POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 8/3/22

Eight elk were harvested during Nebraska’s first special elk depredation season.

Five bulls and three cows were taken during the July 1-31 season on private land in specific parts of Lincoln, Perkins, Keith, Deuel and Garden counties.

“I would call the season a success, with eight elk harvested in a month compared to our general elk season, when five or six elk typically are harvested in six months in this area,” said Alicia Hardin, wildlife administrator for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. “This is right in the window of what we anticipated for harvest during this season.”

Game and Parks staff have worked with landowners in this area for several years to lower elk herds to reduce damage to the cropland, including trampling, wallowing and consumption of crops. The small herds that live there stay through harvest, then disperse, making it difficult for hunters to take elk during the late general season.

“The elk removed from this smaller population and the increased pressure to the area should lead to less damage to crop fields,” Hardin said.

Total participation in the season was 179 hunters – 153 residents and 26 nonresidents – who purchased 211 permits. No hunter filled more than one permit and one nonresident was successful in taking an elk.

Permits were available to residents, nonresidents and landowners who own at least 80 acres within the hunting area. Landowners were required to hunt their own land.&nbsp;

The season was designed to allow for as many potential hunters as possible in a geographic area regulated by landowner permission for access. Because permits were unlimited, hunters had time to obtain permission to hunt before buying; generally, when a limited number of permits are issued, there is a rush to obtain available permits whether one has gained access or not.

The special season is not expected to affect the general elk season given the size of the area included in the season — roughly 873 square miles of 23,770 square miles included in the two elk units (North Platte River and Box Elder). Small herds in the special season boundary also may have dispersed due to hunting pressure. Hunters working with landowners in the area can see successful results.

For more information about the season or for frequently asked questions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MDIuNjE2Njg0NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZGVwcmVkYXRpb24vIn0.tg9rZk2SMLLzlkQ5fMZHmIW_n6TGcMM3h-mRVZV4WyE/s/497221906/br/141952131975-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/depredation</a>.

By Nebraska Game and ParksEight elk were harvested during Nebraska’s first special elk depredation season.Five bulls and three cows were taken during the July 1-31 season on private land in specific parts of Lincoln, Perkins, Keith, Deuel and Garden counties.“I would call the season a success, with eight elk harvested in a month compared to our general elk season, when five or six elk typically are harvested in six months in this area,” said Alicia Hardin, wildlife administrator for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. “This is right in the window of what we anticipated for harvest during this season.”Game and Parks staff have worked with landowners in this area for several years to lower elk herds to reduce damage to the cropland, including trampling, wallowing and consumption of crops. The small herds that live there stay through harvest, then disperse, making it difficult for hunters to take elk during the late general season.“The elk removed from this smaller population and the increased pressure to the area should lead to less damage to crop fields,” Hardin said.Total participation in the season was 179 hunters – 153 residents and 26 nonresidents – who purchased 211 permits. No hunter filled more than one permit and one nonresident was successful in taking an elk.Permits were available to residents, nonresidents and landowners who own at least 80 acres within the hunting area. Landowners were required to hunt their own land.&nbsp;The season was designed to allow for as many potential hunters as possible in a geographic area regulated by landowner permission for access. Because permits were unlimited, hunters had time to obtain permission to hunt before buying; generally, when a limited number of permits are issued, there is a rush to obtain available permits whether one has gained access or not.The special season is not expected to affect the general elk season given the size of the area included in the season — roughly 873 square miles of 23,770 square miles included in the two elk units (North Platte River and Box Elder). Small herds in the special season boundary also may have dispersed due to hunting pressure. Hunters working with landowners in the area can see successful results.For more information about the season or for frequently asked questions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA4MDIuNjE2Njg0NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL291dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZGVwcmVkYXRpb24vIn0.tg9rZk2SMLLzlkQ5fMZHmIW_n6TGcMM3h-mRVZV4WyE/s/497221906/br/141952131975-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/depredation</a>.

8 harvested in state’s first special elk depredation season

POST PODCAST: Alliance City Manager Seth Sorenson

GERING, Neb. (AP) — Fire crews battling a western Nebraska wildfire that has destroyed some homes looked Tuesday night to the skies with hope and trepidation as weather forecasters warned of thunderstorms.

The National Weather Service forecast a 50% chance of thunderstorms producing heavy rains Tuesday afternoon into the night. A storm could help douse&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-nebraska-wildlife-fires-evacuations-8543ecc46a2545efc086d69510711e37">the Carter Canyon Fire south of Gering</a>&nbsp;that has scorched about 25 square miles (65 square kilometers) of mostly grass and timberland, destroyed three homes and damaged several more in the Carter Canyon community that was evacuated Sunday. No injuries have been reported.

While fire crews would welcome rain, they also fear lightning strikes that could spark new fires in the tinder-dry region, said Ben Bohall with the Nebraska Forest Service.

Firefighters had contained about 30% of the fire going into Tuesday, and a lot of progress was made late Monday and overnight as winds died down from the 20 mph (32 kph) seen Sunday.

“Several of our divisions are beginning mop up in their respective areas,” Bohall said. “We’re scaling back a bit and have had roughly 10 crews demobilize.” About 35 fire departments comprising about 200 people had been fighting the fire Sunday and early Monday.

Officials were alerted to two separate fires Saturday evening in heavily treed areas of the Cedar Canyon Wildlife Management Area and Carter Canyon Public Land. Dry conditions, rough terrain and high winds hampered efforts to control the fires that merged into one later in the weekend.

Tuesday's weather will pivotal in the effort to control the fire, as the forecast from Wednesday through Friday warns of temperatures near or above 100 degrees.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-forests-california-yreka-43ad455ead17ade1278a8c08adf15a68">Other large fires are raging in the West</a>, including a Northern California fire that has burned roughly 88 square miles (230 square kilometers) in the Klamath National Forest. Another fire has grown to about 25 square miles (70 square kilometers) in the Flathead Indian Reservation in northwestern Montana and Idaho’s Moose Fire has burned more than 85 square miles (220 square kilometers).

