deaths Pending Verification: 11</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 28</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 627</li>
 </ul>Avoid the Three Cs:<ul>
 <li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html" target="_blank">http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632179347841.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632179363220.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

PPHD: 223 more virus cases reported in Panhandle 

Click <a href="https://panhandlepost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a> to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Panhandle Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.panhandlepost.com/recent-obituaries/kcowradio@gmail.com">kcowradio@gmail.com</a>

Click <a href="https://panhandlepost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a> to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp; Panhandle Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="https://archive.panhandlepost.com/recent-obituaries/kcowradio@gmail.com">kcowradio@gmail.com</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Recent obituaries

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is resurrecting a version of Nebraska’s daily virus reporting dashboard website because the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations has continued to rise. 

The state eliminated its daily virus dashboard in June at the same time the last of Ricketts’ emergency orders related to the pandemic were allowed to expire. 

Even though the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 remains well below last fall’s peak of 987, hospital capacity has been a concern in recent weeks because hospitals are so busy with non-COVID cases. 

Over the past week, the number of people hospitalized with the virus accounted for roughly 15% of the state’s available hospital beds.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts is resurrecting a version of Nebraska’s daily virus reporting dashboard website because the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations has continued to rise. The state eliminated its daily virus dashboard in June at the same time the last of Ricketts’ emergency orders related to the pandemic were allowed to expire. Even though the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 remains well below last fall’s peak of 987, hospital capacity has been a concern in recent weeks because hospitals are so busy with non-COVID cases. Over the past week, the number of people hospitalized with the virus accounted for roughly 15% of the state’s available hospital beds.

Nebraska to report more virus stats as hospitalizations rise

Lincoln&nbsp; — Following the outbreak of two wildfires in the Panhandle, Governor Ricketts issued an emergency declaration Friday, September 17, in support of response efforts. &nbsp;

Reported only hours apart, two major wildfires broke out in Dawes and Scotts Bluff counties. 

The Post Fire located five miles south of Crawford and the Vista Trend Fire located southwest of the City of Scottsbluff. Together, both fires have burned a cumulative 8,234 acres. Currently containment is at 50 percent and 100 percent respectively.&nbsp;

Various local, state and federal resources are working together to combat a variety a challenges that come with having two significant incidents only miles from one another. A state Type III Incident Management Assistance Team deployed to each location to assist in response operations. &nbsp;

“The need for effective coordination between multiple state agencies and emergency support functions has been crucial to implementing a cohesive response to the fires occurring in the Panhandle,” said Bryan Tuma, Assistant Director of NEMA. “Sharing resources between two separate incidents in nearby areas, occurring simultaneously, can be challenging.”&nbsp;

The emergency declaration issued by Governor Ricketts allows incident commanders the flexibility to order resources necessary for the response, including resources from surrounding states. Nebraska National Guard air assets also responded. Over the course of several days, numerous sorties were flown to aid in suppression. &nbsp;

Lincoln&nbsp; — Following the outbreak of two wildfires in the Panhandle, Governor Ricketts issued an emergency declaration Friday, September 17, in support of response efforts. &nbsp;Reported only hours apart, two major wildfires broke out in Dawes and Scotts Bluff counties. The Post Fire located five miles south of Crawford and the Vista Trend Fire located southwest of the City of Scottsbluff. Together, both fires have burned a cumulative 8,234 acres. Currently containment is at 50 percent and 100 percent respectively.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632167167169.jpeg" alt="Photo by Chadron Volunteer Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Chadron Volunteer Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Various local, state and federal resources are working together to combat a variety a challenges that come with having two significant incidents only miles from one another. A state Type III Incident Management Assistance Team deployed to each location to assist in response operations. &nbsp;“The need for effective coordination between multiple state agencies and emergency support functions has been crucial to implementing a cohesive response to the fires occurring in the Panhandle,” said Bryan Tuma, Assistant Director of NEMA. “Sharing resources between two separate incidents in nearby areas, occurring simultaneously, can be challenging.”&nbsp;The emergency declaration issued by Governor Ricketts allows incident commanders the flexibility to order resources necessary for the response, including resources from surrounding states. Nebraska National Guard air assets also responded. Over the course of several days, numerous sorties were flown to aid in suppression. &nbsp;

Disaster Declaration issued for Panhandle wildfires 

The new Panhandle Post Post app for iOS and Android devices is now available FREE for your mobile device.

<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/download">CLICK HERE to download from the App Store and Google Play.&nbsp;</a>

The new Panhandle Post Post app for iOS and Android devices is now available FREE for your mobile device.<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/download">CLICK HERE to download from the App Store and Google Play.&nbsp;</a>

Panhandle Post app now available 

Panhandle firefighters are continuing to battle the Post Fire 5 miles southwest of Crawford.&nbsp;

The fire started on Sept. 13 and has burned 5,444 acres.&nbsp;

As of 8 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 19 the fire is 50% contained.&nbsp;

There is currently 162 fire personnel on scene assisting with the fire.&nbsp;

The pre-evacuation notice has been removed for the area between Highway 20 south and north of 4-Mile Road.&nbsp;

"We will be transitioning from the Type 3 back to a Type 4 team over the next 24 hours,"&nbsp;Wildlife Biologist -Pine Ridge Ranger District&nbsp;Erin Considine said.&nbsp;

Below is aerial footage of the fire from the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency:&nbsp;

Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact the following businesses with credit card information:

3. Pine Ridge Service Center Inc (Equipment Maintenance)

Cash or checks can be mailed to Crawford Volunteer Fire Department at 3450 Hwy 20, Crawford, Nebraska, 69339.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostPanhandle firefighters are continuing to battle the Post Fire 5 miles southwest of Crawford.&nbsp;The fire started on Sept. 13 and has burned 5,444 acres.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632156154543.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As of 8 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 19 the fire is 50% contained.&nbsp;There is currently 162 fire personnel on scene assisting with the fire.&nbsp;The pre-evacuation notice has been removed for the area between Highway 20 south and north of 4-Mile Road.&nbsp;"We will be transitioning from the Type 3 back to a Type 4 team over the next 24 hours,"&nbsp;Wildlife Biologist -Pine Ridge Ranger District&nbsp;Erin Considine said.&nbsp;Below is aerial footage of the fire from the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency:&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnema.page%2Fvideos%2F441560903909912%2F&show_text=false&width=269&t=0" width="269" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact the following businesses with credit card information:1. Saddlerock One Stop (Gas Station)2. D&amp;S Market (Grocery)3. Pine Ridge Service Center Inc (Equipment Maintenance)Cash or checks can be mailed to Crawford Volunteer Fire Department at 3450 Hwy 20, Crawford, Nebraska, 69339.

