On April 11 Shelby Carr received the top honor at the Nebraska American Legion District 4 Convention held at the American Legion Post 10 in Morrill by out shooting 34 other qualified competitors.

Nebraska Department American Legion Senior Vice Commander Doub Frahm presented her with The Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Nebraska Sport Shooter State Champion 2021 trophy. Carr also received a certificate from American Legion National Commander James W. Oxford.

American Legion Post 7 Commander Steve Stanec presented Carr with the American Legion Marksmanship Gold Medal Award. Stanec also presented a certificate for successfully completing the first round of the 2021 American Legion Junior 3-Position Shooter Air Rifle Tournament qualifications held in Alliance on January 16. Carr had a score of 539 out of a possible 600 points. 

"She was also presented with the Distinguished Rifleman Badge that was created by the War Department in 1884 respectively to recognize and reward members of the U. S. Army for Excellencein-Competition (EIC) with their service rifle," Stanec said. "In 1926 civilians were authorized to participate in the program. Distinguished Badges are awarded when competitors accrue a minimum of 30 credit points earned in EIC matches. After attaining 30 points, Shelby has earned her Junior Marksmanship Badge. She received points attending Civilian Marksmanship Program National Finals, 4-H National Finals as well as many other competitions."

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostOn April 11 Shelby Carr received the top honor at the Nebraska American Legion District 4 Convention held at the American Legion Post 10 in Morrill by out shooting 34 other qualified competitors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618412916065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska Department American Legion Senior Vice Commander Doub Frahm presented her with The Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Nebraska Sport Shooter State Champion 2021 trophy. Carr also received a certificate from American Legion National Commander James W. Oxford.American Legion Post 7 Commander Steve Stanec presented Carr with the American Legion Marksmanship Gold Medal Award. Stanec also presented a certificate for successfully completing the first round of the 2021 American Legion Junior 3-Position Shooter Air Rifle Tournament qualifications held in Alliance on January 16. Carr had a score of 539 out of a possible 600 points. "She was also presented with the Distinguished Rifleman Badge that was created by the War Department in 1884 respectively to recognize and reward members of the U. S. Army for Excellencein-Competition (EIC) with their service rifle," Stanec said. "In 1926 civilians were authorized to participate in the program. Distinguished Badges are awarded when competitors accrue a minimum of 30 credit points earned in EIC matches. After attaining 30 points, Shelby has earned her Junior Marksmanship Badge. She received points attending Civilian Marksmanship Program National Finals, 4-H National Finals as well as many other competitions."

Carr wins State Shooter Championship

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty&nbsp;

Lenders use credit scores to determine how likely it is that you will pay your debts on time. If you have a good credit score, you are more likely to get loans or credit cards with lower interest rates. So how is your credit score determined?

For many years we learned that banks or businesses would decide whether to grant you credit based on the three C’s of Credit: Character – Have you used credit before and paid it off on time? How long have you been at your current home and job? Capital – What assets do you own? Capacity – Are you able to repay the debt based on your current income and debt you already owe?

Once we entered the Internet Age, banks and businesses no longer research your credit history themselves. There are three major credit reporting agencies in the United States who keep track of all the debt you’ve had and how you make your payments: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

Based on the information from the credit reporting agencies, companies calculate your credit score. FICO, the most common, stands for the Fair Isaac Corporation. FICO was a pioneer in developing a method for calculating credit scores based on information collected by credit reporting agencies.

There are five main factors that impact your FICO score.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;35% of your score is based on your payment history, whether you pay your bills on time.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;30% of your score is your credit utilization ratio. This is how much debt you owe compared to how much you could be using. The lower this percentage, the higher your credit score.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15% is determined by the length of your credit history. Generally, the longer you've used credit or kept a specific credit card, the higher your score.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10% of your score is based on how much new credit you have opened recently, including hard inquiries from companies where you have applied for credit.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10% is based on your mix of credit: credit cards, installment loans, mortgage, etc.

