By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

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.

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.

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.

Poverty In Our Area: Language patterns

Alliance – May is Law Enforcement Appreciation Month. The Alliance Public Library will feature K-9 Officer Team Marco Vera Chavez and Zeus of the Alliance Police Department on Friday, May 6 at 4 p.m. in the Community Room for grades K-12.

Come meet this amazing team as they share about their police work together, serving and protecting our community!

For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

By City of AllianceAlliance – May is Law Enforcement Appreciation Month. The Alliance Public Library will feature K-9 Officer Team Marco Vera Chavez and Zeus of the Alliance Police Department on Friday, May 6 at 4 p.m. in the Community Room for grades K-12.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651072527090.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Come meet this amazing team as they share about their police work together, serving and protecting our community!For more information, please contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at 762-1387.

Alliance library to host APD K-9 Officer Chavez, Zeus

The 2022 Legislative Session will go down in history as one of the Nebraska Unicameral’s finest.  In just 60 days, the Legislature passed record tax relief, made critical public safety enhancements, and invested in generational water resource projects.  As if this wasn’t enough, Senators also allocated $1.04 billion of federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. 

Here are some of the highlights of this historic session.

The crowning achievement was tax relief.  Heading into this session, we had delivered $4 billion in direct property tax relief over the past eight years.  The tax package I signed into law, LB 873, delivers an additional $3.4 billion of tax relief to Nebraskans through tax year 2027.  When fully implemented, LB 873 will provide 12 times the tax relief of any tax relief bill passed in any prior administration.

LB 873 is meaningful for Nebraska.  Our seniors will see an accelerated phaseout of state taxation of social security income, which will now be fully exempt in tax year 2025.  This keeps more money in our seniors’ pockets in the face of rising inflation and encourages them to stay in Nebraska to see their grandkids grow.

Nebraskans can now have certainty that property tax relief will continue.  LB 873 makes permanent the property tax relief passed in 2020.  This year, taxpayers received a 25.3% rebate from the State on what they paid into their local schools in property taxes.  Additionally, the tax package creates a new rebate on property taxes paid to community colleges.  The rebate will be $50 million for the 2022 tax year and grow to $195 million by tax year 2026.

Our hardworking middle-class families will receive much-needed tax relief through a reduction to their income tax rate.  We will reduce the tax rate from 6.84% to 5.84% by the 2027 tax year.  The legislation ensures our businesses will also have a tax rate of 5.84% by that same year.  These changes will allow Nebraska to be more competitive with surrounding states.

This session, Senators embraced Nebraskans’ strong support of law enforcement and made strategic enhancements to public safety.

The Legislature followed my recommendation to allocate $47.7 million to add capacity to the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island.  This investment will allow our new recruits to receive training that’s second-to-none.  Senators also approved my proposal for $16.9 million to upgrade and expand our State Patrol Crime Lab.  This will ensure the State Patrol has the capacity to process evidence efficiently and bring justice for victims of crime.

Additionally, we enacted legislation to strengthen our law enforcement workforce.  We established reciprocity for out-of-state law enforcement officers to help them more quickly find jobs after moving to Nebraska.  We also helped law enforcement agencies recruit and retain officers by paying for incentives for years of service.  We provided tax relief on health care premiums for retired law enforcement age 60+ with 20+ years of service.  And the State will provide a 100% tuition waiver to law enforcement studying at the University system, state colleges, or community colleges.

At a time when others are defunding the police, Nebraska is demonstrating our commitment to the women and men who put on the blue to protect our communities.

The Unicameral made additional investments for future generations of Nebraskans.  This spring, I signed landmark legislation to protect and develop our water resources. 

We enacted LB 1015 to authorize construction of the Perkins County Canal, which will protect our water flows stemming from the South Platte River.  Nebraskans currently depend on this water for our drinking supply, agricultural irrigation, power generation, and the health of our natural environment.  Through LB 1015, we will be able to get this vital project moving right away.

The Legislature also gave the green light on other water infrastructure projects through LB 1023.  Senators approved four major projects put forward by the STAR WARS Committee: construction of a new marina at Lake McConaughy; a major marina expansion at Lewis and Clark Lake; construction of an event center and lodge at Niobrara State Park; and creation of a 3,600-acre reservoir between Lincoln and Omaha.  These investments will develop Nebraska’s water resources to generate additional recreation and tourism opportunities.

Senators also passed a $1.04 billion ARPA budget to address the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.  Among other provisions: it invests $60 million to create more capacity at our community colleges; it allocates over $120 million for affordable housing; it devotes $100 million for shovel-ready projects delayed by the pandemic; it boosts healthcare by investing in behavioral health facilities and a rural health complex in Kearney; and it creates grants to expand meat processing capacity to benefit our ag producers and consumers.

Legislators also passed major legislation to revitalize urban areas adversely impacted by the coronavirus.  LB 1024 creates economic recovery grants to support job training, small business growth, and land development in North Omaha, South Omaha, and other qualifying census tracts throughout the State.

On top of these ARPA investments, Senators prioritized growth in rural Nebraska by extending and expanding the Nebraska Rural Development Act.  They also created tax credits to encourage fuel retailers to sell E15 and higher blends of ethanol.

In my end-of-session speech to the Legislature, I summed up all of these accomplishments in a single word: Wow!  Any one of these would have been considered historic, but all four efforts passed in a short, 60-day session is truly remarkable. 

If you have questions about legislation passed during the 2022 session, please email pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov or call 402-471-2244. 

