LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s corrections director says the state's prison workforce shortage has become so severe that two facilities have cut back on the hours when they’re fully operational and a third will do the same starting next week. 

Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Director Scott Frakes says the prisons now have more than 625 job openings, thanks to an increase in staff turnover, which has forced remaining workers to pick up the slack. 

He says two Lincoln prisons, the Lincoln Correctional Center and the Diagnostic and Evaluation Center, have already switched to a four-day, 12-hour schedule for most prison activities, including family visits and recreation time.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s corrections director says the state's prison workforce shortage has become so severe that two facilities have cut back on the hours when they’re fully operational and a third will do the same starting next week. Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Director Scott Frakes says the prisons now have more than 625 job openings, thanks to an increase in staff turnover, which has forced remaining workers to pick up the slack. He says two Lincoln prisons, the Lincoln Correctional Center and the Diagnostic and Evaluation Center, have already switched to a four-day, 12-hour schedule for most prison activities, including family visits and recreation time.

Chronic staffing shortage worsens in Nebraska state prisons

The Chadron Volunteer Fire Department is hosting the 2021 Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighter Association Annual Conference Oct. 14 - 17.&nbsp;

"Please welcome our fellow first responders to Chadron," Chadron Volunteer Fire Department said. "We are lucky enough to host our Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association Conference this year. It has been 11 years since we last hosted. It will bring in firefighters from all over Nebraska."

On Oct. 16 there will be a Fire Truck Parade starting on 1st and Main Street going to 6th Street in Chadron.&nbsp;

"It does sound like a cool event," Chadron City Manager John Sutherland said. "It's a great thing. It's one of those really nice things the city does to give people the opportunity to enjoy a parade and see their fire department out and the equipment. It's always nice to have those big popular community events."

 The parade will begin at 2 p.m. this Saturday.

"Come watch fire trucks from across the state," CVFD said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634167739913.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Chadron Volunteer Fire Department is hosting the 2021 Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighter Association Annual Conference Oct. 14 - 17.&nbsp;"Please welcome our fellow first responders to Chadron," Chadron Volunteer Fire Department said. "We are lucky enough to host our Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association Conference this year. It has been 11 years since we last hosted. It will bring in firefighters from all over Nebraska."On Oct. 16 there will be a Fire Truck Parade starting on 1st and Main Street going to 6th Street in Chadron.&nbsp;"It does sound like a cool event," Chadron City Manager John Sutherland said. "It's a great thing. It's one of those really nice things the city does to give people the opportunity to enjoy a parade and see their fire department out and the equipment. It's always nice to have those big popular community events." The parade will begin at 2 p.m. this Saturday."Come watch fire trucks from across the state," CVFD said.&nbsp;

Chadron Fire Department hosting Volunteer Firefighter Association Conference

KEARNEY, Neb.-An elderly man has died after he drove his vehicle into a lake at a Kearney park.

According to police, at around 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, officers responded to the report of a vehicle that had driven into the lake at Cottonmill Park, on the west edge of the city.

Officers arrived and found a Chevrolet Impala in the water.

Police said the driver of the vehicle Donald Corneer, 90, was pronounced dead at the scene after he was unable to escape the vehicle. His wife, 87, was able to exit the vehicle and was rescued by a bystander.

Police said she was transported to a Kearney hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Police were assisted by the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department dive team, the Buffalo County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska State Patrol, and Good Samaritan Health Aircare.

By Scott Carlson North Platte PostKEARNEY, Neb.-An elderly man has died after he drove his vehicle into a lake at a Kearney park.According to police, at around 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, officers responded to the report of a vehicle that had driven into the lake at Cottonmill Park, on the west edge of the city.Officers arrived and found a Chevrolet Impala in the water.Police said the driver of the vehicle Donald Corneer, 90, was pronounced dead at the scene after he was unable to escape the vehicle. His wife, 87, was able to exit the vehicle and was rescued by a bystander.Police said she was transported to a Kearney hospital for treatment of minor injuries.Police were assisted by the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department dive team, the Buffalo County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska State Patrol, and Good Samaritan Health Aircare.

Elderly man dies after driving into lake at Kearney park

Ogallala, Ne - The Nebraska Department of Roads has closed Highway 30 between Ogallala and Roscoe due to "an obstruction across the road". No other details are available at this time. Wind Gusts have been observed well over 50 MPH much of Wednesday throughout the area, and multiple accidents have occurred.&nbsp;

Ogallala, Ne - The Nebraska Department of Roads has closed Highway 30 between Ogallala and Roscoe due to "an obstruction across the road". No other details are available at this time. Wind Gusts have been observed well over 50 MPH much of Wednesday throughout the area, and multiple accidents have occurred.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634157863192.png" alt="Nebraska Highway 30 Closed as of 3:44pm CDT" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Highway 30 Closed as of 3:44pm CDT</figcaption>
 </figure>

Highway 30 Closed Between Roscoe & Ogallala (3:40pm CDT)

By National Weather Service in North Platte

High wind warning in effect today for the western Sandhills and northwestern Nebraska. 

By National Weather Service in North PlatteHigh wind warning in effect today for the western Sandhills and northwestern Nebraska. Wind gusts up to 60 MPH are expected.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634151469278.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

High wind warning continues for most of Panhandle 

Alliance - The Family Medicine practice in Greater Nebraska Medical and Surgical Services (GNMSS) at Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) will be closed the morning of Thursday, October 14 so employees can attend the memorial service for Kimber Romick, and support one of our nurses, Leslie Romick. 

During the closure, staff will be available to take phone calls for the clinic. Patients seeing a surgical specialist will check-in as normal. 

This impacts the Family Medicine practice with patient visits, lab draws, and nurse visits. Surgical Services will remain open. Family Medicine providers will begin seeing patients that afternoon at 1:00 pm and resume all operations. Patients that are impacted have been notified and appointment times have been rescheduled. The GNMSS clinic phone number is 308-762-7244. &nbsp;

Please continue to hold the Romick family in your thoughts during this difficult time.

Alliance - The Family Medicine practice in Greater Nebraska Medical and Surgical Services (GNMSS) at Box Butte General Hospital (BBGH) will be closed the morning of Thursday, October 14 so employees can attend the memorial service for Kimber Romick, and support one of our nurses, Leslie Romick. During the closure, staff will be available to take phone calls for the clinic. Patients seeing a surgical specialist will check-in as normal. This impacts the Family Medicine practice with patient visits, lab draws, and nurse visits. Surgical Services will remain open. Family Medicine providers will begin seeing patients that afternoon at 1:00 pm and resume all operations. Patients that are impacted have been notified and appointment times have been rescheduled. The GNMSS clinic phone number is 308-762-7244. &nbsp;Please continue to hold the Romick family in your thoughts during this difficult time.

GNMSS to be closed Thursday morning to attend Memorial Services

By&nbsp;Daniel Bowen,&nbsp;Friends of the Chadron Public Library&nbsp;

Author, biologist and Chadron State grad Mark Peyton will be presenting his talk, “The Accidental Author” at the annual Friends of the Library banquet on October 18 at 6 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Peyton is the author of three books; "The Village Naturalist," a book of essays about natural history, "It Won’t Go Through Skin," a personal narrative about his tenure as a bartender at the Favorite Bar in Chadron, Nebraska, and soon to be released, More Than a Reference, essays about the people associated with scientific discoveries that changed the world.&nbsp;

A member of the Nebraska Writers’ Guild, Peyton has written essays for the Rural Electric Association’s Nebraska Magazine for the past twenty-one years, and has also published multiple essays in the Prairie Fire, the Chicken Dance Trail Newsletter and the Nebraska Writers’ Guild’s “Voices From the Plains” Anthologies.&nbsp;

Mark M. Peyton is both a Chadron High School and Chadron State College graduate who went on to become a teacher and biologist.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has twenty years of experience in the classroom and another twenty-three years of experience as the Senior District Biologist for the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Peyton still considers himself a teacher, but he is also a storyteller, amateur historian, and author.&nbsp;

Peyton spent time in the field studying a variety of different animals including clams, whooping cranes, bald eagles, least terns, piping plovers, various kinds of fish, toads, snakes, turtles, dragon flies, and American burying beetles.&nbsp;

He is a charter Board Member of the Nebraska Environment Education Association, he served two terms on the Board of Directors of Keep Nebraska Beautiful, nine years on the Gothenburg School Board, six as President, and he is presently the President of the Local Branch Advisory Board for the YMCA in Gothenburg, which is the smallest community in the United States to host a YMCA.&nbsp;