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659538533873.jpeg" alt="Photo by Alliance Volunteer Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Alliance Volunteer Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>GERING, Neb. (AP) — Fire crews battling a western Nebraska wildfire that has destroyed some homes looked Tuesday night to the skies with hope and trepidation as weather forecasters warned of thunderstorms.The National Weather Service forecast a 50% chance of thunderstorms producing heavy rains Tuesday afternoon into the night. A storm could help douse&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-nebraska-wildlife-fires-evacuations-8543ecc46a2545efc086d69510711e37">the Carter Canyon Fire south of Gering</a>&nbsp;that has scorched about 25 square miles (65 square kilometers) of mostly grass and timberland, destroyed three homes and damaged several more in the Carter Canyon community that was evacuated Sunday. No injuries have been reported.While fire crews would welcome rain, they also fear lightning strikes that could spark new fires in the tinder-dry region, said Ben Bohall with the Nebraska Forest Service.Firefighters had contained about 30% of the fire going into Tuesday, and a lot of progress was made late Monday and overnight as winds died down from the 20 mph (32 kph) seen Sunday.“Several of our divisions are beginning mop up in their respective areas,” Bohall said. “We’re scaling back a bit and have had roughly 10 crews demobilize.” About 35 fire departments comprising about 200 people had been fighting the fire Sunday and early Monday.Officials were alerted to two separate fires Saturday evening in heavily treed areas of the Cedar Canyon Wildlife Management Area and Carter Canyon Public Land. Dry conditions, rough terrain and high winds hampered efforts to control the fires that merged into one later in the weekend.Tuesday's weather will pivotal in the effort to control the fire, as the forecast from Wednesday through Friday warns of temperatures near or above 100 degrees.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-fires-forests-california-yreka-43ad455ead17ade1278a8c08adf15a68">Other large fires are raging in the West</a>, including a Northern California fire that has burned roughly 88 square miles (230 square kilometers) in the Klamath National Forest. Another fire has grown to about 25 square miles (70 square kilometers) in the Flathead Indian Reservation in northwestern Montana and Idaho’s Moose Fire has burned more than 85 square miles (220 square kilometers).

Crews battling Panhandle fire hope for rain, fear lightning

ST. LOUIS (AP) — The climate deal reached last week by Senate Democrats could reduce the amount of greenhouse gases that American farmers produce by expanding programs that help accumulate carbon in soil, fund climate-focused research and lower the abundant methane emissions that come from cows.

The bill includes more than $20 billion to improve the agriculture sector’s impact on the environment, mostly by expanding existing U.S. Department of Agriculture programs that help farmers change to better practices. Farmers would be paid to improve the health of their soil, withstand extreme weather and protect their land if the bill is enacted.

The roughly $370 billion climate and energy spending deal would bring the country closer to cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, according to new analyses. That is something many scientists say is important, and that President Joe Biden promised. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W. Va., a long-time holdout on climate legislation, endorsed measures that would benefit electric vehicles, renewable energy and climate-friendly farming. Agriculture is responsible for 11% of the country's climate-warming emissions.

The funding would expand programs favored by both environmental groups and the agricultural sector, said Ben Thomas, who focuses on agriculture at the Environmental Defense Fund.

“They are voluntary, they are incentive-based, they get results in terms of implementing conservation practices on working lands,” said Thomas. “It’s great to see.”

Thomas said historically, the agricultural sector has not aggressively tackled its contribution to climate change, but that hesitation has shifted in recent years and more money will accelerate progress. There's a lot of potential, he said.

“It is worth taking very, very seriously,” Thomas said.

Cows belch an enormous amount of methane and agriculture is responsible for more than one-third of human-caused methane emissions, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This is a way that people's diets — if they are high in meat or dairy — contribute to greenhouse gas buildup. The bill directs funds towards altering what cows eat to reduce those emissions.

On farms, soil can hold or sequester carbon if it is left undisturbed and covered by a crop. Money from the bill will expand programs that help farmers turn their soil less, implement climate-friendly crop rotation practices and plant cover crops that aren’t for harvest but improve soil health.

“The historic funding validates the fact that these practices are important,” said Ranjani Prabhakar, an agriculture and climate policy specialist at the environmental group Earthjustice

Cover crops, for example, are only used by a fraction of farmers. If their use were to triple — from around 5% of cropland to 15% — it could remove the equivalent of 14 megatons of carbon dioxide per year, roughly the total annual emissions of New Hampshire, according to Kevin Karl, a flood food and climate researcher at Columbia University.

“The adoption rate is so low,” Karl said. “There’s a lot of potential improvement.”

Federal officials already offer farmers help with a variety of environmentally-focused issues including irrigation and fertilizer use. One program helps fund conservation easements for agricultural land.

Dan Sheafer works on nitrogen research with the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association and operates a 20-acre farm. He plants cover crops and keeps soil disturbance to a minimum — practices that benefit soil health and reduce soil erosion. But he said cover crops also have drawbacks, requiring farmers who want an environmental benefit to change their practices.

“There's just more time involved with doing cover crops,” he said.

The bill also includes money for research. While it is clear that managing soil properly can capture carbon, more needs to be known about important questions like how long sequestered carbon stays in soil.

Kaiyu Guan, a professor focused on climate and agriculture at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, said some people believe farmers don’t pay enough attention to climate change.

“I think farmers shouldn’t be blamed, they actually should be incentivized,” Guan said. “Not only are they doing this to be part of the solution to help the climate, they are doing this to help their land."