By Gov. Pete RickettsThe 2022 Legislative Session will go down in history as one of the Nebraska Unicameral’s finest. In just 60 days, the Legislature passed record tax relief, made critical public safety enhancements, and invested in generational water resource projects. As if this wasn’t enough, Senators also allocated $1.04 billion of federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Here are some of the highlights of this historic session.Tax ReliefThe crowning achievement was tax relief. Heading into this session, we had delivered $4 billion in direct property tax relief over the past eight years. The tax package I signed into law, LB 873, delivers an additional $3.4 billion of tax relief to Nebraskans through tax year 2027. When fully implemented, LB 873 will provide 12 times the tax relief of any tax relief bill passed in any prior administration.LB 873 is meaningful for Nebraska. Our seniors will see an accelerated phaseout of state taxation of social security income, which will now be fully exempt in tax year 2025. This keeps more money in our seniors’ pockets in the face of rising inflation and encourages them to stay in Nebraska to see their grandkids grow.Nebraskans can now have certainty that property tax relief will continue. LB 873 makes permanent the property tax relief passed in 2020. This year, taxpayers received a 25.3% rebate from the State on what they paid into their local schools in property taxes. Additionally, the tax package creates a new rebate on property taxes paid to community colleges. The rebate will be $50 million for the 2022 tax year and grow to $195 million by tax year 2026.Our hardworking middle-class families will receive much-needed tax relief through a reduction to their income tax rate. We will reduce the tax rate from 6.84% to 5.84% by the 2027 tax year. The legislation ensures our businesses will also have a tax rate of 5.84% by that same year. These changes will allow Nebraska to be more competitive with surrounding states.Public SafetyThis session, Senators embraced Nebraskans’ strong support of law enforcement and made strategic enhancements to public safety.The Legislature followed my recommendation to allocate $47.7 million to add capacity to the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island. This investment will allow our new recruits to receive training that’s second-to-none. Senators also approved my proposal for $16.9 million to upgrade and expand our State Patrol Crime Lab. This will ensure the State Patrol has the capacity to process evidence efficiently and bring justice for victims of crime.Additionally, we enacted legislation to strengthen our law enforcement workforce. We established reciprocity for out-of-state law enforcement officers to help them more quickly find jobs after moving to Nebraska. We also helped law enforcement agencies recruit and retain officers by paying for incentives for years of service. We provided tax relief on health care premiums for retired law enforcement age 60+ with 20+ years of service. And the State will provide a 100% tuition waiver to law enforcement studying at the University system, state colleges, or community colleges.At a time when others are defunding the police, Nebraska is demonstrating our commitment to the women and men who put on the blue to protect our communities.Water ResourcesThe Unicameral made additional investments for future generations of Nebraskans. This spring, I signed landmark legislation to protect and develop our water resources. We enacted LB 1015 to authorize construction of the Perkins County Canal, which will protect our water flows stemming from the South Platte River. Nebraskans currently depend on this water for our drinking supply, agricultural irrigation, power generation, and the health of our natural environment. Through LB 1015, we will be able to get this vital project moving right away.The Legislature also gave the green light on other water infrastructure projects through LB 1023. Senators approved four major projects put forward by the STAR WARS Committee: construction of a new marina at Lake McConaughy; a major marina expansion at Lewis and Clark Lake; construction of an event center and lodge at Niobrara State Park; and creation of a 3,600-acre reservoir between Lincoln and Omaha. These investments will develop Nebraska’s water resources to generate additional recreation and tourism opportunities.Pandemic RecoverySenators also passed a $1.04 billion ARPA budget to address the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. Among other provisions: it invests $60 million to create more capacity at our community colleges; it allocates over $120 million for affordable housing; it devotes $100 million for shovel-ready projects delayed by the pandemic; it boosts healthcare by investing in behavioral health facilities and a rural health complex in Kearney; and it creates grants to expand meat processing capacity to benefit our ag producers and consumers.Legislators also passed major legislation to revitalize urban areas adversely impacted by the coronavirus. LB 1024 creates economic recovery grants to support job training, small business growth, and land development in North Omaha, South Omaha, and other qualifying census tracts throughout the State.On top of these ARPA investments, Senators prioritized growth in rural Nebraska by extending and expanding the Nebraska Rural Development Act. They also created tax credits to encourage fuel retailers to sell E15 and higher blends of ethanol.In my end-of-session speech to the Legislature, I summed up all of these accomplishments in a single word: Wow! Any one of these would have been considered historic, but all four efforts passed in a short, 60-day session is truly remarkable. If you have questions about legislation passed during the 2022 session, please email pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov or call 402-471-2244.

Gov. Ricketts: A history-making 60 days

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Stiff winds remain a challenge but beefed up fire crews are making significant progress on a large prairie fire burning near the Nebraska-Kansas line.

In the Southwest, lighter winds have allowed firefighters to keep flames from advancing significantly at big fires in Arizona and New Mexico where multiple blazes have charred a combined 225 square miles since last week. 

More than 200 firefighters are now battling the Nebraska fire that killed a former volunteer fire chief, injured several firefighter and destroyed several homes last week.

 Fire spokesman Terry Krasko says the biggest loss on Tuesday was a few hay bales. 