A master scuba diver, Peyton has traveled “almost” around the world on hundreds of dives, both professionally and for pleasure.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He and his&nbsp;wife, Cindy, also a CSC graduate and a retired special-education teacher, are the proud parents of two boys, Reece and Alex, and they have two beautiful granddaughters Ellie and Emmie. Rounding out the family are spoiled cats, a fat dog, some snakes, turtles, and occasionally, a spider or two.&nbsp;

This year’s Friends of the Library banquet will be held at the Country Kitchen at 1250 W 10th St. in Chadron, and will also feature local broadcaster Mike Kesselring.&nbsp;&nbsp;Guests will have the choice of a meal featuring roast beef or smothered chicken.&nbsp;

People interested in attending the Friends of the Library Banquet, can pick up Friends of the Library membership and banquet ticket forms at the Chadron Public Library on 507 Bordeaux Street, or sign up electronically at Eventbrite&nbsp;(this option costs a couple dollars more because Eventbrite charges a small processing fee)&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/friends-of-the-chadron-public-library-annual-banquet-tickets-185181030447">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/friends-of-the-chadron-public-library-annual-banquet-tickets-185181030447</a>

By&nbsp;Daniel Bowen,&nbsp;Friends of the Chadron Public Library&nbsp;Author, biologist and Chadron State grad Mark Peyton will be presenting his talk, “The Accidental Author” at the annual Friends of the Library banquet on October 18 at 6 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634139479422.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Peyton is the author of three books; "The Village Naturalist," a book of essays about natural history, "It Won’t Go Through Skin," a personal narrative about his tenure as a bartender at the Favorite Bar in Chadron, Nebraska, and soon to be released, More Than a Reference, essays about the people associated with scientific discoveries that changed the world.&nbsp;A member of the Nebraska Writers’ Guild, Peyton has written essays for the Rural Electric Association’s Nebraska Magazine for the past twenty-one years, and has also published multiple essays in the Prairie Fire, the Chicken Dance Trail Newsletter and the Nebraska Writers’ Guild’s “Voices From the Plains” Anthologies.&nbsp;Mark M. Peyton is both a Chadron High School and Chadron State College graduate who went on to become a teacher and biologist.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has twenty years of experience in the classroom and another twenty-three years of experience as the Senior District Biologist for the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Peyton still considers himself a teacher, but he is also a storyteller, amateur historian, and author.&nbsp;Peyton spent time in the field studying a variety of different animals including clams, whooping cranes, bald eagles, least terns, piping plovers, various kinds of fish, toads, snakes, turtles, dragon flies, and American burying beetles.&nbsp;He is a charter Board Member of the Nebraska Environment Education Association, he served two terms on the Board of Directors of Keep Nebraska Beautiful, nine years on the Gothenburg School Board, six as President, and he is presently the President of the Local Branch Advisory Board for the YMCA in Gothenburg, which is the smallest community in the United States to host a YMCA.&nbsp;A master scuba diver, Peyton has traveled “almost” around the world on hundreds of dives, both professionally and for pleasure.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He and his&nbsp;wife, Cindy, also a CSC graduate and a retired special-education teacher, are the proud parents of two boys, Reece and Alex, and they have two beautiful granddaughters Ellie and Emmie. Rounding out the family are spoiled cats, a fat dog, some snakes, turtles, and occasionally, a spider or two.&nbsp;This year’s Friends of the Library banquet will be held at the Country Kitchen at 1250 W 10th St. in Chadron, and will also feature local broadcaster Mike Kesselring.&nbsp;&nbsp;Guests will have the choice of a meal featuring roast beef or smothered chicken.&nbsp;People interested in attending the Friends of the Library Banquet, can pick up Friends of the Library membership and banquet ticket forms at the Chadron Public Library on 507 Bordeaux Street, or sign up electronically at Eventbrite&nbsp;(this option costs a couple dollars more because Eventbrite charges a small processing fee)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/friends-of-the-chadron-public-library-annual-banquet-tickets-185181030447">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/friends-of-the-chadron-public-library-annual-banquet-tickets-185181030447</a>

Longtime Nebraska author Mark Peyton to speak in Chadron 

Children and Youth Services Librarian Cynthia Horn, and Toni Ravert from City of Alliance Animal Control, discuss a pet bandana fundraiser for the Alliance Animal Shelter being held by the Library.

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Alliance Public Library Bandana Fundraiser" 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=k2k7w-110319c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=2&font-color=&btn-skin=5"></iframe></div>Children and Youth Services Librarian Cynthia Horn, and Toni Ravert from City of Alliance Animal Control, discuss a pet bandana fundraiser for the Alliance Animal Shelter being held by the Library.

POST PODCAST: Alliance Public Library Bandana Fundraiser

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

We’ve all seen the signs around town: Free Flu Shots, COVID Vaccines Here. We all got a series of shots when we were children so we wouldn’t get things like polio. So why should we get vaccinated when we are adults?

Adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time. You are also at risk for different diseases as an adult. Vaccination is one of the most convenient and safest preventive care measures available. Adults expecting a new grandchild need to make sure vaccinations are current before the baby arrives.

Since flu viruses change each year, people should get the new flu vaccine annually. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone over the age of six months. Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions are at higher risk of serious flu complications. The flu vaccine can prevent up to 70% of hospitalizations and 87% of deaths from flu-related pneumonia. It is important to remember you cannot get the flu from the vaccine. The flu vaccine will not protect you from other respiratory infections, such as colds and bronchitis.

Children receive the Td or Tdap vaccine to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Because tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis can occur in adults, all adults should receive a booster shot every 10 years, including one dose of Tdap for those under the age of 65. A doctor may recommend a vaccine sooner for a pregnant woman or a person with a puncture wound.

The COVID-19 vaccine is now recommended for everyone age 12 and older. Pfizer is the only one approved for under age 18.

You may need other vaccines based on your age, health conditions, job, lifestyle, or travel habits. This is a discussion you should have with your doctor.

The zoster vaccination, Shingrix, is recommended for age 50 and older. Shingles (herpes zoster) occurs when someone who previously had chicken pox (varicella) has reactivation of the virus in their body. After you've had chicken pox, the virus lies inactive in nerve tissue near your spinal cord and brain. Years later, the virus may reactivate as shingles. Shingles isn't a life-threatening condition, but it can be very painful. The most common complication is postherpetic neuralgia, which causes shingles pain for a long time after your blisters have cleared. 50% of persons age 85 years and older will have had shingles at least one time.

Pneumococcal pneumonia is the most common type of pneumonia, and accounts for up to one-third of all types of pneumonia that lead to hospitalization. The pneumonia vaccine is recommended for anyone age 65 and older.

Several more vaccinations are recommended for people who have certain medical conditions because they affect a person’s immune system. These include pregnancy, diabetes, alcoholism, and heart, lung, or liver disease.

If you plan to travel to another country, you may be at risk for diseases not normally found in the United States. The CDC recommends that you first make sure you are up-to-date on your routine vaccines, then research your destination. Some nations require specific vaccinations for diseases like yellow fever. Other vaccines recommended for a traveler depend on several things, including age, health, and itinerary. Plan to get the travel vaccines you need at least a month before your trip.

All the pharmacies and several clinics in our area give vaccinations. People do not need to make appointments at the pharmacies, but are asked to come during slower times, like in the morning. Some of the travel vaccines have to be specially ordered, so you will need to contact the pharmacist in advance.