Post Fire Update: 50% contained 

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Chadron State College senior Mia MacDonald of Cheyenne, Wyoming, recently completed a graphic design internship with DHM, a landscape architect company, in its Durango, Colorado, office. MacDonald made the connection with the firm through her father, who is a civil engineer. The company, which provides planning and site design services to the National Park Service and works for municipalities and private developers, also has offices in Missoula, Montana, Carbondale, Colorado, and Denver.

Ann Christensen, DHM principal, said MacDonald’s attention to graphic design helped the firm’s plans and perspective renderings convey the desired mood and feeling to clients and the public viewing DHM’s concepts and ideas

“Her understanding of graphic representation added greater clarity, legibility, and finesse to our materials.&nbsp;Her skills with fonts, composition, and color were applicable to marketing packages, maps and diagrams,” Christensen said.&nbsp;

The major project MacDonald contributed to was the Uptown Butte, Montana, Master Plan. The plan, which was in progress before her internship started in mid-May, includes lighting, parking improvements, and public art. She used software packages such as InDesign, PhotoShop, and Illustrator to create the plan’s cover and design for each chapter. She also organized the chapters and compiled comments from public input meetings.

Additionally, she created plan renderings of two options for the proposed Three Springs Pickle Ball Court and Dog Park in Durango. Her renderings and a flyer she created were presented at a public meeting.

A third project she worked on during the three-month internship was assisting with rendering plans and creating overlays of proposed construction for a Zion National Park project that included rerouting trails and revamping the entrance.

MacDonald also worked on a wayfinding project for Lake San Cristobal, Colorado, including boat ramps and restrooms.

During the fall 2020 semester, CSC Art Professor Mary Donahue and MacDonald discussed what types of projects she might encounter during her internship with DHM and determined she could benefit from more experience with InDesign. For MacDonald’s Spring 2021 schedule, Donahue crafted an Art 400/Independent Study for her to work in InDesign on a project related to landscape architecture design. The project included a booklet, brochure, signage, and other collateral materials for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12369" target="_blank">CSC Labyrinth</a>.

“Mia’s positive attitude, openness, and willingness to learn and try new things are a big plus, as is taking the initiative to see what is out there and going for it,” Donahue said.

MacDonald said the internship helped&nbsp;her&nbsp;learn&nbsp;additional skills&nbsp;that make a visual so much crisper&nbsp;such as correct uses of white space and hierarchy techniques for readability.

“I learned more about what colors communicate and a ton about design choices and how to make them, plus a lot of new shortcuts. They are a designer’s best friend,” MacDonald said. “I felt like having knowledge of the software they use helped DHM trust me.”

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Chadron State College senior Mia MacDonald of Cheyenne, Wyoming, recently completed a graphic design internship with DHM, a landscape architect company, in its Durango, Colorado, office. MacDonald made the connection with the firm through her father, who is a civil engineer. The company, which provides planning and site design services to the National Park Service and works for municipalities and private developers, also has offices in Missoula, Montana, Carbondale, Colorado, and Denver.Ann Christensen, DHM principal, said MacDonald’s attention to graphic design helped the firm’s plans and perspective renderings convey the desired mood and feeling to clients and the public viewing DHM’s concepts and ideas<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632152965797.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College graphic design major Mia MacDonald of Cheyenne, Wyo., poses with her honorable mention string art installation Collide April 23, 2021, in Memorial Hall's Main Gallery. (Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College graphic design major Mia MacDonald of Cheyenne, Wyo., poses with her honorable mention string art installation Collide April 23, 2021, in Memorial Hall's Main Gallery. (Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Her understanding of graphic representation added greater clarity, legibility, and finesse to our materials.&nbsp;Her skills with fonts, composition, and color were applicable to marketing packages, maps and diagrams,” Christensen said.&nbsp;The major project MacDonald contributed to was the Uptown Butte, Montana, Master Plan. The plan, which was in progress before her internship started in mid-May, includes lighting, parking improvements, and public art. She used software packages such as InDesign, PhotoShop, and Illustrator to create the plan’s cover and design for each chapter. She also organized the chapters and compiled comments from public input meetings.Additionally, she created plan renderings of two options for the proposed Three Springs Pickle Ball Court and Dog Park in Durango. Her renderings and a flyer she created were presented at a public meeting.A third project she worked on during the three-month internship was assisting with rendering plans and creating overlays of proposed construction for a Zion National Park project that included rerouting trails and revamping the entrance.MacDonald also worked on a wayfinding project for Lake San Cristobal, Colorado, including boat ramps and restrooms.During the fall 2020 semester, CSC Art Professor Mary Donahue and MacDonald discussed what types of projects she might encounter during her internship with DHM and determined she could benefit from more experience with InDesign. For MacDonald’s Spring 2021 schedule, Donahue crafted an Art 400/Independent Study for her to work in InDesign on a project related to landscape architecture design. The project included a booklet, brochure, signage, and other collateral materials for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12369" target="_blank">CSC Labyrinth</a>.“Mia’s positive attitude, openness, and willingness to learn and try new things are a big plus, as is taking the initiative to see what is out there and going for it,” Donahue said.MacDonald said the internship helped&nbsp;her&nbsp;learn&nbsp;additional skills&nbsp;that make a visual so much crisper&nbsp;such as correct uses of white space and hierarchy techniques for readability.“I learned more about what colors communicate and a ton about design choices and how to make them, plus a lot of new shortcuts. They are a designer’s best friend,” MacDonald said. “I felt like having knowledge of the software they use helped DHM trust me.”

Chadron design student interns with Colorado firm

CHADRON – After more than a year, the Dawes County Travel Board has lifted its moratorium on improvement grant applications.

“Uncertainty in the travel industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with outstanding commitments, prompted the Dawes County Travel Board to stop accepting Improvement grant applications,” explained Discover Northwest Nebraska Director Kerri Rempp. “As the 2021 regular tourism season ends, the board is comfortable lifting that moratorium and will consider Improvement grants at its next meeting on Oct. 5.”