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Stiff winds remain a challenge but beefed up fire crews are making significant progress on a large prairie fire burning near the Nebraska-Kansas line.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651070493531.jpeg" alt="Photo by Nebraska State Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Nebraska State Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>In the Southwest, lighter winds have allowed firefighters to keep flames from advancing significantly at big fires in Arizona and New Mexico where multiple blazes have charred a combined 225 square miles since last week. More than 200 firefighters are now battling the Nebraska fire that killed a former volunteer fire chief, injured several firefighter and destroyed several homes last week. Fire spokesman Terry Krasko says the biggest loss on Tuesday was a few hay bales. That fire is now 74% contained.

Added crews making progress on Midwest, Southwest fires

SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.&nbsp; — On Wednesday, the Nebraska State Patrol and Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office will present Life Saver Awards to citizens credited with the saving the life of a Scotts Bluff County Deputy earlier this month.

The crash occurred on April 18, when Deputy Josh Ruzicka suffered a medical incident while driving on Highway 71 in his marked patrol vehicle. The vehicle left the roadway and crashed, causing the vehicle to catch fire.

There were multiple witnesses to the crash. Three individuals stopped to help the deputy. Together, they were able to extract Deputy Ruzicka from the vehicle and pull him to safety.

By Nebraska State PatrolSCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.&nbsp; — On Wednesday, the Nebraska State Patrol and Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office will present Life Saver Awards to citizens credited with the saving the life of a Scotts Bluff County Deputy earlier this month.The crash occurred on April 18, when Deputy Josh Ruzicka suffered a medical incident while driving on Highway 71 in his marked patrol vehicle. The vehicle left the roadway and crashed, causing the vehicle to catch fire.There were multiple witnesses to the crash. Three individuals stopped to help the deputy. Together, they were able to extract Deputy Ruzicka from the vehicle and pull him to safety.

NSP, Scotts Bluff Co. Sheriff to honor citizen heroes in Scottsbluff

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Fire crews took advantage of a break in the weather in their battle to contain large fires in the West and Plains states but fear the return of stronger winds could spread flames further.

 Officials say a southwestern Nebraska wildfire that killed a former volunteer fire chief last week and destroyed several homes is about half contained. 

Officials say strong winds blew into southwest Nebraska on Tuesday but crews kept the fire within its perimeter and no new injuries or damage to buildings was reported. 

Crews in the West continue working to corral blazes in northern New Mexico that charred a combined 225 square miles over recent days.

 Several small villages are threatened and evacuations remain in place.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Fire crews took advantage of a break in the weather in their battle to contain large fires in the West and Plains states but fear the return of stronger winds could spread flames further. Officials say a southwestern Nebraska wildfire that killed a former volunteer fire chief last week and destroyed several homes is about half contained. Officials say strong winds blew into southwest Nebraska on Tuesday but crews kept the fire within its perimeter and no new injuries or damage to buildings was reported. Crews in the West continue working to corral blazes in northern New Mexico that charred a combined 225 square miles over recent days. Several small villages are threatened and evacuations remain in place.

Progress made on wildfires but high winds threaten efforts

Today we spoke with Kyren Armstrong from Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District about their educational and information programs.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Upper Niobrara White NRD educational programs" 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=bhrxe-120edbc-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 Kyren Armstrong from Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District about their educational and information programs.&nbsp;

🔊POST PODCAST: Upper Niobrara White NRD educational programs

The Alliance Police Department honored our hard working men and women last night at our Awards Banquet.  Here are our award recipients:

Certificate of Recognition recipients:

Community Service Commendation recipients:

Leadership Commendation recipient:

Distinguished Service Commendation recipients:

Public Safety Dispatcher of the Year recipient:

Police Officer of the Year recipient:

Congratulations to all of our staff who received an honor last night, but thank you to all of our staff equally for all of your long hours, hard work and dedication to the community.

Also a special thank you to the Knight Museum staff who served us a delicious meal.

