By Molly Langhorst, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON – Chadron State College student Ali Musa of San Diego, California, is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for April.

Musa, a Sports and Recreational Management major, said he chose Chadron State College because of opportunities in football and to continue his education.

Before moving to Chadron, Musa said he could never picture himself living in a rural area, but he loves the small community because it has provided him with the support to focus on school.

“I struggled here a lot freshman year and I even left football,” Musa said. “I tried to go to community college, but I didn’t like it. Then I came back to Chadron two months before my freshman year was over and was grateful they let me come back. I have loved it here ever since. My grades got better, I had a new perspective on people, and I learned to have a great time.”

His favorite class was Nutrition with Megan Northrup.

“I’m a big nutrition person,” Musa said. “I like to know what I’m putting into my body because I know eating right will help me perform at my highest level. The class just really had me locked in and wanting to know more.”

Musa said he loves playing football and takes it seriously.

“I started playing in the seventh grade, and it was kind of weird because I came from a soccer family, but I saw my older brother play football and he was really good at it so that became my influence. Then I would find myself making plays at recess and it was really fun,” Musa said.

During Musa’s senior year of high school, a coach tweeted about him being the No. 1 defensive back prospect. When it went viral, he began to feel like his hard work was paying off.

After graduation, Musa plans to stay at CSC for graduate school with hopes to one day start his own business.

“I really want to open different gym facilities in the top six states for business prospects. I used to watch House of Athlete with Brandon Marshall and he really inspired me because he opened his own gym,” Musa said. “I have always been in the sports industry and I don’t think I could go into anything else without feeling like I was doing it just for the money. With sports, I’m in it all for the love.”

TRiO Director Jennifer Schaer said Musa has a positive attitude and an impactful personality.

“Ali has a passion for life and loves to be around people,” Schaer said. “He is great at bringing someone up when they are down and he talks to everyone. It has been great to watch Ali grow and learn the past four years at CSC and as a Strive student. I look forward to watching Ali continue to grow as a leader and have enjoyed working with him.”

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/projectstrive</a>.

By Molly Langhorst, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College student Ali Musa of San Diego, California, is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for April.Musa, a Sports and Recreational Management major, said he chose Chadron State College because of opportunities in football and to continue his education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651192094326.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Before moving to Chadron, Musa said he could never picture himself living in a rural area, but he loves the small community because it has provided him with the support to focus on school.“I struggled here a lot freshman year and I even left football,” Musa said. “I tried to go to community college, but I didn’t like it. Then I came back to Chadron two months before my freshman year was over and was grateful they let me come back. I have loved it here ever since. My grades got better, I had a new perspective on people, and I learned to have a great time.”His favorite class was Nutrition with Megan Northrup.“I’m a big nutrition person,” Musa said. “I like to know what I’m putting into my body because I know eating right will help me perform at my highest level. The class just really had me locked in and wanting to know more.”Musa said he loves playing football and takes it seriously.“I started playing in the seventh grade, and it was kind of weird because I came from a soccer family, but I saw my older brother play football and he was really good at it so that became my influence. Then I would find myself making plays at recess and it was really fun,” Musa said.During Musa’s senior year of high school, a coach tweeted about him being the No. 1 defensive back prospect. When it went viral, he began to feel like his hard work was paying off.After graduation, Musa plans to stay at CSC for graduate school with hopes to one day start his own business.“I really want to open different gym facilities in the top six states for business prospects. I used to watch House of Athlete with Brandon Marshall and he really inspired me because he opened his own gym,” Musa said. “I have always been in the sports industry and I don’t think I could go into anything else without feeling like I was doing it just for the money. With sports, I’m in it all for the love.”TRiO Director Jennifer Schaer said Musa has a positive attitude and an impactful personality.“Ali has a passion for life and loves to be around people,” Schaer said. “He is great at bringing someone up when they are down and he talks to everyone. It has been great to watch Ali grow and learn the past four years at CSC and as a Strive student. I look forward to watching Ali continue to grow as a leader and have enjoyed working with him.”Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/projectstrive</a>.

Musa named CSC Student of the Month

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — In one of the nation’s most overwhelmingly Republican states, the party is entering the final stretch of a bruising primary campaign deeply divided over who should become the nominee for governor.

Nearly all of Nebraska’s GOP establishment leaders are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-sports-pete-ricketts-tom-osborne-nebraska-06508801bb69a73f4c0a4e505e4b341f">lining up</a>&nbsp;behind businessman Jim Pillen, believing he would be the easy favorite to win in November. But no endorsement matters quite like that of former President Donald Trump, who is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-elections-nebraska-omaha-pete-ricketts-44015f418ecaf6910e5569a80345696e">backing his longtime friend</a>&nbsp;Charles Herbster and will hold a rally on his behalf Friday. And in a twist, a third candidate, state Sen. Brett Lindstrom, is emerging as a strong contender in part because of an endorsement from the mayor of Omaha, the state’s biggest city.

Whoever comes out on top in the state’s May 10 primary will enter the general election in a strong position against Democratic state Sen. Carol Blood. But the fractures that have surfaced during the primary campaign, particularly in the wake of groping accusations from multiple women against Herbster, have frustrated GOP leaders in Nebraska.

“It’s unfortunate,” said state Sen. Steve Halloran, a conservative Republican and longtime party activist. “What we’re seeing here is creating a lot of tension within the party.”

There has been little polling in the nine-person primary race to succeed two-term Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts, who can’t seek reelection because of term limits. Herbster was seen as a strong front-runner through much of the race but is now fighting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-pete-ricketts-nebraska-legislature-c3e80ae9a8235d9db3896c35c997543a">accusations that he groped at least eight young women at public events.</a>

Herbster has denied the allegations and has even filed a lawsuit against state Sen. Julie Slama, the only accuser to be identified by name. Slama, who has endorsed Pillen, has counter-sued, accusing Herbster of trying to silence a sexual assault victim.

The allegations have roiled the race, with Herbster airing an ad that accuses Ricketts and Pillen of orchestrating the allegations. The spot points to Slama’s ties to Ricketts as a former campaign spokeswoman and one of his legislative appointees. Her attorney called the ad a “vicious new political advertisement” and the lawsuit “a frivolous and bad faith attempt to bully a sexual assault victim into silence.”

On Tuesday, four other female Republican state lawmakers said they were setting up a legal fund to help others who have accused Herbster.

“He is a predator,” said Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha.

Trump defied much of Nebraska’s GOP establishment when he endorsed Herbster, rewarding a longtime supporter and ignoring Ricketts’ request that he stay out of the race. After Trump’s endorsement, Ricketts released a scathing statement about Herbster and then endorsed Pillen, who also has been backed by a host of Nebraska luminaries, including former Gov. Kay Orr, the influential Nebraska Farm Bureau, and renowned former University of Nebraska football coach and congressman Tom Osborne.

The allegations haven’t stopped Trump from scheduling a visit Friday to a motor racetrack between Lincoln and Omaha, where Herbster will be a featured speaker. Trump remains popular in Republican-dominated Nebraska, but some campaign experts question whether his blessing will be enough to offset Pillen’s support from top Nebraska Republicans or Lindstrom’s recent surge.

“Without question, the Trump endorsement has value,” said Chris Peterson, a Nebraska Republican campaign strategist and lobbyist who isn’t affiliated with any of the candidates for governor. “But what we’ve seen over the last few months is that most Republican primary voters already associate Herbster with Trump, so that’s largely factored into their calculus.”

As he waded into this year’s contentious primary races, Trump has ignored a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-entertainment-congress-senate-elections-general-elections-ea0839430fc28a6b08227223c0b4e045">long list of allegations</a>&nbsp;leveled against candidates he supported. He endorsed football great Herschel Walker for an open Senate seat in Georgia, despite allegations that Walker repeatedly threatened to kill his ex-wife and her new boyfriend and exaggerated claims of business success, among others.

He backed one of his former aides, Max Miller, for an Ohio congressional seat even though Miller’s ex-girlfriend, former White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham — who also served as a top aide to former first lady Melania Trump — had accused Miller of growing abusive as their relationship deteriorated. Miller has denied the charges.

Some endorsements have come back to sting Trump.

Trump originally threw his support behind Sean Parnell, an Army veteran, in Pennsylvania’s competitive Senate race. But Parnell eventually chose to drop his bid amid allegations of abuse by his estranged wife that he has denied.

Ryan Horn, an Omaha-based political strategist, said Trump’s endorsement of Herbster may be a turnoff for many of the same suburban Omaha Republicans who were skeptical of Trump in 2020. Horn said he doesn’t think Pillen has made much headway with them, either, despite the Ricketts endorsement.

“There’s just something about both of those guys that left voters unsatisfied,” Horn said.

Horn said that could give an edge to Lindstrom, an Omaha financial adviser who has focused his campaign on cutting taxes.

