By TENA L. COOK and ABIGAIL SWANSON, CSC

CHADRON – More than 400 volunteers worked at more than 45 job sites in the Chadron area Saturday during the 10th annual The Big Event. The day of service capped off a special week for The Big Event since Chadron’s City Council approved an official proclamation naming April as The Big Event month. The event normally involves painting, cleaning, yard work, hauling trash, as well as food collection and outreach to care facility residents.

Third year The Big Event (TBE) staff member and Marketing Coordinator Kenzie Smith said volunteers were working hard and having a good time when staff stopped by to check on them Saturday.

“We're just so excited to see all these people so passionate about service and celebrating 10 years.

Kincaid Strain, TBE student staff outreach coordinator, said the weather was perfect.

“We had so many volunteers who were eager and happy. I feel like the day went pretty smooth. We've put a lot of hard work into this and Dr. French-Collins, as well, and it's really cool to see it all come together,” Strain said.

Becky Fernau, assistant professor, said the Social Work Club members had a rewarding experience collecting food donations for the CSC Food Pantry and Closer to Home.

“Some of our students aren't necessarily the most comfortable talking to strangers, so it gave them an opportunity to have some conversation with community members. It put the college out there, as well, and plugged The Big Event. I had a lot of people ask me about it since they had been seeing people wearing the shirts around town,” Fernau said.

April Waggoner, president of the Social Work Club, estimated nearly $1,000 worth of food and $375 in gift cards was donated at Walmart.

Waggoner said she was pleasantly surprised by two donations. One woman stopped with a cartful of food and the students thought she would donate a few items or a few sacks. Instead, she donated the entire cart of food. Another man donated a $300 gift card.

Katrina Christensen of Guernsey, Wyoming, said she enjoyed learning about the history of Chadron by cleaning at the Dawes County Historical Museum with Revive.

Some worksites involved reading, playing games and performing music for the elderly. Dr. Elizabeth Kraatz and Dr. Allison Fritz enjoyed interacting with Crest View Care Center residents.

“It’s cool to see&nbsp;how many students are willing to volunteer in the community and all the projects that they've done in the past. We're new here so we’re slowly getting to know people so it's nice to get to see different parts of the community and meet people,” Kraatz said.

Anna Cooper said her brother talked a lot about his volunteer work with TBE so she was eager to carry on the family tradition by gardening at the Chadron Intermediate School with the Zi Delta Zeta sorority

Chadron resident Colleen Patterson had called on TBE volunteers several years ago for yard work and decided she needed help again.

“I used to be able to do this yard work myself. It’s so nice to have the extra hands. They got it done so fast. It would take me all summer to do this work. They were right here, ready to go and in no time at all they had it looking really nice,” Patterson said.

Nebraska State College System Chancellor Paul Turman participated in his second TBE.

“It's a really exciting event. I think the students who have worked to organize this over the last 10 years have really built this into what it is. It was nice to be at the reception last night where alumni who had been a part of putting this in place were there to be recognized. They told some of their stories and the impact of serving their community and what they've learned through this activity,” Turman said.

Turman said the college is performing an important service bringing experiential learning opportunities to students.

“They leave this institution really having embraced that. I think The Big Event is one of those activities that certainly helps signify community involvement here in Chadron,” Turman said.

Alumna Ashley Jackson, a senior compliance associate for IQEQ, an investor service group, returned for the reception.

“It was incredible to hear from former staff as they told what kind of an impact The Big Event had on their lives and to hear from current staff about what The Big Event is today. Being in the same room as other people who experienced what kind of big things can happen through The Big Event was something I will never forget,” Jackson said.

Another TBE alumni, Cassady Maln, said it was especially meaningful to be in Chadron for the 10th anniversary.

“It's cool to see how it's grown even just the years that we've been out and see faculty, staff, students giving back. It’s awesome and we're glad we got to come be a part of it this year,” Maln said.

By TENA L. COOK and ABIGAIL SWANSON, CSCCHADRON – More than 400 volunteers worked at more than 45 job sites in the Chadron area Saturday during the 10th annual The Big Event. The day of service capped off a special week for The Big Event since Chadron’s City Council approved an official proclamation naming April as The Big Event month. The event normally involves painting, cleaning, yard work, hauling trash, as well as food collection and outreach to care facility residents.Third year The Big Event (TBE) staff member and Marketing Coordinator Kenzie Smith said volunteers were working hard and having a good time when staff stopped by to check on them Saturday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649703002151.jpeg" alt="Volunteers including Nebraska State College System Chancellor Paul Turman, front row, left, participate in Chadron State College's 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers including Nebraska State College System Chancellor Paul Turman, front row, left, participate in Chadron State College's 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>“We're just so excited to see all these people so passionate about service and celebrating 10 years.Kincaid Strain, TBE student staff outreach coordinator, said the weather was perfect.“We had so many volunteers who were eager and happy. I feel like the day went pretty smooth. We've put a lot of hard work into this and Dr. French-Collins, as well, and it's really cool to see it all come together,” Strain said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649703090819.jpeg" alt="Volunteers help Chadron resident June Ballard, center, during Chadron State College's 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. From left, McKinna Faulkenberry of Randolph, Neb., Alexis Heller of Wisner, Neb., and Tessa Hilker of McCook, Neb. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers help Chadron resident June Ballard, center, during Chadron State College's 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. From left, McKinna Faulkenberry of Randolph, Neb., Alexis Heller of Wisner, Neb., and Tessa Hilker of McCook, Neb. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>Becky Fernau, assistant professor, said the Social Work Club members had a rewarding experience collecting food donations for the CSC Food Pantry and Closer to Home.“Some of our students aren't necessarily the most comfortable talking to strangers, so it gave them an opportunity to have some conversation with community members. It put the college out there, as well, and plugged The Big Event. I had a lot of people ask me about it since they had been seeing people wearing the shirts around town,” Fernau said.April Waggoner, president of the Social Work Club, estimated nearly $1,000 worth of food and $375 in gift cards was donated at Walmart.Waggoner said she was pleasantly surprised by two donations. One woman stopped with a cartful of food and the students thought she would donate a few items or a few sacks. Instead, she donated the entire cart of food. Another man donated a $300 gift card.Katrina Christensen of Guernsey, Wyoming, said she enjoyed learning about the history of Chadron by cleaning at the Dawes County Historical Museum with Revive.Some worksites involved reading, playing games and performing music for the elderly. Dr. Elizabeth Kraatz and Dr. Allison Fritz enjoyed interacting with Crest View Care Center residents.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649703204567.jpeg" alt="Volunteers from the Chadron State College men's and women's wrestling teams pose at Camp Norwesca where they helped clean, organize materials, and haul trash during 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers from the Chadron State College men's and women's wrestling teams pose at Camp Norwesca where they helped clean, organize materials, and haul trash during 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s cool to see&nbsp;how many students are willing to volunteer in the community and all the projects that they've done in the past. We're new here so we’re slowly getting to know people so it's nice to get to see different parts of the community and meet people,” Kraatz said.Anna Cooper said her brother talked a lot about his volunteer work with TBE so she was eager to carry on the family tradition by gardening at the Chadron Intermediate School with the Zi Delta Zeta sororityChadron resident Colleen Patterson had called on TBE volunteers several years ago for yard work and decided she needed help again.“I used to be able to do this yard work myself. It’s so nice to have the extra hands. They got it done so fast. It would take me all summer to do this work. They were right here, ready to go and in no time at all they had it looking really nice,” Patterson said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649703268330.jpeg" alt="Volunteers participate in Chadron State College's 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. Dr. Shaunda French-Collins, center. Dr. Paul Turman, chancellor of the Nebraska State College System, back row, right. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers participate in Chadron State College's 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. Dr. Shaunda French-Collins, center. Dr. Paul Turman, chancellor of the Nebraska State College System, back row, right. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska State College System Chancellor Paul Turman participated in his second TBE.“It's a really exciting event. I think the students who have worked to organize this over the last 10 years have really built this into what it is. It was nice to be at the reception last night where alumni who had been a part of putting this in place were there to be recognized. They told some of their stories and the impact of serving their community and what they've learned through this activity,” Turman said.Turman said the college is performing an important service bringing experiential learning opportunities to students.“They leave this institution really having embraced that. I think The Big Event is one of those activities that certainly helps signify community involvement here in Chadron,” Turman said.Alumna Ashley Jackson, a senior compliance associate for IQEQ, an investor service group, returned for the reception.“It was incredible to hear from former staff as they told what kind of an impact The Big Event had on their lives and to hear from current staff about what The Big Event is today. Being in the same room as other people who experienced what kind of big things can happen through The Big Event was something I will never forget,” Jackson said.Another TBE alumni, Cassady Maln, said it was especially meaningful to be in Chadron for the 10th anniversary.“It's cool to see how it's grown even just the years that we've been out and see faculty, staff, students giving back. It’s awesome and we're glad we got to come be a part of it this year,” Maln said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649703349638.jpeg" alt="Volunteers from the Chadron State College Health professions Club participate in 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers from the Chadron State College Health professions Club participate in 10th annual The Big Event April 9, 2022. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>

The Big Event celebrates 10th annual day of service in Chadron

WESTCO is pleased to announce 12 area scholarship recipients for the 2021-22 WESTCO scholarship program, from 10 high schools within the WESTCO trade area. Recipients will each receive a $1,000 scholarship to further their education.