Insurance companies pay for vaccinations, as they prevent illnesses that can be much more expensive. Flu shots and the COVID vaccine are offered at no cost, but if you are insured, you are asked to bring your card. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has an Adult Immunization Program (AIP). Contact Western Community Health Resources, 619 Box Butte in Alliance, phone 308-432-8979, if you need financial or other assistance regarding vaccinations.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceWe’ve all seen the signs around town: Free Flu Shots, COVID Vaccines Here. We all got a series of shots when we were children so we wouldn’t get things like polio. So why should we get vaccinated when we are adults?Adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time. You are also at risk for different diseases as an adult. Vaccination is one of the most convenient and safest preventive care measures available. Adults expecting a new grandchild need to make sure vaccinations are current before the baby arrives.Since flu viruses change each year, people should get the new flu vaccine annually. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone over the age of six months. Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions are at higher risk of serious flu complications. The flu vaccine can prevent up to 70% of hospitalizations and 87% of deaths from flu-related pneumonia. It is important to remember you cannot get the flu from the vaccine. The flu vaccine will not protect you from other respiratory infections, such as colds and bronchitis.Children receive the Td or Tdap vaccine to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Because tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis can occur in adults, all adults should receive a booster shot every 10 years, including one dose of Tdap for those under the age of 65. A doctor may recommend a vaccine sooner for a pregnant woman or a person with a puncture wound.The COVID-19 vaccine is now recommended for everyone age 12 and older. Pfizer is the only one approved for under age 18.You may need other vaccines based on your age, health conditions, job, lifestyle, or travel habits. This is a discussion you should have with your doctor.The zoster vaccination, Shingrix, is recommended for age 50 and older. Shingles (herpes zoster) occurs when someone who previously had chicken pox (varicella) has reactivation of the virus in their body. After you've had chicken pox, the virus lies inactive in nerve tissue near your spinal cord and brain. Years later, the virus may reactivate as shingles. Shingles isn't a life-threatening condition, but it can be very painful. The most common complication is postherpetic neuralgia, which causes shingles pain for a long time after your blisters have cleared. 50% of persons age 85 years and older will have had shingles at least one time.Pneumococcal pneumonia is the most common type of pneumonia, and accounts for up to one-third of all types of pneumonia that lead to hospitalization. The pneumonia vaccine is recommended for anyone age 65 and older.Several more vaccinations are recommended for people who have certain medical conditions because they affect a person’s immune system. These include pregnancy, diabetes, alcoholism, and heart, lung, or liver disease.If you plan to travel to another country, you may be at risk for diseases not normally found in the United States. The CDC recommends that you first make sure you are up-to-date on your routine vaccines, then research your destination. Some nations require specific vaccinations for diseases like yellow fever. Other vaccines recommended for a traveler depend on several things, including age, health, and itinerary. Plan to get the travel vaccines you need at least a month before your trip.All the pharmacies and several clinics in our area give vaccinations. People do not need to make appointments at the pharmacies, but are asked to come during slower times, like in the morning. Some of the travel vaccines have to be specially ordered, so you will need to contact the pharmacist in advance.Insurance companies pay for vaccinations, as they prevent illnesses that can be much more expensive. Flu shots and the COVID vaccine are offered at no cost, but if you are insured, you are asked to bring your card. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has an Adult Immunization Program (AIP). Contact Western Community Health Resources, 619 Box Butte in Alliance, phone 308-432-8979, if you need financial or other assistance regarding vaccinations.

Poverty In Our Area: Adult vaccinations

LINCOLN – The road inside the Martin Bay entrance at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area is closed temporarily to northbound traffic, to allow for the construction of an improved entrance.

Visitors may enter at the Martin Bay entrance and go southbound only, to reach the Low Water Boat Ramp and Beach Areas 1 and 2, until Dec. 1, at which time southbound access also will close. All other areas of Shoreline Road must detour through the Arthur Bay or Sandy Beach entrances.

The Martin Bay entrance project is expected to be completed before Memorial Day 2022. The nearly $4.5 million project is funded by the Nebraska Recreation Road Fund and by Park User Fees and is being completed by Simon Contractors, Inc. of Nebraska.

The goal of the project is to improve visitor access at the park’s most popular entrance, by adding an additional gatehouse, significantly increasing stacking lanes, to reduce backing onto state highways and to tie the entrance into the ongoing Martin Bay Boat Ramp Improvement Project.

The improvements are part of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s ongoing efforts, under the Park’s Master Plan, to improve the western Nebraska recreation areas, which has provided more than $6 million in improvements to date, with an additional $8 million currently underway at Martin Bay and Cedar View, collectively.

LINCOLN – The road inside the Martin Bay entrance at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area is closed temporarily to northbound traffic, to allow for the construction of an improved entrance.Visitors may enter at the Martin Bay entrance and go southbound only, to reach the Low Water Boat Ramp and Beach Areas 1 and 2, until Dec. 1, at which time southbound access also will close. All other areas of Shoreline Road must detour through the Arthur Bay or Sandy Beach entrances.The Martin Bay entrance project is expected to be completed before Memorial Day 2022. The nearly $4.5 million project is funded by the Nebraska Recreation Road Fund and by Park User Fees and is being completed by Simon Contractors, Inc. of Nebraska.The goal of the project is to improve visitor access at the park’s most popular entrance, by adding an additional gatehouse, significantly increasing stacking lanes, to reduce backing onto state highways and to tie the entrance into the ongoing Martin Bay Boat Ramp Improvement Project.The improvements are part of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s ongoing efforts, under the Park’s Master Plan, to improve the western Nebraska recreation areas, which has provided more than $6 million in improvements to date, with an additional $8 million currently underway at Martin Bay and Cedar View, collectively.

Northbound traffic entrance to Lake Mac’s Martin Bay temporarily closed

Alliance – Due to unsafe conditions caused by last night’s rain and the current high winds, the Alliance Landfill will not be accepting construction, demolition or non-baleable waste until further notice.

 The Landfill will re-evaluate conditions at the end of the day, but plan to have that area open tomorrow. 

Please watch for updates posted on the City of Alliance Facebook page.

For more information, please call the Administrative Office at (308) 762-5400.

Alliance – Due to unsafe conditions caused by last night’s rain and the current high winds, the Alliance Landfill will not be accepting construction, demolition or non-baleable waste until further notice. The Landfill will re-evaluate conditions at the end of the day, but plan to have that area open tomorrow. Please watch for updates posted on the City of Alliance Facebook page.For more information, please call the Administrative Office at (308) 762-5400.

Alliance landfill to have partial closure

Nebraska Public Power District has notified the City of Rushville that there will be a planned power outage on Oct. 13. 

The power will be out during that time in town from 3 a.m.- 5 a.m.

If you have questions please call NPPD 877-275-6773.

Nebraska Public Power District has notified the City of Rushville that there will be a planned power outage on Oct. 13. The power will be out during that time in town from 3 a.m.- 5 a.m.If you have questions please call NPPD 877-275-6773.

Rushville to have scheduled power outage

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON&nbsp;– The Hanks family was recognized with the Family Tree Award during Chadron State College's Homecoming Saturday. The Burkhiser-Madsen family also received the award.

The Hanks family tree includes three generations of teachers from the Panhandle.

The late Don Hanks, a native of Sheridan County, earned his bachelor’s in Business Education in 1961, his master’s in 1966, and his specialist degree in 1969 from the University of Northern Colorado.

From 1957 to 1958, he played football and was a member of the undefeated 1958 team inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.

He started his 34-year career in education as a business teacher and coach at Sunflower High School in Mitchell from 1961 to 1963. Following that, he was the superintendent in Chambers and taught business for one year and served as principal for one year in Hyannis. He served as the superintendent of Hemingford Public Schools from 1969 to 1995.

He and his wife, Beverly (Hiles) Hanks, have two adult children, Gene “Mo” Hanks and Paul Hanks.

Beverly earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education, and a minor in English. While a student, she participated in band and choir and was a member of the Xi Delta Zeta Sorority.

She taught at Hemingford Public Schools from 1971 to 1998 when she retired. Following her retirement, she was a substitute teacher for 15 years.

Mo earned a Business Management bachelor’s in 1990, a Business Education degree in 1995, and a master’s in Secondary Administration in 2003. In 2017, he earned a Specialist degree from Wayne State College.

When Mo transferred to CSC from the University of Northern Iowa in 1984, he became a starter at offensive tackle. In addition to playing football, he threw shot put for indoor track and shot put, discus, and hammer for outdoor track in 1985-86. He medaled in the shot put at every meet and earned six letters.

He is the superintendent of Crawford Public Schools. Previously, he was the secondary principal of Kimball Public Schools, a teacher and coach at Hemingford, Hay Springs, and Oelrichs.

He and his wife, Kristy (Beagle), have two children, Jessica and Beau.

Kristy graduated Summa Cum Laude in 1994 with a double major in Business Management and Accounting. She was an Admissions Ambassador and participated in intramural activities.

She is a Title 1C Service Provider for Education Service Unit 13.

Jessica graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2020 with her degree in Secondary English Education. While at CSC she was president of the Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society, a member of the Sigma Delta Nu Education Honor Society, a peer writing tutor, an embedded tutor for Composition I, an after-school tutor at Chadron High School, and a coaching intern with the Chadron middle School Track and Field program.

She teaches ninth and tenth grade English at Sidney High School and coaches high school girls basketball and middle school track and field.

The Burkhiser name is well-known on campus, thanks in part to the name of the Burkhiser Technology Complex which houses classrooms, labs, and faculty offices for Business and Applied Sciences. Temporarily, Burkhiser is also housing Math Science classrooms, labs and faculty offices until construction is complete on the new facility. Burkhiser was built in 1971 and later named in honor of Donald Burkhiser, a long-time Industrial Arts division chair from 1945 to 1973.

Don and his wife, Juanah, had three daughters, Phyllis, Barbara, Judith, and one son, Rich. He was awarded the college’s Distinguished Service Award in 1984.

Barbara earned an Associate of Arts degree from CSC in 1952 in Elementary Education. She died in 1997. She and her husband, J. Larry Lochridge had two children, David and Janet. J. Larry graduated in 1953 with a degree in HPER and Industrial Technology Education. He was a member of the football and track teams, the Industrial Art Guild, and Blue Key Honor Society. He is a retired Clark County School District Counselor. He is remarried and lives in Las Vegas.