&nbsp; The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of AP’s environmental coverage, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment">https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659536473424.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. LOUIS (AP) — The climate deal reached last week by Senate Democrats could reduce the amount of greenhouse gases that American farmers produce by expanding programs that help accumulate carbon in soil, fund climate-focused research and lower the abundant methane emissions that come from cows.The bill includes more than $20 billion to improve the agriculture sector’s impact on the environment, mostly by expanding existing U.S. Department of Agriculture programs that help farmers change to better practices. Farmers would be paid to improve the health of their soil, withstand extreme weather and protect their land if the bill is enacted.The roughly $370 billion climate and energy spending deal would bring the country closer to cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, according to new analyses. That is something many scientists say is important, and that President Joe Biden promised. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W. Va., a long-time holdout on climate legislation, endorsed measures that would benefit electric vehicles, renewable energy and climate-friendly farming. Agriculture is responsible for 11% of the country's climate-warming emissions.The funding would expand programs favored by both environmental groups and the agricultural sector, said Ben Thomas, who focuses on agriculture at the Environmental Defense Fund.“They are voluntary, they are incentive-based, they get results in terms of implementing conservation practices on working lands,” said Thomas. “It’s great to see.”Thomas said historically, the agricultural sector has not aggressively tackled its contribution to climate change, but that hesitation has shifted in recent years and more money will accelerate progress. There's a lot of potential, he said.“It is worth taking very, very seriously,” Thomas said.Cows belch an enormous amount of methane and agriculture is responsible for more than one-third of human-caused methane emissions, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This is a way that people's diets — if they are high in meat or dairy — contribute to greenhouse gas buildup. The bill directs funds towards altering what cows eat to reduce those emissions.On farms, soil can hold or sequester carbon if it is left undisturbed and covered by a crop. Money from the bill will expand programs that help farmers turn their soil less, implement climate-friendly crop rotation practices and plant cover crops that aren’t for harvest but improve soil health.“The historic funding validates the fact that these practices are important,” said Ranjani Prabhakar, an agriculture and climate policy specialist at the environmental group EarthjusticeCover crops, for example, are only used by a fraction of farmers. If their use were to triple — from around 5% of cropland to 15% — it could remove the equivalent of 14 megatons of carbon dioxide per year, roughly the total annual emissions of New Hampshire, according to Kevin Karl, a flood food and climate researcher at Columbia University.“The adoption rate is so low,” Karl said. “There’s a lot of potential improvement.”Federal officials already offer farmers help with a variety of environmentally-focused issues including irrigation and fertilizer use. One program helps fund conservation easements for agricultural land.Dan Sheafer works on nitrogen research with the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association and operates a 20-acre farm. He plants cover crops and keeps soil disturbance to a minimum — practices that benefit soil health and reduce soil erosion. But he said cover crops also have drawbacks, requiring farmers who want an environmental benefit to change their practices.“There's just more time involved with doing cover crops,” he said.The bill also includes money for research. While it is clear that managing soil properly can capture carbon, more needs to be known about important questions like how long sequestered carbon stays in soil.Kaiyu Guan, a professor focused on climate and agriculture at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, said some people believe farmers don’t pay enough attention to climate change.“I think farmers shouldn’t be blamed, they actually should be incentivized,” Guan said. “Not only are they doing this to be part of the solution to help the climate, they are doing this to help their land."&nbsp; The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of AP’s environmental coverage, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment">https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment</a>.

How the climate deal would help farmers aid the environment

We’re less than a month away from our state’s biggest annual celebration—the Nebraska State Fair.&nbsp; From August 26th&nbsp;through September 5th, Nebraskans from across the state will gather to share all that Nebraska agriculture has to offer.&nbsp; It will be the 153rd&nbsp;time we gather for this time-honored tradition.&nbsp; Last year, the State Fair attracted more than a quarter-million attendees to Grand Island, including visitors from 10 countries and 43 states.&nbsp; This year, we’ll be ready to welcome even more guests looking to get a taste of the Good Life.

At its core, the State Fair is a fantastic celebration of Nebraska’s number one industry.&nbsp; Agriculture is the heart and soul of what we do here in our state.&nbsp; It accounts for roughly 20 percent of our economy and is a powerhouse for job creation—one in four Nebraska jobs are connected to agriculture.&nbsp; The State Fair gives us an opportunity to appreciate the full scope of agriculture in Nebraska and how it continues to shape our rich heritage.

Fairgoers are given an experiential way to learn about agriculture through the State Fair’s interactive Raising Nebraska exhibit.&nbsp; Attendees can drive a combine simulator, get their hands dirty in the various soils that nourish Nebraska’s crops, and learn how farmers use technology to irrigate fields.&nbsp; Additionally, a milking parlor at the State Fair gives attendees a firsthand look at dairy farming.

The fair also allows our next generation of Nebraska ag leaders to exhibit livestock through FFA and 4-H.&nbsp; They will show their skills caring for animals, helping fair attendees to better understand the importance of livestock agriculture to Nebraska.&nbsp; But as agriculture advances, so does the fair.&nbsp; This year, students will also participate in a robotics competition to demonstrate the many uses of technology in modern agriculture.

Beyond agriculture, the State Fair also showcases Nebraskans’ creativity.&nbsp; Cooks will enter homemade pies, jams, and relishes into culinary contests.&nbsp; Backyard farmers will compete to see how their flowers and vegetables stack up against the competition.&nbsp; And sculptors, quilters, and woodworkers will display their handiwork.&nbsp; These friendly competitions are an opportunity for Nebraskans to take home the coveted blue ribbon.

The State Fair is also Nebraska’s premier family-friendly festival.&nbsp; It boasts the state’s biggest carnival, featuring rides and games for all ages. &nbsp;And, there’s an abundance of entertainment options throughout the fair’s 11 days.&nbsp; Attendees can watch everything from BMX stunt riding to ultimate bullfighting to pig racing.&nbsp; On August 27th, fans can even cheer on runners competing in the Nebraska State Marathon, a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon.

Each year, the State Fair brings world-class musicians to Nebraska.&nbsp; Country music artists Lady A (formerly known as Lady Antebellum) will perform on September 3rd.&nbsp; Lady A is a three-time winner of the “Vocal Group of the Year” from both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association.&nbsp; Mexican band Los Tucanes De Tijuana, winners of a Latin Grammy, will take the stage August 31st.&nbsp; A full list of this year’s concerts is available&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.statefair.org%2Fentertainment-attractions%2Fnebraska-lottery-concert-series&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C2a253057f3f146e3e1a008da73d703f3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637949664557484593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lpVJ3NN8dO9QLk1eyvTjDwH%2FaZ0E5Wkab7B91X7lJIE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here</a>.