Improvement grants are designed to improve tourist attraction infrastructure in Northwest Nebraska and are funded by lodging tax collections. The Dawes County Travel Board considers Improvement grant applications four times a year – in January, April, July and October. Applications and guidelines are available for download at <a href="http://www.discovernwnebraska.com">www.discovernwnebraska.com</a> under the About tab.

The proceeds of a lodging tax on motel/hotel/campground lodging in Dawes County provide the funding for both the Promotion and Improvement funds at the county, which are authorized under the Nebraska Visitors Development Act.

CHADRON – After more than a year, the Dawes County Travel Board has lifted its moratorium on improvement grant applications.“Uncertainty in the travel industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with outstanding commitments, prompted the Dawes County Travel Board to stop accepting Improvement grant applications,” explained Discover Northwest Nebraska Director Kerri Rempp. “As the 2021 regular tourism season ends, the board is comfortable lifting that moratorium and will consider Improvement grants at its next meeting on Oct. 5.”Improvement grants are designed to improve tourist attraction infrastructure in Northwest Nebraska and are funded by lodging tax collections. The Dawes County Travel Board considers Improvement grant applications four times a year – in January, April, July and October. Applications and guidelines are available for download at <a href="http://www.discovernwnebraska.com">www.discovernwnebraska.com</a> under the About tab.The proceeds of a lodging tax on motel/hotel/campground lodging in Dawes County provide the funding for both the Promotion and Improvement funds at the county, which are authorized under the Nebraska Visitors Development Act.

Dawes County Travel Board lifts improvement grant moratorium

CHADRON – Chadron State College Assistant Professor Dr. Tawny Tibbits is a co-author of an article accepted for publication by Advances in Archaeological Science. The paper's lead author is Dr. Marieka Brouwer Burg from the University of Vermont, followed by Tibbits, and Dr. Eleanor Harrison-Buck from the University of New Hampshire. The article is titled, Advances in Geochemical Sourcing of Granite Ground Stone: Ancient Maya Artifacts from the Middle Belize Valley.

Tibbits spent three field seasons collecting outcrop data to compare the archaeological data to match artifacts to where they likely formed.

The paper analyzes how&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12363" target="_blank">ground stone tools</a>, manos, and metates, can be analyzed to infer economic exchange routes and social connections. According to Tibbits, the Belize River East Archaeology permit area is an excellent region for studying how communities in Middle Belize River Valley used granite from more than one location for their ground stone tools. The area is just north of three different sources of granite: Mountain Pine Ridge, Hummingbird Ridge, and Cockscomb Basin.

During her doctoral research, Tibbits developed a method using a portable X-Ray fluorescence (pXRF) unit, which had previously been used mostly with obsidian, to assess the geochemistry of granite accurately.

"Granite from each site has a similar appearance, but the chemistry of each is distinct," said Tibbits, who is applying for grants to purchase a pXRF unit for CSC. "There is a slight visual difference. The granite from Mountain Pine Ridge tends to be a little more pink, but they are functionally the same. They're both hard granite granites. Mountain Pine Ridge seems to have been a really big a huge producer of manos and metates. It's the easiest to access. It’s not a formal quarry, but has many waterfalls and streambeds with exposed granite. Hummingbird and Cockscomb are more vegetated with dense jungle, so it's harder to access granite there.”

In the article's abstract, Tibbits and her colleagues write that ground stone tools were ubiquitous in the ancient Maya world. Their applications ranged from household tools to ceremonial equipment and beyond.

The article presents a small-scale application of pXRF for determining granite provenance. The method, developed by Tibbits, demonstrates successful and accurate geological characterizations can be made on granite ground stone tools.

Harrison-Buck is the primary investigator of the site, and as the archaeologist with the permits, she manages the Belize River East Archaeology (BREA) project where Tibbits made her unique discovery.

"They were kind enough to let me come by during my Ph.D. work and let me analyze their granite ground stone tools. I was with them for about a week in their lab outside and going out to their excavations, analyzing whatever they dug up," Tibbits said. "I zapped the granite and compared it to the outcrops, and saw where the exchange seemed to have happened. It seems like this community was a bit more complex than some other places that only have Mountain Pine Ridge granite. It seems like they have different socio-economic ties than some other communities."

Brouwer Burg, Harrison-Buck, and Tibbits plan to continue to analyze granite sources to determine why the granite moved.

"You could move because you married someone and needed to move to their village and take your tools with you or it could be through traveling merchants," Tibbits said.

The three scientists plan to submit a poster to the Society for American Archaeology for consideration to be exhibited at its annual meeting March 30-April 3, 2022, in Chicago.

"We're hoping to get some valuable feedback there about what others are thinking these days. To see how others have been answering this question as well as get a nice share of ideas. It is really complicated to figure out the 'why' behind people moving things. We're just looking at one piece of the puzzle - where the rocks ended up compared to where they started. But there are stories from mountain to deposition. We're missing a lot."