FICO gives everyone a credit score between 300 and 850. 800 or higher is exceptional and these people get great loan rates! 740-799 is very good. 670-739 is good, and the average credit score is in this range. People with a FICO score over 670 probably have no trouble getting loans. 580-669 is a fair rating, and these subprime borrowers pay higher interest rates. 579 or lower is considered poor and people in this range are usually rejected for credit.

How can you improve your credit score? You have to pay your bills on time! Every time! If this is a problem, consider setting up automatic payments through your bank. Then don’t get close to your credit limit. You don’t want to be over 30% of your credit limit on your credit cards, so you should never max them out. Try to pay them in full every month. Don’t carry multiple credit cards; a Visa, Mastercard, or Discover card should allow you to charge anywhere. Only apply for credit that you need. 

Once a year, and before you take out a large loan, you should check your credit history. You are entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major consumer reporting companies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). You can request a copy from AnnualCreditReport.com. You can check a different one every four months. This won’t affect your credit score. If you spot an error, let the company know.

Credit scores are not based on your income, or on whether you live in poverty or wealth. They are based primarily on whether you pay your bills on time.

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty&nbsp;Lenders use credit scores to determine how likely it is that you will pay your debts on time. If you have a good credit score, you are more likely to get loans or credit cards with lower interest rates. So how is your credit score determined?For many years we learned that banks or businesses would decide whether to grant you credit based on the three C’s of Credit: Character – Have you used credit before and paid it off on time? How long have you been at your current home and job? Capital – What assets do you own? Capacity – Are you able to repay the debt based on your current income and debt you already owe?Once we entered the Internet Age, banks and businesses no longer research your credit history themselves. There are three major credit reporting agencies in the United States who keep track of all the debt you’ve had and how you make your payments: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.Based on the information from the credit reporting agencies, companies calculate your credit score. FICO, the most common, stands for the Fair Isaac Corporation. FICO was a pioneer in developing a method for calculating credit scores based on information collected by credit reporting agencies.There are five main factors that impact your FICO score.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;35% of your score is based on your payment history, whether you pay your bills on time.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;30% of your score is your credit utilization ratio. This is how much debt you owe compared to how much you could be using. The lower this percentage, the higher your credit score.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15% is determined by the length of your credit history. Generally, the longer you've used credit or kept a specific credit card, the higher your score.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10% of your score is based on how much new credit you have opened recently, including hard inquiries from companies where you have applied for credit.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10% is based on your mix of credit: credit cards, installment loans, mortgage, etc.FICO gives everyone a credit score between 300 and 850. 800 or higher is exceptional and these people get great loan rates! 740-799 is very good. 670-739 is good, and the average credit score is in this range. People with a FICO score over 670 probably have no trouble getting loans. 580-669 is a fair rating, and these subprime borrowers pay higher interest rates. 579 or lower is considered poor and people in this range are usually rejected for credit.How can you improve your credit score? You have to pay your bills on time! Every time! If this is a problem, consider setting up automatic payments through your bank. Then don’t get close to your credit limit. You don’t want to be over 30% of your credit limit on your credit cards, so you should never max them out. Try to pay them in full every month. Don’t carry multiple credit cards; a Visa, Mastercard, or Discover card should allow you to charge anywhere. Only apply for credit that you need. Once a year, and before you take out a large loan, you should check your credit history. You are entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major consumer reporting companies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion). You can request a copy from AnnualCreditReport.com. You can check a different one every four months. This won’t affect your credit score. If you spot an error, let the company know.Credit scores are not based on your income, or on whether you live in poverty or wealth. They are based primarily on whether you pay your bills on time.

Poverty In Our Area: Credit scores 

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider recommendations for 2021 deer, antelope and elk hunting seasons when it meets April 20 in Kearney.

The meeting will begin at 8 a.m. in the North Loper Room of the Holiday Inn, 110 2nd Ave.

A public hearing is scheduled for proposed amendments to Commission orders pertaining to season dates, bag limits, permit quantities and areas open for deer, antelope and elk hunting.