Of course, it wouldn’t be the Nebraska State Fair without plenty of good food!&nbsp; This year, more than 60 food stands will offer all sorts of flavorful eats.&nbsp; My personal favorite is the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Beef Pit, which serves mouth-watering Prime Rib dinners and slow-roasted beef.&nbsp; The UNL Dairy Store will once again serve up delicious ice cream.&nbsp; And there will be no shortage of funnel cakes, nachos, and fried foods on a stick.

True to the Nebraska Way, our State Fair always pays tribute to our veterans.&nbsp; On August 30th, there are several activities planned to honor our Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans.&nbsp; At 3:00 PM, there will be a veteran’s program in the Heartland Event Center.&nbsp; The day’s parade will also salute veterans for their service to our country.&nbsp; Additionally, Patriotic Productions will display their Nebraska&nbsp;Remembering Our Fallen&nbsp;exhibit throughout the entire fair in the Nebraska Building.&nbsp; It commemorates the brave Nebraskans we’ve lost in military service since 2001.

As we look forward to the 2022 State Fair, we’re also investing in its future growth.&nbsp; This spring, the State allocated $20 million of federal ARPA funds to improve infrastructure at the State Fair’s home in Fonner Park.&nbsp; The upgrades will ensure our State Fair has first-class facilities for Nebraskans to enjoy for generations to come.

Nearly 1,000 volunteers serve a combined 12,000+ hours each year to make the State Fair a success.&nbsp; Thank you to the many Nebraskans who generously give time to ensure fairgoers have a safe, fun, and memorable experience.&nbsp; If you have interest in volunteering this year, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.statefairvolunteer.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C2a253057f3f146e3e1a008da73d703f3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637949664557484593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lzhzzZpzBvD8Y2rucHlFtNWBENujdGw%2BE5x%2F7uh0CCY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">statefairvolunteer.org</a>.

I hope you’ll make plans to bring your family and friends to the 2022 Nebraska State Fair.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can check out all the fun that’s in store at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.statefair.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C2a253057f3f146e3e1a008da73d703f3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637949664557484593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=tQdW0rRMdyhRMhNu%2BNy5ub5LEW6Rth0VaJWum83vkj8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have any questions about the State’s support of the fair, or any other topic, please contact me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

By Gov. Pete RickettsWe’re less than a month away from our state’s biggest annual celebration—the Nebraska State Fair.&nbsp; From August 26th&nbsp;through September 5th, Nebraskans from across the state will gather to share all that Nebraska agriculture has to offer.&nbsp; It will be the 153rd&nbsp;time we gather for this time-honored tradition.&nbsp; Last year, the State Fair attracted more than a quarter-million attendees to Grand Island, including visitors from 10 countries and 43 states.&nbsp; This year, we’ll be ready to welcome even more guests looking to get a taste of the Good Life.At its core, the State Fair is a fantastic celebration of Nebraska’s number one industry.&nbsp; Agriculture is the heart and soul of what we do here in our state.&nbsp; It accounts for roughly 20 percent of our economy and is a powerhouse for job creation—one in four Nebraska jobs are connected to agriculture.&nbsp; The State Fair gives us an opportunity to appreciate the full scope of agriculture in Nebraska and how it continues to shape our rich heritage.Fairgoers are given an experiential way to learn about agriculture through the State Fair’s interactive Raising Nebraska exhibit.&nbsp; Attendees can drive a combine simulator, get their hands dirty in the various soils that nourish Nebraska’s crops, and learn how farmers use technology to irrigate fields.&nbsp; Additionally, a milking parlor at the State Fair gives attendees a firsthand look at dairy farming.The fair also allows our next generation of Nebraska ag leaders to exhibit livestock through FFA and 4-H.&nbsp; They will show their skills caring for animals, helping fair attendees to better understand the importance of livestock agriculture to Nebraska.&nbsp; But as agriculture advances, so does the fair.&nbsp; This year, students will also participate in a robotics competition to demonstrate the many uses of technology in modern agriculture.Beyond agriculture, the State Fair also showcases Nebraskans’ creativity.&nbsp; Cooks will enter homemade pies, jams, and relishes into culinary contests.&nbsp; Backyard farmers will compete to see how their flowers and vegetables stack up against the competition.&nbsp; And sculptors, quilters, and woodworkers will display their handiwork.&nbsp; These friendly competitions are an opportunity for Nebraskans to take home the coveted blue ribbon.The State Fair is also Nebraska’s premier family-friendly festival.&nbsp; It boasts the state’s biggest carnival, featuring rides and games for all ages. &nbsp;And, there’s an abundance of entertainment options throughout the fair’s 11 days.&nbsp; Attendees can watch everything from BMX stunt riding to ultimate bullfighting to pig racing.&nbsp; On August 27th, fans can even cheer on runners competing in the Nebraska State Marathon, a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon.Each year, the State Fair brings world-class musicians to Nebraska.&nbsp; Country music artists Lady A (formerly known as Lady Antebellum) will perform on September 3rd.&nbsp; Lady A is a three-time winner of the “Vocal Group of the Year” from both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association.&nbsp; Mexican band Los Tucanes De Tijuana, winners of a Latin Grammy, will take the stage August 31st.&nbsp; A full list of this year’s concerts is available&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.statefair.org%2Fentertainment-attractions%2Fnebraska-lottery-concert-series&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C2a253057f3f146e3e1a008da73d703f3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637949664557484593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lpVJ3NN8dO9QLk1eyvTjDwH%2FaZ0E5Wkab7B91X7lJIE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here</a>.Of course, it wouldn’t be the Nebraska State Fair without plenty of good food!&nbsp; This year, more than 60 food stands will offer all sorts of flavorful eats.&nbsp; My personal favorite is the Nebraska Cattlemen’s Beef Pit, which serves mouth-watering Prime Rib dinners and slow-roasted beef.&nbsp; The UNL Dairy Store will once again serve up delicious ice cream.&nbsp; And there will be no shortage of funnel cakes, nachos, and fried foods on a stick.True to the Nebraska Way, our State Fair always pays tribute to our veterans.&nbsp; On August 30th, there are several activities planned to honor our Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans.&nbsp; At 3:00 PM, there will be a veteran’s program in the Heartland Event Center.&nbsp; The day’s parade will also salute veterans for their service to our country.&nbsp; Additionally, Patriotic Productions will display their Nebraska&nbsp;Remembering Our Fallen&nbsp;exhibit throughout the entire fair in the Nebraska Building.&nbsp; It commemorates the brave Nebraskans we’ve lost in military service since 2001.As we look forward to the 2022 State Fair, we’re also investing in its future growth.&nbsp; This spring, the State allocated $20 million of federal ARPA funds to improve infrastructure at the State Fair’s home in Fonner Park.&nbsp; The upgrades will ensure our State Fair has first-class facilities for Nebraskans to enjoy for generations to come.Nearly 1,000 volunteers serve a combined 12,000+ hours each year to make the State Fair a success.&nbsp; Thank you to the many Nebraskans who generously give time to ensure fairgoers have a safe, fun, and memorable experience.&nbsp; If you have interest in volunteering this year, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.statefairvolunteer.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C2a253057f3f146e3e1a008da73d703f3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637949664557484593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=lzhzzZpzBvD8Y2rucHlFtNWBENujdGw%2BE5x%2F7uh0CCY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">statefairvolunteer.org</a>.I hope you’ll make plans to bring your family and friends to the 2022 Nebraska State Fair.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can check out all the fun that’s in store at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.statefair.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C2a253057f3f146e3e1a008da73d703f3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637949664557484593%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=tQdW0rRMdyhRMhNu%2BNy5ub5LEW6Rth0VaJWum83vkj8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have any questions about the State’s support of the fair, or any other topic, please contact me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