Judith was a 1957 graduate of Chadron Prep and earned a bachelor’s in Education in 1960. She was a member of the choir, Eagleaires, Cardinal Key, and Scholastic Club. She earned a master’s in Education in 1968. Later she earned a Special Education Certificate from University of California Riverside. She lives in Rancho Cucamonga, California, where she taught TaijiFit from 2014 to 2021 and proofreads books for David-Dorian Ross. Her husband is deceased. She has two children, Jeff Lunceford and Dara Parker.

Phyllis and her husband, Ray’s, daughter, Dr. Kim Madsen, earned a bachelor’s in Home Economics and Art in 1972 and was a member of the Ethel Delzell Home Ec Club. In 1978, she earned a master’s in Vocational Education, served as a graduate assistant from 1981 to 1983 and joined the CSC faculty in 1983. She earned a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction/Educational Administration from the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 1996 and was the director of CSC’s Child Development Center 1989-2013.

Kim and her husband, John, have three children Justin, Jennifer Smith, and Julie Schommer.

Justin earned a bachelor’s in Ag Business in 1996. He farms and ranches in the Deadhorse community and is an insurance agent for FNIC in Chadron. He and his wife, Carey, have three children, Clay, Cody, and Cole.

Clay earned a bachelor’s in Rangeland Management in 2020. He is employed with FNIC in Chadron as an insurance agent, and farms and ranches with his family.

Cody was a part of the Rural Business Leadership Initiative and in 2021 earned a bachelor’s in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance and Ag Business. He was a universal banking officer at Bank of the West 2019-2020 and is currently a personal banker at Platte Valley Bank in Scottsbluff.

Cole is enrolled at CSC in the Range Management program, farms and ranches with his family, and is employed part-time for Sellman Hay and Spraying.

Jennifer earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting and Ag Business in 1996. She lives in North Platte, Nebraska, with her children, Haley and Kasie.

Julie earned a bachelor’s in Business Administration in 2001. She has been in the banking industry for 20 years and is employed at Security First Bank in Chadron. She and her husband, Marty, have two children, Morgan and Roudy.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorThe Hanks Family<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633971143971.jpeg" alt="The Hanks Family is recognized with the Family Tree Award during Chadron State Homecoming Oct. 9, 2021, in the Student Center. From left, back row, Gene "Mo" Hanks, Jessica Hanks, Beau Hanks. Front row, from left, Beverly Hiles Hanks, Kristy Beagle Hanks and Patty Beagle. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>The Hanks Family is recognized with the Family Tree Award during Chadron State Homecoming Oct. 9, 2021, in the Student Center. From left, back row, Gene "Mo" Hanks, Jessica Hanks, Beau Hanks. Front row, from left, Beverly Hiles Hanks, Kristy Beagle Hanks and Patty Beagle. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON&nbsp;– The Hanks family was recognized with the Family Tree Award during Chadron State College's Homecoming Saturday. The Burkhiser-Madsen family also received the award.The Hanks family tree includes three generations of teachers from the Panhandle.The late Don Hanks, a native of Sheridan County, earned his bachelor’s in Business Education in 1961, his master’s in 1966, and his specialist degree in 1969 from the University of Northern Colorado.From 1957 to 1958, he played football and was a member of the undefeated 1958 team inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1998.He started his 34-year career in education as a business teacher and coach at Sunflower High School in Mitchell from 1961 to 1963. Following that, he was the superintendent in Chambers and taught business for one year and served as principal for one year in Hyannis. He served as the superintendent of Hemingford Public Schools from 1969 to 1995.He and his wife, Beverly (Hiles) Hanks, have two adult children, Gene “Mo” Hanks and Paul Hanks.Beverly earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education, and a minor in English. While a student, she participated in band and choir and was a member of the Xi Delta Zeta Sorority.She taught at Hemingford Public Schools from 1971 to 1998 when she retired. Following her retirement, she was a substitute teacher for 15 years.Mo earned a Business Management bachelor’s in 1990, a Business Education degree in 1995, and a master’s in Secondary Administration in 2003. In 2017, he earned a Specialist degree from Wayne State College.When Mo transferred to CSC from the University of Northern Iowa in 1984, he became a starter at offensive tackle. In addition to playing football, he threw shot put for indoor track and shot put, discus, and hammer for outdoor track in 1985-86. He medaled in the shot put at every meet and earned six letters.He is the superintendent of Crawford Public Schools. Previously, he was the secondary principal of Kimball Public Schools, a teacher and coach at Hemingford, Hay Springs, and Oelrichs.He and his wife, Kristy (Beagle), have two children, Jessica and Beau.Kristy graduated Summa Cum Laude in 1994 with a double major in Business Management and Accounting. She was an Admissions Ambassador and participated in intramural activities.She is a Title 1C Service Provider for Education Service Unit 13.Jessica graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2020 with her degree in Secondary English Education. While at CSC she was president of the Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society, a member of the Sigma Delta Nu Education Honor Society, a peer writing tutor, an embedded tutor for Composition I, an after-school tutor at Chadron High School, and a coaching intern with the Chadron middle School Track and Field program.She teaches ninth and tenth grade English at Sidney High School and coaches high school girls basketball and middle school track and field.Burkhiser-Madsen Family<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633971073052.jpeg" alt="The Burkhiser-Madsen family is recognized during Chadron State College Homecoming Oct. 9, 2021, in the Student Center. Back row, from left, Roudy Schommer, Carey Madsen, Clay Madsen, Cole Madsen, Marty Schommer, and Morgan Schommer. Front row, from left, Justin Madsen, John Madsen, Kim Madsen, and Julie Schommer.(Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>The Burkhiser-Madsen family is recognized during Chadron State College Homecoming Oct. 9, 2021, in the Student Center. Back row, from left, Roudy Schommer, Carey Madsen, Clay Madsen, Cole Madsen, Marty Schommer, and Morgan Schommer. Front row, from left, Justin Madsen, John Madsen, Kim Madsen, and Julie Schommer.(Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Burkhiser name is well-known on campus, thanks in part to the name of the Burkhiser Technology Complex which houses classrooms, labs, and faculty offices for Business and Applied Sciences. Temporarily, Burkhiser is also housing Math Science classrooms, labs and faculty offices until construction is complete on the new facility. Burkhiser was built in 1971 and later named in honor of Donald Burkhiser, a long-time Industrial Arts division chair from 1945 to 1973.Don and his wife, Juanah, had three daughters, Phyllis, Barbara, Judith, and one son, Rich. He was awarded the college’s Distinguished Service Award in 1984.Barbara earned an Associate of Arts degree from CSC in 1952 in Elementary Education. She died in 1997. She and her husband, J. Larry Lochridge had two children, David and Janet. J. Larry graduated in 1953 with a degree in HPER and Industrial Technology Education. He was a member of the football and track teams, the Industrial Art Guild, and Blue Key Honor Society. He is a retired Clark County School District Counselor. He is remarried and lives in Las Vegas.Judith was a 1957 graduate of Chadron Prep and earned a bachelor’s in Education in 1960. She was a member of the choir, Eagleaires, Cardinal Key, and Scholastic Club. She earned a master’s in Education in 1968. Later she earned a Special Education Certificate from University of California Riverside. She lives in Rancho Cucamonga, California, where she taught TaijiFit from 2014 to 2021 and proofreads books for David-Dorian Ross. Her husband is deceased. She has two children, Jeff Lunceford and Dara Parker.Phyllis and her husband, Ray’s, daughter, Dr. Kim Madsen, earned a bachelor’s in Home Economics and Art in 1972 and was a member of the Ethel Delzell Home Ec Club. In 1978, she earned a master’s in Vocational Education, served as a graduate assistant from 1981 to 1983 and joined the CSC faculty in 1983. She earned a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction/Educational Administration from the University of Nebraska Lincoln in 1996 and was the director of CSC’s Child Development Center 1989-2013.Kim and her husband, John, have three children Justin, Jennifer Smith, and Julie Schommer.Justin earned a bachelor’s in Ag Business in 1996. He farms and ranches in the Deadhorse community and is an insurance agent for FNIC in Chadron. He and his wife, Carey, have three children, Clay, Cody, and Cole.Clay earned a bachelor’s in Rangeland Management in 2020. He is employed with FNIC in Chadron as an insurance agent, and farms and ranches with his family.Cody was a part of the Rural Business Leadership Initiative and in 2021 earned a bachelor’s in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance and Ag Business. He was a universal banking officer at Bank of the West 2019-2020 and is currently a personal banker at Platte Valley Bank in Scottsbluff.Cole is enrolled at CSC in the Range Management program, farms and ranches with his family, and is employed part-time for Sellman Hay and Spraying.Jennifer earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting and Ag Business in 1996. She lives in North Platte, Nebraska, with her children, Haley and Kasie.Julie earned a bachelor’s in Business Administration in 2001. She has been in the banking industry for 20 years and is employed at Security First Bank in Chadron. She and her husband, Marty, have two children, Morgan and Roudy.