With no clear front-runner, the vote could be tight. The last time Nebraska Republicans were running for an open governor’s seat in 2014, Ricketts won a heated six-man race by less than 2,400 votes and claimed less than 27% of the total Republican primary vote.

Other GOP candidates running are former state Sen. Theresa Thibodeau, who had been Hebster’s running mate but left the campaign; Breland Ridenour, an Omaha information technology manager; and other lesser-known names.

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625675671373.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — In one of the nation’s most overwhelmingly Republican states, the party is entering the final stretch of a bruising primary campaign deeply divided over who should become the nominee for governor.Nearly all of Nebraska’s GOP establishment leaders are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-sports-pete-ricketts-tom-osborne-nebraska-06508801bb69a73f4c0a4e505e4b341f">lining up</a>&nbsp;behind businessman Jim Pillen, believing he would be the easy favorite to win in November. But no endorsement matters quite like that of former President Donald Trump, who is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-elections-nebraska-omaha-pete-ricketts-44015f418ecaf6910e5569a80345696e">backing his longtime friend</a>&nbsp;Charles Herbster and will hold a rally on his behalf Friday. And in a twist, a third candidate, state Sen. Brett Lindstrom, is emerging as a strong contender in part because of an endorsement from the mayor of Omaha, the state’s biggest city.Whoever comes out on top in the state’s May 10 primary will enter the general election in a strong position against Democratic state Sen. Carol Blood. But the fractures that have surfaced during the primary campaign, particularly in the wake of groping accusations from multiple women against Herbster, have frustrated GOP leaders in Nebraska.“It’s unfortunate,” said state Sen. Steve Halloran, a conservative Republican and longtime party activist. “What we’re seeing here is creating a lot of tension within the party.”There has been little polling in the nine-person primary race to succeed two-term Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts, who can’t seek reelection because of term limits. Herbster was seen as a strong front-runner through much of the race but is now fighting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-pete-ricketts-nebraska-legislature-c3e80ae9a8235d9db3896c35c997543a">accusations that he groped at least eight young women at public events.</a>Herbster has denied the allegations and has even filed a lawsuit against state Sen. Julie Slama, the only accuser to be identified by name. Slama, who has endorsed Pillen, has counter-sued, accusing Herbster of trying to silence a sexual assault victim.The allegations have roiled the race, with Herbster airing an ad that accuses Ricketts and Pillen of orchestrating the allegations. The spot points to Slama’s ties to Ricketts as a former campaign spokeswoman and one of his legislative appointees. Her attorney called the ad a “vicious new political advertisement” and the lawsuit “a frivolous and bad faith attempt to bully a sexual assault victim into silence.”On Tuesday, four other female Republican state lawmakers said they were setting up a legal fund to help others who have accused Herbster.“He is a predator,” said Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha.Trump defied much of Nebraska’s GOP establishment when he endorsed Herbster, rewarding a longtime supporter and ignoring Ricketts’ request that he stay out of the race. After Trump’s endorsement, Ricketts released a scathing statement about Herbster and then endorsed Pillen, who also has been backed by a host of Nebraska luminaries, including former Gov. Kay Orr, the influential Nebraska Farm Bureau, and renowned former University of Nebraska football coach and congressman Tom Osborne.The allegations haven’t stopped Trump from scheduling a visit Friday to a motor racetrack between Lincoln and Omaha, where Herbster will be a featured speaker. Trump remains popular in Republican-dominated Nebraska, but some campaign experts question whether his blessing will be enough to offset Pillen’s support from top Nebraska Republicans or Lindstrom’s recent surge.“Without question, the Trump endorsement has value,” said Chris Peterson, a Nebraska Republican campaign strategist and lobbyist who isn’t affiliated with any of the candidates for governor. “But what we’ve seen over the last few months is that most Republican primary voters already associate Herbster with Trump, so that’s largely factored into their calculus.”As he waded into this year’s contentious primary races, Trump has ignored a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-entertainment-congress-senate-elections-general-elections-ea0839430fc28a6b08227223c0b4e045">long list of allegations</a>&nbsp;leveled against candidates he supported. He endorsed football great Herschel Walker for an open Senate seat in Georgia, despite allegations that Walker repeatedly threatened to kill his ex-wife and her new boyfriend and exaggerated claims of business success, among others.He backed one of his former aides, Max Miller, for an Ohio congressional seat even though Miller’s ex-girlfriend, former White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham — who also served as a top aide to former first lady Melania Trump — had accused Miller of growing abusive as their relationship deteriorated. Miller has denied the charges.Some endorsements have come back to sting Trump.Trump originally threw his support behind Sean Parnell, an Army veteran, in Pennsylvania’s competitive Senate race. But Parnell eventually chose to drop his bid amid allegations of abuse by his estranged wife that he has denied.Ryan Horn, an Omaha-based political strategist, said Trump’s endorsement of Herbster may be a turnoff for many of the same suburban Omaha Republicans who were skeptical of Trump in 2020. Horn said he doesn’t think Pillen has made much headway with them, either, despite the Ricketts endorsement.“There’s just something about both of those guys that left voters unsatisfied,” Horn said.Horn said that could give an edge to Lindstrom, an Omaha financial adviser who has focused his campaign on cutting taxes.With no clear front-runner, the vote could be tight. The last time Nebraska Republicans were running for an open governor’s seat in 2014, Ricketts won a heated six-man race by less than 2,400 votes and claimed less than 27% of the total Republican primary vote.Other GOP candidates running are former state Sen. Theresa Thibodeau, who had been Hebster’s running mate but left the campaign; Breland Ridenour, an Omaha information technology manager; and other lesser-known names.<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/2ddcec21-000f-4ace-b19e-4250120d6629">&nbsp;&nbsp;Download The Post app for iOs</a><figure>
 <img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/um8wLMKcZ-uyyPGpagxZ4_a_Au8Ytk3tFkiBOThyXiSzj8HTu83huas2FwCUEzK4LE44Nx16Fv1qkbYzdAhpdaFVcfj8DvUE8lv-3y0ISkoNVPNNUz_g7BHHJQddnsr1vRJeoI43c9Cez37xyw" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Trump endorsement divides Republicans in deep-red Nebraska

By&nbsp;Discover Northwest Nebraska

CHADRON – Tourism businesses, attractions, employees and volunteers will be recognized for their valuable contributions to the Northwest Nebraska tourism industry with the recent creation of an awards program.

Discover Northwest Nebraska will honor a Business/Attraction of the Year, a Frontline Employee of the Year and a Volunteer of the Year for their efforts in the tourism industry during 2022. The program was announced last week at the organization’s Treasure Chest of the Northwest, the region’s annual tourism-industry gathering.

“Tourism generates more than $20 million in economic impact in Dawes County annually, and we want to encourage businesses, attractions, employees and volunteers in our region to go above and beyond to attract visitors and provide them with excellent customer service,” said Discover Northwest Nebraska Director Kerri Rempp.

Nominations for the awards will be due March 1 each year, and they will be presented at the annual tourism gathering, Treasure Chest of the Northwest, each spring. Online nominations can be submitted at http://discovernwnebraska.com/industry-awards/.

Nearly five dozen members of the regional tourism industry gathered April 21 to prepare for the upcoming season. Customer service, marketing and industry resources were discussed, and a regional brochure exchange also took place. Northwest Nebraska, a cooperation between Dawes and Sioux counties, is coming off of its most successful tourism season. Highlights for the upcoming season include annual events such as Fur Trade Days, Crawford’s July 4 celebration and the Harvest Moon Fall Festival, as well as new additions like the Northwest Nebraska Volksmarch. The Dawes County Historical Museum will be featured on the Nebraska Passport Program and host a Smithsonian traveling exhibit, and the Museum of the Fur Trade is part of Nebraska History’s new Wander Nebraska program.

“We held our first Treasure Chest event in 2021, providing information for the upcoming tourism season and networking opportunities for businesses and attractions serving the regional tourism industry,” Rempp said. “This year’s event included expanded networking opportunities and a regional brochure exchange. We want industry representatives to have knowledge in their hands to answer traveler’s questions and provide a memorable visitor experience.”