Staff will recommend deer permit increases and additional bonus antlerless-only whitetail tags in several management units to stabilize populations. For antelope management units, it will be recommended that 39 either-sex permits and 390 doe/fawn permits be added. To reduce elk populations in many elk management units, an additional 78 bull elk and 267 antlerless elk permits will be recommended.

The commissioners also will hear staff updates on shooting range development across the state, fisheries research at Harlan County Reservoir, water policy, and the National Archery in the Schools Program. They also will hear a law enforcement staffing plan and an environmental report.

A complete meeting agenda can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MTgwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb21taXNzaW9uZXJzLyJ9.6fqHGGL_ujk4cXIBeB3ksbMd0B_fKXdV78MlgdcCygM/s/497221906/br/101985248928-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/commissioners</a>.

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will consider recommendations for 2021 deer, antelope and elk hunting seasons when it meets April 20 in Kearney.The meeting will begin at 8 a.m. in the North Loper Room of the Holiday Inn, 110 2nd Ave.A public hearing is scheduled for proposed amendments to Commission orders pertaining to season dates, bag limits, permit quantities and areas open for deer, antelope and elk hunting.Staff will recommend deer permit increases and additional bonus antlerless-only whitetail tags in several management units to stabilize populations. For antelope management units, it will be recommended that 39 either-sex permits and 390 doe/fawn permits be added. To reduce elk populations in many elk management units, an additional 78 bull elk and 267 antlerless elk permits will be recommended.The commissioners also will hear staff updates on shooting range development across the state, fisheries research at Harlan County Reservoir, water policy, and the National Archery in the Schools Program. They also will hear a law enforcement staffing plan and an environmental report.A complete meeting agenda can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MTMuMzg3MTgwODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9jb21taXNzaW9uZXJzLyJ9.6fqHGGL_ujk4cXIBeB3ksbMd0B_fKXdV78MlgdcCygM/s/497221906/br/101985248928-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/commissioners</a>.

Commission to consider deer, antelope and elk hunting recommendations

The Alliance Swim Team will have registration for the 2021 swim season at the Knight Museum on April 15 from 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. 

Becoming a member of the Alliance Swim Team is a great way to improve swimming skills. Swim meets provide a competitive outlet to test yourself against competitors from area communities.

Practices are at 7 a.m. and swim meets are on Saturdays between June 5 and June 26. 

To join the Alliance Swim Team you must be able to swim half way across the pool without stopping. 

If you have questions please contact Erin Armstrong at 760-8363 or Seth Hulquist at 760-0836.

The Alliance Swim Team will have registration for the 2021 swim season at the Knight Museum on April 15 from 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. Becoming a member of the Alliance Swim Team is a great way to improve swimming skills. Swim meets provide a competitive outlet to test yourself against competitors from area communities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618356625430.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Practices are at 7 a.m. and swim meets are on Saturdays between June 5 and June 26. To join the Alliance Swim Team you must be able to swim half way across the pool without stopping. If you have questions please contact Erin Armstrong at 760-8363 or Seth Hulquist at 760-0836.

Alliance Swim Team to hold registrations at Knight Museum 

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – Chadron State College Accompanist Bobby Pace recently learned that one of his private vocal music students, Chadron High School senior Lateisha Ngoi, has been accepted to Juilliard. Even though Ngoi completed her video conference audition for Juilliard before they started working together in January, Pace said it is exciting to work with a student who has been accepted to such a prestigious institution.

Ngoi, who plays the viola in addition to acting and singing, moved to Chadron from Toronto two years ago.

“She’s already a strong musician and having an instrumental background makes learning and understanding music easier. She has a good ear and a great natural instrument. She’s already done a lot of work that I can't take any credit for. When she decided she truly wanted to study the voice, we started from there and talked about how her voice will need to be versatile in a theatre and how she can use her voice to create character,” Pace said.

Pace, who has been the conductor for a number of CHS musicals, said acceptance to Juilliard is an immediate step in the door for an acting career.