2 families honored with Family Tree Award at CSC 

By Cindy Randall, Alliance Arts Council

The Alliance Arts Council will begin their performing arts season on Friday, October 22.

POPPA BEAR NORTON has been called a “Two Man Musical Marvel”. These two men have put hours of work into writing, crafting, and performing their own brand of country western music that they like to call Daredevil Country.

Their style harkens back to the days of Buck Owens and Johnny Cash, as well as the outlaw era of Waylon, Willie, and Haggard. A time when a song was written like a well-crafted story and performed with passion, sincerity, humor, and refined musical skill. When “Poppa Bear” (aka The Singer) and “B” (aka The Slinger) hit the stage and fire up their one part honky-tonk, one part Hee-Haw styled country show, it’s fast, exciting, fun and entertaining. That’s what makes it daredevil country.

The duo was awarded both the 2018 Songwriter of the Year and Maverick Awards from the Midwest Country Music Association, plus their mommas will tell you they’re nice boys! The Singer and The Slinger have traveled all over this great land playing bars, honky-tonks, festivals and fairs – leaving folks entertained and making new friends along the way.

They will entertain in Alliance on Friday, October 22 at 7:00 p.m. at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center.

Tickets are $10 for Adults, $9 for Senior and $5 for Students. Tickets are available at Redman’s Shoes, Carnegie Arts Center and at the door.

Business co-presenters for the Alliance Arts Council’s 2021-2022 season are Harris Sales, Western Nebraska Real Estate, FNIC (formerly Gregory’s Insurance), FNBO and KCOW/Double Q Country Radio.

By Cindy Randall, Alliance Arts CouncilThe Alliance Arts Council will begin their performing arts season on Friday, October 22.POPPA BEAR NORTON has been called a “Two Man Musical Marvel”. These two men have put hours of work into writing, crafting, and performing their own brand of country western music that they like to call Daredevil Country.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634066165449.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Their style harkens back to the days of Buck Owens and Johnny Cash, as well as the outlaw era of Waylon, Willie, and Haggard. A time when a song was written like a well-crafted story and performed with passion, sincerity, humor, and refined musical skill. When “Poppa Bear” (aka The Singer) and “B” (aka The Slinger) hit the stage and fire up their one part honky-tonk, one part Hee-Haw styled country show, it’s fast, exciting, fun and entertaining. That’s what makes it daredevil country.The duo was awarded both the 2018 Songwriter of the Year and Maverick Awards from the Midwest Country Music Association, plus their mommas will tell you they’re nice boys! The Singer and The Slinger have traveled all over this great land playing bars, honky-tonks, festivals and fairs – leaving folks entertained and making new friends along the way.They will entertain in Alliance on Friday, October 22 at 7:00 p.m. at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center.Tickets are $10 for Adults, $9 for Senior and $5 for Students. Tickets are available at Redman’s Shoes, Carnegie Arts Center and at the door.Business co-presenters for the Alliance Arts Council’s 2021-2022 season are Harris Sales, Western Nebraska Real Estate, FNIC (formerly Gregory’s Insurance), FNBO and KCOW/Double Q Country Radio.

Alliance Arts Council begins season with Poppa Bear Norton

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley has tested positive for the coronavirus. 

A spokesman says Foley has mild symptoms and is self-isolating as he recovers. 

He didn’t answer questions about when the lieutenant governor was tested or whether he has been vaccinated. 

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts has been vaccinated and has urged the public to get vaccinated too, but he opposes vaccine requirements.

 The governor’s office updated Foley’s public schedule to remove all planned events for the week. 

Foley, a Republican, is a former state auditor and lawmaker from Lincoln. 

He has served as lieutenant governor since 2015.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley has tested positive for the coronavirus. A spokesman says Foley has mild symptoms and is self-isolating as he recovers. He didn’t answer questions about when the lieutenant governor was tested or whether he has been vaccinated. Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts has been vaccinated and has urged the public to get vaccinated too, but he opposes vaccine requirements. The governor’s office updated Foley’s public schedule to remove all planned events for the week. Foley, a Republican, is a former state auditor and lawmaker from Lincoln. He has served as lieutenant governor since 2015.

Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley tests positive for coronavirus

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of new virus cases and hospitalizations improved slightly in Nebraska again last week but they remain at an elevated level that is straining the state’s hospitals.

 Nebraska reported 4,534 cases in the week that ended on Friday, according to data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

The Omaha World-Herald reports that is down about 5% from the 4.775 cases Nebraska reported the week before. 

The number of people hospitalized with the virus in the state averaged around 400 a day last week, which was down from 415 a day in the previous week.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The number of new virus cases and hospitalizations improved slightly in Nebraska again last week but they remain at an elevated level that is straining the state’s hospitals. Nebraska reported 4,534 cases in the week that ended on Friday, according to data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Omaha World-Herald reports that is down about 5% from the 4.775 cases Nebraska reported the week before. The number of people hospitalized with the virus in the state averaged around 400 a day last week, which was down from 415 a day in the previous week.

Nebraska virus numbers improve slightly but remain elevated

The last 18 months have been a roller coaster for the entire world.&nbsp; While many places have struggled, even in America, Nebraskans have come together to power through the pandemic. &nbsp;Our healthcare professionals have worked with compassion and skill to care for Nebraskans.&nbsp; Communities have supported their local businesses throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; Employers have overcome market disruptions to preserve and create jobs.&nbsp; Parents and schools worked to get kids back in the classroom.&nbsp; Our ag producers once again showed that they can be counted on to feed the nation and world.&nbsp; None of this has been easy, but Nebraskans have been up to the challenge.

While the coronavirus upended our lives, the State has struck a balance allowing people to live a more normal life while still keeping Nebraska healthy.&nbsp; Our approach helped to protect our hospitals, so everyone who needed a hospital bed could get one. &nbsp;We have the third lowest fatality rate from COVID-19 in the country, and we’ve now vaccinated over 88% of Nebraskans 65 and older.

As we prioritized health, we pushed forward with growing Nebraska.&nbsp; While the nation’s GDP declined 3.4% last year, Nebraska was one of the least affected states—with the fourth best GDP performance.&nbsp; Our state has bounced back strong.&nbsp; Nebraska had the fastest fourth quarter GDP growth of any state in 2020 (11.8%), more than doubling the national growth rate of 4.5%.

We’ve seen evidence of renewed growth and job creation in our labor market numbers.&nbsp; Currently, our state’s unemployment rate is 2.2%.&nbsp; That’s the lowest rate in the nation and the lowest in Nebraska history.&nbsp; Of the 389 metro areas in the United States, Nebraska’s three metros rank #1, #2, and #6 for lowest unemployment rate. &nbsp;(Lincoln is #1 at 1.7%, Grand Island is #2 at 1.9%, and Omaha is #6 at 2.3%.)&nbsp; There’s never been a better time than now to find a job in Nebraska.&nbsp; Each of our 93 counties has a seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate below 3.0%.&nbsp; On any given day, our State jobs site (<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx" target="_blank">NeWorks.nebraska.gov</a>) lists over 50,000 openings.&nbsp; Given all this, it’s no wonder that WalletHub says Nebraska is the #2 best state in the nation for finding a job.

As our growth creates jobs, we’re equipping Nebraskans to make the most of the great opportunities available.&nbsp; The Developing Youth Talent Initiative introduces middle school students to great-paying careers in fields like manufacturing and IT.&nbsp; High school career academies give students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and begin earning college credit.&nbsp; Registered Apprenticeships provide young Nebraskans with the opportunity to earn income, obtain credentials, and accumulate course credits while learning a new job.&nbsp; Despite the pandemic, Nebraska grew registered apprentice enrollment by 14% in 2020 for a total of 1,511 new registered apprentices enrolled in Nebraska Registered Apprenticeship Programs. &nbsp;Our Career Scholarships program, which will offer at least 2,110 scholarships by 2023, is helping pay the way for college students to attain knowledge and skills to enter high-demand fields like engineering or nursing.&nbsp; We’re seeing these efforts bear fruit.&nbsp; In 2020, Nebraska overtook Iowa and Minnesota to become the best state in our region for workforce development according to&nbsp;Site Selection&nbsp;magazine.