By&nbsp;Discover Northwest NebraskaCHADRON – Tourism businesses, attractions, employees and volunteers will be recognized for their valuable contributions to the Northwest Nebraska tourism industry with the recent creation of an awards program.Discover Northwest Nebraska will honor a Business/Attraction of the Year, a Frontline Employee of the Year and a Volunteer of the Year for their efforts in the tourism industry during 2022. The program was announced last week at the organization’s Treasure Chest of the Northwest, the region’s annual tourism-industry gathering.“Tourism generates more than $20 million in economic impact in Dawes County annually, and we want to encourage businesses, attractions, employees and volunteers in our region to go above and beyond to attract visitors and provide them with excellent customer service,” said Discover Northwest Nebraska Director Kerri Rempp.Nominations for the awards will be due March 1 each year, and they will be presented at the annual tourism gathering, Treasure Chest of the Northwest, each spring. Online nominations can be submitted at http://discovernwnebraska.com/industry-awards/.Nearly five dozen members of the regional tourism industry gathered April 21 to prepare for the upcoming season. Customer service, marketing and industry resources were discussed, and a regional brochure exchange also took place. Northwest Nebraska, a cooperation between Dawes and Sioux counties, is coming off of its most successful tourism season. Highlights for the upcoming season include annual events such as Fur Trade Days, Crawford’s July 4 celebration and the Harvest Moon Fall Festival, as well as new additions like the Northwest Nebraska Volksmarch. The Dawes County Historical Museum will be featured on the Nebraska Passport Program and host a Smithsonian traveling exhibit, and the Museum of the Fur Trade is part of Nebraska History’s new Wander Nebraska program.“We held our first Treasure Chest event in 2021, providing information for the upcoming tourism season and networking opportunities for businesses and attractions serving the regional tourism industry,” Rempp said. “This year’s event included expanded networking opportunities and a regional brochure exchange. We want industry representatives to have knowledge in their hands to answer traveler’s questions and provide a memorable visitor experience.”

Northwest Nebraska launches tourism industry awards program

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Governors from eight Midwest states asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Thursday for a permanent waiver that will allow each state to continue selling ethanol-blended gas year-round without restriction.

The EPA’s decision last week to suspend restrictions of summer sales of the lower-carbon, lower-cost E15 gasoline is temporary and only applies to the 2022 summer driving season.

E15 is usually prohibited between June 1 and Sept. 15 because of concerns that it adds to smog in high temperatures.

The bipartisan group of governors from Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin sent a joint letter to EPA Administrator Michael Reagan formally requesting the waiver.

“This letter sends the clear message that renewable fuels are the immediate solution to high gas prices, lower emissions, and restoring our energy independence, and we are proud to stand up and take this historic action,” said Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds.

The Renewable Fuels Association, which promotes use of ethanol, embraced the states’ action.

“These governors should be applauded for pursuing a simple regulatory solution that will allow consumers in their states to benefit from E15’s lower cost and lower emissions 365 days a year,” said Geoff Cooper, the association’s president and CEO. “Once this notification is approved by EPA, it will mean lower pump prices for drivers in these eight states, lower tailpipe pollution, a more secure energy supply, and a more vibrant rural economy.”

Earlier this month, President Joe Biden traveled to corn-rich Iowa to announce that his administration will temporarily allow E15 gas, which is blended with 15% ethanol, to be sold this summer to help ease gas prices.

Biden administration officials said the action will save drivers an average of 10 cents per gallon based on current prices, but at just 2,300 gas stations out of the nation’s more than 100,000. The affected stations are mostly in the Midwest and the South, including Texas, according to industry groups.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651183604406.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By ASSOCIATED PRESSDES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Governors from eight Midwest states asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Thursday for a permanent waiver that will allow each state to continue selling ethanol-blended gas year-round without restriction.The EPA’s decision last week to suspend restrictions of summer sales of the lower-carbon, lower-cost E15 gasoline is temporary and only applies to the 2022 summer driving season.E15 is usually prohibited between June 1 and Sept. 15 because of concerns that it adds to smog in high temperatures.The bipartisan group of governors from Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin sent a joint letter to EPA Administrator Michael Reagan formally requesting the waiver.“This letter sends the clear message that renewable fuels are the immediate solution to high gas prices, lower emissions, and restoring our energy independence, and we are proud to stand up and take this historic action,” said Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds.The Renewable Fuels Association, which promotes use of ethanol, embraced the states’ action.“These governors should be applauded for pursuing a simple regulatory solution that will allow consumers in their states to benefit from E15’s lower cost and lower emissions 365 days a year,” said Geoff Cooper, the association’s president and CEO. “Once this notification is approved by EPA, it will mean lower pump prices for drivers in these eight states, lower tailpipe pollution, a more secure energy supply, and a more vibrant rural economy.”Earlier this month, President Joe Biden traveled to corn-rich Iowa to announce that his administration will temporarily allow E15 gas, which is blended with 15% ethanol, to be sold this summer to help ease gas prices.Biden administration officials said the action will save drivers an average of 10 cents per gallon based on current prices, but at just 2,300 gas stations out of the nation’s more than 100,000. The affected stations are mostly in the Midwest and the South, including Texas, according to industry groups.

8 Midwest states seek permanent waiver to sell E15 gas

By&nbsp;Judy Messersmith,&nbsp;Box Butte County Clerk

The Box Butte County Courthouse will be closed on Friday, April 29 for Arbor Day. 

The Box Butte County Clerk/Election Office will remain open until 6 p.m. on Monday, May 2 for in person voter registration.&nbsp;

Voters may register to vote, change their party affiliation, update their address or name change prior to the May 10 Statewide Primary Election.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Judy Messersmith,&nbsp;Box Butte County ClerkThe Box Butte County Courthouse will be closed on Friday, April 29 for Arbor Day. The Box Butte County Clerk/Election Office will remain open until 6 p.m. on Monday, May 2 for in person voter registration.&nbsp;Voters may register to vote, change their party affiliation, update their address or name change prior to the May 10 Statewide Primary Election.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Box Butte Co. Clerk, Election Office to stay open late May 2

CAMBRIDGE, Neb. (AP) — Progress has been made toward fully containing a deadly southwestern Nebraska wildfire that has been burning since last week, officials said.

Crews had 88% of the Road 702 Fire contained behind fire breaks by Thursday morning, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said in a news release. More than 220 firefighters and other personnel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-nebraska-weather-39706b8c0d6b94a6bd707387dc02b7ae">have been working in recent days&nbsp;</a>to dig trenches and create other breaks to contain the fire, which has burned an estimated 68 square miles of mostly grass and farm land.

Crews on Thursday were focused on containing two areas of uncontrolled burning just south of US Highway 6 along the Republican River.

Firefighters were keeping an eye on the sky for thunderstorms forecast for Thursday evening into early Friday. Officials were hoping for a wetting rain with the storms, but wary of lightning and shifting winds expected to reach up to 50 mph by Saturday, which could spark new fires and spread existing hot spots.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651167226419.jpeg" alt="Photo: Nebraska State Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Nebraska State Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>By ASSOCIATED PRESSCAMBRIDGE, Neb. (AP) — Progress has been made toward fully containing a deadly southwestern Nebraska wildfire that has been burning since last week, officials said.Crews had 88% of the Road 702 Fire contained behind fire breaks by Thursday morning, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said in a news release. More than 220 firefighters and other personnel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-nebraska-weather-39706b8c0d6b94a6bd707387dc02b7ae">have been working in recent days&nbsp;</a>to dig trenches and create other breaks to contain the fire, which has burned an estimated 68 square miles of mostly grass and farm land.Crews on Thursday were focused on containing two areas of uncontrolled burning just south of US Highway 6 along the Republican River.Firefighters were keeping an eye on the sky for thunderstorms forecast for Thursday evening into early Friday. Officials were hoping for a wetting rain with the storms, but wary of lightning and shifting winds expected to reach up to 50 mph by Saturday, which could spark new fires and spread existing hot spots.

Progress made in containing deadly Nebraska wildfire

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

This morning's update from Storm Prediction Center has introduced a Slight Risk for portions of the Nebraska panhandle.

 The majority of this area will see scattered thunderstorms develop around 6pm with these storms moving northeast at 30 mph, but some of the severe storms may move east. 

Hail will be the primary threat with these storms and a couple of the storms may produce up to ping pong ball size hail.&nbsp;

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYThis morning's update from Storm Prediction Center has introduced a Slight Risk for portions of the Nebraska panhandle. The majority of this area will see scattered thunderstorms develop around 6pm with these storms moving northeast at 30 mph, but some of the severe storms may move east. Hail will be the primary threat with these storms and a couple of the storms may produce up to ping pong ball size hail.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651164297704.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Severe weather possible in Panhandle

An interview on the upcoming Shrine Circus this weekend in Rapid City.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Naja Shrine Circus" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=88afw-121195f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>An interview on the upcoming Shrine Circus this weekend in Rapid City.

POST PODCAST: Naja Shrine Circus

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/28/22

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. - Three Western Nebraska Community College students were recently named to the 2022 Phi Theta Kappa All-Nebraska Academic Team.&nbsp;

Maya Huirong Wilson, Jonghwa Lee, and Dahee Kang were all recognized for their academic achievements, leadership, and service by PTK, the international honor society for two-year colleges.

"We are extremely proud of our students and their accomplishments," Norman Coley, executive dean of students said. "We are grateful for the dedicated faculty and staff who work with these bright minds on a daily basis and encourage them to continue to dream and take risks."