The scholarship committee awarded these scholarships based on criteria, which included academic performance and a written essay. The WESTCO Scholarship Program is one of the many ways WESTCO supports our region’s youth and we wish these recipients a successful and bright future.

· Laura Albro of Bayard High School. Laura is the daughter of Jon and Ann Albro and will attend either the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or the University of Wyoming to study Agronomy.

· Aubree Branson of Mitchell High School. Aubree is the daughter of Tony and Teena Branson and will attend the University of Nebraska-Kearney to study Communication Sciences &amp; Disorders.

· Shelbee Burke of Alliance High School. Shelbee is the daughter of Tom and Gail Burke and will attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study Family &amp; Consumer Science Education.

· Bree Coxbill of Southeast High School. Bree is the daughter of Bob and Dawn Coxbill and will attend the University of Wyoming to study Psychology/Pre-Med.

· Skylar Edmund of Sioux County High School. Skylar is the daughter of Adam and Carrie Edmund and will attend the University of Wyoming to study Human Resource Management.

· Jacey Garrett of Chadron High School. Jacey is the daughter of Chris and Julie Garrett and will attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study Pre-Health.

· Carly Keller of Southeast High School. Carly is the daughter of Duane and Susan Keller and will attend Eastern Wyoming College to enter their Vet Tech Program.

· Elizabeth Mayer of Hemingford High School. Elizabeth is the daughter of Mike and Tonya Mayer and will attend Wayne State College to study Accounting.

· Wade Sanders of Alliance High School. Wade is the son of Tom &amp; Teresa Sanders and will attend Texas Tech University to study Animal Science and Agribusiness.

· Matthew Vanatta of Torrington High School. Matthew is the son of Dennis and Susan Vanatta and will attend the University of Wyoming to study Mechanical Engineering and Agribusiness Management.

· Gabriel Varvel of Hay Springs High School. Gabriel is the son of Jim and Raime Varvel and will attend Chadron State College to study Business Management.

· Hannah Wasserburger of Crawford High School. Hannah is the daughter of J.R. and Billie Wasserburger and will attend Black Hills State University to study Education.

By WESTCOWESTCO is pleased to announce 12 area scholarship recipients for the 2021-22 WESTCO scholarship program, from 10 high schools within the WESTCO trade area. Recipients will each receive a $1,000 scholarship to further their education.The scholarship committee awarded these scholarships based on criteria, which included academic performance and a written essay. The WESTCO Scholarship Program is one of the many ways WESTCO supports our region’s youth and we wish these recipients a successful and bright future.Recipients include:· Laura Albro of Bayard High School. Laura is the daughter of Jon and Ann Albro and will attend either the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or the University of Wyoming to study Agronomy.· Aubree Branson of Mitchell High School. Aubree is the daughter of Tony and Teena Branson and will attend the University of Nebraska-Kearney to study Communication Sciences &amp; Disorders.· Shelbee Burke of Alliance High School. Shelbee is the daughter of Tom and Gail Burke and will attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study Family &amp; Consumer Science Education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649702649046.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>· Bree Coxbill of Southeast High School. Bree is the daughter of Bob and Dawn Coxbill and will attend the University of Wyoming to study Psychology/Pre-Med.· Skylar Edmund of Sioux County High School. Skylar is the daughter of Adam and Carrie Edmund and will attend the University of Wyoming to study Human Resource Management.· Jacey Garrett of Chadron High School. Jacey is the daughter of Chris and Julie Garrett and will attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study Pre-Health.· Carly Keller of Southeast High School. Carly is the daughter of Duane and Susan Keller and will attend Eastern Wyoming College to enter their Vet Tech Program.· Elizabeth Mayer of Hemingford High School. Elizabeth is the daughter of Mike and Tonya Mayer and will attend Wayne State College to study Accounting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649702677009.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>· Wade Sanders of Alliance High School. Wade is the son of Tom &amp; Teresa Sanders and will attend Texas Tech University to study Animal Science and Agribusiness.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649702703433.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>· Matthew Vanatta of Torrington High School. Matthew is the son of Dennis and Susan Vanatta and will attend the University of Wyoming to study Mechanical Engineering and Agribusiness Management.· Gabriel Varvel of Hay Springs High School. Gabriel is the son of Jim and Raime Varvel and will attend Chadron State College to study Business Management.· Hannah Wasserburger of Crawford High School. Hannah is the daughter of J.R. and Billie Wasserburger and will attend Black Hills State University to study Education.

WESTCO announces Panhandle scholarship recipients

North Platte, Gering stops included in swing through Nebraska

By AARON SANDERFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/trump-jr-to-make-three-stop-campaign-swing-for-herbster-in-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — 
Political scion Donald Trump Jr. is set to join Nebraska GOP 
gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster on a three-city tour Wednesday 
of western and central Nebraska.

The campaign confirmed Monday that &nbsp;Trump 
Jr. would start with a 10 a.m. stop in Gering, a 1 p.m. stop in North 
Platte and a 3 p.m. stop in Grand Island. (The campaign updated the 
timing of two of the stops.)

An invitation from the campaign describes 
the events as “meet &amp; greets.” The Herbster campaign has not 
announced a date for a long-discussed possible visit from former 
President Donald Trump, who has endorsed Herbster.

Trump Jr. <a target="_blank" href="https://omaha.com/eedition/sunrise/articles/trump-jr-visits-omaha-speaks-in-treynor/article_132252a7-2efb-5803-b438-71c1ed78d064.html">campaigned in the Omaha area and western Iowa</a> during his father’s 2020 campaign for president. He toured local gun range and club 88 Tactical and spoke in Treynor, Iowa.

Then-President Donald Trump won four of 
Nebraska’s five Electoral College votes in 2020. He lost one — the 
Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District — to now-President Joe Biden.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649696379058.png" alt="Donald Trump Jr. visits Sarpy County’s 88 Tactical during an April 2022 visit to campaign for his father, former President Donald Trump. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Donald Trump Jr. visits Sarpy County’s 88 Tactical during an April 2022 visit to campaign for his father, former President Donald Trump. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>North Platte, Gering stops included in swing through Nebraska</h2>By AARON SANDERFORD <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/trump-jr-to-make-three-stop-campaign-swing-for-herbster-in-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — 
Political scion Donald Trump Jr. is set to join Nebraska GOP 
gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster on a three-city tour Wednesday 
of western and central Nebraska.The campaign confirmed Monday that &nbsp;Trump 
Jr. would start with a 10 a.m. stop in Gering, a 1 p.m. stop in North 
Platte and a 3 p.m. stop in Grand Island. (The campaign updated the 
timing of two of the stops.)An invitation from the campaign describes 
the events as “meet &amp; greets.” The Herbster campaign has not 
announced a date for a long-discussed possible visit from former 
President Donald Trump, who has endorsed Herbster.Trump Jr. <a target="_blank" href="https://omaha.com/eedition/sunrise/articles/trump-jr-visits-omaha-speaks-in-treynor/article_132252a7-2efb-5803-b438-71c1ed78d064.html">campaigned in the Omaha area and western Iowa</a> during his father’s 2020 campaign for president. He toured local gun range and club 88 Tactical and spoke in Treynor, Iowa.Then-President Donald Trump won four of 
Nebraska’s five Electoral College votes in 2020. He lost one — the 
Omaha-based 2nd Congressional District — to now-President Joe Biden.<ul>
 <li>Where: Lincoln County Fairgrounds, AG Activity Center (5015 Rodeo Road)</li><li>Doors open: 12:30 p.m.</li><li>Remarks: 1 p.m.</li><li><a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.eventbrite.com/e/meet-greet-with-charles-w-herbster-donald-trump-jr-in-north-platte-tickets-318614714187__;!!Ivohdkk!w016HyD2eYuO8x4zIZ4K895YmCoX2rDapIcDyXngWkgCDVdr2R0kPE1DFHg$" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here for tickets to the North Platte event</a></li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Where: Gering Civic Center (1050 M Street)</li><li>Doors open: 10:30 a.m.</li><li>Remarks: 11 a.m.</li><li><a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/www.eventbrite.com/e/meet-and-greet-with-charles-w-herbster-and-donald-trump-jr-in-gering-ne-tickets-318609899787__;!!Ivohdkk!w016HyD2eYuO8x4zIZ4K895YmCoX2rDapIcDyXngWkgCDVdr2R0kAVfKVx8$" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here for tickets to the Gering event</a></li>
 </ul>