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Chadron State College Assistant Professor Dr. Tawny Tibbits is a co-author of an article accepted for publication by Advances in Archaeological Science. The paper's lead author is Dr. Marieka Brouwer Burg from the University of Vermont, followed by Tibbits, and Dr. Eleanor Harrison-Buck from the University of New Hampshire. The article is titled, Advances in Geochemical Sourcing of Granite Ground Stone: Ancient Maya Artifacts from the Middle Belize Valley.Tibbits spent three field seasons collecting outcrop data to compare the archaeological data to match artifacts to where they likely formed.The paper analyzes how&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12363" target="_blank">ground stone tools</a>, manos, and metates, can be analyzed to infer economic exchange routes and social connections. According to Tibbits, the Belize River East Archaeology permit area is an excellent region for studying how communities in Middle Belize River Valley used granite from more than one location for their ground stone tools. The area is just north of three different sources of granite: Mountain Pine Ridge, Hummingbird Ridge, and Cockscomb Basin.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632148994701.jpeg" alt="A replica metate (grinding stone) and mano (tool on top) belonging to Dr. Tawny Tibbits. Research by Tibbits analyzing the chemical properties of granite from a 1,000 B.C. Maya quarry in Belize has been published in a peer-reviewed book. (Courtesy image used with permission) " />
 <figcaption>A replica metate (grinding stone) and mano (tool on top) belonging to Dr. Tawny Tibbits. Research by Tibbits analyzing the chemical properties of granite from a 1,000 B.C. Maya quarry in Belize has been published in a peer-reviewed book. (Courtesy image used with permission) </figcaption>
 </figure>During her doctoral research, Tibbits developed a method using a portable X-Ray fluorescence (pXRF) unit, which had previously been used mostly with obsidian, to assess the geochemistry of granite accurately."Granite from each site has a similar appearance, but the chemistry of each is distinct," said Tibbits, who is applying for grants to purchase a pXRF unit for CSC. "There is a slight visual difference. The granite from Mountain Pine Ridge tends to be a little more pink, but they are functionally the same. They're both hard granite granites. Mountain Pine Ridge seems to have been a really big a huge producer of manos and metates. It's the easiest to access. It’s not a formal quarry, but has many waterfalls and streambeds with exposed granite. Hummingbird and Cockscomb are more vegetated with dense jungle, so it's harder to access granite there.”In the article's abstract, Tibbits and her colleagues write that ground stone tools were ubiquitous in the ancient Maya world. Their applications ranged from household tools to ceremonial equipment and beyond.The article presents a small-scale application of pXRF for determining granite provenance. The method, developed by Tibbits, demonstrates successful and accurate geological characterizations can be made on granite ground stone tools.Harrison-Buck is the primary investigator of the site, and as the archaeologist with the permits, she manages the Belize River East Archaeology (BREA) project where Tibbits made her unique discovery."They were kind enough to let me come by during my Ph.D. work and let me analyze their granite ground stone tools. I was with them for about a week in their lab outside and going out to their excavations, analyzing whatever they dug up," Tibbits said. "I zapped the granite and compared it to the outcrops, and saw where the exchange seemed to have happened. It seems like this community was a bit more complex than some other places that only have Mountain Pine Ridge granite. It seems like they have different socio-economic ties than some other communities."Brouwer Burg, Harrison-Buck, and Tibbits plan to continue to analyze granite sources to determine why the granite moved."You could move because you married someone and needed to move to their village and take your tools with you or it could be through traveling merchants," Tibbits said.The three scientists plan to submit a poster to the Society for American Archaeology for consideration to be exhibited at its annual meeting March 30-April 3, 2022, in Chicago."We're hoping to get some valuable feedback there about what others are thinking these days. To see how others have been answering this question as well as get a nice share of ideas. It is really complicated to figure out the 'why' behind people moving things. We're just looking at one piece of the puzzle - where the rocks ended up compared to where they started. But there are stories from mountain to deposition. We're missing a lot."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632149134357.jpeg" alt="Research by Dr. Tawny Tibbits, Chadron State College Geoscience faculty member, has been published in a peer-reviewed book. Her research analyzes the chemical properties of granite from a 1,000 B.C. Maya quarry in Belize. (Cornec 2015, Tibbits 2016, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Research by Dr. Tawny Tibbits, Chadron State College Geoscience faculty member, has been published in a peer-reviewed book. Her research analyzes the chemical properties of granite from a 1,000 B.C. Maya quarry in Belize. (Cornec 2015, Tibbits 2016, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>

CSC Tibbits' research to be published

SCOTTSBLUFF -&nbsp;With funds administered from the reVISION Action Grant, the Western Nebraska Community College Nursing program will purchase two high-fidelity nursing simulators for use on the Alliance and Sidney campuses.

The manikins, called Nursing Anne Simulators, provides a life-like patient experience for students in the WNCC Nursing program.

"We can create a patient experience for our students in a simulated environment," Becky Kautz, WNCC nursing program director said. "It's a very safe place for students to learn bridging their theory to practice. The manikins have potential for a lot of different engagements related to clinical practices."

The manikins can be programmed to display symptoms of common illnesses as well as allow students to practice general diagnostics. It features realistic skin, a heartbeat, breathing, in addition to fully-articulated arms and legs. Amber Jacoby, a WNCC nursing instructor, runs the simulations for students and can customize the program to allow students to practice a wide variety of skills and procedures.

The reVISION Action Grant is intended to improve, modernize, and expand career and technical education (CTE) programs to align with Nebraska's economic priorities and workforce demands. WNCC was awarded $77,628. More than $1.3 million was awarded to 17 public schools and community colleges across the state. For more information about the grant, visit education.ne.gov/nce/action-grant/.

WNCC currently has one Nursing Anne simulator on the Scottsbluff campus. The addition of the simulators on the Alliance and Sidney campuses will allow more hands-on training for nursing students on all WNCC campuses.

Kautz also said that bringing the manikins to the Alliance and Sidney campuses will allow local hospital staff to receive more training and give high school students an inside look at the nursing program.

To learn more about the WNCC Nursing program, visit wncc.edu.

SCOTTSBLUFF -&nbsp;With funds administered from the reVISION Action Grant, the Western Nebraska Community College Nursing program will purchase two high-fidelity nursing simulators for use on the Alliance and Sidney campuses.The manikins, called Nursing Anne Simulators, provides a life-like patient experience for students in the WNCC Nursing program.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632094682473.jpeg" alt="WNCC was awarded funds from the reVISION Action grant and will purchase two Nursing Anne Simulators, like the one pictured above, for the Alliance and Sidney campuses. The simulators allow nursing students to practice real-life skills in a safe environment." />
 <figcaption>WNCC was awarded funds from the reVISION Action grant and will purchase two Nursing Anne Simulators, like the one pictured above, for the Alliance and Sidney campuses. The simulators allow nursing students to practice real-life skills in a safe environment.</figcaption>
 </figure>"We can create a patient experience for our students in a simulated environment," Becky Kautz, WNCC nursing program director said. "It's a very safe place for students to learn bridging their theory to practice. The manikins have potential for a lot of different engagements related to clinical practices."The manikins can be programmed to display symptoms of common illnesses as well as allow students to practice general diagnostics. It features realistic skin, a heartbeat, breathing, in addition to fully-articulated arms and legs. Amber Jacoby, a WNCC nursing instructor, runs the simulations for students and can customize the program to allow students to practice a wide variety of skills and procedures.The reVISION Action Grant is intended to improve, modernize, and expand career and technical education (CTE) programs to align with Nebraska's economic priorities and workforce demands. WNCC was awarded $77,628. More than $1.3 million was awarded to 17 public schools and community colleges across the state. For more information about the grant, visit education.ne.gov/nce/action-grant/.WNCC currently has one Nursing Anne simulator on the Scottsbluff campus. The addition of the simulators on the Alliance and Sidney campuses will allow more hands-on training for nursing students on all WNCC campuses.Kautz also said that bringing the manikins to the Alliance and Sidney campuses will allow local hospital staff to receive more training and give high school students an inside look at the nursing program.To learn more about the WNCC Nursing program, visit wncc.edu.