Wilson and Lee are both students on the Scottsbluff Campus. Wilson is the President of the Lambda Pi PTK chapter and the President Elect for the Kansas/Nebraska Region. She also enjoys working with the Art Club and Esports club.&nbsp;

Along with being a member of PTK, Lee is also a Resident Assistant, a math tutor, and a student-coach on the Esports team.&nbsp;

Dahee Kang is an Aviation Maintenance student is the president of the Alpha Rho Omicron PTK chapter, a member of the&nbsp;Vic-Air Flying Club, and a Resident Assistant on the Sidney Campus.&nbsp;

By WNCCSCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. - Three Western Nebraska Community College students were recently named to the 2022 Phi Theta Kappa All-Nebraska Academic Team.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651161851011.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Maya Huirong Wilson, Jonghwa Lee, and Dahee Kang were all recognized for their academic achievements, leadership, and service by PTK, the international honor society for two-year colleges."We are extremely proud of our students and their accomplishments," Norman Coley, executive dean of students said. "We are grateful for the dedicated faculty and staff who work with these bright minds on a daily basis and encourage them to continue to dream and take risks."Wilson and Lee are both students on the Scottsbluff Campus. Wilson is the President of the Lambda Pi PTK chapter and the President Elect for the Kansas/Nebraska Region. She also enjoys working with the Art Club and Esports club.&nbsp;Along with being a member of PTK, Lee is also a Resident Assistant, a math tutor, and a student-coach on the Esports team.&nbsp;Dahee Kang is an Aviation Maintenance student is the president of the Alpha Rho Omicron PTK chapter, a member of the&nbsp;Vic-Air Flying Club, and a Resident Assistant on the Sidney Campus.&nbsp;

3 WNCC students named to PTK All-Nebraska Academic Team

CHADRON – Chadron State College sophomore Riley Snyder has earned a National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) President’s Innovation Award. Snyder, a Music major and guitar student, will attend the NAMM Show in Anaheim, California, June 3-5 with other GenNext students.

GenNext is a collaboration between the NAMM Foundation and the College Music Society offering students and faculty access to the NAMM Show. Through this collaboration, students will have the opportunity to network and learn about possible careers and internships in the music industry.

The show usually includes more than 115,000 registrants from 130 countries, one of the largest music, sound, and entertainment technology trade shows in the world, according to the NAMM website.

Snyder, a native of Rushville, Nebraska, said former Dr. Mckay Tebbs, a former Music faculty member, encouraged him to apply online for the scholarship in 2021. He received the award, but the 2021 event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Snyder reapplied this year and received the award again.

“Dr. Tebbs has been very involved with the show and takes college students every year. He has kindly offered to take me under his wing with his current Southern Utah University students that are also attending,” Snyder said.

According to the NAMM website, the Innovation Award helps support individuals who show commitment and aptitude for business leadership and innovation in the music products industry. The award is given to students with a proven track record and commitment to excel in music. Successful applicants desire to explore career opportunities in music products, production, administration, management and/or marketing along with product creation and innovation.

“I will benefit from professional development opportunities and have access to exhibits, concerts, special events and networking sessions. I am very excited to see what opportunities are ahead,” Snyder said.

By Molly Langhorst, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College sophomore Riley Snyder has earned a National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) President’s Innovation Award. Snyder, a Music major and guitar student, will attend the NAMM Show in Anaheim, California, June 3-5 with other GenNext students.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651159165286.jpeg" alt="Dr. Michael Stephens, left, and Riley Snyder, right, play for Crest View Care Center residents for Chadron State College's 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Michael Stephens, left, and Riley Snyder, right, play for Crest View Care Center residents for Chadron State College's 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. (Photo by Abigail Swanson/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>GenNext is a collaboration between the NAMM Foundation and the College Music Society offering students and faculty access to the NAMM Show. Through this collaboration, students will have the opportunity to network and learn about possible careers and internships in the music industry.The show usually includes more than 115,000 registrants from 130 countries, one of the largest music, sound, and entertainment technology trade shows in the world, according to the NAMM website.Snyder, a native of Rushville, Nebraska, said former Dr. Mckay Tebbs, a former Music faculty member, encouraged him to apply online for the scholarship in 2021. He received the award, but the 2021 event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Snyder reapplied this year and received the award again.“Dr. Tebbs has been very involved with the show and takes college students every year. He has kindly offered to take me under his wing with his current Southern Utah University students that are also attending,” Snyder said.According to the NAMM website, the Innovation Award helps support individuals who show commitment and aptitude for business leadership and innovation in the music products industry. The award is given to students with a proven track record and commitment to excel in music. Successful applicants desire to explore career opportunities in music products, production, administration, management and/or marketing along with product creation and innovation.“I will benefit from professional development opportunities and have access to exhibits, concerts, special events and networking sessions. I am very excited to see what opportunities are ahead,” Snyder said.

Snyder of Chadron receives NAMM award

The Kansas man accused of causing the traffic death of Alliance resident Blythe Boness appeared in Box Butte County District Court Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

36-year-old Ryan McElroy entered a plea of not guilty to felony charges of Manslaughter and Motor Vehicle Homicide as well as misdemeanor counts of Third Offense Drunk Driving and Willful Reckless Driving.

McElroy remains incarcerated in the Box Butte County Jail on 10% of a $100,000 bond.

His next court appearance is set for June 29 at 1:30 pm.

The vehicle McElroy was driving collided head on with Boness on April 10 a few miles east of Alliance on Highway 2.&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Boness died at the scene while McElroy was flown to the Scottsbluff hospital for treatment.

By Panhandle PostThe Kansas man accused of causing the traffic death of Alliance resident Blythe Boness appeared in Box Butte County District Court Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;&nbsp;36-year-old Ryan McElroy entered a plea of not guilty to felony charges of Manslaughter and Motor Vehicle Homicide as well as misdemeanor counts of Third Offense Drunk Driving and Willful Reckless Driving.McElroy remains incarcerated in the Box Butte County Jail on 10% of a $100,000 bond.His next court appearance is set for June 29 at 1:30 pm.The vehicle McElroy was driving collided head on with Boness on April 10 a few miles east of Alliance on Highway 2.&nbsp;&nbsp; Boness died at the scene while McElroy was flown to the Scottsbluff hospital for treatment.

Kansas man pleads not guilty to manslaughter of Alliance woman

The Dawes County 4-H canned food drive continues through April 30.&nbsp;

Dawes County 4-H, Northwest Community Action Partnership and Nebraska Extension are asking the public to donate canned and dried foods.&nbsp;

Donations can be brought to the Dawes Extension Office at 250 Main Street, Suite 8.&nbsp;

All donations will be given to Chadron Extra Helpings Food Pantry.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651101034541.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Dawes County 4-H canned food drive continues through April 30.&nbsp;Dawes County 4-H, Northwest Community Action Partnership and Nebraska Extension are asking the public to donate canned and dried foods.&nbsp;Donations can be brought to the Dawes Extension Office at 250 Main Street, Suite 8.&nbsp;All donations will be given to Chadron Extra Helpings Food Pantry.&nbsp;

Dawes County 4-H continue canned food drive in Chadron

By Nebraska Emergency Management Agency

Lincoln, NEB. —&nbsp;Nebraska faced significant challenges over the past several days as multiple fires were reported in different areas of the state, many occurring simultaneously. It required the effort of several local, state and federal agencies to work together to respond and provide assistance.

The timeline and briefs below provide an overview of several incidents occurring throughout the state beginning Friday, April 22.

Elsie Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 19:12 on 4-22-2022

Four fires near the village of Elsie, were reported to the NEMA Watch Center, primarily affecting farm and cattle grazing lands. The fires burned an estimated 4,970 acres. Four firefighters sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Perkins County made an emergency declaration on April 22.

Purdum Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 21:48 on 4-22-2022

In Blaine County, near Purdum, five large fires were reported on April 22nd, with more than 20 volunteer fire departments responding. Three fire trucks were damaged in this nearly 30,000-acre fire, which has been contained as of April 23rd.

Cheyenne and Deuel Counties:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 23:52 on 4-22-2022

Three large fires broke out between Sunol and Lodge Pole, Nebraska, in Cheyenne and Deuel counties. Residents of the area were temporarily evacuated. The fires were reported contained on April 23rd.

Scotts Bluff County Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 12:26 on 4-23-2022

Scotts Bluff County officials reported a combination of high winds, officially clocked at 83 mph Friday, and as many as nine separate fires burning. It was reported that this incident set a record for high winds in Scotts Bluff County.

There were dozens of power poles snapped, trees uprooted, five structures damaged, and uncontrolled fires burning in rural areas that caused evacuations. Upwards of 4,000 customers were without power Friday night, and crews were out Saturday morning working to restore power in the cold, blustery weather. Western Nebraska Regional Airport closed Saturday for safety reasons. This incident was reported 100 percent contained as of April 23rd.