Trump Jr. will be in North Platte, Gering to stump for Herbster

By Northwest Community Action Partnership

Gordon — The NCAP Diaper Bank Network provides free diapers, pull ups and wipes to low income families in Chadron, Crawford, Gordon and Alliance. Our program serves more than 300 infants and toddlers on a monthly basis. 1 in 3 American families struggle to afford diapers and have to make challenging choices in order to overcome this need. Some families report cutting back on other essentials such as food or utilities in order to afford diapers or pull ups.

There are currently no government assistance programs for diapers or pull ups. You cannot purchase these items with food stamps or WIC, so without the assistance of local diaper banks these families would have nowhere to turn. The NCAP Diaper Bank was started in Chadron a little over 4 years ago and has since expanded to Crawford, Gordon and Alliance. This program works closely with some of NCAP’s other programs such as Head Start, Early Head Start and Community Services. In addition, our Diaper Bank program partners with Western Community Health Resources and their WIC program. It is through these collaborative partnerships that we are able to assist families in need. 

Throughout the month of March the Gordon Head Start Parent group took the lead on a Pull Ups drive to assist with restocking our supply of Pull Ups to benefit the families we serve in Sheridan County. We would love to thank the following local businesses and Schools for participating in this event – Harvest Coffee, Security 1st Bank (Merriman), Gordon Super Foods, Dollar General and the Gordon and Rushville Public Schools. Together these groups raised over 1,500 Diapers and Pull Ups for families in need.

Special shout out to the Gordon Elementary schools 3rd and 1st grade classes for their exceptional participation in this event. The 3rd grade class came in first place in the school wide competition for raising diapers/pull ups and the 1st grade class came in 2nd. There is nothing we love more than seeing the younger generations learning to give back to their communities.

If you or someone you know are in need of assistance through our Diaper Bank program there are a variety of ways to enroll. If you are enrolled in WIC, speak with your WIC representative and they will assist you with the Diaper Bank enrollment process. If you are enrolled in Head Start or Early Head Start, speak with your Home Visitor or Family Engagement Specialist to get signed up. If none of those apply to you, please call 308-327- 2870 or 308-747-2180 to set up an appointment with our Gordon/Rushville Emergency Services Offices. 


By Northwest Community Action PartnershipGordon — The NCAP Diaper Bank Network provides free diapers, pull ups and wipes to low income families in Chadron, Crawford, Gordon and Alliance. Our program serves more than 300 infants and toddlers on a monthly basis. 1 in 3 American families struggle to afford diapers and have to make challenging choices in order to overcome this need. Some families report cutting back on other essentials such as food or utilities in order to afford diapers or pull ups.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649694863061.png" alt="Gordon Elementary School, 3rd Grade Class. Winners of the Pull Up Drive Competition. Also pictured is Gordon Head Start Parent Group President, Megan Cevasco." />
 <figcaption>Gordon Elementary School, 3rd Grade Class. Winners of the Pull Up Drive Competition. Also pictured is Gordon Head Start Parent Group President, Megan Cevasco.</figcaption>
 </figure>There are currently no government assistance programs for diapers or pull ups. You cannot purchase these items with food stamps or WIC, so without the assistance of local diaper banks these families would have nowhere to turn. The NCAP Diaper Bank was started in Chadron a little over 4 years ago and has since expanded to Crawford, Gordon and Alliance. This program works closely with some of NCAP’s other programs such as Head Start, Early Head Start and Community Services. In addition, our Diaper Bank program partners with Western Community Health Resources and their WIC program. It is through these collaborative partnerships that we are able to assist families in need. Throughout the month of March the Gordon Head Start Parent group took the lead on a Pull Ups drive to assist with restocking our supply of Pull Ups to benefit the families we serve in Sheridan County. We would love to thank the following local businesses and Schools for participating in this event – Harvest Coffee, Security 1st Bank (Merriman), Gordon Super Foods, Dollar General and the Gordon and Rushville Public Schools. Together these groups raised over 1,500 Diapers and Pull Ups for families in need.Special shout out to the Gordon Elementary schools 3rd and 1st grade classes for their exceptional participation in this event. The 3rd grade class came in first place in the school wide competition for raising diapers/pull ups and the 1st grade class came in 2nd. There is nothing we love more than seeing the younger generations learning to give back to their communities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649694907653.png" alt="Gordon Elementary School, First Grade Class. Runner Up of the Pull Up Drive Competition." />
 <figcaption>Gordon Elementary School, First Grade Class. Runner Up of the Pull Up Drive Competition.</figcaption>
 </figure>If you or someone you know are in need of assistance through our Diaper Bank program there are a variety of ways to enroll. If you are enrolled in WIC, speak with your WIC representative and they will assist you with the Diaper Bank enrollment process. If you are enrolled in Head Start or Early Head Start, speak with your Home Visitor or Family Engagement Specialist to get signed up. If none of those apply to you, please call 308-327- 2870 or 308-747-2180 to set up an appointment with our Gordon/Rushville Emergency Services Offices.

Gordon pull-ups drive to benefit NCAP Diaper Bank Network

POST PODCAST: Coffee Talk 4/11/22

EDISON, Neb. (AP) — State officials say a wildfire in southern Nebraska that destroyed some homes and produced thick smoke that led to the traffic death of an area fire chief has been about half contained. 

The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said in a Facebook post Sunday that the fire, which consumed some 35,000 acres, was 50% contained. 

The agency said there will be a decrease in the number of firefighters over the coming days as containment of the fire progresses. 

The blaze started Thursday after a dead tree was blown into a power line, with strong winds and dry conditions fueling its spread in Gosper and Furnas counties.

By Associated PressEDISON, Neb. (AP) — State officials say a wildfire in southern Nebraska that destroyed some homes and produced thick smoke that led to the traffic death of an area fire chief has been about half contained. The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said in a Facebook post Sunday that the fire, which consumed some 35,000 acres, was 50% contained. The agency said there will be a decrease in the number of firefighters over the coming days as containment of the fire progresses. The blaze started Thursday after a dead tree was blown into a power line, with strong winds and dry conditions fueling its spread in Gosper and Furnas counties.

Officials: Nebraska wildfire about half contained by Sunday

Box Butte General CEO Lori Mazanec discusses new visitor policies at the hospital, as well as new screening kiosks for visitors.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: BBGH CEO Lori Mazanec" 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=8x5v2-11f7b27-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>Box Butte General CEO Lori Mazanec discusses new visitor policies at the hospital, as well as new screening kiosks for visitors.

POST PODCAST: BBGH CEO Lori Mazanec

Little Angel Grooming will be holding fundraiser for Friends of Pets in Chadron on April 30.&nbsp;

The free will donation event for animal nail clipping will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649688645609.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Panhandle PostLittle Angel Grooming will be holding fundraiser for Friends of Pets in Chadron on April 30.&nbsp;The free will donation event for animal nail clipping will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.&nbsp;

Little Angel Grooming to hold fundraiser for Chadron Friends of Pets

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Chadron State College Art Guild members and their adviser Mary Donahue, Professor of Art, toured several Colorado art museums and art businesses in late March. The students who traveled to Denver are Carissa Hill of Imperial, Neb., Ashley Burrows of Hay Springs, Neb., Katherine Hoeke of Rapid City, S.D., Siddhant Shelke of McKinney, Texas, and Rebecca Monahan of Cheyenne, Wyo.