“Juilliard is the name we all know. It's a huge scary commitment, especially if you're a parent sending a child into the arts,” Pace said. “Lateisha is receptive to trying new vocal exercises which is a quality that colleges like Juilliard look for. They not only want talent, they're looking for potential and coachability,” Pace said.

Pace works with female singers to separate their chest voice, or low register, and their head voice, or high register.

“Once we do that, then we work on combining the two. If their background is listening to a lot of pop music, they tend to sing in their chest voice. They don't have a high range because they haven't learned to access their head voice. If they've only been in choirs, it is vice versa and I work with them on a stronger chest voice which helps with character, especially in musical theatre,” he said.

Pace teaches elective-level voice lessons to CSC students in musical theatre each spring semester. Each fall, he is busy supporting the musical production. He has 11 students this semester who will perform Saturday, April 24, at 7 p.m. in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium. The concert is free and open to the public. He has invited three CHS students who are taking private vocal lessons with him to participate in the concert, as well.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – Chadron State College Accompanist Bobby Pace recently learned that one of his private vocal music students, Chadron High School senior Lateisha Ngoi, has been accepted to Juilliard. Even though Ngoi completed her video conference audition for Juilliard before they started working together in January, Pace said it is exciting to work with a student who has been accepted to such a prestigious institution.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618356305490.jpeg" alt="Chadron State College Accompanist Bobby Pace, pictured above, learned in March 2021 that one of his private vocal music students, Chadron High School senior Lateisha Ngoi, has been accepted to Juilliard. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State College Accompanist Bobby Pace, pictured above, learned in March 2021 that one of his private vocal music students, Chadron High School senior Lateisha Ngoi, has been accepted to Juilliard. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>Ngoi, who plays the viola in addition to acting and singing, moved to Chadron from Toronto two years ago.“She’s already a strong musician and having an instrumental background makes learning and understanding music easier. She has a good ear and a great natural instrument. She’s already done a lot of work that I can't take any credit for. When she decided she truly wanted to study the voice, we started from there and talked about how her voice will need to be versatile in a theatre and how she can use her voice to create character,” Pace said.Pace, who has been the conductor for a number of CHS musicals, said acceptance to Juilliard is an immediate step in the door for an acting career.“Juilliard is the name we all know. It's a huge scary commitment, especially if you're a parent sending a child into the arts,” Pace said. “Lateisha is receptive to trying new vocal exercises which is a quality that colleges like Juilliard look for. They not only want talent, they're looking for potential and coachability,” Pace said.Pace works with female singers to separate their chest voice, or low register, and their head voice, or high register.“Once we do that, then we work on combining the two. If their background is listening to a lot of pop music, they tend to sing in their chest voice. They don't have a high range because they haven't learned to access their head voice. If they've only been in choirs, it is vice versa and I work with them on a stronger chest voice which helps with character, especially in musical theatre,” he said.Pace teaches elective-level voice lessons to CSC students in musical theatre each spring semester. Each fall, he is busy supporting the musical production. He has 11 students this semester who will perform Saturday, April 24, at 7 p.m. in the Sandoz Center Chicoine Atrium. The concert is free and open to the public. He has invited three CHS students who are taking private vocal lessons with him to participate in the concert, as well.

Pace coaches Chadron student going to performing arts school

Learning to identify poison ivy is vital if you wish to avoid the rash that accompanies exposure. &nbsp;Unfortunately, poison ivy can make identification difficult because it occurs in three forms: an erect woody shrub, a groundcover that creeps along the ground, and a woody vine that will climb trees.