Burt County Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 16:49 on 4-23-2022

In Burt County, a fire was reported on April 23 at Lyons, Nebraska, which continued toward the village of Macy, which has been evacuated. Eighteen volunteer fire departments have responded to the fire, which has destroyed one fire truck and one house and has damaged three other structures. Four injuries have been reported, one requiring life flight. A county declaration was issued on April 23rd.

Tuls Dairy Calf Farm Fire – Rising City Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 12:58 on 4-24-2022

The Tuls Dairy Calf Farm near Rising City reported a fire around noon on the 23rd. One hay barn, 100 calves and 900 calving hutches were lost. Two firefighters were transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation, while several others were treated on the scene for eye irritation. The fire was caused when a front-loader bucket sparked on concrete and ignited a hay facility. Eight volunteer fire departments responded to this fire. This fire has been contained.

Road 702 Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 23:47 on 4-22-2022

Road 702 Current Situation:

Firefighters continue to make good progress on the Road 702 Fire and additional containment is expected by end of shift this evening.&nbsp; As critical fire weather diminishes and containment increases, excess resources will be demobilized to return home or to other incidents.&nbsp; The Incident Command System is designed to easily scale up or down to address the complexities of an incident as well as the supervision and management needs.&nbsp; This includes mobilizing and demobilizing of resources and right sizing of the management team.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 1 (CIMT1) will be transitioning the fire to a smaller organization.&nbsp; The incoming Nebraska Incident Management Team is made up mostly of resources that are currently assigned to the incident and have been working closely with the CIMT1.&nbsp; Tomorrow will be a shadow day in which remaining tasks are discussed and passed to counterparts.&nbsp; On Friday, April 29 at 7 am, the local Type 3 Incident Management Team will assume command of the fire and will oversee the remaining work. Transitions from one management team to another frequently happen on incidents to scale the management to an appropriate level based on the size and complexity of the fire, the amount of work to be done and number/type of resources needed to do the work.&nbsp;

Extended Weather Outlook:&nbsp;&nbsp;Areas of fog may develop late Wednesday night into Thursday morning, resulting in reduced visibility as firefighters head to the fireline. Additional chances of isolated thunderstorms are expected Thursday afternoon and evening. A cold front will push through Friday bringing a wind shift from SE to NW, another threat for thunderstorms and a wetting rain.

By Nebraska Emergency Management AgencyLincoln, NEB. —&nbsp;Nebraska faced significant challenges over the past several days as multiple fires were reported in different areas of the state, many occurring simultaneously. It required the effort of several local, state and federal agencies to work together to respond and provide assistance.The timeline and briefs below provide an overview of several incidents occurring throughout the state beginning Friday, April 22.Elsie Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 19:12 on 4-22-2022Four fires near the village of Elsie, were reported to the NEMA Watch Center, primarily affecting farm and cattle grazing lands. The fires burned an estimated 4,970 acres. Four firefighters sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Perkins County made an emergency declaration on April 22.Purdum Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 21:48 on 4-22-2022In Blaine County, near Purdum, five large fires were reported on April 22nd, with more than 20 volunteer fire departments responding. Three fire trucks were damaged in this nearly 30,000-acre fire, which has been contained as of April 23rd.Cheyenne and Deuel Counties:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 23:52 on 4-22-2022Three large fires broke out between Sunol and Lodge Pole, Nebraska, in Cheyenne and Deuel counties. Residents of the area were temporarily evacuated. The fires were reported contained on April 23rd.Scotts Bluff County Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 12:26 on 4-23-2022Scotts Bluff County officials reported a combination of high winds, officially clocked at 83 mph Friday, and as many as nine separate fires burning. It was reported that this incident set a record for high winds in Scotts Bluff County.There were dozens of power poles snapped, trees uprooted, five structures damaged, and uncontrolled fires burning in rural areas that caused evacuations. Upwards of 4,000 customers were without power Friday night, and crews were out Saturday morning working to restore power in the cold, blustery weather. Western Nebraska Regional Airport closed Saturday for safety reasons. This incident was reported 100 percent contained as of April 23rd.Burt County Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 16:49 on 4-23-2022In Burt County, a fire was reported on April 23 at Lyons, Nebraska, which continued toward the village of Macy, which has been evacuated. Eighteen volunteer fire departments have responded to the fire, which has destroyed one fire truck and one house and has damaged three other structures. Four injuries have been reported, one requiring life flight. A county declaration was issued on April 23rd.Tuls Dairy Calf Farm Fire – Rising City Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 12:58 on 4-24-2022The Tuls Dairy Calf Farm near Rising City reported a fire around noon on the 23rd. One hay barn, 100 calves and 900 calving hutches were lost. Two firefighters were transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation, while several others were treated on the scene for eye irritation. The fire was caused when a front-loader bucket sparked on concrete and ignited a hay facility. Eight volunteer fire departments responded to this fire. This fire has been contained.Road 702 Fire:&nbsp;Reported to NEMA at 23:47 on 4-22-2022Road 702 Current Situation:Firefighters continue to make good progress on the Road 702 Fire and additional containment is expected by end of shift this evening.&nbsp; As critical fire weather diminishes and containment increases, excess resources will be demobilized to return home or to other incidents.&nbsp; The Incident Command System is designed to easily scale up or down to address the complexities of an incident as well as the supervision and management needs.&nbsp; This includes mobilizing and demobilizing of resources and right sizing of the management team.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 1 (CIMT1) will be transitioning the fire to a smaller organization.&nbsp; The incoming Nebraska Incident Management Team is made up mostly of resources that are currently assigned to the incident and have been working closely with the CIMT1.&nbsp; Tomorrow will be a shadow day in which remaining tasks are discussed and passed to counterparts.&nbsp; On Friday, April 29 at 7 am, the local Type 3 Incident Management Team will assume command of the fire and will oversee the remaining work. Transitions from one management team to another frequently happen on incidents to scale the management to an appropriate level based on the size and complexity of the fire, the amount of work to be done and number/type of resources needed to do the work.&nbsp;Extended Weather Outlook:&nbsp;&nbsp;Areas of fog may develop late Wednesday night into Thursday morning, resulting in reduced visibility as firefighters head to the fireline. Additional chances of isolated thunderstorms are expected Thursday afternoon and evening. A cold front will push through Friday bringing a wind shift from SE to NW, another threat for thunderstorms and a wetting rain.

Wildfires break out across Nebraska, Panhandle

By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Nebraska Game and Parks has selected Jeff Fields as the agency’s new Parks Division administrator. Fields, a native of Tilden, Nebraska, began his new duties April 11.

Fields came to the agency in 1992, working as a seasonal employee for the Resource Services Division. After working in law enforcement and park management in Iowa for several years, he returned to Game and Parks in 1998 to serve as superintendent of Ponca State Park. In 2017, he became the regional park superintendent for the northeast parks region.

“My life’s passion is to provide opportunities for the public to experience and learn about Nebraska’s natural, recreational and cultural resources,” Fields said. “I am honored to lead an outstanding team of staff, volunteers and partners as we strive to fulfill this mission.”

Said Deputy Director Jim Swenson: “Jeff brings an impressive resume of achievements, leadership skills and partnership development that will allow him to collaborate with the agency team and partners as we work to conserve and protect our natural, cultural and recreational resources. We are excited to watch him apply his passion for family-friendly outdoor recreation and interpretation across our park landscapes.”

To learn more about Game and Parks, visit to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MjYuNTcwMTk4MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.UAWuH4d7Cte44g3r3mcptltTt9HJ45y49plCnKHrdjY/s/497221906/br/130398084354-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

By Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionNebraska Game and Parks has selected Jeff Fields as the agency’s new Parks Division administrator. Fields, a native of Tilden, Nebraska, began his new duties April 11.Fields came to the agency in 1992, working as a seasonal employee for the Resource Services Division. After working in law enforcement and park management in Iowa for several years, he returned to Game and Parks in 1998 to serve as superintendent of Ponca State Park. In 2017, he became the regional park superintendent for the northeast parks region.“My life’s passion is to provide opportunities for the public to experience and learn about Nebraska’s natural, recreational and cultural resources,” Fields said. “I am honored to lead an outstanding team of staff, volunteers and partners as we strive to fulfill this mission.”Said Deputy Director Jim Swenson: “Jeff brings an impressive resume of achievements, leadership skills and partnership development that will allow him to collaborate with the agency team and partners as we work to conserve and protect our natural, cultural and recreational resources. We are excited to watch him apply his passion for family-friendly outdoor recreation and interpretation across our park landscapes.”To learn more about Game and Parks, visit to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MjYuNTcwMTk4MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvIn0.UAWuH4d7Cte44g3r3mcptltTt9HJ45y49plCnKHrdjY/s/497221906/br/130398084354-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

Game and Parks names Fields Parks Division administrator

SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.&nbsp; — Friends and family gathered today in Scottsbluff as the Nebraska State Patrol and Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office honored three citizen heroes who saved the life of a Scotts Bluff County Deputy last week.