Hill, Art Guild President, plans to be an art teacher. She said she will share the Denver experiences with her future students and encourage them to have an appreciation for art.

She said it was&nbsp;interesting to observe how different members of the group were excited at different museums and how they related to different artwork. Her favorite was 19th Century Art in the Denver Art Museum, while others preferred the Kirkland Museum, and Meow Wolf.

“I was impressed at how many artists and artwork I recognized after learning about them in my Art History classes. I found myself telling the other members of the club interesting facts about the artists throughout the trip. I also had a new appreciation and understanding for the different art mediums since I have created art using them,” Hill said.

Burrows said the trip introduced her to new types of art.

“I liked experiencing the different art institutions. Each had their own unique theme and art medium.&nbsp;I especially liked the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Egyptian exhibit, and&nbsp;the Denver Art Museum that displayed various Monet pieces,” Burrows said.

As a non-art major, she has only taken one CSC drawing class, but found it rewarding.

“What I learned in my Drawing for the Non-Art Major class, however, helped me appreciate the work process and recognize the different elements in the pieces we viewed,” Burrows said.&nbsp;“It will help me recognize art in the world and focus on developing my art style.”

Hoeke, a Special Education major, said she noticed everyone in the group enjoyed different styles of art.

“For example, I loved the Meow Wolf interactive museum. The rest of the group didn't enjoy this one as much as the others and that's OK. As individuals who make art, everyone has their own taste which is how good art is made. I feel as if our experiences gave me new ideas about art, colors, and more contemporary art for me to use in a SPED classroom,” Hoeke said.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Chadron State College Art Guild members and their adviser Mary Donahue, Professor of Art, toured several Colorado art museums and art businesses in late March. The students who traveled to Denver are Carissa Hill of Imperial, Neb., Ashley Burrows of Hay Springs, Neb., Katherine Hoeke of Rapid City, S.D., Siddhant Shelke of McKinney, Texas, and Rebecca Monahan of Cheyenne, Wyo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649631198760.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College Art Guild members on a field trip in Denver March 24, 2022. From left, Sid Shelke and Ashley Burrows participate in an interactive art experience in the Clyfford Still Museum using projected images and colored tissue paper and other materials. (Courtesy image, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College Art Guild members on a field trip in Denver March 24, 2022. From left, Sid Shelke and Ashley Burrows participate in an interactive art experience in the Clyfford Still Museum using projected images and colored tissue paper and other materials. (Courtesy image, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hill, Art Guild President, plans to be an art teacher. She said she will share the Denver experiences with her future students and encourage them to have an appreciation for art.She said it was&nbsp;interesting to observe how different members of the group were excited at different museums and how they related to different artwork. Her favorite was 19th Century Art in the Denver Art Museum, while others preferred the Kirkland Museum, and Meow Wolf.“I was impressed at how many artists and artwork I recognized after learning about them in my Art History classes. I found myself telling the other members of the club interesting facts about the artists throughout the trip. I also had a new appreciation and understanding for the different art mediums since I have created art using them,” Hill said.Burrows said the trip introduced her to new types of art.“I liked experiencing the different art institutions. Each had their own unique theme and art medium.&nbsp;I especially liked the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Egyptian exhibit, and&nbsp;the Denver Art Museum that displayed various Monet pieces,” Burrows said.As a non-art major, she has only taken one CSC drawing class, but found it rewarding.“What I learned in my Drawing for the Non-Art Major class, however, helped me appreciate the work process and recognize the different elements in the pieces we viewed,” Burrows said.&nbsp;“It will help me recognize art in the world and focus on developing my art style.”Hoeke, a Special Education major, said she noticed everyone in the group enjoyed different styles of art.“For example, I loved the Meow Wolf interactive museum. The rest of the group didn't enjoy this one as much as the others and that's OK. As individuals who make art, everyone has their own taste which is how good art is made. I feel as if our experiences gave me new ideas about art, colors, and more contemporary art for me to use in a SPED classroom,” Hoeke said.

Chadron Art Guild travels to Denver

On March 31, Box Butte General Hospital updated the terms of the temporary visitor policy in place. The updated policy loosened restrictions, allowing for more visitors to accompany them.

Masks are still required for all patients and visitors over the age of three. However, only procedural masks are being offered at entrances.

The updated policy reads as the following:

• The Patient and ONE designated, adult support person will be allowed in the Emergency Room

• Pediatric and young adult patients age 0-21 may be accompanied by two adults

• Infants six months and younger in baby seats may accompany their parent or adult caregiver

• End of life patients, transferring patients and special circumstances as approved by the patient’s care team

• COVID-19 patients may have up to two, designated adult visitors

• Visitors must wear N-95 or KN-95 masks at all times when inside the hospital

• Visitors will maintain a distance of a least 6 feet from the patient

• Special Circumstances as approved by the patient’s care team

• Visitation for COVID patients will be re-evaluated based on the community’s COVID risk level and the number of patients hospitalized with COVID at any given time

• Patients on PCU may have adult visitors without restriction

• End of life patients, transferring patients, and special circumstances as approved by the patient’s care team

OB: Known or suspected OB labor/delivery • One asymptomatic support person may stay with patient during labor and delivery

• Support persons must remain in patient room at all times and wear PPE consisting of respirator mask, face shield, gown and gloves

Post-Partum • One designated, fully vaccinated adult visitor is permitted. • Newborns who are not rooming in with mother may have one fully vaccinated visitor to assist with care during mother’s isolation period.

Non-COVID-19 OB labor/delivery • Adult visitors without restriction

• Children of the patient may visit Post-Partum • Adult visitors without restriction

• Newborn may have one adult visitor in addition to mother

• Adult visitors and siblings without restriction

• Two adult support persons may accompany the patient.

• If admitted to the hospital following surgery see PCU visitation

• Infants six months and younger in baby seats may accompany their parent or caregiver to the surgery area.

• Children must be over 14 years old to visit on PCU.

Radiology, Rehabilitation Services, Specialty Clinics, GNMSS Clinics

• Adults may accompany the patient to their appointment without restriction

• Up to two children and one additional infant six months old or younger in a baby seat may accompany parent or caregiver to appointments if other arrangements cannot be made and they do not interfere with patient care.

• Children may not stay in waiting rooms unattended

By BBGHOn March 31, Box Butte General Hospital updated the terms of the temporary visitor policy in place. The updated policy loosened restrictions, allowing for more visitors to accompany them.Masks are still required for all patients and visitors over the age of three. However, only procedural masks are being offered at entrances.The updated policy reads as the following:Emergency Room:• The Patient and ONE designated, adult support person will be allowed in the Emergency Room• Pediatric and young adult patients age 0-21 may be accompanied by two adults• Infants six months and younger in baby seats may accompany their parent or adult caregiver• End of life patients, transferring patients and special circumstances as approved by the patient’s care teamInpatient Unit (PCU) COVID 19 patients:• COVID-19 patients may have up to two, designated adult visitors• Visitors must wear N-95 or KN-95 masks at all times when inside the hospital• Visitors will maintain a distance of a least 6 feet from the patient• Special Circumstances as approved by the patient’s care team• Visitation for COVID patients will be re-evaluated based on the community’s COVID risk level and the number of patients hospitalized with COVID at any given timeNon-Covid-19 PCU Patients:• Patients on PCU may have adult visitors without restriction• Youth over age 14 may visit• End of life patients, transferring patients, and special circumstances as approved by the patient’s care teamOB: Known or suspected OB labor/delivery • One asymptomatic support person may stay with patient during labor and delivery• Support persons must remain in patient room at all times and wear PPE consisting of respirator mask, face shield, gown and glovesPost-Partum • One designated, fully vaccinated adult visitor is permitted. • Newborns who are not rooming in with mother may have one fully vaccinated visitor to assist with care during mother’s isolation period.Non-COVID-19 OB labor/delivery • Adult visitors without restriction• Children of the patient may visit Post-Partum • Adult visitors without restriction• Children of the patient may visit• Newborn may have one adult visitor in addition to mother• Adult visitors and siblings without restrictionOutpatient Services:Surgery• Two adult support persons may accompany the patient.• If admitted to the hospital following surgery see PCU visitation• Infants six months and younger in baby seats may accompany their parent or caregiver to the surgery area.• Children must be over 14 years old to visit on PCU.Radiology, Rehabilitation Services, Specialty Clinics, GNMSS Clinics• Adults may accompany the patient to their appointment without restriction• Up to two children and one additional infant six months old or younger in a baby seat may accompany parent or caregiver to appointments if other arrangements cannot be made and they do not interfere with patient care.• Children may not stay in waiting rooms unattended