While government can help create a growth-friendly environment, it’s the private sector that’s creating the opportunities.&nbsp; Our largest industry, agriculture, is leading our growth.&nbsp; For 2020, Nebraska again ranked #1 nationally for the most agricultural cash receipts per capita.&nbsp; While the population of Texas is almost 15 times that of Nebraska, the Cornhusker State sold more ag commodities than the Lone Star State last year.&nbsp; Nebraska also tops Texas in beef exports, ranking #2 nationally behind Kansas.&nbsp; Nebraska’s beef exports are on pace to set an all-time high in 2021.&nbsp; They are up 30% year-to-date.&nbsp; In August 2021, Nebraska’s beef exports surpassed $188 million—the best month ever for our state.

Nebraska’s farmers are also experiencing expanded exports.&nbsp; Over the first 8 months of 2021, American corn exports are at $14.5 billion.&nbsp; That’s higher than the&nbsp;annual&nbsp;export value for any year since at least 2004!&nbsp; U.S. soybean exports (up 30%) and wheat exports (up 19%) are also much higher than they were last year at this point.

Even with the pandemic, manufacturing employment has reached its highest point in over a decade.&nbsp; Mainstays of our state’s manufacturing community like Behlen, BD, Kawasaki, and Nucor have all significantly expanded their workforces this past year.&nbsp; In September, UNL’s Bureau of Business Research reported that Nebraska’s leading economic indicator (LEI) increased again during August 2021 on the strength of business expectations and an uptick in manufacturing hours worked.&nbsp; The LEI has now risen in 10 of the past 11 months, signaling continued growth for our state.

Our state’s successful pandemic response has been especially beneficial to kids.&nbsp; Nebraska was the sixth-best state for keeping kids in the classroom after the virus disrupted education in the spring of 2020. &nbsp;This was an important accomplishment; in-person learning enhances children’s academic performance, emotional well-being, nutrition, and physical fitness. &nbsp;Our strong economic recovery also enabled Nebraska to climb to #2 in the Casey Foundation’s annual ranking of children’s economic wellbeing.&nbsp;

Legislatively, we didn’t let the pandemic distract us from moving Nebraska forward.&nbsp; This year, I worked with Senators to enact a historic amount of tax relief, make a major investment to expand our broadband infrastructure, and cut red tape to expand our healthcare workforce.&nbsp; Over the next two years, Nebraskans will see over $1.9 billion of direct property tax relief and over $2 billion of estimated total tax relief.&nbsp; We did all of this by controlling spending growth to 2.4% annually and remaining the least indebted state government in America.

Thank you to everyone in Nebraska for the grace, grit, and resilience you’ve shown over the past year and a half. &nbsp;It hasn’t always been easy, but it has helped us power through the pandemic and grow Nebraska.&nbsp; As always, if you have any questions or comments, please contact me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or by calling 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

By Gov. Pete RickettsThe last 18 months have been a roller coaster for the entire world.&nbsp; While many places have struggled, even in America, Nebraskans have come together to power through the pandemic. &nbsp;Our healthcare professionals have worked with compassion and skill to care for Nebraskans.&nbsp; Communities have supported their local businesses throughout the pandemic.&nbsp; Employers have overcome market disruptions to preserve and create jobs.&nbsp; Parents and schools worked to get kids back in the classroom.&nbsp; Our ag producers once again showed that they can be counted on to feed the nation and world.&nbsp; None of this has been easy, but Nebraskans have been up to the challenge.While the coronavirus upended our lives, the State has struck a balance allowing people to live a more normal life while still keeping Nebraska healthy.&nbsp; Our approach helped to protect our hospitals, so everyone who needed a hospital bed could get one. &nbsp;We have the third lowest fatality rate from COVID-19 in the country, and we’ve now vaccinated over 88% of Nebraskans 65 and older.As we prioritized health, we pushed forward with growing Nebraska.&nbsp; While the nation’s GDP declined 3.4% last year, Nebraska was one of the least affected states—with the fourth best GDP performance.&nbsp; Our state has bounced back strong.&nbsp; Nebraska had the fastest fourth quarter GDP growth of any state in 2020 (11.8%), more than doubling the national growth rate of 4.5%.We’ve seen evidence of renewed growth and job creation in our labor market numbers.&nbsp; Currently, our state’s unemployment rate is 2.2%.&nbsp; That’s the lowest rate in the nation and the lowest in Nebraska history.&nbsp; Of the 389 metro areas in the United States, Nebraska’s three metros rank #1, #2, and #6 for lowest unemployment rate. &nbsp;(Lincoln is #1 at 1.7%, Grand Island is #2 at 1.9%, and Omaha is #6 at 2.3%.)&nbsp; There’s never been a better time than now to find a job in Nebraska.&nbsp; Each of our 93 counties has a seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate below 3.0%.&nbsp; On any given day, our State jobs site (<a href="https://neworks.nebraska.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx" target="_blank">NeWorks.nebraska.gov</a>) lists over 50,000 openings.&nbsp; Given all this, it’s no wonder that WalletHub says Nebraska is the #2 best state in the nation for finding a job.As our growth creates jobs, we’re equipping Nebraskans to make the most of the great opportunities available.&nbsp; The Developing Youth Talent Initiative introduces middle school students to great-paying careers in fields like manufacturing and IT.&nbsp; High school career academies give students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and begin earning college credit.&nbsp; Registered Apprenticeships provide young Nebraskans with the opportunity to earn income, obtain credentials, and accumulate course credits while learning a new job.&nbsp; Despite the pandemic, Nebraska grew registered apprentice enrollment by 14% in 2020 for a total of 1,511 new registered apprentices enrolled in Nebraska Registered Apprenticeship Programs. &nbsp;Our Career Scholarships program, which will offer at least 2,110 scholarships by 2023, is helping pay the way for college students to attain knowledge and skills to enter high-demand fields like engineering or nursing.&nbsp; We’re seeing these efforts bear fruit.&nbsp; In 2020, Nebraska overtook Iowa and Minnesota to become the best state in our region for workforce development according to&nbsp;Site Selection&nbsp;magazine.While government can help create a growth-friendly environment, it’s the private sector that’s creating the opportunities.&nbsp; Our largest industry, agriculture, is leading our growth.&nbsp; For 2020, Nebraska again ranked #1 nationally for the most agricultural cash receipts per capita.&nbsp; While the population of Texas is almost 15 times that of Nebraska, the Cornhusker State sold more ag commodities than the Lone Star State last year.&nbsp; Nebraska also tops Texas in beef exports, ranking #2 nationally behind Kansas.&nbsp; Nebraska’s beef exports are on pace to set an all-time high in 2021.&nbsp; They are up 30% year-to-date.&nbsp; In August 2021, Nebraska’s beef exports surpassed $188 million—the best month ever for our state.Nebraska’s farmers are also experiencing expanded exports.&nbsp; Over the first 8 months of 2021, American corn exports are at $14.5 billion.&nbsp; That’s higher than the&nbsp;annual&nbsp;export value for any year since at least 2004!&nbsp; U.S. soybean exports (up 30%) and wheat exports (up 19%) are also much higher than they were last year at this point.Even with the pandemic, manufacturing employment has reached its highest point in over a decade.&nbsp; Mainstays of our state’s manufacturing community like Behlen, BD, Kawasaki, and Nucor have all significantly expanded their workforces this past year.&nbsp; In September, UNL’s Bureau of Business Research reported that Nebraska’s leading economic indicator (LEI) increased again during August 2021 on the strength of business expectations and an uptick in manufacturing hours worked.&nbsp; The LEI has now risen in 10 of the past 11 months, signaling continued growth for our state.Our state’s successful pandemic response has been especially beneficial to kids.&nbsp; Nebraska was the sixth-best state for keeping kids in the classroom after the virus disrupted education in the spring of 2020. &nbsp;This was an important accomplishment; in-person learning enhances children’s academic performance, emotional well-being, nutrition, and physical fitness. &nbsp;Our strong economic recovery also enabled Nebraska to climb to #2 in the Casey Foundation’s annual ranking of children’s economic wellbeing.&nbsp;Legislatively, we didn’t let the pandemic distract us from moving Nebraska forward.&nbsp; This year, I worked with Senators to enact a historic amount of tax relief, make a major investment to expand our broadband infrastructure, and cut red tape to expand our healthcare workforce.&nbsp; Over the next two years, Nebraskans will see over $1.9 billion of direct property tax relief and over $2 billion of estimated total tax relief.&nbsp; We did all of this by controlling spending growth to 2.4% annually and remaining the least indebted state government in America.Thank you to everyone in Nebraska for the grace, grit, and resilience you’ve shown over the past year and a half. &nbsp;It hasn’t always been easy, but it has helped us power through the pandemic and grow Nebraska.&nbsp; As always, if you have any questions or comments, please contact me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or by calling 402-471-2244.&nbsp;

Gov. Ricketts: Growing through it together

Alliance- Box Butte General Hospital is offering mid-year scholarships in the amount of $1,500 (full-time), $750 (part-time) each to post-secondary students currently enrolled in a healthcare studies program.