Kealan Hawley, Robert Regester, and Keagan Shifflett each witnessed a Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle crash and catch on fire at approximately 7:20 a.m. MT on April 18 in Scottsbluff. Deputy Josh Ruzicka, 39, of Gering, had suffered a medical incident while driving on Highway 71, south of the Highway 26 junction. His patrol vehicle left the roadway, struck an embankment, and caught fire.

Hawley, Regester, and Shifflett all responded and found Deputy Ruzicka unconscious inside the burning vehicle. They were able to break the window and pull Deputy Ruzicka to safety.

“You responded immediately,” Sheriff Mark Overman said to the three heroes. “With no regard for your own safety, you forced your way into the burning vehicle and extricated the deputy, moving him to safety. We are eternally grateful for the selflessness and bravery that you have showed to save a life.”

“Normally we present life saver awards to our troopers who are involved in incidents like this, but it’s really special when we get a chance to honor our citizens who decided to step up and take action,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “The actions of these three heroes showed courage and boldness during an emergency situation. It is with deep appreciation this award is presented to these three gentlemen.”

Deputy Ruzicka has recovered and was on hand to help present the awards to all three heroes.

“If they wouldn’t have stopped, I wouldn’t be here today,” said Deputy Ruzicka. “It’s good to know we still have good people out there who are willing to help.”

SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.&nbsp; — Friends and family gathered today in Scottsbluff as the Nebraska State Patrol and Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office honored three citizen heroes who saved the life of a Scotts Bluff County Deputy last week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651085217334.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kealan Hawley, Robert Regester, and Keagan Shifflett each witnessed a Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle crash and catch on fire at approximately 7:20 a.m. MT on April 18 in Scottsbluff. Deputy Josh Ruzicka, 39, of Gering, had suffered a medical incident while driving on Highway 71, south of the Highway 26 junction. His patrol vehicle left the roadway, struck an embankment, and caught fire.Hawley, Regester, and Shifflett all responded and found Deputy Ruzicka unconscious inside the burning vehicle. They were able to break the window and pull Deputy Ruzicka to safety.“You responded immediately,” Sheriff Mark Overman said to the three heroes. “With no regard for your own safety, you forced your way into the burning vehicle and extricated the deputy, moving him to safety. We are eternally grateful for the selflessness and bravery that you have showed to save a life.”“Normally we present life saver awards to our troopers who are involved in incidents like this, but it’s really special when we get a chance to honor our citizens who decided to step up and take action,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “The actions of these three heroes showed courage and boldness during an emergency situation. It is with deep appreciation this award is presented to these three gentlemen.”Deputy Ruzicka has recovered and was on hand to help present the awards to all three heroes.“If they wouldn’t have stopped, I wouldn’t be here today,” said Deputy Ruzicka. “It’s good to know we still have good people out there who are willing to help.”

NSP, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff present life saver awards

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is hiring immediately for seasonal jobs at its state park areas, including Fort Robinson State Park. Openings are for a variety of positions across the state. All experience levels are welcome.

Fort Robinson is hiring restaurant staff as well as wranglers for horseback rides.

The hiring rate for these seasonal positions has been increased 33%, starting at $12 an hour, and additional growth opportunities are available.

These positions offer hands-on training in an engaging park environment, where workers can appreciate nature and outdoor recreation. Their service will impact the state’s premier vacation destinations and tourist attractions while benefitting the local economy.

Anyone looking for fun and adventure can learn more or apply at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MjcuNTcwNjUzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi93b3JraW5hcGFyay8ifQ.P5FkosZVN-MnnBcTU592Q8R7K5bEKckJg8Lb7HH5JqE/s/497221906/br/130430857845-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/workinapark</a>.

By Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is hiring immediately for seasonal jobs at its state park areas, including Fort Robinson State Park. Openings are for a variety of positions across the state. All experience levels are welcome.Fort Robinson is hiring restaurant staff as well as wranglers for horseback rides.The hiring rate for these seasonal positions has been increased 33%, starting at $12 an hour, and additional growth opportunities are available.These positions offer hands-on training in an engaging park environment, where workers can appreciate nature and outdoor recreation. Their service will impact the state’s premier vacation destinations and tourist attractions while benefitting the local economy.Anyone looking for fun and adventure can learn more or apply at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MjcuNTcwNjUzMDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi93b3JraW5hcGFyay8ifQ.P5FkosZVN-MnnBcTU592Q8R7K5bEKckJg8Lb7HH5JqE/s/497221906/br/130430857845-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/workinapark</a>.

Fort Robinson, state parks seeking seasonal workers 

By CINDY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/platte-institute-names-new-chair-who-will-help-guide-blueprint-nebraska-growth-plan/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

North Platte, Nebraska,
 businessman Pat Keenan, whose career began in the soft drink industry, 
has been elected chairman of the nonprofit <a target="_blank" href="https://platteinstitute.org/about/?team-filter=board">Platte Institute</a> board of directors.

Among the organization’s responsibilities is helping to activate economic initiatives in <a target="_blank" href="https://blueprint-nebraska.org/">Blueprint Nebraska</a>, a plan led by business and civic leaders to stimulate economic development and to make the state more alluring to job seekers.

The resulting 15 high-priority initiatives were to transform the state by 2030.

Other Blueprint partners are the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry and the Aksarben Foundation.

Keenan,
 whose family owned and operated Great Plains Bottlers and Canners, an 
independent Coca-Cola bottling operation, was president of the Nebraska 
Soft Drink Association and also served as chief financial officer at 
Great Plains Bottlers and Canners.&nbsp;

He now manages Keenan Management LLC, which owns and operates hotels and develops commercial properties.

Keenan
 said in a news release that the nonpartisan Platte Institute, whose 
overall goal is to advance policies that remove barriers to state 
growth, will not let the Blueprint Nebraska plan “just sit on the 
shelf.”&nbsp;

“Thousands
 of Nebraskans were involved in developing Blueprint Nebraska economic 
initiatives on issues from agriculture, to the workforce, to finally 
bringing Nebraska’s tax system into the 21st century,” Keenan said.

He
 said other states are taking major steps to be welcoming and added, 
“We’ll continue building momentum for thinking big and acting boldly to 
advance opportunity in communities across Nebraska.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651079905188.png" alt="The Nebraska State Capitol Building in Lincoln. (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>The Nebraska State Capitol Building in Lincoln. (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>By CINDY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/platte-institute-names-new-chair-who-will-help-guide-blueprint-nebraska-growth-plan/">Nebraska Examiner</a>North Platte, Nebraska,
 businessman Pat Keenan, whose career began in the soft drink industry, 
has been elected chairman of the nonprofit <a target="_blank" href="https://platteinstitute.org/about/?team-filter=board">Platte Institute</a> board of directors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651079964333.jpeg" alt="Pat Keenan" />
 <figcaption>Pat Keenan</figcaption>
 </figure>Among the organization’s responsibilities is helping to activate economic initiatives in <a target="_blank" href="https://blueprint-nebraska.org/">Blueprint Nebraska</a>, a plan led by business and civic leaders to stimulate economic development and to make the state more alluring to job seekers.The resulting 15 high-priority initiatives were to transform the state by 2030.Other Blueprint partners are the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce &amp; Industry and the Aksarben Foundation.Keenan,
 whose family owned and operated Great Plains Bottlers and Canners, an 
independent Coca-Cola bottling operation, was president of the Nebraska 
Soft Drink Association and also served as chief financial officer at 
Great Plains Bottlers and Canners.&nbsp;He now manages Keenan Management LLC, which owns and operates hotels and develops commercial properties.Keenan
 said in a news release that the nonpartisan Platte Institute, whose 
overall goal is to advance policies that remove barriers to state 
growth, will not let the Blueprint Nebraska plan “just sit on the 
shelf.”&nbsp;“Thousands
 of Nebraskans were involved in developing Blueprint Nebraska economic 
initiatives on issues from agriculture, to the workforce, to finally 
bringing Nebraska’s tax system into the 21st century,” Keenan said.He
 said other states are taking major steps to be welcoming and added, 
“We’ll continue building momentum for thinking big and acting boldly to 
advance opportunity in communities across Nebraska.”