BBGH revises visitor policy 

From the National Weather Service-North Platte

Critical fire weather conditions are expected today. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for western and north central Nebraska.&nbsp;

From the National Weather Service-North PlatteCritical fire weather conditions are expected today. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for western and north central Nebraska.&nbsp; <figure>
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Red Flag Warning for western, north-central Nebraska Monday

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, SD – Wind Cave National Park will be hosting a variety of activities during National Park Week beginning Saturday, April 16, and running through Sunday, April 24. &nbsp;

Rangers will be offering free tours on Saturday, April 16, with the first tour beginning at 9:30 a.m. and the last tour entering at 3:30 p.m. The Fairgrounds Tour will be offered at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. This 90 minute tour sees two different levels of the cave and has 450 steps. The hour-long Garden of Eden Tour will be at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and has 150 steps. All tours start from the visitor center. Reservations for these free tours can be made up to 3 days prior to the tour by visiting www.recreation.gov. There will also be tickets available Saturday on a first come, first serve basis. Visitors can see boxwork, a rare calcite formation, along both tours.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

There will be two bluebird box building workshops on Saturday, April 16, beginning at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the park visitor center.&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to limited supplies, reservations are required for these programs and participants are asked to bring their own hammer. Groups or families are encouraged to attend; supplies are limited to 1 box per family. Call 605-745-7020, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to make a reservation. The program is free of charge and sponsored by the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, April 19, at 2 p.m. MDT there will be a program on the park’s Facebook page given by Dr. Josh Sebree, an Associate Professor with the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Northern Iowa. With a grant from NASA, he is studying the cave’s unique low energy environment, which resembles environments found on other planets. His research will help NASA scientist better understand extraterrestrial life.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Throughout the week there will be a variety of social media posts on the park’s Facebook and Instagram platforms highlighting various aspects of the park. Kids and adults alike can also stop by and complete the park’s Junior Ranger booklet and earn a Wind Cave Junior Ranger badge.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition, there will be a Junior Ranger program offered Saturday, April 23, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will be able to stop by the visitor center to complete a scavenger hunt for a free prize along with a craft for kids to take home.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

National Park Week is an annual national celebration of people, parks, trails, heritage areas, national trails and rivers, seashores, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes that together tell the story of our nation. Entrance fees at many national park sites across the nation will be waived on April 16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

By&nbsp;Wind Cave National ParkWIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, SD – Wind Cave National Park will be hosting a variety of activities during National Park Week beginning Saturday, April 16, and running through Sunday, April 24. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649444163980.jpeg" alt="University of Northern Iowa students are researching Wind Cave’s environment as part of a NASA grant studying extraterrestrial life. (UNI Photo)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>University of Northern Iowa students are researching Wind Cave’s environment as part of a NASA grant studying extraterrestrial life. (UNI Photo)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Rangers will be offering free tours on Saturday, April 16, with the first tour beginning at 9:30 a.m. and the last tour entering at 3:30 p.m. The Fairgrounds Tour will be offered at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. This 90 minute tour sees two different levels of the cave and has 450 steps. The hour-long Garden of Eden Tour will be at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and has 150 steps. All tours start from the visitor center. Reservations for these free tours can be made up to 3 days prior to the tour by visiting www.recreation.gov. There will also be tickets available Saturday on a first come, first serve basis. Visitors can see boxwork, a rare calcite formation, along both tours.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There will be two bluebird box building workshops on Saturday, April 16, beginning at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the park visitor center.&nbsp;&nbsp;Due to limited supplies, reservations are required for these programs and participants are asked to bring their own hammer. Groups or families are encouraged to attend; supplies are limited to 1 box per family. Call 605-745-7020, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to make a reservation. The program is free of charge and sponsored by the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association. &nbsp;On Tuesday, April 19, at 2 p.m. MDT there will be a program on the park’s Facebook page given by Dr. Josh Sebree, an Associate Professor with the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Northern Iowa. With a grant from NASA, he is studying the cave’s unique low energy environment, which resembles environments found on other planets. His research will help NASA scientist better understand extraterrestrial life.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout the week there will be a variety of social media posts on the park’s Facebook and Instagram platforms highlighting various aspects of the park. Kids and adults alike can also stop by and complete the park’s Junior Ranger booklet and earn a Wind Cave Junior Ranger badge.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition, there will be a Junior Ranger program offered Saturday, April 23, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will be able to stop by the visitor center to complete a scavenger hunt for a free prize along with a craft for kids to take home.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;National Park Week is an annual national celebration of people, parks, trails, heritage areas, national trails and rivers, seashores, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes that together tell the story of our nation. Entrance fees at many national park sites across the nation will be waived on April 16.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Celebrate National Park Week at Wind Cave with badges, birds, boxwork 

CHADRON – Assistant Professor of Education Joanne Hayes shared her life’s travels and experiences in education during her Graves Lecture Series March 29.

“It was not a direct trip [to CSC]. It was marked by a number of detours and abrupt changes in direction,” she said. “I feel fortunate I landed in a place like this.”

She said her hometown of Atwater, California, was a bit like Chadron except for a nearby Strategic Air Command base. After graduating from high school, she attended California College of Arts and Crafts.

Hayes met her first husband in Panama while both were students at Panama Canal Junior College. They moved together to Washington, DC, had two children, and later moved to London. While there, she attended a Shakespeare class the professor taught based on the plays in London at the time.

Her second marriage was to an American from Boston living in Dingle, Ireland, as a sandal maker. While living in Ireland, she began to spin wool and weave yarn on a loom. Following her first weaving lesson to fellow residents of the community, she realized she was energized by teaching, and considers it a pivotal point in her journey toward becoming a teacher.

“I call it an epiphany. I knew that night when I couldn't fall asleep, that I liked teaching. It was a bit of a surprise,” Hayes said.

She lived in Ireland for about four years and had a child there.

“I have to say I fit the description of a hippie at that time in my life. But washing a baby in front of a fireplace loses its charm. So, we came back and settled in Boston,” Hayes said.

Even though her eventual goal was teaching, she earned her bachelor’s degree in business at Northeastern University. Her next stop was Cambridge College, where she earned her first master’s degree.

Following another life change, she moved to Texas to live with her mother.

I had a bachelor’s in elementary education and was hired on a provisional basis to be Special Education teacher at a middle school.

“It was an experience I remember fondly. I had my eyes opened. Before that, I thought teaching was some sort of fantasy job that was going to be easy. And it turns out I didn't know very much about teaching. But the kids were patient, they didn't mind. We had some very good experiences together. I learned a lot and those kids were my best teachers,” Hayes said.

She earned a second master’s in San Antonio and taught in San Antonio at Las Escuela de las Americas, a bilingual charter school.

“The culture was wonderful. The experience was enriching, and I thoroughly enjoyed it,” Hayes said.

Next, Hayes moved to Connecticut where she taught at a residential treatment facility for adjudicated adolescent girls for 10 years.

After a decade teaching at the small, private school, she enrolled in a doctoral-level program in education and reading at the University of Connecticut and later found a faculty position at CSC.

Hayes said interventions using peer tutoring are effective with adolescents who struggle reading at their grade level.

“By the time students are in the fifth grade, everybody assumes they can read. They might be able to slip by. Then the work gets harder, the textbooks get more complicated, and there are fewer supports. You begin slipping behind. There's a separation between you and your peers and they very often give up. They say, ‘School is, not for me. I hate school. I hate reading, and I hate you,’ meaning the teacher. They start drifting toward kids who have behavior issues,” she said.

She said peer tutors can often be as effective as a teacher, depending on the relationship with the student.