Applications must be postmarked by Oct. 29. To download the scholarship application visit <a href="https://www.bbgh.org/education_opportunities/scholarships.html">https://www.bbgh.org/education_opportunities/scholarships.html</a>.

Alliance- Box Butte General Hospital is offering mid-year scholarships in the amount of $1,500 (full-time), $750 (part-time) each to post-secondary students currently enrolled in a healthcare studies program. Applications must be postmarked by Oct. 29. To download the scholarship application visit <a href="https://www.bbgh.org/education_opportunities/scholarships.html">https://www.bbgh.org/education_opportunities/scholarships.html</a>.

BBGH to offer mid-year educational scholarship

CHADRON – A member of the Chadron State College faculty and a High Plains Herbarium volunteer are bringing their expertise to the seventh annual Trading Stories Film Festival at the Chadron Public Library, focused on Oglala Lakota spiritual leader Nicholas Black Elk.

The festival, set for Thursday through Saturday at the library, includes a presentation by CSC geology professor Dr. Michael Leite on Friday at 6 p.m., prior to screening of the 2020 documentary, Walking the Good Red Road, about Black Elk’s life.

On Saturday at 3 p.m. Dr. Susan Rolfsmeier, former adjunct professor in the Department of Applied Sciences and Herbarium volunteer, will discuss medicinal plants of the High Plains, as a lead in to the 5 p.m. screening of the 1970 movie, Little Big Man.

Black Elk (Hehaka Sapa) is perhaps best known through the book Black Elk Speaks by John G. Neihardt. Born in about 1863, Black Elk was present at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876 and survived the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890. Through the influence of his first wife, he converted to Catholicism in his 40s, but continued to practice Lakota ceremonies.

Black Elk was proposed for sainthood by the Rapid City, South Dakota, diocese of the Catholic Church in 2017. The diocese co-produced Walking the Good Red Road, which first aired on ABC television stations in May 2020.

“(Black Elk) was the bridge that carried his people from Wounded Knee to present times,” said Chadron Library Director Rossella Tesch.

In 2016 the highest point in South Dakota, previously known as Harney Peak, was renamed Black Elk Peak to recognize the significance of the mountain and the Black Hills to the region’s Native Americans.

Leite said his knowledge of the cultural significance of Black Elk Peak is limited, but its geology is fascinating. The mountain is part of an outcrop known as Harney Peak Granite that stemmed from a major geologic event 1.9 billion years ago called the Trans-Hudson Orogeny (THO), a collision of tectonic plates that created a Himalaya-scale mountain range from western Nebraska to northern Saskatchewan and Greenland. Magma injected following the THO formed Harney Peak Granite and associated pegmatite materials that are rich in rare materials like titanium, beryllium, and lithium. Another major geologic event some 60 million years ago, the Laramide uplift, made those minerals, and the gold for which the Black Hills is famous, accessible to us today, Leite said.

Rolfsmeier and her husband, Steve, director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/sci/herbarium/index.csc" target="_blank">High Plains Herbarium</a>&nbsp;at CSC, are specialists in the study of relationships among plant groups. Though not trained in medicinal plants, they are interested in studying plant diversity of the region, and find that people often want to know about the practical value of plants for food, medicine and commercial use.

“Tapping into people’s interests is a way to reach out to the public and make learning about plants appealing,” Rolfsmeier said.

Much of the information the Rolfsmeiers have prepared for the festival presentation was compiled by Melvin Gilmore and Father Eugene Buechel, who conducted extensive interviews with Native American people about the names of plants and their traditional uses.

“The foundation of today’s knowledge comes from the indigenous peoples who lived in the area and relied on the plants,” Rolfsmeier said.

Building on work by CSC professor Dr. George Morgan, former Herbarium director Dr. Ron Weedon in 1990 completed a paper about Oglala use of medicinal plants, and noted that sage, cedar, sweet flag and sweet grass were the most common plants in use, said Rolfsmeier.

Interest in plant use remains high, according to Steve Rolfsmeier, who often fields questions on the topic when conducting plant walks. The High Plains Herbarium has a broad range of literature relating to native plants but the collection is currently in storage in anticipation of being moved into the new Herbarium library when renovation of the Math Science building is completed, he said.

The film festival, sponsored by the Chadron Library Foundation and supported by the Dawes County Travel Board, began in 2014 to highlight the Native American history of the region and call attention to the library’s extensive Indigenous Peoples of North America collection of books, films and music.

“Native Americans are a vital part of the (Nebraska) Panhandle’s history, life and culture,” Tesch said. “Native American culture is often ignored and disparaged. When people see the movies, they are moved learning what Native American’s have gone through in the last 100 years. They are surprised by the beauty of the art and music.”

Tesch said she hopes this year’s festival will make people aware of the many components of Black Elk’s life and the spiritual messages he conveyed. Through the horror of battles and loss of many of his people to conflict, famine and disease, Black Elk persevered, said Tesch.

“He held onto his culture and moral beliefs, and looked for other ways to continue on,” she said

A complete schedule of the film festival can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/civicalerts.aspx?aid=291" target="_blank">trading-stories-film-festival</a>.

By GEORGE LEDBETTERCHADRON – A member of the Chadron State College faculty and a High Plains Herbarium volunteer are bringing their expertise to the seventh annual Trading Stories Film Festival at the Chadron Public Library, focused on Oglala Lakota spiritual leader Nicholas Black Elk.The festival, set for Thursday through Saturday at the library, includes a presentation by CSC geology professor Dr. Michael Leite on Friday at 6 p.m., prior to screening of the 2020 documentary, Walking the Good Red Road, about Black Elk’s life.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633995722102.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>On Saturday at 3 p.m. Dr. Susan Rolfsmeier, former adjunct professor in the Department of Applied Sciences and Herbarium volunteer, will discuss medicinal plants of the High Plains, as a lead in to the 5 p.m. screening of the 1970 movie, Little Big Man.Black Elk (Hehaka Sapa) is perhaps best known through the book Black Elk Speaks by John G. Neihardt. Born in about 1863, Black Elk was present at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876 and survived the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890. Through the influence of his first wife, he converted to Catholicism in his 40s, but continued to practice Lakota ceremonies.Black Elk was proposed for sainthood by the Rapid City, South Dakota, diocese of the Catholic Church in 2017. The diocese co-produced Walking the Good Red Road, which first aired on ABC television stations in May 2020.“(Black Elk) was the bridge that carried his people from Wounded Knee to present times,” said Chadron Library Director Rossella Tesch.In 2016 the highest point in South Dakota, previously known as Harney Peak, was renamed Black Elk Peak to recognize the significance of the mountain and the Black Hills to the region’s Native Americans.Leite said his knowledge of the cultural significance of Black Elk Peak is limited, but its geology is fascinating. The mountain is part of an outcrop known as Harney Peak Granite that stemmed from a major geologic event 1.9 billion years ago called the Trans-Hudson Orogeny (THO), a collision of tectonic plates that created a Himalaya-scale mountain range from western Nebraska to northern Saskatchewan and Greenland. Magma injected following the THO formed Harney Peak Granite and associated pegmatite materials that are rich in rare materials like titanium, beryllium, and lithium. Another major geologic event some 60 million years ago, the Laramide uplift, made those minerals, and the gold for which the Black Hills is famous, accessible to us today, Leite said.Rolfsmeier and her husband, Steve, director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/sci/herbarium/index.csc" target="_blank">High Plains Herbarium</a>&nbsp;at CSC, are specialists in the study of relationships among plant groups. Though not trained in medicinal plants, they are interested in studying plant diversity of the region, and find that people often want to know about the practical value of plants for food, medicine and commercial use.“Tapping into people’s interests is a way to reach out to the public and make learning about plants appealing,” Rolfsmeier said.Much of the information the Rolfsmeiers have prepared for the festival presentation was compiled by Melvin Gilmore and Father Eugene Buechel, who conducted extensive interviews with Native American people about the names of plants and their traditional uses.“The foundation of today’s knowledge comes from the indigenous peoples who lived in the area and relied on the plants,” Rolfsmeier said.Building on work by CSC professor Dr. George Morgan, former Herbarium director Dr. Ron Weedon in 1990 completed a paper about Oglala use of medicinal plants, and noted that sage, cedar, sweet flag and sweet grass were the most common plants in use, said Rolfsmeier.Interest in plant use remains high, according to Steve Rolfsmeier, who often fields questions on the topic when conducting plant walks. The High Plains Herbarium has a broad range of literature relating to native plants but the collection is currently in storage in anticipation of being moved into the new Herbarium library when renovation of the Math Science building is completed, he said.The film festival, sponsored by the Chadron Library Foundation and supported by the Dawes County Travel Board, began in 2014 to highlight the Native American history of the region and call attention to the library’s extensive Indigenous Peoples of North America collection of books, films and music.“Native Americans are a vital part of the (Nebraska) Panhandle’s history, life and culture,” Tesch said. “Native American culture is often ignored and disparaged. When people see the movies, they are moved learning what Native American’s have gone through in the last 100 years. They are surprised by the beauty of the art and music.”Tesch said she hopes this year’s festival will make people aware of the many components of Black Elk’s life and the spiritual messages he conveyed. Through the horror of battles and loss of many of his people to conflict, famine and disease, Black Elk persevered, said Tesch.“He held onto his culture and moral beliefs, and looked for other ways to continue on,” she saidA complete schedule of the film festival can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chadron-nebraska.com/civicalerts.aspx?aid=291" target="_blank">trading-stories-film-festival</a>.