By Alliance Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991157629.jpeg" alt="Alliance Police Chief Philip Lukens addressing the crowd.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Alliance Police Chief Philip Lukens addressing the crowd.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance Police Department honored our hard working men and women last night at our Awards Banquet. Here are our award recipients:Certificate of Recognition recipients:Officer Dani CampbellSergeant James Grumbles<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991464382.jpeg" alt="Sergeant James Grumbles and Officer Dani Campbell receive Certificates of Recognition.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sergeant James Grumbles and Officer Dani Campbell receive Certificates of Recognition.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Officer Seth McLaughlinSergeant Stefan YocumAnimal Control Officer Toni RavertCommunity Service Commendation recipients:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991637089.jpeg" alt="Sergeant James Grumbles receives a Community Service Commendation." />
 <figcaption>Sergeant James Grumbles receives a Community Service Commendation.</figcaption>
 </figure>Sergeant James Grumbles<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991315185.jpeg" alt="Officer Seth McLaughlin receives a Community Service Commendation." />
 <figcaption>Officer Seth McLaughlin receives a Community Service Commendation.</figcaption>
 </figure>Officer Seth McLaughlinOfficer Tyler SherlockLeadership Commendation recipient:Sergeant Tim Peterson<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991691387.jpeg" alt="Sergeant Tim Peterson receives the 2021 Leadership Commendation.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sergeant Tim Peterson receives the 2021 Leadership Commendation.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Distinguished Service Commendation recipients:Dispatcher Codi LashleyOfficer Marco Vera ChavezOfficer Tyler Sherlock<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991560194.jpeg" alt="Officer Sherlock receives a Distinguished Service Commendation.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Officer Sherlock receives a Distinguished Service Commendation.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Lifesaving Medal recipients:Officer Aly KonopnickiLieutenant Cody Buskirk<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991747241.jpeg" alt="Officer Dani Campbell receives a Lifesaving Medal" />
 <figcaption>Officer Dani Campbell receives a Lifesaving Medal</figcaption>
 </figure>Officer Dani CampbellSergeant Stefan YocumOfficer Seth McLaughlin<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991875008.jpeg" alt="Officer Aly Konopnicki, Lieutenant Cody Buskirk and Officer Sherlock receive a Lifesaving Medal.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Officer Aly Konopnicki, Lieutenant Cody Buskirk and Officer Sherlock receive a Lifesaving Medal.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Officer Tyler SherlockDispatch Leigh Shakes-Yardley<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991958848.jpeg" alt="Officer Seth McLaughlin and Dispatch Leigh Shakes-Yardley receive Lifesaving Medals." />
 <figcaption>Officer Seth McLaughlin and Dispatch Leigh Shakes-Yardley receive Lifesaving Medals.</figcaption>
 </figure>Public Safety Dispatcher of the Year recipient:Dispatcher Leigh Shakes-Yardley<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650992019382.jpeg" alt="Public Safety Dispatcher Leigh Shakes-Yardley is awarded the 2021 Public Safety Dispatcher of the Year." />
 <figcaption>Public Safety Dispatcher Leigh Shakes-Yardley is awarded the 2021 Public Safety Dispatcher of the Year.</figcaption>
 </figure>Police Officer of the Year recipient:Sergeant David LaDuke<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991208187.jpeg" alt="Sergeant LaDuke receives the 2021 Officer of the Year Award.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sergeant LaDuke receives the 2021 Officer of the Year Award.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to all of our staff who received an honor last night, but thank you to all of our staff equally for all of your long hours, hard work and dedication to the community.Also a special thank you to the Knight Museum staff who served us a delicious meal.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991363549.jpeg" alt="Officer Bryan Buskirk's badge pinning.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Officer Bryan Buskirk's badge pinning.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650991392651.jpeg" alt="Officer Michael Gomez' badge pinning.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Officer Michael Gomez' badge pinning.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650992129178.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Alliance Police Department hold awards banquet at Knight Museum 

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/26/22

On April 26 at 12:12 a.m. emergency personnel responded to a one vehicle accident on 21st Avenue, south of 42nd Street near the Scottsbluff city limits.

"There were barricades at the intersection of 21st&nbsp;Avenue and E. 42nd&nbsp;Street at the time," Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman said.&nbsp; "The road was closed due to electrical infrastructure repairs caused by a severe windstorm over the weekend.&nbsp; There was construction equipment on the roadway."

Deputies located a Dodge Ram truck that struck a parked semi-trailer that was in the roadway.&nbsp; 

30-year-old Andres J. Gutierrez was driving southbound on Sugar Factory Road in the closed area and bypassed barricades.&nbsp;

Gutierrez was pronounced deceased at the scene.

"We are investigating excessive speed and alcohol as contributing factors," Overman said.&nbsp;

Seatbelts were not used is this accident.&nbsp;

Overman said next of kin has been notified.&nbsp;

The Nebraska State Patrol, Scottsbluff Rural Fire Department, City of Scottsbluff Fire Department and Valley Ambulance assisted with this accident.&nbsp;

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostOn April 26 at 12:12 a.m. emergency personnel responded to a one vehicle accident on 21st Avenue, south of 42nd Street near the Scottsbluff city limits."There were barricades at the intersection of 21st&nbsp;Avenue and E. 42nd&nbsp;Street at the time," Scotts Bluff County Sheriff Mark Overman said.&nbsp; "The road was closed due to electrical infrastructure repairs caused by a severe windstorm over the weekend.&nbsp; There was construction equipment on the roadway."Deputies located a Dodge Ram truck that struck a parked semi-trailer that was in the roadway.&nbsp; 30-year-old Andres J. Gutierrez was driving southbound on Sugar Factory Road in the closed area and bypassed barricades.&nbsp;Gutierrez was pronounced deceased at the scene."We are investigating excessive speed and alcohol as contributing factors," Overman said.&nbsp;Seatbelts were not used is this accident.&nbsp;Overman said next of kin has been notified.&nbsp;The Nebraska State Patrol, Scottsbluff Rural Fire Department, City of Scottsbluff Fire Department and Valley Ambulance assisted with this accident.&nbsp;

Scottsbluff man dies after crashing into parked semi-trailer

Karen Benzel discusses the upcoming Color Dash in Gering.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska" 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=rnhek-120e8ed-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>Karen Benzel discusses the upcoming Color Dash in Gering.

POST PODCAST: United Way of Western Nebraska

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol has completed a week-long awareness and enforcement effort focusing on drunk and drug-impaired driving. Troopers and dispatchers worked overtime performing high visibility patrols as part of the effort.

During the initiative, which ran from April 18 through April 24, troopers arrested 15 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol and 1 motorist for driving under the influence of drugs. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (287), no seat belt (10), improper child restraint (4), open alcohol container (9), minor in possession (13), driving under suspension (42), and no proof of insurance (26). Troopers performed 290 motorist assists throughout the week.