For her dissertation, Hayes has gained approval to conduct a study at Chadron Middle School. She will administer assessments to establish a baseline of reading fluency and communication skills. Then, she will introduce peer tutoring and measure the outcomes.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Assistant Professor of Education Joanne Hayes shared her life’s travels and experiences in education during her Graves Lecture Series March 29.“It was not a direct trip [to CSC]. It was marked by a number of detours and abrupt changes in direction,” she said. “I feel fortunate I landed in a place like this.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649444053168.jpeg" alt="Joanne Hayes, a Chadron State College Education faculty member and Graves Lecture Series speaker, addresses an audience March 29, 2022, in the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Joanne Hayes, a Chadron State College Education faculty member and Graves Lecture Series speaker, addresses an audience March 29, 2022, in the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>She said her hometown of Atwater, California, was a bit like Chadron except for a nearby Strategic Air Command base. After graduating from high school, she attended California College of Arts and Crafts.Hayes met her first husband in Panama while both were students at Panama Canal Junior College. They moved together to Washington, DC, had two children, and later moved to London. While there, she attended a Shakespeare class the professor taught based on the plays in London at the time.Her second marriage was to an American from Boston living in Dingle, Ireland, as a sandal maker. While living in Ireland, she began to spin wool and weave yarn on a loom. Following her first weaving lesson to fellow residents of the community, she realized she was energized by teaching, and considers it a pivotal point in her journey toward becoming a teacher.“I call it an epiphany. I knew that night when I couldn't fall asleep, that I liked teaching. It was a bit of a surprise,” Hayes said.She lived in Ireland for about four years and had a child there.“I have to say I fit the description of a hippie at that time in my life. But washing a baby in front of a fireplace loses its charm. So, we came back and settled in Boston,” Hayes said.Even though her eventual goal was teaching, she earned her bachelor’s degree in business at Northeastern University. Her next stop was Cambridge College, where she earned her first master’s degree.Following another life change, she moved to Texas to live with her mother.I had a bachelor’s in elementary education and was hired on a provisional basis to be Special Education teacher at a middle school.“It was an experience I remember fondly. I had my eyes opened. Before that, I thought teaching was some sort of fantasy job that was going to be easy. And it turns out I didn't know very much about teaching. But the kids were patient, they didn't mind. We had some very good experiences together. I learned a lot and those kids were my best teachers,” Hayes said.She earned a second master’s in San Antonio and taught in San Antonio at Las Escuela de las Americas, a bilingual charter school.“The culture was wonderful. The experience was enriching, and I thoroughly enjoyed it,” Hayes said.Next, Hayes moved to Connecticut where she taught at a residential treatment facility for adjudicated adolescent girls for 10 years.After a decade teaching at the small, private school, she enrolled in a doctoral-level program in education and reading at the University of Connecticut and later found a faculty position at CSC.Hayes said interventions using peer tutoring are effective with adolescents who struggle reading at their grade level.“By the time students are in the fifth grade, everybody assumes they can read. They might be able to slip by. Then the work gets harder, the textbooks get more complicated, and there are fewer supports. You begin slipping behind. There's a separation between you and your peers and they very often give up. They say, ‘School is, not for me. I hate school. I hate reading, and I hate you,’ meaning the teacher. They start drifting toward kids who have behavior issues,” she said.She said peer tutors can often be as effective as a teacher, depending on the relationship with the student.For her dissertation, Hayes has gained approval to conduct a study at Chadron Middle School. She will administer assessments to establish a baseline of reading fluency and communication skills. Then, she will introduce peer tutoring and measure the outcomes.

Hayes takes an indirect route to teaching at Chadron State College

EDISON, Neb. (AP) — Authorities announced Saturday that they are making headway battling a wildfire in southern Nebraska.

 The fire ballooned Friday to 30,000 acres or about 47 square miles. But the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said it hasn’t spread further since then. 

The post said that crews, assisted by Nebraska National Guard helicopters, continue to monitor hot spots and mop-up the area. The blaze started Thursday after a dead tree was blown into a power line, with strong winds and dry conditions fueling its spread in Gosper and Furnas counties. 

The flames destroyed several homes, and a rural fire chief was killed while responding to the blaze.

By ASSOCIATED PRESSEDISON, Neb. (AP) — Authorities announced Saturday that they are making headway battling a wildfire in southern Nebraska. The fire ballooned Friday to 30,000 acres or about 47 square miles. But the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency said it hasn’t spread further since then. The post said that crews, assisted by Nebraska National Guard helicopters, continue to monitor hot spots and mop-up the area. The blaze started Thursday after a dead tree was blown into a power line, with strong winds and dry conditions fueling its spread in Gosper and Furnas counties. The flames destroyed several homes, and a rural fire chief was killed while responding to the blaze.

Nebraska wildfire has stopped spreading, authorities say

Brantley Gilbert will perform at the Nebraska State Fair on Thursday, Sept. 1, as part of the Nebraska Lottery Concert Series. The concert will be at 7:30 p.m. at the Anderson Sports Field. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

With back-to-back Platinum albums and a grassroots following millions strong, Brantley Gilbert’s music has been shared, covered and adopted as the soundtrack to Saturday night and Sunday morning by audiences around the world. The Georgia native who started as the defiant life-of-the-party can still go ‘til sunrise, but he’s also emerged as something far greater: the leader of a massive tribe of hard-working, fun-loving believers for whom electric guitar-shredding, rapping, and twang can go hand-in-hand-in-hand. They call themselves the BG Nation, and when the BG Nation watches Gilbert on a stage, they don’t just see a star. They see themselves. Seven No. 1 hits punctuate his career: “Country Must be Country Wide,” “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do,” CMA Awards Song of the Year nominee “Dirt Road Anthem,” “My Kinda Party,” RIAA 5x Platinum-certified “Bottoms Up,” “One Hell of an Amen” and collaboration with Lindsay Ell “What Happens In A Small Town.” Gilbert’s landmark record "Just As I Am" clinched the 2014 American Music Award for Favorite Country Album. Earning praise from the New York Times, NPR, American Songwriter, and more, Gilbert has mined a rich vein of conflict between the party and the pew on all of his albums. For additional information, visit BrantleyGilbert.com or follow him on Instagram and Twitter @BrantleyGilbert and on Facebook @BrantleyGilbertMusic. Concert tickets will go on sale at 2 p.m. Friday, April 8, at&nbsp;<a href="http://statefair.org/" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>&nbsp;and will include gate admission. Tickets will cost $46 for general admission and $66 for the pit. With a theme of “Nothing More Nebraskan,” the 2022 Nebraska State Fair is Aug. 26-Sept. 5 at Fonner Park in Grand Island. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://statefair.org/" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Nebraska State FairBrantley Gilbert will perform at the Nebraska State Fair on Thursday, Sept. 1, as part of the Nebraska Lottery Concert Series. The concert will be at 7:30 p.m. at the Anderson Sports Field. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649443915200.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>With back-to-back Platinum albums and a grassroots following millions strong, Brantley Gilbert’s music has been shared, covered and adopted as the soundtrack to Saturday night and Sunday morning by audiences around the world. The Georgia native who started as the defiant life-of-the-party can still go ‘til sunrise, but he’s also emerged as something far greater: the leader of a massive tribe of hard-working, fun-loving believers for whom electric guitar-shredding, rapping, and twang can go hand-in-hand-in-hand. They call themselves the BG Nation, and when the BG Nation watches Gilbert on a stage, they don’t just see a star. They see themselves. Seven No. 1 hits punctuate his career: “Country Must be Country Wide,” “You Don’t Know Her Like I Do,” CMA Awards Song of the Year nominee “Dirt Road Anthem,” “My Kinda Party,” RIAA 5x Platinum-certified “Bottoms Up,” “One Hell of an Amen” and collaboration with Lindsay Ell “What Happens In A Small Town.” Gilbert’s landmark record "Just As I Am" clinched the 2014 American Music Award for Favorite Country Album. Earning praise from the New York Times, NPR, American Songwriter, and more, Gilbert has mined a rich vein of conflict between the party and the pew on all of his albums. For additional information, visit BrantleyGilbert.com or follow him on Instagram and Twitter @BrantleyGilbert and on Facebook @BrantleyGilbertMusic. Concert tickets will go on sale at 2 p.m. Friday, April 8, at&nbsp;<a href="http://statefair.org/" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>&nbsp;and will include gate admission. Tickets will cost $46 for general admission and $66 for the pit. With a theme of “Nothing More Nebraskan,” the 2022 Nebraska State Fair is Aug. 26-Sept. 5 at Fonner Park in Grand Island. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://statefair.org/" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brantley Gilbert to perform at Nebraska State Fair

By TENA L. Cook, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Four Chadron State College students participated in the National University Model Arab League (NUMAL) in Washington March 24-27. CSC was invited to the national event by Brigham Young University after making a positive impression on the host institution of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12643" target="_blank">Rocky Mountain Regional</a>&nbsp;MAL Conference in March, according to Dr. Justin Curtis, assistant professor.