CSC faculty member part of Chadron library film festival

Alliance High School will celebrate Homecoming 2021 with week long activities and special school events.&nbsp; 

The week began with Mardi Gras Monday and Mini-Olympics.&nbsp; The Homecoming Coronation was held Monday night.&nbsp; This years Freshman Attendants are.. Josie Sanders and Joseph Steele.&nbsp; Sophomore Attendants, Regan Braun and Trevonne Knaub.&nbsp; &nbsp;Junior Attendants,&nbsp; Kenna Montes and Carver Hauptman.&nbsp; Senior 2nd Attendants, Brooklyn Branstiter and Mats Albrecht.&nbsp; Senior 1st Attendants,&nbsp; Riley Lawrence and Jayden McCracken.&nbsp; This years Homecoming Queen Shelbee Burke and King Zane Stoike.

The AHS Cross Country Seniors were also recognized during the evening. This years Seniors are... Angie Davis, Macala Hood, Gabriel Sanders, Mikayla Seebohm and Lilly Wagner.&nbsp; &nbsp;Fans in attendance also got a good laugh at the "Mister Cheerleader" routine.&nbsp; &nbsp;Angel Acosta was named "Mr. Sunshine".&nbsp; Jayden McCracken was named "Mr. Drama Queen". Jonah Amill, "Mr Jump King", and Isiah Martinez was awarded the title of "Mr Cheerleader".

Homecoming week activities will continue with theme days Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The Homecoming Parade, along Box Butte Ave,&nbsp; will be at 2:30 pm on Friday and the football game vs Lexington will be at 7 pm Friday night.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634048311131.jpeg" alt="2021 AHS Homecoming" />
 <figcaption>2021 AHS Homecoming</figcaption>
 </figure>By: Mike GlesingerAlliance High School will celebrate Homecoming 2021 with week long activities and special school events.&nbsp; The week began with Mardi Gras Monday and Mini-Olympics.&nbsp; The Homecoming Coronation was held Monday night.&nbsp; This years Freshman Attendants are.. Josie Sanders and Joseph Steele.&nbsp; Sophomore Attendants, Regan Braun and Trevonne Knaub.&nbsp; &nbsp;Junior Attendants,&nbsp; Kenna Montes and Carver Hauptman.&nbsp; Senior 2nd Attendants, Brooklyn Branstiter and Mats Albrecht.&nbsp; Senior 1st Attendants,&nbsp; Riley Lawrence and Jayden McCracken.&nbsp; This years Homecoming Queen Shelbee Burke and King Zane Stoike.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634046919059.jpeg" alt="2021 AHS Homecoming Royalty" />
 <figcaption>2021 AHS Homecoming Royalty</figcaption>
 </figure>The AHS Cross Country Seniors were also recognized during the evening. This years Seniors are... Angie Davis, Macala Hood, Gabriel Sanders, Mikayla Seebohm and Lilly Wagner.&nbsp; &nbsp;Fans in attendance also got a good laugh at the "Mister Cheerleader" routine.&nbsp; &nbsp;Angel Acosta was named "Mr. Sunshine".&nbsp; Jayden McCracken was named "Mr. Drama Queen". Jonah Amill, "Mr Jump King", and Isiah Martinez was awarded the title of "Mr Cheerleader".<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634048244731.jpeg" alt="AHS Homecoming "Mister Cheerleader"" />
 <figcaption>AHS Homecoming "Mister Cheerleader"</figcaption>
 </figure>Homecoming week activities will continue with theme days Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The Homecoming Parade, along Box Butte Ave,&nbsp; will be at 2:30 pm on Friday and the football game vs Lexington will be at 7 pm Friday night.&nbsp;

AHS Homecoming this week-Royalty Crowned Monday night

As COVID cases and hospitalizations continue to increase in the Panhandle, residents are encouraged to take important COVID precautions by avoiding the three Cs:

Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others

Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with

Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation

If you are confirmed positive for COVID, don’t wait to talk to your healthcare provider about getting the Monoclonal Antibody Treatment. This is most effective when done by day 5 from symptoms starting and before symptoms increase in severity. It is proven to have a 70% reduction in hospitalization and improved symptoms.

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

Box Butte/Grant: https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu | safeway.com

Dave's Pharmacy Hemingford &amp; Alliance, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5:30 PM (Pfizer 2 PM- 5:30 PM)

Alliance Community Pharmacy, Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 6 PM

Cheyenne/Deuel: https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p | walmart.com | safeway.com

During COVID clinic hours visit https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p for days and hours

Dawes/Sioux: https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn | walmart.com | safeway.com

Western Community Health Resources, Monday-Friday, 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

Garden: To schedule an appointment visit vaccinate.ne.gov - provider will call you

Regional West Garden County Clinic Front Desk, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM

Kimball Health Services, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM

Morrill County Hospital Clinic, Wednesdays, 8 AM - 4 PM

Gordon Rural Health Clinic, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM- 9:30 AM

By PPHDAs COVID cases and hospitalizations continue to increase in the Panhandle, residents are encouraged to take important COVID precautions by avoiding the three Cs:Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from othersAvoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live withAvoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilationIf you are confirmed positive for COVID, don’t wait to talk to your healthcare provider about getting the Monoclonal Antibody Treatment. This is most effective when done by day 5 from symptoms starting and before symptoms increase in severity. It is proven to have a 70% reduction in hospitalization and improved symptoms.Vaccinations have protection against all known variants, including Delta. For anyone age 12 and older, please get vaccinated. COVID vaccine is widely available across the Panhandle and there is no charge for the vaccine.Box Butte/Grant: https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu | safeway.comWalk-ins welcomeDave's Pharmacy Hemingford &amp; Alliance, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5:30 PM (Pfizer 2 PM- 5:30 PM)Alliance Community Pharmacy, Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 6 PMCheyenne/Deuel: https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p | walmart.com | safeway.comWalk-ins welcomeDuring COVID clinic hours visit https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p for days and hoursDawes/Sioux: https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn | walmart.com | safeway.comWalk-ins welcomeWestern Community Health Resources, Monday-Friday, 12:30 PM - 1:30 PMGarden: To schedule an appointment visit vaccinate.ne.gov - provider will call youWalk-ins welcomeRegional West Garden County Clinic Front Desk, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PMKimball: https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrsWalk-ins welcomeKimball Health Services, Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PMMorrill: https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvummWalk-ins welcomeMorrill County Hospital Clinic, Wednesdays, 8 AM - 4 PMSheridan: https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38Walk-ins welcomeGordon Rural Health Clinic, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM- 9:30 AMScotts Bluff/Banner: https://tinyurl.com/hkw7wk2p | walmart.com | safeway.com | walgreens.comWalk-ins welcomeGering CAPWN Health Center, Monday-Friday, 9 AM-12 PM &amp; 1 PM-4 PMScottsbluff County Immunization Clinic, Monday-Friday, 9:40 AM-12:30 PM &amp; 1:30 PM-5:30 PMIf you are homebound or have a condition that makes it hard for you to access a COVID vaccine, please call Kim Engel at 308-633-2866 ext 101.People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact. If you have lost your COVID vaccine card, go to https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu.Unified Command confirms 441 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, October 11.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633996015101.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>March 2, 2020-October 11, 2021<ul>
 <li>Positive: 11,961</li><li>Last week’s cases: (cases/100,000): 382.5</li><li>Last week’s cases: 330</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 13.9%</li><li>Deaths: 204</li><li>Deaths Pending Verification: 12</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 34</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 644</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html" target="_blank">http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html</a>.The Panhandle COVID dashboard is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. The state COVID dashboard is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/ufj9fcuf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/ufj9fcuf</a>. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>.<figure>
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