The effort included a focus on both passenger vehicles and commercial motor vehicles. Nebraska State Patrol’s portion to this effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

By Nebraska State PatrolLINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol has completed a week-long awareness and enforcement effort focusing on drunk and drug-impaired driving. Troopers and dispatchers worked overtime performing high visibility patrols as part of the effort.During the initiative, which ran from April 18 through April 24, troopers arrested 15 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol and 1 motorist for driving under the influence of drugs. Troopers also issued citations for speeding (287), no seat belt (10), improper child restraint (4), open alcohol container (9), minor in possession (13), driving under suspension (42), and no proof of insurance (26). Troopers performed 290 motorist assists throughout the week.The effort included a focus on both passenger vehicles and commercial motor vehicles. Nebraska State Patrol’s portion to this effort was made possible thanks in part to grant funding from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Troopers wrap-up drunk, drug-impaired driving grant

By&nbsp;Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team One

Special Safety and Weather Information:

A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon until 8 pm today.&nbsp; Temperatures are predicted to be in the 70’s with winds from the south shifting south/southwest around 10 am.&nbsp; Winds are predicted to be 16-26 mph gusting to 28-40.&nbsp; Critical fire weather conditions will continue into Tuesday evening with winds gusting 20-25 mph through most of the night.&nbsp; Increased gusty winds may create low visibility in and around the fire area due to blowing dust and ash.&nbsp;

Additional resources have arrived from several surrounding states to assist with suppression efforts on the Road 702 Fire.&nbsp; The arrival of these resources has allowed firefighters from local volunteer departments to get some rest and reset with family after what has already been several weeks high fire activity.&nbsp; Incident Management would like to acknowledge the great work that was done by first responders.&nbsp; It is gearing up to be a very busy fire season, and we are honored to be able to assist the local departments.&nbsp;

Branch I (North and West side)-&nbsp; Branch I encompasses the area from Cambridge west along the fire edge and south to Lebanon, NE.&nbsp; The portion of the fire north of US-6, in Division A, has been contained.&nbsp; Firefighters will continue to patrol and mop up in this area and continue to strengthen containment lines.&nbsp; Along the west side of the fire, from US-6 south to near Silver Creek, firefighters continue to work on containment lines and cooling down hot spots within the timbered draws.&nbsp; Heavy equipment is being used to remove trees that pose a hazard to firefighters in this area.&nbsp; From near Silver Creek south to the Branch I/III break at State Highway 89, the perimeter has been contained and firefighters will continue to patrol and mop up.

Branch III (East and South side)- Branch III encompasses east and south perimeters of the fire from Cambridge south to Wilsonville and into Kansas.&nbsp; From the Branch I/III break at State Highway 89 south to Road 702, the fire perimeter has been contained.&nbsp; Good progress is being made on the portion of the fire that is in Kansas and containment on this section of the fire is expected soon.&nbsp; On the east side, the fire previously pushed out in several places creating fingers of unsecured fire edge.&nbsp; Direct and indirect fireline is being constructed to contain the fingers to lessen the risk of fire escaping containment lines.&nbsp;&nbsp; Firefighters will continue to patrol and mop up all portions of Branch III that have been contained.&nbsp;

Evacuations and Fire Restrictions:&nbsp;There are currently no evacuations on the Road 702 Fire.&nbsp; For information on fire restrictions in Nebraska, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sfm.nebraska.gov/fire-departments/burn-permits" target="_blank">https://sfm.nebraska.gov/fire-departments/burn-permits</a>.

Note on Fire Size: Please note the decrease in acres from last night’s report.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last night we reported that the fire had increased by just over 1000 acres due to field verification of an area that had previously burned north of US-6.&nbsp; Fire acreage frequently fluctuates early in an incident as incoming GIS data is verified and cleaned up (i.e., smoothing out jagged and overlapping areas).&nbsp;