Platte Institute names North Platte businessman new chair

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/27/22

By DAVID GODWIN <a href="https://sourcenm.com/2022/04/27/6-wildfire-terms-to-understand-from-red-flag-warning-to-100-containment/">The Conversation</a>

A wildfire fueled by dry, windy conditions forced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/04/20/us/arizona-tunnel-fire-wednesday/index.html">hundreds of people to evacuate homes in Arizona</a>&nbsp;in mid-April, following fires that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.npr.org/2022/04/16/1093194355/wildfires-new-mexico-ruidoso-mcbride-fire">destroyed more than 200 homes in New Mexico</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/wildfire-southwest-boulder-forces-1200-evacuations-83693090">threatened</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.nbcdfw.com/weather/weather-connection/wildfires-force-evacuation-orders-for-three-north-texas-counties/2919734/">communities</a><a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/how-a-hurricane-fueled-wildfires-in-the-florida-panhandle-178999">in several other states</a>&nbsp;over the previous weeks. It was another reminder to be prepared for what U.S. forecasters warned&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.noaa.gov/news/spring-outlook-drought-to-expand-amid-warmer-conditions">would be a risky spring</a>&nbsp;for wildfires.

I’m a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=Wx4oSuoAAAAJ&amp;hl=en">fire ecologist</a>&nbsp;and director of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://southernfireexchange.org/">Southern Fire Exchange</a>&nbsp;for
 the University of Florida. Here are six terms you’ll often hear when 
people talk about wildfires that are useful to understand, both for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://wildfirerisk.org/">preparing</a>&nbsp;for fire season and gauging the risk when fires start.

Imagine looking down at a wildfire from an airplane. Firefighters 
want to build a perimeter around that fire with control lines, or 
firebreaks – areas cleared of vegetation – that they hope will prevent 
the fire from spreading.

Getting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.doi.gov/wildlandfire/suppression">100% containment is the goal</a>, but it takes some time to get there, and a wildfire is a moving target.

Having 100% containment doesn’t mean the fire is out. It just means 
the fire agency has containment lines around it. There can still be 
burning, smoldering and active flames. When conditions are hot, dry and 
windy, embers can blow across the fire lines and cause&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/pms437/crown-fire/spotting-fire-behavior">spotting</a> — fires started by those blowing embers.

In the end, it’s Mother Nature that typically puts large fires out 
for good, and it may be weeks or months before they are officially 
declared out.

A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.weather.gov/media/lmk/pdf/what_is_a_red_flag_warning.pdf">red flag warning</a>&nbsp;means weather conditions are expected that would raise the risk of dangerous wildfires spreading.

You’ll hear the phrase red flag warning&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fire.ca.gov/programs/communications/red-flag-warnings-fire-weather-watches/">used across the country</a>, but the criteria actually vary by geographic location.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Wildland-Fire/Fire-Weather/Links-and-Information/Red-Flags-for-Fire-Weather-Conditions-in-Florida">For north Florida</a>,
 for example, a red flag warning is triggered when relative humidity is 
at or below 28%, winds are 15 miles per hour or above, and the fire has 
met a threshold in the Forest Service’s risk calculations known as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Wildland-Fire/Fire-Weather/Links-and-Information/Wildland-Fire-Danger-Index-FDI/Wildland-Fire-Danger-Index-FDI-FAQ/What-is-the-Energy-Release-Component-ERC">energy release component, or ERC</a>. In the Boulder, Colorado, area, the National Weather Service’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.weather.gov/bou/RFW_Definitions">criteria for a red flag warning</a>&nbsp;include frequent wind gusts of at least 25 mph and 15% relative humidity or less.

It’s really important that people&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://wildfirerisk.org/">understand and respond to fire weather warnings appropriately</a>. Most wildfires are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/humans-ignite-almost-every-wildfire-that-threatens-homes-145997">caused by people</a>. When red flag conditions are forecast, that’s really not the time to be burning leaves in the backyard or building a campfire.

Fuel refers to all the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.doi.gov/wildlandfire/fuels">vegetative material</a>&nbsp;that’s
 available to burn. It can be everything from leaves, twigs, grasses and
 sticks to bushes and shrubs and heavy logs on the ground.

It can be dead fuel or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/pms437/fuel-moisture/live-fuel-moisture-content">live fuel</a>.
 The threat posed by live fuels also varies by region. In the Western 
U.S., grasses are typically available to burn only once they go dormant 
and dry out. In the Southeast, however, live fuels like palmetto and 
grasses will still burn quite readily because of their volatile oils.

During a wildfire, you’ll hear fire managers and firefighters talking about “burnouts” or “backfires.” Those are fires that are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ctif.org/news/prevention-control-using-back-fire-combat-wildfire">intentionally lit</a>&nbsp;and allowed to spread toward the wildfire.

By burning off vegetation ahead of the wildfire, firefighters leave 
the wildfire with less fuel to burn in hopes of either stopping it or 
reducing its intensity.

Prescribed fires are similar to backfires, but they’re used well before a wildfire can start.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/what-is-a-prescribed-fire.htm">Prescribed fires</a>&nbsp;are
 intentionally lit under conditions considered safe, such as when winds 
are low and it’s not too dry. Like backfires, they are used to clear 
away excess fuel.

A prescribed burn has a prescription – a written plan that specifies 
the ranges of weather conditions that fire managers anticipate will be 
acceptable for using and then extinguishing the fires, as well as the 
resources needed to accomplish it successfully and the intended outcomes
 and objectives of the burn. In some areas, it can take years to write a
 plan and execute it.

Prescribed burns have&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sierra/landmanagement/?cid=stelprdb5442511">additional benefits</a>.
 They allow forest managers to reduce fuels in a way that can also 
promote good wildlife habitats and healthy ecosystems. Prescribed fires 
apply the positive aspects of fire in the safest way possible.

The term “complex” when talking about wildfires is purely about 
management. When you have a number of fires in a geographic area, 
instead of having an incident management team at each fire, for 
simplicity they’ll call it a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2020/10/06/us/gigafire-california-august-complex-trnd/index.html">complex</a>&nbsp;and have one incident management team responsible for all of it.

In the Florida Panhandle fires in March 2022, for example, three 
fires were burning in a relatively close area, but the same fire teams 
were involved, so they&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fdacs.gov/News-Events/Press-Releases/2022-Press-Releases/Chipola-Complex-Morning-Update-Monday-March-7">opted to manage it as a complex</a>. Similarly, a group of Texas fires later that month were named the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/texas-eastland-complex-fire-balloons-4-7-blazes-burning-nearly-55000-a-rcna20827">Eastland Complex</a>.

Are you looking for other&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fs.fed.us/nwacfire/home/terminology.html#F">wildfire terms</a>? The National Wildfire Coordinating Group is the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nwcg.gov/glossary/a-z">master resource</a>.