Andrew Corbine of Rapid City, S.D., and Hend Elnady of Cairo represented the State of Kuwait on the Council for Poverty and Unemployment, and earned recognition as Distinguished Delegates by their peers. Laura Clay of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Wyatt Fiscus of Bayard, Neb., worked on the Summit of Arab Heads of State, according to Curtis.

“I am so thrilled with the students’ performance at NUMAL and I hope that we can make participation at both the Rocky Mountain and the National conferences regular events for CSC,” Curtis said.

This was the 39th&nbsp;annual NUMAL event that started as an informal international simulation at Georgetown University, according to its website. Approximately 400 students from about 25 colleges and universities attend annually. Curtis said delegates train year-round through mock simulations, course-structured research, and participation in regional Model Arab League conferences to prepare for the highly competitive event.

Curtis said any CSC student interested in gaining or practicing skills in public speaking, writing, debating, or acting are encouraged to join the group. He added students who want to improve their knowledge of economics, the environment, democracy, national security, or indigenous politics are also welcome.

Conference speakers included Joey Hood, U.S. Department of State Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, John Pratt, National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Farhad Sazer, Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Washington.

By TENA L. Cook, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Four Chadron State College students participated in the National University Model Arab League (NUMAL) in Washington March 24-27. CSC was invited to the national event by Brigham Young University after making a positive impression on the host institution of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/news/story.csc?article=12643" target="_blank">Rocky Mountain Regional</a>&nbsp;MAL Conference in March, according to Dr. Justin Curtis, assistant professor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649443778114.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College students pose in Washington, D.C., March 26, 2022. From left, Wyatt Fiscus, Laura Clay, Hend Elnady, and Andrew Corbine. The group participated in the Model Arab League conference in the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in the background. (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College students pose in Washington, D.C., March 26, 2022. From left, Wyatt Fiscus, Laura Clay, Hend Elnady, and Andrew Corbine. The group participated in the Model Arab League conference in the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in the background. (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Andrew Corbine of Rapid City, S.D., and Hend Elnady of Cairo represented the State of Kuwait on the Council for Poverty and Unemployment, and earned recognition as Distinguished Delegates by their peers. Laura Clay of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Wyatt Fiscus of Bayard, Neb., worked on the Summit of Arab Heads of State, according to Curtis.“I am so thrilled with the students’ performance at NUMAL and I hope that we can make participation at both the Rocky Mountain and the National conferences regular events for CSC,” Curtis said.This was the 39th&nbsp;annual NUMAL event that started as an informal international simulation at Georgetown University, according to its website. Approximately 400 students from about 25 colleges and universities attend annually. Curtis said delegates train year-round through mock simulations, course-structured research, and participation in regional Model Arab League conferences to prepare for the highly competitive event.Curtis said any CSC student interested in gaining or practicing skills in public speaking, writing, debating, or acting are encouraged to join the group. He added students who want to improve their knowledge of economics, the environment, democracy, national security, or indigenous politics are also welcome.Conference speakers included Joey Hood, U.S. Department of State Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, John Pratt, National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Farhad Sazer, Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Washington.

CSC students earn high marks at national Model of Arab League conference

Alliance – In celebration of National Poetry month, the Alliance Public Library will host “Visit with Nebraska State Poet Matt Mason”, a Humanities Nebraska presentation for all ages on Monday, April 25th at 6:30 pm in the Community Room. This presentation is made possible by Humanities Nebraska, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and the Alliance Public Library Foundation as part of the HN Speakers Bureau.

Matt Mason is the Nebraska State Poet and Executive Director of the Nebraska Writers Collective. Through the US State Department, he has run workshops in Botswana, Romania, Nepal, and Belarus. Mason is the recipient of a Pushcart Prize and his work can be found in The New York Times, on NPR’s Morning Edition, and in American Life in Poetry. Mason's 3rd book, I Have a Poem the Size of the Moon, was released by Stephen F. Austin University Press in 2020. Matt is based out of Omaha with his wife, the poet Sarah McKinstry-Brown, and daughters Sophia and Lucia.

For more information, contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at (308) 762-1387

By City of AllianceAlliance – In celebration of National Poetry month, the Alliance Public Library will host “Visit with Nebraska State Poet Matt Mason”, a Humanities Nebraska presentation for all ages on Monday, April 25th at 6:30 pm in the Community Room. This presentation is made possible by Humanities Nebraska, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and the Alliance Public Library Foundation as part of the HN Speakers Bureau.Matt Mason is the Nebraska State Poet and Executive Director of the Nebraska Writers Collective. Through the US State Department, he has run workshops in Botswana, Romania, Nepal, and Belarus. Mason is the recipient of a Pushcart Prize and his work can be found in The New York Times, on NPR’s Morning Edition, and in American Life in Poetry. Mason's 3rd book, I Have a Poem the Size of the Moon, was released by Stephen F. Austin University Press in 2020. Matt is based out of Omaha with his wife, the poet Sarah McKinstry-Brown, and daughters Sophia and Lucia.For more information, contact Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Services Librarian at (308) 762-1387

Alliance library to host 'Visit with Nebraska State Poet Matt Mason' 

News Release Nebraska Game and Parks&nbsp;

Due to drought conditions and extreme fire danger, many Nebraska state recreation areas and some wildlife management areas are temporarily banning campfires until further notice.

Although everyone should be cautious when using fire throughout Nebraska, the list of areas with temporary closures includes:

Southwest Region:&nbsp;Medicine Creek, Red Willow, Swanson, Enders, Sutherland and Buffalo Bill SRAs

Southern Panhandle Region:&nbsp;Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala, Lake Minatare and Wildcat Hills State SRAs, and Ash Hollow State Historical Park

Central Region:&nbsp;Sherman and Victoria Springs SRAs

A temporary burn ban already is in place at Calamus SRA, under the authority of local officials.

Where fires still are allowed, campers and hunters should apply proper safety practices by properly extinguishing campfires and keeping a bucket of water nearby.

Hunters taking to the field for the April 9 youth shotgun season opener are urged to use caution and avoid open fires for camping or cooking. Much of Nebraska is experiencing drought conditions and recent winds have caused fire dangers to soar.

For more information about the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MDguNTYxNjUxNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2xua3MuZ2QvbC9leUpoYkdjaU9pSklVekkxTmlKOS5leUppZFd4c1pYUnBibDlzYVc1clgybGtJam94TURFc0luVnlhU0k2SW1Kd01qcGpiR2xqYXlJc0ltSjFiR3hsZEdsdVgybGtJam9pTWpBeU1qQTBNRGN1TlRZd09UTXhNekVpTENKMWNtd2lPaUpvZEhSd09pOHZkM2QzTG05MWRHUnZiM0p1WldKeVlYTnJZUzV2Y21jdkluMC5mRDNZS0RqWUVvZlVMRWlKVHFRcFJUQ19IMmJ1T080Qks4dE5fMU1UZ1gwL3MvMzg4NjcyNDMzL2JyLzEyOTUwNzQzODQ3Ni1sIn0.gDrZY9LlutErNyRaXl7I3CSqW7Jfm_gKIUOLTr0jUO4/s/1372948182/br/129577266388-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649505507576.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska Game and Parks&nbsp;Due to drought conditions and extreme fire danger, many Nebraska state recreation areas and some wildlife management areas are temporarily banning campfires until further notice.Although everyone should be cautious when using fire throughout Nebraska, the list of areas with temporary closures includes:Southwest Region:&nbsp;Medicine Creek, Red Willow, Swanson, Enders, Sutherland and Buffalo Bill SRAsSouthern Panhandle Region:&nbsp;Lake McConaughy, Lake Ogallala, Lake Minatare and Wildcat Hills State SRAs, and Ash Hollow State Historical ParkCentral Region:&nbsp;Sherman and Victoria Springs SRAsA temporary burn ban already is in place at Calamus SRA, under the authority of local officials.Where fires still are allowed, campers and hunters should apply proper safety practices by properly extinguishing campfires and keeping a bucket of water nearby.Hunters taking to the field for the April 9 youth shotgun season opener are urged to use caution and avoid open fires for camping or cooking. Much of Nebraska is experiencing drought conditions and recent winds have caused fire dangers to soar.For more information about the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjA0MDguNTYxNjUxNzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2xua3MuZ2QvbC9leUpoYkdjaU9pSklVekkxTmlKOS5leUppZFd4c1pYUnBibDlzYVc1clgybGtJam94TURFc0luVnlhU0k2SW1Kd01qcGpiR2xqYXlJc0ltSjFiR3hsZEdsdVgybGtJam9pTWpBeU1qQTBNRGN1TlRZd09UTXhNekVpTENKMWNtd2lPaUpvZEhSd09pOHZkM2QzTG05MWRHUnZiM0p1WldKeVlYTnJZUzV2Y21jdkluMC5mRDNZS0RqWUVvZlVMRWlKVHFRcFJUQ19IMmJ1T080Qks4dE5fMU1UZ1gwL3MvMzg4NjcyNDMzL2JyLzEyOTUwNzQzODQ3Ni1sIn0.gDrZY9LlutErNyRaXl7I3CSqW7Jfm_gKIUOLTr0jUO4/s/1372948182/br/129577266388-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>