Other Fires in Nebraska:&nbsp;For information on other fires in Nebraska, please follow NEMA on Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnema.page&amp;data=05%7C01%7Cnema-news%40listserv.nebraska.gov%7C779b64d1cce64d51691d08da279023c3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637865797490297033%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=po8t33gla0%2FmyWbXvjTrLPj%2BnHaDdy3O81gLlP5sGSA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/nema.page</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;Twitter at:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FNEMAtweets&amp;data=05%7C01%7Cnema-news%40listserv.nebraska.gov%7C779b64d1cce64d51691d08da279023c3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637865797490297033%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=d0wxXPv5nzWbOJfA%2Fiy7zyqkyHzPiW2ODKBnyZw2AOM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/NEMAtweets</a>.&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team One<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650984943723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Special Safety and Weather Information:A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon until 8 pm today.&nbsp; Temperatures are predicted to be in the 70’s with winds from the south shifting south/southwest around 10 am.&nbsp; Winds are predicted to be 16-26 mph gusting to 28-40.&nbsp; Critical fire weather conditions will continue into Tuesday evening with winds gusting 20-25 mph through most of the night.&nbsp; Increased gusty winds may create low visibility in and around the fire area due to blowing dust and ash.&nbsp;Road 702 Current Situation:Additional resources have arrived from several surrounding states to assist with suppression efforts on the Road 702 Fire.&nbsp; The arrival of these resources has allowed firefighters from local volunteer departments to get some rest and reset with family after what has already been several weeks high fire activity.&nbsp; Incident Management would like to acknowledge the great work that was done by first responders.&nbsp; It is gearing up to be a very busy fire season, and we are honored to be able to assist the local departments.&nbsp;Branch I (North and West side)-&nbsp; Branch I encompasses the area from Cambridge west along the fire edge and south to Lebanon, NE.&nbsp; The portion of the fire north of US-6, in Division A, has been contained.&nbsp; Firefighters will continue to patrol and mop up in this area and continue to strengthen containment lines.&nbsp; Along the west side of the fire, from US-6 south to near Silver Creek, firefighters continue to work on containment lines and cooling down hot spots within the timbered draws.&nbsp; Heavy equipment is being used to remove trees that pose a hazard to firefighters in this area.&nbsp; From near Silver Creek south to the Branch I/III break at State Highway 89, the perimeter has been contained and firefighters will continue to patrol and mop up.Branch III (East and South side)- Branch III encompasses east and south perimeters of the fire from Cambridge south to Wilsonville and into Kansas.&nbsp; From the Branch I/III break at State Highway 89 south to Road 702, the fire perimeter has been contained.&nbsp; Good progress is being made on the portion of the fire that is in Kansas and containment on this section of the fire is expected soon.&nbsp; On the east side, the fire previously pushed out in several places creating fingers of unsecured fire edge.&nbsp; Direct and indirect fireline is being constructed to contain the fingers to lessen the risk of fire escaping containment lines.&nbsp;&nbsp; Firefighters will continue to patrol and mop up all portions of Branch III that have been contained.&nbsp;Evacuations and Fire Restrictions:&nbsp;There are currently no evacuations on the Road 702 Fire.&nbsp; For information on fire restrictions in Nebraska, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://sfm.nebraska.gov/fire-departments/burn-permits" target="_blank">https://sfm.nebraska.gov/fire-departments/burn-permits</a>.Note on Fire Size: Please note the decrease in acres from last night’s report.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last night we reported that the fire had increased by just over 1000 acres due to field verification of an area that had previously burned north of US-6.&nbsp; Fire acreage frequently fluctuates early in an incident as incoming GIS data is verified and cleaned up (i.e., smoothing out jagged and overlapping areas).&nbsp;Other Fires in Nebraska:&nbsp;For information on other fires in Nebraska, please follow NEMA on Facebook at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnema.page&amp;data=05%7C01%7Cnema-news%40listserv.nebraska.gov%7C779b64d1cce64d51691d08da279023c3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637865797490297033%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=po8t33gla0%2FmyWbXvjTrLPj%2BnHaDdy3O81gLlP5sGSA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/nema.page</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;Twitter at:&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FNEMAtweets&amp;data=05%7C01%7Cnema-news%40listserv.nebraska.gov%7C779b64d1cce64d51691d08da279023c3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637865797490297033%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=d0wxXPv5nzWbOJfA%2Fiy7zyqkyHzPiW2ODKBnyZw2AOM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/NEMAtweets</a>.&nbsp;

Road 702 wildfire update

CHADRON – Twenty-three Chadron State College Rural Business Leadership Initiative (RBLI) students and five employees met with western Nebraska business owners and operators March 31 and April 1.

RBLI Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Business Dr. Cassandra Ritzen said the purpose of the trip was to help expose students to the opportunities and resources in rural communities. Stops in Scottsbluff and Gering during the two days included Twin Cities Development, Paul Reed Construction, Papa Moon Winery, Ciderhouse, Hotel 21, and Flyover Brewery.

While at Paul Reed Construction, the group was addressed in-person by CSC President Dr. Randy Rhine and Gov. Pete Ricketts via video conference.

“Learning from rural leaders and building connections between people are core objectives of the RBLI experience,” Ritzen said.

Jewel McBroom of Henry, Nebraska, said the trip was an amazing networking opportunity.

“It gave us a chance to not only meet people uniquely placed in the business world of our community but also gain access to very valuable resources and support. Everyone assumes that being rural means being limited in the possibility of entrepreneurship. Turns out that couldn't be further from the truth," McBroom said. Lacey Hunter of Broadwater, Nebraska, said getting out and talking to people can open doors for opportunities.

“There are so many opportunities available in rural areas, especially for a business start-up if you know where to look and to get help. The chamber of commerce can be very helpful in getting you connected with the right people as they have a network that they use to help them if they are unable to assist,” Hunter said.

Vivian Pease of Potter, Nebraska, said hearing the origin stories of the businesses was the most useful part of the trip for her.

“Seeing real people and their business was very helpful. Understanding what it will take to be successful is understanding how to continuously learn and grow. This trip was a great opportunity for us to be given the tools and ideas, and we just&nbsp;<a>have to</a>&nbsp;commit and put it into practice,” Pease said.

By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Twenty-three Chadron State College Rural Business Leadership Initiative (RBLI) students and five employees met with western Nebraska business owners and operators March 31 and April 1.RBLI Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Business Dr. Cassandra Ritzen said the purpose of the trip was to help expose students to the opportunities and resources in rural communities. Stops in Scottsbluff and Gering during the two days included Twin Cities Development, Paul Reed Construction, Papa Moon Winery, Ciderhouse, Hotel 21, and Flyover Brewery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650926005216.jpeg" alt="President of Chadron State College Dr. Randy Rhine speaks to Rural Business Leadership Initiative students March 31, 2022, at Paul Reed Construction in Gering, Neb. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>President of Chadron State College Dr. Randy Rhine speaks to Rural Business Leadership Initiative students March 31, 2022, at Paul Reed Construction in Gering, Neb. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>While at Paul Reed Construction, the group was addressed in-person by CSC President Dr. Randy Rhine and Gov. Pete Ricketts via video conference.“Learning from rural leaders and building connections between people are core objectives of the RBLI experience,” Ritzen said.Jewel McBroom of Henry, Nebraska, said the trip was an amazing networking opportunity.“It gave us a chance to not only meet people uniquely placed in the business world of our community but also gain access to very valuable resources and support. Everyone assumes that being rural means being limited in the possibility of entrepreneurship. Turns out that couldn't be further from the truth," McBroom said. Lacey Hunter of Broadwater, Nebraska, said getting out and talking to people can open doors for opportunities.“There are so many opportunities available in rural areas, especially for a business start-up if you know where to look and to get help. The chamber of commerce can be very helpful in getting you connected with the right people as they have a network that they use to help them if they are unable to assist,” Hunter said.Vivian Pease of Potter, Nebraska, said hearing the origin stories of the businesses was the most useful part of the trip for her.“Seeing real people and their business was very helpful. Understanding what it will take to be successful is understanding how to continuously learn and grow. This trip was a great opportunity for us to be given the tools and ideas, and we just&nbsp;<a>have to</a>&nbsp;commit and put it into practice,” Pease said.