<a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/6-wildfire-terms-to-understand-from-red-flag-warning-to-100-containment-179002">This article</a> was originally published in <a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/us">The Conversation</a>. It is republished here with permission under a Creative Commons license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651075342312.png" alt="The combined Calf Canyon and Hermits Peak fires burn north of Las Vegas, New Mexico on Saturday, April 23, 2022. (Photo by Patrick Lohmann / Source New Mexico)" />
 <figcaption>The combined Calf Canyon and Hermits Peak fires burn north of Las Vegas, New Mexico on Saturday, April 23, 2022. (Photo by Patrick Lohmann / Source New Mexico)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID GODWIN <a href="https://sourcenm.com/2022/04/27/6-wildfire-terms-to-understand-from-red-flag-warning-to-100-containment/">The Conversation</a>A wildfire fueled by dry, windy conditions forced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/04/20/us/arizona-tunnel-fire-wednesday/index.html">hundreds of people to evacuate homes in Arizona</a>&nbsp;in mid-April, following fires that&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.npr.org/2022/04/16/1093194355/wildfires-new-mexico-ruidoso-mcbride-fire">destroyed more than 200 homes in New Mexico</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/wildfire-southwest-boulder-forces-1200-evacuations-83693090">threatened</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.nbcdfw.com/weather/weather-connection/wildfires-force-evacuation-orders-for-three-north-texas-counties/2919734/">communities</a><a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/how-a-hurricane-fueled-wildfires-in-the-florida-panhandle-178999">in several other states</a>&nbsp;over the previous weeks. It was another reminder to be prepared for what U.S. forecasters warned&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.noaa.gov/news/spring-outlook-drought-to-expand-amid-warmer-conditions">would be a risky spring</a>&nbsp;for wildfires.I’m a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=Wx4oSuoAAAAJ&amp;hl=en">fire ecologist</a>&nbsp;and director of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://southernfireexchange.org/">Southern Fire Exchange</a>&nbsp;for
 the University of Florida. Here are six terms you’ll often hear when 
people talk about wildfires that are useful to understand, both for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://wildfirerisk.org/">preparing</a>&nbsp;for fire season and gauging the risk when fires start.<h2>Percent contained</h2>Imagine looking down at a wildfire from an airplane. Firefighters 
want to build a perimeter around that fire with control lines, or 
firebreaks – areas cleared of vegetation – that they hope will prevent 
the fire from spreading.Getting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.doi.gov/wildlandfire/suppression">100% containment is the goal</a>, but it takes some time to get there, and a wildfire is a moving target.Having 100% containment doesn’t mean the fire is out. It just means 
the fire agency has containment lines around it. There can still be 
burning, smoldering and active flames. When conditions are hot, dry and 
windy, embers can blow across the fire lines and cause&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/pms437/crown-fire/spotting-fire-behavior">spotting</a> — fires started by those blowing embers.In the end, it’s Mother Nature that typically puts large fires out 
for good, and it may be weeks or months before they are officially 
declared out.<h2>Red flag warning</h2>A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.weather.gov/media/lmk/pdf/what_is_a_red_flag_warning.pdf">red flag warning</a>&nbsp;means weather conditions are expected that would raise the risk of dangerous wildfires spreading.You’ll hear the phrase red flag warning&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fire.ca.gov/programs/communications/red-flag-warnings-fire-weather-watches/">used across the country</a>, but the criteria actually vary by geographic location.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Wildland-Fire/Fire-Weather/Links-and-Information/Red-Flags-for-Fire-Weather-Conditions-in-Florida">For north Florida</a>,
 for example, a red flag warning is triggered when relative humidity is 
at or below 28%, winds are 15 miles per hour or above, and the fire has 
met a threshold in the Forest Service’s risk calculations known as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Wildland-Fire/Fire-Weather/Links-and-Information/Wildland-Fire-Danger-Index-FDI/Wildland-Fire-Danger-Index-FDI-FAQ/What-is-the-Energy-Release-Component-ERC">energy release component, or ERC</a>. In the Boulder, Colorado, area, the National Weather Service’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.weather.gov/bou/RFW_Definitions">criteria for a red flag warning</a>&nbsp;include frequent wind gusts of at least 25 mph and 15% relative humidity or less.It’s really important that people&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://wildfirerisk.org/">understand and respond to fire weather warnings appropriately</a>. Most wildfires are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/humans-ignite-almost-every-wildfire-that-threatens-homes-145997">caused by people</a>. When red flag conditions are forecast, that’s really not the time to be burning leaves in the backyard or building a campfire.<h2>Fuel</h2>Fuel refers to all the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.doi.gov/wildlandfire/fuels">vegetative material</a>&nbsp;that’s
 available to burn. It can be everything from leaves, twigs, grasses and
 sticks to bushes and shrubs and heavy logs on the ground.It can be dead fuel or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/pms437/fuel-moisture/live-fuel-moisture-content">live fuel</a>.
 The threat posed by live fuels also varies by region. In the Western 
U.S., grasses are typically available to burn only once they go dormant 
and dry out. In the Southeast, however, live fuels like palmetto and 
grasses will still burn quite readily because of their volatile oils.<h2>Backfires</h2>During a wildfire, you’ll hear fire managers and firefighters talking about “burnouts” or “backfires.” Those are fires that are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ctif.org/news/prevention-control-using-back-fire-combat-wildfire">intentionally lit</a>&nbsp;and allowed to spread toward the wildfire.By burning off vegetation ahead of the wildfire, firefighters leave 
the wildfire with less fuel to burn in hopes of either stopping it or 
reducing its intensity.<h2>Prescribed burns</h2>Prescribed fires are similar to backfires, but they’re used well before a wildfire can start.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/what-is-a-prescribed-fire.htm">Prescribed fires</a>&nbsp;are
 intentionally lit under conditions considered safe, such as when winds 
are low and it’s not too dry. Like backfires, they are used to clear 
away excess fuel.A prescribed burn has a prescription – a written plan that specifies 
the ranges of weather conditions that fire managers anticipate will be 
acceptable for using and then extinguishing the fires, as well as the 
resources needed to accomplish it successfully and the intended outcomes
 and objectives of the burn. In some areas, it can take years to write a
 plan and execute it.Prescribed burns have&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sierra/landmanagement/?cid=stelprdb5442511">additional benefits</a>.
 They allow forest managers to reduce fuels in a way that can also 
promote good wildlife habitats and healthy ecosystems. Prescribed fires 
apply the positive aspects of fire in the safest way possible.<h2>Complex fires</h2>The term “complex” when talking about wildfires is purely about 
management. When you have a number of fires in a geographic area, 
instead of having an incident management team at each fire, for 
simplicity they’ll call it a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2020/10/06/us/gigafire-california-august-complex-trnd/index.html">complex</a>&nbsp;and have one incident management team responsible for all of it.In the Florida Panhandle fires in March 2022, for example, three 
fires were burning in a relatively close area, but the same fire teams 
were involved, so they&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fdacs.gov/News-Events/Press-Releases/2022-Press-Releases/Chipola-Complex-Morning-Update-Monday-March-7">opted to manage it as a complex</a>. Similarly, a group of Texas fires later that month were named the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/texas-eastland-complex-fire-balloons-4-7-blazes-burning-nearly-55000-a-rcna20827">Eastland Complex</a>.Are you looking for other&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fs.fed.us/nwacfire/home/terminology.html#F">wildfire terms</a>? The National Wildfire Coordinating Group is the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nwcg.gov/glossary/a-z">master resource</a>.<a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/6-wildfire-terms-to-understand-from-red-flag-warning-to-100-containment-179002">This article</a> was originally published in <a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/us">The Conversation</a>. It is republished here with permission under a Creative Commons license.

Wildfire terms explained, from red flag warning to 100% containment

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

Last week’s column talked about the registers of language and the difficulty created for those in poverty who communicate in the casual register, but have to navigate the world of school and agencies who operate in the formal register used by the middle class. Registers of language are connected to a second issue: patterns of discourse. The pattern of discourse is the manner in which information is organized.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceLast week’s column talked about the registers of language and the difficulty created for those in poverty who communicate in the casual register, but have to navigate the world of school and agencies who operate in the formal register used by the middle class. Registers of language are connected to a second issue: patterns of discourse. The pattern of discourse is the manner in which information is organized.The biggest difference is that in formal register, the pattern is to get straight to the point. In the casual register, the pattern is to go around and around before finally getting to the point.Story structure in formal register starts at the beginning, moves chronologically through the narrative, then reaches the end. The important parts of the story are the plot and the events.In casual register, the story begins with the part with the greatest emotional intensity, usually the end. The story is told in segments with lots of comments and jokes about characters and their value. Listeners are encouraged to participate and comment.Community service providers who are working with people in poverty are often frustrated by clients who they think are wasting time. Exchanges tend to be misunderstood on both sides.Providers want to get right to the point. But their clients need to tell a story first to contextualize and build to the point. When providers try to cut the conversation short, clients view that as rude and often shut down. The problem doesn’t get solved.Think about this in terms of different service providers. A doctor is working with a patient and has a limited amount of time until the next appointment. Rather than describing symptoms and time frames, the patient is babbling about friends and family and their reactions to different things. S/he may not ever share the information the doctor needs to make the correct diagnosis.What about a parent-teacher conference? The teacher wants to discuss what the class has learned, what they will study in the future, the quality of work the student is doing, classroom behavior, getting things done on time. The parent wants to talk about relationships, family matters, friendships, fights – issues that are outside the classroom; or the parent doesn’t speak at all.Agencies like Northwest Community Action or Health and Human Services can offer assistance for a variety of problems a family might face. But that means they have to fill out paperwork, which can be incredibly frustrating for their clients who want to tell stories about their situation.Imagine being a police officer who is responding to an accident, a burglary, or a fight. How long is it going to take to gather the data to fill out this incident report?For people who need the services of the healthcare system, the schools, law enforcement agencies, or other service providers, communication can be very difficult. The agency’s need to gather information in a linear fashion can frustrate their clients. The client’s circular description of events, problems, or histories can frustrate the professional needing the information.Bridges Out of Poverty programs are designed to help professionals and communities develop strategies for dealing with the issues that separate social and economic classes, like the issues of language registers and patterns. Bridges Out of Poverty programs have transformed schools, agencies, and communities throughout America.On June 9, 9:00-3:00, the Alliance Poverty Task Force will be hosting a Bridges Out of Poverty program at the Alliance High School commons area. Bridges: Community Lens will help community sectors in planning how to better meet the needs of those in poverty. This workshop is open to the general public; it’s perfect for elected officials, concerned citizens, nonprofit staff, mental health providers, educators and school counselors, those working in the health and human service industries, frontline employees, and more!Register at panhandlepartnership.com. Under Menu in the upper right corner, click on Training Academy. Under Upcoming Trainings, scroll down to June 9, Bridges Out of Poverty – Part 3. Here you can click on the registration link and pay the $45 fee using a credit card. The fee includes refreshments and lunch. If you are requesting a scholarship or paying for a group of people, please email connor.wilburn@panhandlepartnership.com and ask Connor to handle your registration.Please join us as we work to apply this research in our area.

Local