Ricketts: There’s nothing more Nebraskan than the state fair

On Aug. 1 the Chadron City Council approved Resolution 2022-85 allowing the enforcement of illegal parking within the designated bus stop located at 319 E 10th Street.

The city has been working closely with Mark Hunt, Campus Security Manager, to prepare the “cutout” section for the bus stop. Signs have been posted indicating “bus parking only”, parking stripes to be removed and a bench to be installed for the convenience of riders to sit and wait for the bus.

This location will be the designated bus stop for all college students, personnel and anyone in the vicinity needing a ride on the City Transit bus. Details on pickup times will be forthcoming.

Any questions or concerns, please contact City Transit at (308) 432-0520.

By City of ChadronOn Aug. 1 the Chadron City Council approved Resolution 2022-85 allowing the enforcement of illegal parking within the designated bus stop located at 319 E 10th Street.The city has been working closely with Mark Hunt, Campus Security Manager, to prepare the “cutout” section for the bus stop. Signs have been posted indicating “bus parking only”, parking stripes to be removed and a bench to be installed for the convenience of riders to sit and wait for the bus.This location will be the designated bus stop for all college students, personnel and anyone in the vicinity needing a ride on the City Transit bus. Details on pickup times will be forthcoming.Any questions or concerns, please contact City Transit at (308) 432-0520.

Chadron council approve new CSC bus stop, enforcement of illegal parking 

By Tricia Goes, Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District

This is the Crop Water Use Report for the week of August 1.

Over the past week, corn used 1.87 inches.

Expected use by corn for this week is 2.09 inches.

Over the past week, beets used 1.02 inches.

Expected use by beets for this week is 1.14 inches.

Over the past week, potatoes used 1.45 inches.

Expected use by potatoes for this week is 1.62 inches.

Over the past week, dry beans used 1.38 inches.

Expected use by dry beans for this week is 1.54 inches.

Over the past week, soybeans used 2.16 inches.

Expected use by soybeans for this week is 2.25 inches.

Over the past week, sunflowers used 1.7 inches.

Expected use by sunflowers for this week is 1.9 inches.

Over the past week, alfalfa used 2.3 inches.

Expected use by alfalfa for this week is 2.5 inches.

Over the past week, actively growing lawns used 1.7 inches.

Expected use by actively growing lawns for this week 1.9 inches.

Average ET gauge readings was 1.7 inches.

The average rainfall for the district was 0.52 inches.

The weather forecast for the next week shows highs in the upper 90’s and 100’s, and lows in the 60’s and 70’s with no chance of rain.

In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 1 showed 22% water available at 12”, 62% water available at 24”, and 72% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Sandy Loam soil type with Corn planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.

In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 2 showed 39.7% water available at 8”, 36.5% water available at 18”, and 32.3% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Loam soil type with Beets planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.

The crop water use report is completed using the average growth stage for each crop and ET gauge reading from across the district. To find the conversion for your specific crop growth stage, visit <a href="https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData">https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData</a>.

For more information or to inquire about ET gauges or soil moisture monitoring equipment, please contact Erin Lee at the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District at 308.432.6190 or visit our website at <a href="http://www.unwnrd.org">www.unwnrd.org</a>. We are committed to helping Nebraskans conserve and protect groundwater.