Chadron RBLI group meets with Scottsbluff, Gering business owners

May is Bird Month in Nebraska. What better place is there to celebrate than in a state park area? The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has several bird-related events in May for people to explore, as well as many other opportunities. Here are several:

Platte River Art Show set for April 29-May 1

View paintings, sculpture, photography, pottery and more from reputable Midwestern artists at the Platte River Art Show on April 29-May 1 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.

The show begins with a wine and cheese tasting from 6-9 p.m. April 29 at Peter Kiewit Lodge. The show continues from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. April 30 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. May 1.

Come to Nebraska City April 29-May 1 and celebrate the 150th anniversary of Arbor Day where it all began – Arbor Lodge.

Take a self-guided tour of the home and learn about the history of Arbor Day. Experience the Women of Arbor Lodge display, get a peek into spring planting on the Morton Farm and view vintage postcards of Arbor Lodge. The park grounds are open for anyone wanting to explore. Check out the 52-room mansion for free Arbor Day, April 29.

Open hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. April 29, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. April 30 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. May 1. There is no cost for park entry.

From 10 a.m. to noon May 2, Nebraska Game and Parks will host the North Platte City Nature Challenge Mini BioBlitz at Cody Park, along the North Platte River.

Participants will learn how to identify aquatic species, plants, fungi and birds. Participants are welcome to stay at each station as long as they please.

This Mini BioBloitz is part of the statewide City Nature Challenge, a global effort to document nature in urban areas and learn about the animal and plant life discovered there. In addition to the statewide challenge, North Platte, Lincoln, Norfolk, Omaha and Scottsbluff are hosting the challenge in their backyards.

To learn more, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov/citynaturechallenge.

Eugene T. Mahoney SP to host Sip Nebraska May 6-7

Sip Nebraska will bring together local wine, craft beer, spirits, and their fans to celebrate Nebraska’s beverage industry May 6-7 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.

Enjoy a full weekend of unlimited tastings from Nebraska’s best-produced wines, hard ciders, craft beers and spirits from 4-10 p.m. May 6 and 1-10 p.m. May 7.

Other activities include lawn games, live music, dance lessons, park tours, and food and craft vendors.

Visit the event listing at calendar.outdoornebraska.gov for more information and to buy tickets.

Take part in birding hike May 14 at Fort Robinson SP

All ages are invited to participate in a birding hike May 14 at Fort Robinson State Park.

The hike will begin at 9 a.m. at the Post Playhouse, then continue down to the flat White River Trail, a chipped-rock trail that runs through the park.

Hikers should dress for the weather, and bring sturdy shoes, water and sunscreen. A limited number of binoculars and field guides will be available.

This program is free, but a park entry permit is required.

Sherman Reservoir SRA to host Fishing and Furs

Enjoy some fishing and learn fun facts about mammals during Fishing and Furs on May 14 at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area.

It will be all about angling and education with the park naturalist from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Marina Bay. Fishing poles and worms will be provided.

Make birdhouses and feeders May 14 at Swanson Reservoir

Celebrate Nebraska Bird Month by making birdhouses and feeders from recycled materials May 14 at Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area near Trenton.

This event is great for all ages. Supplies will be available while they last, but participants may bring their own building materials, such as milk jugs, nesting materials and stickers.

Meet at the large shelter on Trail 4 directly across from the marina at 1 p.m. A valid park entry permit is required.

Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run to benefit Platte River SP trail

Registration is open for the Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run, an annual race aimed at raising awareness and understanding of mental health that also acts as a fundraiser for Nebraska Game and Parks state park trails.

The run is May 14 at Cody Park in North Platte. Participants may choose between a 2-mile or 5-mile distance and run it virtually.

This year, funds raised will help support the construction and upgrade of the Platte River State Park trail that leads to Stone Creek Falls. Improvements are aimed at making the trail Americans with Disabilities Act accessible.

Visit the event listing at calendar.outdoornebraska.gov for more information and to register.

Wildcat Hills Nature Center to host total lunar eclipse viewing party

Come to the Wildcat Hills Nature Center from 9-11 p.m. May 15 and join a total lunar eclipse viewing party.

Dress comfortably and prepare to stay up late to view the Blood Moon, the first of two total lunar eclipses in 2022.

This program at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area is free, but a park entry permit is required.

Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area will be hosting a two-day BioBlitz on May 20-21 for people of all ages.

By Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionMay is Bird Month in Nebraska. What better place is there to celebrate than in a state park area? The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has several bird-related events in May for people to explore, as well as many other opportunities. Here are several:Platte River Art Show set for April 29-May 1View paintings, sculpture, photography, pottery and more from reputable Midwestern artists at the Platte River Art Show on April 29-May 1 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.The show begins with a wine and cheese tasting from 6-9 p.m. April 29 at Peter Kiewit Lodge. The show continues from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. April 30 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. May 1.Arbor Day celebrating 150th anniversaryCome to Nebraska City April 29-May 1 and celebrate the 150th anniversary of Arbor Day where it all began – Arbor Lodge.Take a self-guided tour of the home and learn about the history of Arbor Day. Experience the Women of Arbor Lodge display, get a peek into spring planting on the Morton Farm and view vintage postcards of Arbor Lodge. The park grounds are open for anyone wanting to explore. Check out the 52-room mansion for free Arbor Day, April 29.Open hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. April 29, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. April 30 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. May 1. There is no cost for park entry.North Platte plans Mini BioBlitzFrom 10 a.m. to noon May 2, Nebraska Game and Parks will host the North Platte City Nature Challenge Mini BioBlitz at Cody Park, along the North Platte River.Participants will learn how to identify aquatic species, plants, fungi and birds. Participants are welcome to stay at each station as long as they please.This Mini BioBloitz is part of the statewide City Nature Challenge, a global effort to document nature in urban areas and learn about the animal and plant life discovered there. In addition to the statewide challenge, North Platte, Lincoln, Norfolk, Omaha and Scottsbluff are hosting the challenge in their backyards.To learn more, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov/citynaturechallenge.Eugene T. Mahoney SP to host Sip Nebraska May 6-7Sip Nebraska will bring together local wine, craft beer, spirits, and their fans to celebrate Nebraska’s beverage industry May 6-7 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.Enjoy a full weekend of unlimited tastings from Nebraska’s best-produced wines, hard ciders, craft beers and spirits from 4-10 p.m. May 6 and 1-10 p.m. May 7.Other activities include lawn games, live music, dance lessons, park tours, and food and craft vendors.Visit the event listing at calendar.outdoornebraska.gov for more information and to buy tickets.Take part in birding hike May 14 at Fort Robinson SPAll ages are invited to participate in a birding hike May 14 at Fort Robinson State Park.The hike will begin at 9 a.m. at the Post Playhouse, then continue down to the flat White River Trail, a chipped-rock trail that runs through the park.Hikers should dress for the weather, and bring sturdy shoes, water and sunscreen. A limited number of binoculars and field guides will be available.This program is free, but a park entry permit is required.Sherman Reservoir SRA to host Fishing and FursEnjoy some fishing and learn fun facts about mammals during Fishing and Furs on May 14 at Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area.It will be all about angling and education with the park naturalist from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Marina Bay. Fishing poles and worms will be provided.A park entry permit is required.Make birdhouses and feeders May 14 at Swanson ReservoirCelebrate Nebraska Bird Month by making birdhouses and feeders from recycled materials May 14 at Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area near Trenton.This event is great for all ages. Supplies will be available while they last, but participants may bring their own building materials, such as milk jugs, nesting materials and stickers.Meet at the large shelter on Trail 4 directly across from the marina at 1 p.m. A valid park entry permit is required.Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run to benefit Platte River SP trailRegistration is open for the Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run, an annual race aimed at raising awareness and understanding of mental health that also acts as a fundraiser for Nebraska Game and Parks state park trails.The run is May 14 at Cody Park in North Platte. Participants may choose between a 2-mile or 5-mile distance and run it virtually.This year, funds raised will help support the construction and upgrade of the Platte River State Park trail that leads to Stone Creek Falls. Improvements are aimed at making the trail Americans with Disabilities Act accessible.Visit the event listing at calendar.outdoornebraska.gov for more information and to register.Wildcat Hills Nature Center to host total lunar eclipse viewing partyCome to the Wildcat Hills Nature Center from 9-11 p.m. May 15 and join a total lunar eclipse viewing party.Dress comfortably and prepare to stay up late to view the Blood Moon, the first of two total lunar eclipses in 2022.This program at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area is free, but a park entry permit is required.Enders Reservoir plans BioBlitzEnders Reservoir State Recreation Area will be hosting a two-day BioBlitz on May 20-21 for people of all ages.Participants will help set reptile, amphibian and mammal traps, as well as bat nets on day one. On day two, they’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the animals captured and released during the bioblitz.Professional biologists from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and The Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, will present on mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, aquatic species, and pollinators — and pollinator planting.Find the complete schedule in the events listing at calendar.outdoornebraska.gov.The event is free, but a Nebraska state park entry permit is required. Park permits can be purchased at the park the day of the event or online at OutdoorNebraska.org.Enjoy Car Show, Migratory Bird Day at Indian Cave SPJoin a full day of activities at Indian Cave State Park on May 28 with the Show and Shine Car Show and the Eighth Annual Migratory Bird Day.Registration for the car show, which includes automobiles, trucks, tractors and motorcycles, is from 2-3 p.m. Awards are at 6 p.m. Enjoy Hot Wheels races at 4 p.m.Migratory Bird Day events include hands-on activities, bird crafts and games from 4-7:30 p.m., a fish fry from 6-7:30 p.m., and the Glow in the Dark Bird Egg Hunt at 9 p.m.Visit the event listing at calendar.outdoornebraska.gov for more information. A park entry permit is required.

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