WNCC awarded grant funds to purchase nursing simulators

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A lobbying group has formed to help influence the rules Nebraska may eventually write to regulate the sale of cannabis even though Nebraska has yet to legalize cannabis use in any form.

 John Cartier, president of the Nebraska Cannabis Association said it expects some form of marijuana legalization to be approved in the state in coming years, so it makes sense to be prepared.

 Voters may have a chance in 2022 to decide several ballot initiatives that would legalize some form of marijuana use, so the state may have to start regulating the business as soon as January 2023.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A lobbying group has formed to help influence the rules Nebraska may eventually write to regulate the sale of cannabis even though Nebraska has yet to legalize cannabis use in any form. John Cartier, president of the Nebraska Cannabis Association said it expects some form of marijuana legalization to be approved in the state in coming years, so it makes sense to be prepared. Voters may have a chance in 2022 to decide several ballot initiatives that would legalize some form of marijuana use, so the state may have to start regulating the business as soon as January 2023.

State cannabis lobbying group forms even as drug's illegal

News Release Nebraska Department of Transportation


During the month of August 2021, nine
people were killed in traffic crashes on Nebraska roadways, according
to data collected by the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1559737258290.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska Department of Transportation
During the month of August 2021, nine
people were killed in traffic crashes on Nebraska roadways, according
to data collected by the Nebraska Department of Transportation.<ul>
 <li>These
	9 fatalities occurred in 9 fatal crashes.
</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>
	Five of the six vehicle occupants
	killed were not using seatbelts, one was using a seatbelt, and zero
	had seatbelt usage marked as unknown.
</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Five
	of the fatalities were in rural locations*.
	</li><li>There
	were zero fatalities on the interstate, one on other highways, and
	eight on local roads.
	</li><li>One
	of the fatalities was a pedestrian.
	</li><li>Two
	of the fatalities were motorcyclists.
</li>
 </ul><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632140858581.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><ul>
 <li>There
	were 25 fatalities in August of 2020.
</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Only
	34 of the 116 vehicle occupants killed during 2021 were using
	seatbelts.
</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>The
	Federal Highway Administration definition for urban is an area with
	a population of 5,000 or more.
</li>
 </ul>

9 people killed on Nebraska roads in August

After 72 hours fighting the Post Fire, fire managers are reporting 15% containment as of 7 a.m. today. The Incident Management Assistance Team remains on location, assisting local resources with the response.

At this time, the pre-evacuation order for the City of Crawford is no longer in effect. Residents located south of Hwy 20 should remain alert and vigilant to changing conditions. The recommended evacuation order for anyone south of 4-Mile Road remains in effect.

Fire managers are prepared for combating warmer weather with relative humidity in the middle teens. High winds are expected to come through the area with gusts up to 30 mph.

Please take extra caution when traveling in the Crawford area. Increased fire engine traffic should be expected.

By Nebraska Forest ServiceAfter 72 hours fighting the Post Fire, fire managers are reporting 15% containment as of 7 a.m. today. The Incident Management Assistance Team remains on location, assisting local resources with the response.At this time, the pre-evacuation order for the City of Crawford is no longer in effect. Residents located south of Hwy 20 should remain alert and vigilant to changing conditions. The recommended evacuation order for anyone south of 4-Mile Road remains in effect.Fire managers are prepared for combating warmer weather with relative humidity in the middle teens. High winds are expected to come through the area with gusts up to 30 mph.Please take extra caution when traveling in the Crawford area. Increased fire engine traffic should be expected.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632096007632.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact the following businesses with credit card information:1. Saddlerock One Stop (Gas Station)2. D&amp;S Market (Grocery)3. Pine Ridge Service Center Inc (Equipment Maintenance)Cash or checks can be mailed to Crawford Volunteer Fire Department at 3450 Hwy 20, Crawford, Nebraska, 69339.

Post Fire Update: 15% contained 

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Authorities say two South Dakota state prison inmates who drover away from a community service project are back in custody. 

Thomas Wilson and Peyton Laird were assigned to the task in Sioux Falls when they stole a car and drove away Friday morning. 

The two men were arrested Sunday in the Rapid City area and are currently being held in the Pennington County Jail. 

The vehicle was recovered in Pennington County. 

The 32-year-old Wilson is serving sentences for possession of a controlled substance and forgery from Pennington County.

 The 22-year-old Laird is serving sentences related to second-degree burglary and possession of a controlled substance from Minnehaha County.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Authorities say two South Dakota state prison inmates who drover away from a community service project are back in custody. Thomas Wilson and Peyton Laird were assigned to the task in Sioux Falls when they stole a car and drove away Friday morning. The two men were arrested Sunday in the Rapid City area and are currently being held in the Pennington County Jail. The vehicle was recovered in Pennington County. The 32-year-old Wilson is serving sentences for possession of a controlled substance and forgery from Pennington County. The 22-year-old Laird is serving sentences related to second-degree burglary and possession of a controlled substance from Minnehaha County.

2 state prisoners accused of escape found in Rapid City

As of late Saturday, (Sept. 18)&nbsp; the Post Fire burning southwest of Crawford was listed at 0% containment and had grown to 5544 acres. 75 personnel from 23 organizations were on site.&nbsp; &nbsp;Fire crews are still working and there is still a lot of smoke and poor visibility in the area.&nbsp; The following statement was issued by the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who continues to support us in our response to the Post Fire. In a time of unease and uncertainty, the Crawford community and those surrounding have shown an overwhelming amount of love and support to our volunteers. 

Thank you to those who donated food, water, money, equipment and personal goods. Thank you to those who volunteered their time to cook for us, pack our lunches, and keep the fire station running. Thank you to the friends and families who support our volunteers from home, allowing them to be here and assist with the fight. Most of all, thank you to the firefighters, from all over the state who never fail to show up in times of need.&nbsp; We are so fortunate and blessed to work in such a caring and compassionate community.

 Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact the following businesses with credit card information:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632063783699.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As of late Saturday, (Sept. 18)&nbsp; the Post Fire burning southwest of Crawford was listed at 0% containment and had grown to 5544 acres. 75 personnel from 23 organizations were on site.&nbsp; &nbsp;Fire crews are still working and there is still a lot of smoke and poor visibility in the area.&nbsp; The following statement was issued by the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency."We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who continues to support us in our response to the Post Fire. In a time of unease and uncertainty, the Crawford community and those surrounding have shown an overwhelming amount of love and support to our volunteers. Thank you to those who donated food, water, money, equipment and personal goods. Thank you to those who volunteered their time to cook for us, pack our lunches, and keep the fire station running. Thank you to the friends and families who support our volunteers from home, allowing them to be here and assist with the fight. Most of all, thank you to the firefighters, from all over the state who never fail to show up in times of need.&nbsp; We are so fortunate and blessed to work in such a caring and compassionate community. Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact the following businesses with credit card information:1. Saddlerock One Stop (Gas Station)2. D&amp;S Market (Grocery)3. Pine Ridge Service Center Inc (Equipment Maintenance)Cash or checks can be mailed to Crawford Volunteer Fire Department at 3450 Hwy 20, Crawford, Nebraska, 69339.

Post Fire Update: Sunday Sept. 19 

Here is the latest update on the Post Fire,&nbsp; burning 5 miles southwest of Crawford.&nbsp; &nbsp;As of this morning (Saturday, Sept. 18).... 0% containment, almost 5000 acres burned.&nbsp; Thanks to&nbsp;&nbsp;Erin Considine Wildlife Biologist.&nbsp;&nbsp;Forest Service&nbsp;Pine Ridge Ranger District.&nbsp;Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Control lines established yesterday (Friday)&nbsp; held throughout the night, even with moderate fire activity and winds gusting up to 40 mph.&nbsp; The fire remains south of 4-Mile Road and is not actively encroaching towards the town of Crawford.

Numerous additional resources arrived throughout yesterday evening and this Saturday&nbsp; morning.&nbsp; &nbsp;Fire managers expect an increase in fire activity today with temperatures reaching 93 degrees, low relative humidity, and wind gust up to 30 mph.

Air support remains in the area with 2 single-engine air tankers, 2 heavy type1 helicopters, 2 type-3 helicopters and additional resources are en route.&nbsp; In addition, daily multi-mission aircraft is gathering fire mapping.

Area South of 4-Mile Road (west of Deadman Rd, north of W. Bellmont Rd, and east of Highway 71/2) - strongly recommended to evacuate the area.&nbsp; Area North of 4-Mile Road (south of Paddock Street in Crawford) – are still&nbsp; under a pre-evacuation warning.&nbsp; Residents should monitor local media outlets for information and begin preparations for a possible evacuation. Only law enforcement personnel have the authority to issue an evacuation order.&nbsp; Should an evacuation order be issued, the local siren system will non-stop sound and law enforcement will make contact.

According to Crawford VFD Fire Chief Brian Prosser, “All local Crawford events will continue throughout the weekend.”

The Panhandle Public Health District asks residents to heed important precautions for themselves and their families' health.&nbsp; Air quality information is available at fire.airnow.gov.&nbsp; This will also provide tips for people with asthma, allergies, and any special needs.

Please take extra caution when traveling on Highway 20, between Crawford and Fort Robinson.&nbsp; Limited visibility, as well as increased fire engine traffic should be expected.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nebraskaforestsgrass

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632004000531.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here is the latest update on the Post Fire,&nbsp; burning 5 miles southwest of Crawford.&nbsp; &nbsp;As of this morning (Saturday, Sept. 18).... 0% containment, almost 5000 acres burned.&nbsp; Thanks to&nbsp;&nbsp;Erin Considine Wildlife Biologist.&nbsp;&nbsp;Forest Service&nbsp;Pine Ridge Ranger District.&nbsp;Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands.&nbsp;&nbsp;Control lines established yesterday (Friday)&nbsp; held throughout the night, even with moderate fire activity and winds gusting up to 40 mph.&nbsp; The fire remains south of 4-Mile Road and is not actively encroaching towards the town of Crawford.Numerous additional resources arrived throughout yesterday evening and this Saturday&nbsp; morning.&nbsp; &nbsp;Fire managers expect an increase in fire activity today with temperatures reaching 93 degrees, low relative humidity, and wind gust up to 30 mph.Air support remains in the area with 2 single-engine air tankers, 2 heavy type1 helicopters, 2 type-3 helicopters and additional resources are en route.&nbsp; In addition, daily multi-mission aircraft is gathering fire mapping.EVACUATION INFORMATIONDawes County Sheriff’s Department:Area South of 4-Mile Road (west of Deadman Rd, north of W. Bellmont Rd, and east of Highway 71/2) - strongly recommended to evacuate the area.&nbsp; Area North of 4-Mile Road (south of Paddock Street in Crawford) – are still&nbsp; under a pre-evacuation warning.&nbsp; Residents should monitor local media outlets for information and begin preparations for a possible evacuation. Only law enforcement personnel have the authority to issue an evacuation order.&nbsp; Should an evacuation order be issued, the local siren system will non-stop sound and law enforcement will make contact.According to Crawford VFD Fire Chief Brian Prosser, “All local Crawford events will continue throughout the weekend.”The Panhandle Public Health District asks residents to heed important precautions for themselves and their families' health.&nbsp; Air quality information is available at fire.airnow.gov.&nbsp; This will also provide tips for people with asthma, allergies, and any special needs.Please take extra caution when traveling on Highway 20, between Crawford and Fort Robinson.&nbsp; Limited visibility, as well as increased fire engine traffic should be expected.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nebraskaforestsgrass<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632004218290.jpeg" alt="20210918_am_PostFire_Photo_amBriefing.jpg" />
 <figcaption>20210918_am_PostFire_Photo_amBriefing.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Post Fire Update: Saturday Sept. 18 

GERING, Neb. (AP) — Firefighters have been battling two wildfires that broke out miles apart in the Nebraska panhandle. 

Fire officials said Friday the Vista Trend fire south of Gering has burned nearly 6 square miles with zero containment. 

The smaller Post Fire near Crawford has charred almost 2 square miles by late Thursday night. KNEB-FM reports that evacuations have been recommended for both fires.

Officials say no structures have been lost and no injuries have been reported for either fire. 

The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said in an update Friday that 30 structures were evacuated.

GERING, Neb. (AP) — Firefighters have been battling two wildfires that broke out miles apart in the Nebraska panhandle. Fire officials said Friday the Vista Trend fire south of Gering has burned nearly 6 square miles with zero containment. The smaller Post Fire near Crawford has charred almost 2 square miles by late Thursday night. KNEB-FM reports that evacuations have been recommended for both fires.Officials say no structures have been lost and no injuries have been reported for either fire. The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said in an update Friday that 30 structures were evacuated.