By Tricia Goes, Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources DistrictThis is the Crop Water Use Report for the week of August 1.Over the past week, corn used 1.87 inches.Expected use by corn for this week is 2.09 inches.Over the past week, beets used 1.02 inches.Expected use by beets for this week is 1.14 inches.Over the past week, potatoes used 1.45 inches.Expected use by potatoes for this week is 1.62 inches.Over the past week, dry beans used 1.38 inches.Expected use by dry beans for this week is 1.54 inches.Over the past week, soybeans used 2.16 inches.Expected use by soybeans for this week is 2.25 inches.Over the past week, sunflowers used 1.7 inches.Expected use by sunflowers for this week is 1.9 inches.Over the past week, alfalfa used 2.3 inches.Expected use by alfalfa for this week is 2.5 inches.Over the past week, actively growing lawns used 1.7 inches.Expected use by actively growing lawns for this week 1.9 inches.Average ET gauge readings was 1.7 inches.The average rainfall for the district was 0.52 inches.The weather forecast for the next week shows highs in the upper 90’s and 100’s, and lows in the 60’s and 70’s with no chance of rain.In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 1 showed 22% water available at 12”, 62% water available at 24”, and 72% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Sandy Loam soil type with Corn planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.In the last week, soil moisture monitoring station 2 showed 39.7% water available at 8”, 36.5% water available at 18”, and 32.3% water available at 36”. The producer did irrigate. Remember this is in a Loam soil type with Beets planted and will vary depending on site, weather, irrigation management, topography, crop, and soil type.The crop water use report is completed using the average growth stage for each crop and ET gauge reading from across the district. To find the conversion for your specific crop growth stage, visit <a href="https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData">https://nawmn.unl.edu/GrowthStageData</a>.For more information or to inquire about ET gauges or soil moisture monitoring equipment, please contact Erin Lee at the Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District at 308.432.6190 or visit our website at <a href="http://www.unwnrd.org">www.unwnrd.org</a>. We are committed to helping Nebraskans conserve and protect groundwater.

Upper Niobrara White NRD crop water use report, week of Aug. 1

Box Butte County Fair Shooting Sports Results

Exhibitor Name, Division, Class Description, Ribbon, Special Placing

Braden Myers	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Junior	Blue	Champion Junior BB Gun

Keith Buskirk	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Intermediate	Purple	

Katrina Karell	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Intermediate	Purple	Res Intermediate BB Gun

Makenna Quick	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Intermediate	Purple	Champion Intermediate BB Gun

Katrina Karell	Shooting Sports	Air Rifle - Intermediate	Blue	Res Intermediate Air Rifle

Makenna Quick	Shooting Sports	Air Rifle - Intermediate	Purple	Champion Intermediate Air Rifle

Ashley Carr	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Senior	Purple	Champion Senior BB Gun

Ashley Carr	Shooting Sports	Air Rifle - Senior	Purple	Champion Senior Air Rifle

Gattlen Bell	Shooting Sports	Trap - Intermediate	Purple	Champion Intermediate Trap Shooter

Keith Buskirk	Shooting Sports	Trap - Intermediate	Red	

Ty Horstman	Shooting Sports	Trap - Intermediate	Blue	Res Intermediate Trap Shooter

Caysen Robertson	Shooting Sports	Trap - Intermediate	Blue	

Gavin Bell	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	

Jacob Bryner	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	

Ashley Carr	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	

Shelby Carr	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	

Braden Connor	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	

Jett Eggers	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	

Daren McConville	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	Overall Trap Shooter

Hayden McDonald	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	

Brayden McGowan	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	

Ryan Ragsdale	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	

Mia Reynolds	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	

RJ Riggs	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	

Bayden Solberg	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	Champion Sr Trap Shooter

Joseph Steele	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Red	

Wyatt Walker	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	

Box Butte County Fair Shooting Sports ResultsExhibitor Name, Division, Class Description, Ribbon, Special PlacingBraden Myers	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Junior	Blue	Champion Junior BB GunKeith Buskirk	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Intermediate	Purple	Katrina Karell	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Intermediate	Purple	Res Intermediate BB GunMakenna Quick	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Intermediate	Purple	Champion Intermediate BB GunKatrina Karell	Shooting Sports	Air Rifle - Intermediate	Blue	Res Intermediate Air RifleMakenna Quick	Shooting Sports	Air Rifle - Intermediate	Purple	Champion Intermediate Air RifleAshley Carr	Shooting Sports	BB Gun - Senior	Purple	Champion Senior BB GunAshley Carr	Shooting Sports	Air Rifle - Senior	Purple	Champion Senior Air RifleGattlen Bell	Shooting Sports	Trap - Intermediate	Purple	Champion Intermediate Trap ShooterKeith Buskirk	Shooting Sports	Trap - Intermediate	Red	Ty Horstman	Shooting Sports	Trap - Intermediate	Blue	Res Intermediate Trap ShooterCaysen Robertson	Shooting Sports	Trap - Intermediate	Blue	Gavin Bell	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	Jacob Bryner	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	Ashley Carr	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	Ashley Carr	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	Shelby Carr	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	Braden Connor	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	Jett Eggers	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	Daren McConville	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	Overall Trap ShooterHayden McDonald	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	Brayden McGowan	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	Ryan Ragsdale	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	Mia Reynolds	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	RJ Riggs	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Blue	Bayden Solberg	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple	Champion Sr Trap ShooterJoseph Steele	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Red	Wyatt Walker	Shooting Sports	Trap - Senior	Purple

Box Butte Co. Fair Shooting Sports Results

Today we spoke with Alliance Chamber of Commerce Director Susan Unzicker about what's happening at the chamber, business spotlights, a Heritage Days wrap-up,&nbsp; and more.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Alliance Chamber connection" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=c2p79-128b3ab-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=5&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Today we spoke with Alliance Chamber of Commerce Director Susan Unzicker about what's happening at the chamber, business spotlights, a Heritage Days wrap-up,&nbsp; and more.&nbsp;

Post Podcast: Alliance Chamber connection 

The Alliance Police Department will hold "National Night Out" today in the Alliance Central Park beginning at 5 pm. - 7 p.m.&nbsp;

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659457349104.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Police Department will hold "National Night Out" today in the Alliance Central Park beginning at 5 pm. - 7 p.m.&nbsp;

Alliance police to hold 'National Night Out'

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 8/2/22

Kyren Gibson discusses August 2022 exhibits and events at the Carnegie.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Carnegie Arts Center" 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=73hwr-128b225-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>Kyren Gibson discusses August 2022 exhibits and events at the Carnegie.

POST PODCAST: Carnegie Arts Center

GERING, Neb. (AP) — A wildfire that has forced evacuations and destroyed some homes in the Nebraska Panhandle grew to about 25 square miles (65 square kilometers) Monday, but firefighters were managing to limit the spread of the fire.

The blaze south of Gering, dubbed the Carter Canyon Fire, was reported Saturday evening and began as two separate fires in heavily treed areas of the Cedar Canyon Wildlife Management Area and Carter Canyon Public Land, fire and emergency management officials said.