Many Neb. SRAs, WMAs banning campfires; turkey hunters urged to use caution

News Release Nebraska State Fair

GRAND ISLAND, Neb.-Lady A with Priscilla Block will perform at the Nebraska State Fair on Saturday, Sept. 3, as part of the Nebraska Lottery Concert Series. The concert will be at 7:30 p.m. at the Anderson Sports Field. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Over the course of their decade-plus career, Lady A has become one of the 21st century’s premier vocal groups, blending deeply felt emotions with classic country sounds. As a country-radio staple, the trio has amassed record-breaking success ushering in 10 No. 1 hits with more than 18 million album units and 34 million tracks sold and nearly 5 billion digital streams. Lady A - Charles Kelley, Dave Haywood and Hillary Scott - earned the biggest first week streams of their career with their critically acclaimed No. 1 album OCEAN that has been touted as “the finest album of the band’s career” (Nashville Scene). Known for their 9X Platinum hit “Need You Now” which is the highest certified song by a country group, they have earned ACM and CMA “Vocal Group of the Year” trophies three years in a row and countless other honors including seven GRAMMY awards, Billboard Music Awards, People’s Choice Awards, Teen Choice Awards and a Tony Award nod. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ladyamusic.com/" target="_blank">www.ladyamusic.com</a>. Lady A will be joined by Priscilla Block, whose hit song "Just About Over You" hit number 1 on iTunes in 2020. Pegged as a 2021 Artist to Watch by Amazon Music, PANDORA, Spotify, CMT and more, Priscilla found fame through TikTok and her streaming has topped 250 million views and rising. Concert tickets go on sale at 2 p.m. Friday, April 8, at&nbsp;<a href="http://statefair.org/" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>&nbsp;and will include gate admission. Tickets will cost $49 for general admission and $69 for the pit. With a theme of “Nothing More Nebraskan,” the 2022 Nebraska State Fair will be Aug. 26-Sept. 5 at Fonner Park in Grand Island. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://statefair.org/" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>.

News Release Nebraska State Fair <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649504592181.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649504646746.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>GRAND ISLAND, Neb.-Lady A with Priscilla Block will perform at the Nebraska State Fair on Saturday, Sept. 3, as part of the Nebraska Lottery Concert Series. The concert will be at 7:30 p.m. at the Anderson Sports Field. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Over the course of their decade-plus career, Lady A has become one of the 21st century’s premier vocal groups, blending deeply felt emotions with classic country sounds. As a country-radio staple, the trio has amassed record-breaking success ushering in 10 No. 1 hits with more than 18 million album units and 34 million tracks sold and nearly 5 billion digital streams. Lady A - Charles Kelley, Dave Haywood and Hillary Scott - earned the biggest first week streams of their career with their critically acclaimed No. 1 album OCEAN that has been touted as “the finest album of the band’s career” (Nashville Scene). Known for their 9X Platinum hit “Need You Now” which is the highest certified song by a country group, they have earned ACM and CMA “Vocal Group of the Year” trophies three years in a row and countless other honors including seven GRAMMY awards, Billboard Music Awards, People’s Choice Awards, Teen Choice Awards and a Tony Award nod. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ladyamusic.com/" target="_blank">www.ladyamusic.com</a>. Lady A will be joined by Priscilla Block, whose hit song "Just About Over You" hit number 1 on iTunes in 2020. Pegged as a 2021 Artist to Watch by Amazon Music, PANDORA, Spotify, CMT and more, Priscilla found fame through TikTok and her streaming has topped 250 million views and rising. Concert tickets go on sale at 2 p.m. Friday, April 8, at&nbsp;<a href="http://statefair.org/" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>&nbsp;and will include gate admission. Tickets will cost $49 for general admission and $69 for the pit. With a theme of “Nothing More Nebraskan,” the 2022 Nebraska State Fair will be Aug. 26-Sept. 5 at Fonner Park in Grand Island. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://statefair.org/" target="_blank">statefair.org</a>.

Lady A with Priscilla Block to perform at Nebraska State Fair

By Nebraska Emergency Management Agency

Lincoln, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Local and state assets are continuing their response to the wildfire in Gosper and Furnas counties that has burned nearly 30,000 acres. Both counties issued emergency declarations Friday morning requesting state assistance.

Gov. Pete Ricketts issued a state emergency declaration today which allows state assets and the Governor’s Emergency Fund to be used for the response.

The fire began Thursday around noon, seven miles southwest of&nbsp;Elwood. Around 40 fire departments from across the state were on scene of the fire which began Thursday about noon, seven miles southwest of Elwood. Four local emergency managers from across the state have also deployed to the fire to assist in command and control.

Members of the Wildland Incident Response Assistance Team from the Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency and the Nebraska arrived Thursday to assist in the response and currently there are six NSFM staff assisting in the response and investigating the origin and cause of the fire and five NFS staff.

Nebraska Emergency Management Agency has sent an Incident Management Assistance Team of seven NEMA staff to assist Region 17 Emergency Management Agency and first responders.

Two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters with crews, a 25-person Wildland Taskforce hand crew and support vehicles from the Nebraska National Guard are deploying to the fire today. A Nebraska State Patrol helicopter flew a recognizance flight to provide information to incident command.

Investigators with the Nebraska State Fire Marshal agency have determined the cause of the fire was accidental as a result of strong winds blowing a dead tree into a power line.

By Nebraska Emergency Management AgencyLincoln, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Local and state assets are continuing their response to the wildfire in Gosper and Furnas counties that has burned nearly 30,000 acres. Both counties issued emergency declarations Friday morning requesting state assistance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649460792616.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gov. Pete Ricketts issued a state emergency declaration today which allows state assets and the Governor’s Emergency Fund to be used for the response.The fire began Thursday around noon, seven miles southwest of&nbsp;Elwood. Around 40 fire departments from across the state were on scene of the fire which began Thursday about noon, seven miles southwest of Elwood. Four local emergency managers from across the state have also deployed to the fire to assist in command and control.Members of the Wildland Incident Response Assistance Team from the Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency and the Nebraska arrived Thursday to assist in the response and currently there are six NSFM staff assisting in the response and investigating the origin and cause of the fire and five NFS staff.Nebraska Emergency Management Agency has sent an Incident Management Assistance Team of seven NEMA staff to assist Region 17 Emergency Management Agency and first responders.Two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters with crews, a 25-person Wildland Taskforce hand crew and support vehicles from the Nebraska National Guard are deploying to the fire today. A Nebraska State Patrol helicopter flew a recognizance flight to provide information to incident command.Investigators with the Nebraska State Fire Marshal agency have determined the cause of the fire was accidental as a result of strong winds blowing a dead tree into a power line.Eight&nbsp;structures and&nbsp;48&nbsp;outbuildings&nbsp;were destroyed&nbsp;in the blaze.