Firefighters battling two wildfires in Nebraska panhandle

As the Post Fire 5 miles south of Crawford continues at 0% containment, with over one hundred firefighters from Crawford, Chadron, and a variety of panhandle units battling the fire, this message is presented to Panhandle Post readers.

Donations of the following items are currently being requested: Bottled water Gatorade Chap Stick Travel packs of Tylenol Long Socks T-Shirts Eye Drops Leather Gloves Liquid IV drink mixes Bandanas&nbsp;Unscented baby wipes (travel size) batteries dry snacks

At this time Chadron Fire Station, Crawford Fire Station and Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department are the locations where these donations are being accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;If dropping donations off at Hemingford Fire hall please leave by the door on the West Side of the building.&nbsp; Thank you!

The Post Fire fire is located south of Crawford. PLEASE STAY OUT OF THE AREA SOUTH OF CRAWFORD! Monetary donations can be sent to the following locations.

Chadron Fire Dept. P.O. Box 829 Chadron, NE 69337 Crawford Fire Dept. P.O. Box 184 Crawford, NE 69339

As the Post Fire 5 miles south of Crawford continues at 0% containment, with over one hundred firefighters from Crawford, Chadron, and a variety of panhandle units battling the fire, this message is presented to Panhandle Post readers.Donations of the following items are currently being requested: Bottled water Gatorade Chap Stick Travel packs of Tylenol Long Socks T-Shirts Eye Drops Leather Gloves Liquid IV drink mixes Bandanas&nbsp;Unscented baby wipes (travel size) batteries dry snacks At this time Chadron Fire Station, Crawford Fire Station and Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department are the locations where these donations are being accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;If dropping donations off at Hemingford Fire hall please leave by the door on the West Side of the building.&nbsp; Thank you! The Post Fire fire is located south of Crawford. PLEASE STAY OUT OF THE AREA SOUTH OF CRAWFORD! Monetary donations can be sent to the following locations. Chadron Fire Dept. P.O. Box 829 Chadron, NE 69337 Crawford Fire Dept. P.O. Box 184 Crawford, NE 69339

Bottled Water Donations For Firefighters Accepted In Dawes, Box Butte  County

LINCOLN, Nebraska (AP) — Nebraska's Republican-controlled legislature is considering changes to the congressional map that would give them an edge in a competitive congressional seat — and the presidential election. 

That's because Nebraska is one of only two states that divides its Electoral College votes by congressional district. 

Though President Joe Biden lost the state badly he won one of its five Electoral College votes by winning its Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District. 

Republicans now propose adding a swath of conservative rural area to the district. 

They say they're mainly trying to balance Omaha's population growth. Democrats say it's a partisan move.

LINCOLN, Nebraska (AP) — Nebraska's Republican-controlled legislature is considering changes to the congressional map that would give them an edge in a competitive congressional seat — and the presidential election. That's because Nebraska is one of only two states that divides its Electoral College votes by congressional district. Though President Joe Biden lost the state badly he won one of its five Electoral College votes by winning its Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District. Republicans now propose adding a swath of conservative rural area to the district. They say they're mainly trying to balance Omaha's population growth. Democrats say it's a partisan move.

One in 538: Map sparks fight over electoral vote in Nebraska

Bookmark this space for Monday, Sept 20th at 10 am

Huge Nebraskaland Days Concert Announcement!&nbsp;

Bookmark this space for Monday, Sept 20th at 10 amHuge Nebraskaland Days Concert Announcement!&nbsp;<figure>
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Nebraskaland Days 2022 Concert announcement - LIVE! 

What can you do at Dobby’s Fall September 18 and 19? There are 27 buildings in the Frontier Town, and several will have people who will share stories or demonstrate skills for you. Throughout the town you will see specialized equipment, like hog oilers or the cistern. Volunteers are around to answer your questions. Dobby’s has several antique wagons, including a stagecoach, Conestoga wagon, water wagon, fuel wagon, and chuckwagon. A few antique cars will be brought in for the Fall Festival.

Stop in the church to sign the guest book. Maybe you’ll hear music or see kids making crafts. There is a church service with Darrel Keith at 10:00 on Sunday morning. View all the creepy equipment in the dentist, doctor, and optometrist office – which is also the local barbershop. Have Steph take your photo at Josiephine’s. Imagine a 5¢ hamburger at Rex’s. Look at the variety of coffins in the funeral parlor.

Along the west side, Justin might demonstrate some leatherworking skills for you. Look at the equipment used to publish Iron Man Magazine. Talk about how different real jail cells were from those in TV westerns. Imagine all the things a town relied on the blacksmith to do for them. Stop and have a sarsaparilla and play a game of cards in the saloon. If you were male with your head taller than the top of the bar, you could have bought liquor, and maybe even visited the brothel upstairs.

Across the square along the boardwalk you can visit the bank. See scales to weigh your gold if you don’t feel comfortable using the paper money banks printed themselves. The shelves on the south wall hold years’ worth of patent books. In the fabric shop Anita can teach you how to sew on a treadle machine. Treat your sweet tooth to some homemade candy in the Kandy Snap.

Head over to the north to pet the ponies in the livery stable. Try your hand at Cowboy Fast Draw – maybe you could have been a gunslinger! The school was used in Box Butte County for many decades. Imagine sitting in the wooden desks, writing on a slate or with a pen you dipped in an inkwell.

When you head to the northeast part of the town, you will pass antique farm equipment and a chuckwagon used on an area ranch. There are two homes back here. Colleen can teach you how to use a spinning wheel at the bale house. Houses like this were built in the Sandhills where there were no trees or sod to cut for building walls. She might tell you the story of Robert Anderson, the man who built the cabin. Born a slave, Anderson was Nebraska’s first black homesteader. Success on a tree claim near Hemingford led to him becoming the largest African-American landowner in the state.

In the area behind the main house you’ll find the buildings that made up Dobby’s original town. The Grand Lake Post Office reminds us that this community used to have a different name before the railroad changed it to Alliance. Visit Dorothy’s Fine Fashions to see what well-dressed ladies might have worn. The still house was actually used by moonshiners during Prohibition, with the cupola on top to watch out for the sheriff. The General Store is modeled after the grocery owned by Dobby’s father in downtown Alliance. The gas station was the first in Chadron, and Bruce can show you how the gravity gas pumps work.