Officials said tinder-dry conditions, rough terrain and 20 mph (32 kph) winds hampered efforts to control the fires, which merged over the weekend into one fire.

The fire had grown to about 25 square miles (65 square kilometers) and was burning in an area of grassland and large trees, said Ben Bohall, public information officer with the Nebraska Forest Service.

The fire destroyed three homes and damaged several more in the Carter Canyon community that was evacuated Sunday. No injuries were immediately reported.

About 200 people were fighting the fire, with crews from Wyoming and South Dakota helping those from Nebraska, Bohall said. About 35 fire departments from the area and aircraft were brought in to battle the flames.

By Monday, the fire was about 33% contained and wasn't spreading significantly, officials said.

Fire crews will face difficult conditions as they try to control the blaze in the coming days. The National Weather Service forecasts continued winds and temperatures around or in excess of 100 degrees over the next six days, with only a 20% to 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday.

The fire in an area suffering from moderate to severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

The Nebraska fire was burning at a time when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-forests-california-fires-mckinney-ddb688b14e08de4f8f3a7fe8e2634a2c">other large fires</a>&nbsp;were raging in the West, including a Northern California fire that has burned through nearly 87 square miles (225.33 square kilometers) in the Klamath National Forest. Another fire has grown to about 20 square miles (51.80 square kilometers) in the Flathead Indian Reservation in northwestern Montana and Idaho's Moose Fire has burned more than 85 square miles (220.15 square kilometers).

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659373853526.jpeg" alt="Photo by Justin Burgess" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Justin Burgess</figcaption>
 </figure>GERING, Neb. (AP) — A wildfire that has forced evacuations and destroyed some homes in the Nebraska Panhandle grew to about 25 square miles (65 square kilometers) Monday, but firefighters were managing to limit the spread of the fire.The blaze south of Gering, dubbed the Carter Canyon Fire, was reported Saturday evening and began as two separate fires in heavily treed areas of the Cedar Canyon Wildlife Management Area and Carter Canyon Public Land, fire and emergency management officials said.Officials said tinder-dry conditions, rough terrain and 20 mph (32 kph) winds hampered efforts to control the fires, which merged over the weekend into one fire.The fire had grown to about 25 square miles (65 square kilometers) and was burning in an area of grassland and large trees, said Ben Bohall, public information officer with the Nebraska Forest Service.The fire destroyed three homes and damaged several more in the Carter Canyon community that was evacuated Sunday. No injuries were immediately reported.About 200 people were fighting the fire, with crews from Wyoming and South Dakota helping those from Nebraska, Bohall said. About 35 fire departments from the area and aircraft were brought in to battle the flames.By Monday, the fire was about 33% contained and wasn't spreading significantly, officials said.Fire crews will face difficult conditions as they try to control the blaze in the coming days. The National Weather Service forecasts continued winds and temperatures around or in excess of 100 degrees over the next six days, with only a 20% to 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday.The fire in an area suffering from moderate to severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.The Nebraska fire was burning at a time when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-forests-california-fires-mckinney-ddb688b14e08de4f8f3a7fe8e2634a2c">other large fires</a>&nbsp;were raging in the West, including a Northern California fire that has burned through nearly 87 square miles (225.33 square kilometers) in the Klamath National Forest. Another fire has grown to about 20 square miles (51.80 square kilometers) in the Flathead Indian Reservation in northwestern Montana and Idaho's Moose Fire has burned more than 85 square miles (220.15 square kilometers).

UPDATE: Panhandle wildfire prompts evacuations, burns homes

Alliance – It is with great pride and pleasure we announce that as of July 26, the City of Alliance Police Department has received accredited status from the State of Nebraska!

Accreditation is a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of our police force in order to excel in their field and assures that the department is conforming to “best practices” in law enforcement.

 Our congratulations go out to the entire police department on this accomplishment!&nbsp;

For more information, please contact the City of Alliance Police Department by calling (308) 762-4955.

By City of AllianceAlliance – It is with great pride and pleasure we announce that as of July 26, the City of Alliance Police Department has received accredited status from the State of Nebraska!Accreditation is a testament to the dedication and sacrifice of our police force in order to excel in their field and assures that the department is conforming to “best practices” in law enforcement. Our congratulations go out to the entire police department on this accomplishment!&nbsp;For more information, please contact the City of Alliance Police Department by calling (308) 762-4955.

Alliance Police Department receives accreditation status

By&nbsp;Agate&nbsp;Fossil Beds National Monument

Harrison, NE- Park Ranger Beth Nunn will present her program “A Unique Friendship During Turbulent Times” on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. in the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is located at 301 River Rd. Harrison, NE.&nbsp;

During a turbulent time in American History when the Native American people were fighting to keep their land and the American Government was taking it, an unlikely friendship began between James Cook and Lakota Chief Red Cloud. This friendship brought about a beautiful Native American artifact collection that marks many historical events. Join Ranger Beth as she talks about how this friendship came about, and how it shares the history and culture of the Plains Indians. This program is free and appropriate for visitors of all ages.&nbsp;

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is located 34 miles north of Mitchell, NE or 22 miles south of Harrison, NE on Highway 29 and 3 miles east on River Rd. The Visitor Center summer hours are 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and the trails are open from dawn until dusk. Visit us at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/agfo" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/agfo</a>&nbsp;and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Agate&nbsp;Fossil Beds National MonumentHarrison, NE- Park Ranger Beth Nunn will present her program “A Unique Friendship During Turbulent Times” on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. in the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is located at 301 River Rd. Harrison, NE.&nbsp;During a turbulent time in American History when the Native American people were fighting to keep their land and the American Government was taking it, an unlikely friendship began between James Cook and Lakota Chief Red Cloud. This friendship brought about a beautiful Native American artifact collection that marks many historical events. Join Ranger Beth as she talks about how this friendship came about, and how it shares the history and culture of the Plains Indians. This program is free and appropriate for visitors of all ages.&nbsp;Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is located 34 miles north of Mitchell, NE or 22 miles south of Harrison, NE on Highway 29 and 3 miles east on River Rd. The Visitor Center summer hours are 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and the trails are open from dawn until dusk. Visit us at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/agfo" target="_blank">www.nps.gov/agfo</a>&nbsp;and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.&nbsp;

Agate Fossil Beds Natl. Mon. to present 'A Unique Friendship in Turbulent Times' 

SCOTTSBLUFF - Western&nbsp;Nebraska Community College is seeking actors to&nbsp;play the roles of patients and family members in life-like simulations for the WNCC Nursing Program.&nbsp;

Auditions will be held Saturday, August 6 starting at 10 a.m. in the Judy Chaloupka Theater on WNCC's Scottsbluff Campus. All actors must be 18 or older, and comfortable with measurement of vital signs and simple, non-invasive medical procedures.&nbsp;These are paid positions and a background check is required.

The simulations will aid WNCC&nbsp;nursing students in gaining real-life experience in a controlled environment. If chosen, actors will attend training sessions in September to prepare for the simulations.&nbsp;

To sign up for an audition time, visit go.wncc.edu/patientaudition.&nbsp;

For more information, contact Violette Briggs, WNCC Theatre Arts Instructor at kjeldgav@wncc.edu or 308.635.6038.&nbsp;

By WNCCSCOTTSBLUFF - Western&nbsp;Nebraska Community College is seeking actors to&nbsp;play the roles of patients and family members in life-like simulations for the WNCC Nursing Program.&nbsp;Auditions will be held Saturday, August 6 starting at 10 a.m. in the Judy Chaloupka Theater on WNCC's Scottsbluff Campus. All actors must be 18 or older, and comfortable with measurement of vital signs and simple, non-invasive medical procedures.&nbsp;These are paid positions and a background check is required.The simulations will aid WNCC&nbsp;nursing students in gaining real-life experience in a controlled environment. If chosen, actors will attend training sessions in September to prepare for the simulations.&nbsp;To sign up for an audition time, visit go.wncc.edu/patientaudition.&nbsp;For more information, contact Violette Briggs, WNCC Theatre Arts Instructor at kjeldgav@wncc.edu or 308.635.6038.&nbsp;

WNCC seeking actors to portray patients for nursing simulations

Ten years ago, on Aug. 28 2012, Camp Norwesca and Chadron State Park were devastated&nbsp;by the West Ash Fire. 

At Camp Norwesca, 32 of the 40 acres on the property suffered significant fire and smoke damage. 

We continue to rebuild from the ashes and this year we will remember our history of where we have been, where we are now and our future plans.

Join us for an evening of remembrance and fellowship

By Panhandle Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659028868608.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ten years ago, on Aug. 28 2012, Camp Norwesca and Chadron State Park were devastated&nbsp;by the West Ash Fire. At Camp Norwesca, 32 of the 40 acres on the property suffered significant fire and smoke damage. We continue to rebuild from the ashes and this year we will remember our history of where we have been, where we are now and our future plans.Join us for an evening of remembrance and fellowship<ul>
 <li>BBQ Dinner</li><li>Door prizes</li><li>Tour of Camp Norwesca</li><li>Special Guest Speakers from the&nbsp;Nebraska Forest Service and NRD</li><li>Dedication tree planting</li>
 </ul>

Winning lottery jackpot is lucky for some, tragic for others

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 8/1/22

By&nbsp;Marietta Moffatt Richardson

The 59th Annual Peabody Hale Fiddle Contest was held on Saturday, July 30 at the Crawford City Park. 

By&nbsp;Marietta Moffatt RichardsonThe 59th Annual Peabody Hale Fiddle Contest was held on Saturday, July 30 at the Crawford City Park. The park was filled with sounds of horseshoes, music and smells of good food. This year we did an open gate with a freewill donation and the spectators were great in supporting us. The trophy donators this year were for the Fiddle Trophies – The Family of Dora and Ellis “Peabody” Hale. The Vocal and Miscellaneous Trophies were donated by Betty Moffatt. The Horseshoe Trophies were donated by Frank Richardson. Our Master of Ceremonies and Entertainment for the day was provided by Renae and Jack Jones of the “Boots and Saddles Band”. We had 25 contestants from Nebraska, Wyoming and Colorado, the youngest being 7 and the oldest 86. Winners: Vocal Contest1st Place – Mark Buckingham—Norfolk, NE2nd Place – Casey Whiteman – Casper, WY3rd Place – Pete Butler—Crawford, NEPee Wee Fiddle Division (12 and under)1st Place – Charlie Carnine -- Angora, NE2nd Place – Sylvie Carnine – Angora, NEJunior Fiddle Division (13-18)1st – Callie Robbins – Alliance, NE2nd – Dorothy Doharsh – Agora, NE3rd – Lillian Hudnall – Columbus, NEAdult Fiddle Division (19-59)1st – Cody Stadelmaier – Fort Collins, CO2nd – Casey Whiteman – Casper, WY3rd – Amy Bloyd – Casper, WYSenior Fiddle Division (60+)1st – Joe Cross – Arthur, NE2nd – Ann Robinson – Casper, Wy3rd – Vern Billingsly –Mitchell, NEMiscellaneous Division1st – Deborah Horst (Mandolin) – Crawford, NE2nd – Grant Robbins (Guitar) – Alliance, NE3rd – Casey Whiteman (Guitar) – Casper, WYOverall Winner – Cody Stadelmaier – Fort Collins, CO.Horseshoe Tournament Winners (organized and set up by Sid Dubs of Alliance, NE who has been working with the horseshoe tournament for 30 years)1st Place – Steve Folcher and Roger Goffena2nd – Anthony Tollman and Josh Adamson3rd – Sid Dubs and Carl Baehler4th – LeRoy Adamson and John Nelson5th – Guy Fish and Carolyn FishThanks to all for the great continued support and coming out to support this Crawford tradition. We had a great audience despite the numerousother activities going on and the heat. We are looking forward to next year for our 60th Celebration on Saturday, July 29th, 2023.

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