Bruce might even treat you to some ice cream! He has put together a 20-quart ice cream machine powered by a 1937 International LA Engine. The rebuilt unit was at the base of his grandfather’s windmill and used with a pump jack to pump water when there was no wind.

You might have your ice cream put on a dessert from Dutch Oven Jones! The food booth will be selling pulled pork sandwiches, loaded baked potatoes, and loaded hot dogs. Sit and eat at a table in the center, where you can enjoy area musicians performing on the house back deck. Other vendors in this area will be selling baked goods, honey, cotton candy, popcorn, and arts and crafts.

On Saturday be sure to visit with Cody Assmann, creator of Frontierlife.net. Frontier Life is a website dedicated to teaching an accurate history of the American West. Assmann has written and will be selling several books for young readers (probably middle school) about the pre-Civil War West. Each book is written to include questions, activities, primary sources, and video extensions to help readers better understand life on the frontier.

In front of the house Friends of Dobby’s are holding a garage sale, so stop by and see if you can find some treasures. At 2:00 each afternoon War Bonnett Transportation will be giving bike taxi rides.

Dobby Lee wanted to save a vanishing piece of history before it was lost. He and his family saved buildings from a bygone era and built or remodeled others, using methods available 100 years ago. Dobby’s goal was both preservation and education. Remember that Dobby’s is a non-profit with no paid staff. The town relies on volunteers and on donations for maintaining the buildings and paying the utilities, so please be generous when you see donation barrels or cans.

Check the Facebook page for Dobby’s Frontier Town to find a schedule of activities for the weekend, beginning at 10:00 each day. See hands-on what life was like in a small frontier town nestled in the gently rolling grasslands of the Nebraska Sandhills. Dobby’s Frontier Town is located at 320 East 25th Street/Nance Road, Alliance, Nebraska.

By Patricia JonesWhat can you do at Dobby’s Fall September 18 and 19? There are 27 buildings in the Frontier Town, and several will have people who will share stories or demonstrate skills for you. Throughout the town you will see specialized equipment, like hog oilers or the cistern. Volunteers are around to answer your questions. Dobby’s has several antique wagons, including a stagecoach, Conestoga wagon, water wagon, fuel wagon, and chuckwagon. A few antique cars will be brought in for the Fall Festival.Stop in the church to sign the guest book. Maybe you’ll hear music or see kids making crafts. There is a church service with Darrel Keith at 10:00 on Sunday morning. View all the creepy equipment in the dentist, doctor, and optometrist office – which is also the local barbershop. Have Steph take your photo at Josiephine’s. Imagine a 5¢ hamburger at Rex’s. Look at the variety of coffins in the funeral parlor.Along the west side, Justin might demonstrate some leatherworking skills for you. Look at the equipment used to publish Iron Man Magazine. Talk about how different real jail cells were from those in TV westerns. Imagine all the things a town relied on the blacksmith to do for them. Stop and have a sarsaparilla and play a game of cards in the saloon. If you were male with your head taller than the top of the bar, you could have bought liquor, and maybe even visited the brothel upstairs.Across the square along the boardwalk you can visit the bank. See scales to weigh your gold if you don’t feel comfortable using the paper money banks printed themselves. The shelves on the south wall hold years’ worth of patent books. In the fabric shop Anita can teach you how to sew on a treadle machine. Treat your sweet tooth to some homemade candy in the Kandy Snap.Head over to the north to pet the ponies in the livery stable. Try your hand at Cowboy Fast Draw – maybe you could have been a gunslinger! The school was used in Box Butte County for many decades. Imagine sitting in the wooden desks, writing on a slate or with a pen you dipped in an inkwell.When you head to the northeast part of the town, you will pass antique farm equipment and a chuckwagon used on an area ranch. There are two homes back here. Colleen can teach you how to use a spinning wheel at the bale house. Houses like this were built in the Sandhills where there were no trees or sod to cut for building walls. She might tell you the story of Robert Anderson, the man who built the cabin. Born a slave, Anderson was Nebraska’s first black homesteader. Success on a tree claim near Hemingford led to him becoming the largest African-American landowner in the state.In the area behind the main house you’ll find the buildings that made up Dobby’s original town. The Grand Lake Post Office reminds us that this community used to have a different name before the railroad changed it to Alliance. Visit Dorothy’s Fine Fashions to see what well-dressed ladies might have worn. The still house was actually used by moonshiners during Prohibition, with the cupola on top to watch out for the sheriff. The General Store is modeled after the grocery owned by Dobby’s father in downtown Alliance. The gas station was the first in Chadron, and Bruce can show you how the gravity gas pumps work.Bruce might even treat you to some ice cream! He has put together a 20-quart ice cream machine powered by a 1937 International LA Engine. The rebuilt unit was at the base of his grandfather’s windmill and used with a pump jack to pump water when there was no wind.You might have your ice cream put on a dessert from Dutch Oven Jones! The food booth will be selling pulled pork sandwiches, loaded baked potatoes, and loaded hot dogs. Sit and eat at a table in the center, where you can enjoy area musicians performing on the house back deck. Other vendors in this area will be selling baked goods, honey, cotton candy, popcorn, and arts and crafts.<figure>
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 </figure>On Saturday be sure to visit with Cody Assmann, creator of Frontierlife.net. Frontier Life is a website dedicated to teaching an accurate history of the American West. Assmann has written and will be selling several books for young readers (probably middle school) about the pre-Civil War West. Each book is written to include questions, activities, primary sources, and video extensions to help readers better understand life on the frontier.In front of the house Friends of Dobby’s are holding a garage sale, so stop by and see if you can find some treasures. At 2:00 each afternoon War Bonnett Transportation will be giving bike taxi rides.Dobby Lee wanted to save a vanishing piece of history before it was lost. He and his family saved buildings from a bygone era and built or remodeled others, using methods available 100 years ago. Dobby’s goal was both preservation and education. Remember that Dobby’s is a non-profit with no paid staff. The town relies on volunteers and on donations for maintaining the buildings and paying the utilities, so please be generous when you see donation barrels or cans.Check the Facebook page for Dobby’s Frontier Town to find a schedule of activities for the weekend, beginning at 10:00 each day. See hands-on what life was like in a small frontier town nestled in the gently rolling grasslands of the Nebraska Sandhills. Dobby’s Frontier Town is located at 320 East 25th Street/Nance Road, Alliance, Nebraska.

Dobby's History: Dobby's Fall Festival

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