When poison ivy climbs, it forms numerous aerial roots that give the vine the appearance of a fuzzy rope. The leaves of poison ivy also vary. Though the compound leaf always has three leaflets, the leaf margins may be toothed, incised, lobed, or smooth. The size of the leaves also can vary, although usually, the middle leaflet is larger than the other two. Also, the middle leaflet is the only one with a long stalk; the other two are closely attached to the petiole (leaf stem). The number of leaves gives rise to the saying: "Leaves of three, let it be!" Poison ivy is often confused with Virginia creeper or Woodbine. Each of these vines, however, has five leaflets rather than three. There are three methods commonly used to eradicate poison ivy. These include pulling or grubbing out the plants by hand, cutting off the vine, and then treating the cut stump or the regrowth, and spraying the plants directly. The method used depends somewhat on the plant's growth form. If the plant is growing as a groundcover, direct spray or grubbing the plant out is often used. If grubbing, wear gloves and a long-sleeved shirt. The soil must be moist for grubbing to work well. Wash the clothes and yourself immediately after you finish. It might also be a good idea to rinse the washing machine. If the plant is in the shrub form, the direct spray is the most common control method. If the plant is a woody vine that has climbed a tree, the preferred method is to cut the plant off at the base and treat the sprouts after they emerge. Some triclopyr herbicides also have instructions on treating a freshly cut stump directly. Triclopyr (Brush-B-Gon Poison Ivy Killer, Brush Killer Stump Killer) is most often used for poison ivy control. Other Herbicides that can be used include glyphosate (Roundup, Killzall Weed and Grass Killer, Nutgrass, Poison Ivy, and VineKiller) or dicamba. Poison ivy is tough. Repeat applications may be necessary. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Learning to identify poison ivy is vital if you wish to avoid the rash that accompanies exposure. &nbsp;Unfortunately, poison ivy can make identification difficult because it occurs in three forms: an erect woody shrub, a groundcover that creeps along the ground, and a woody vine that will climb trees.When poison ivy climbs, it forms numerous aerial roots that give the vine the appearance of a fuzzy rope. The leaves of poison ivy also vary. Though the compound leaf always has three leaflets, the leaf margins may be toothed, incised, lobed, or smooth. The size of the leaves also can vary, although usually, the middle leaflet is larger than the other two. Also, the middle leaflet is the only one with a long stalk; the other two are closely attached to the petiole (leaf stem). The number of leaves gives rise to the saying: "Leaves of three, let it be!" Poison ivy is often confused with Virginia creeper or Woodbine. Each of these vines, however, has five leaflets rather than three. There are three methods commonly used to eradicate poison ivy. These include pulling or grubbing out the plants by hand, cutting off the vine, and then treating the cut stump or the regrowth, and spraying the plants directly. The method used depends somewhat on the plant's growth form. If the plant is growing as a groundcover, direct spray or grubbing the plant out is often used. If grubbing, wear gloves and a long-sleeved shirt. The soil must be moist for grubbing to work well. Wash the clothes and yourself immediately after you finish. It might also be a good idea to rinse the washing machine. If the plant is in the shrub form, the direct spray is the most common control method. If the plant is a woody vine that has climbed a tree, the preferred method is to cut the plant off at the base and treat the sprouts after they emerge. Some triclopyr herbicides also have instructions on treating a freshly cut stump directly. Triclopyr (Brush-B-Gon Poison Ivy Killer, Brush Killer Stump Killer) is most often used for poison ivy control. Other Herbicides that can be used include glyphosate (Roundup, Killzall Weed and Grass Killer, Nutgrass, Poison Ivy, and VineKiller) or dicamba. Poison ivy is tough. Repeat applications may be necessary. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

​FICK: Poison ivy identification and control

SIDNEY -&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial service for Western Nebraska Community College students Yemin An and Zhaoxin Chen will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, April&nbsp;17, at the Elk's Lodge #1894 in Sidney. An and Chen died Thursday, April 1, in an accident during hands-on instruction at the WNCC Aviation Maintenance Facility in Sidney.

Facial coverings will be required at the service and social distancing will be observed. Additionally, to honor the traditions and customs of the families, WNCC respectfully asks that individuals refrain from wearing red or pink attire.

Yemin An&nbsp;began his education at WNCC in 2019 as an Aviation student. He was an active student on the Sidney Campus, as a member of Phi Theta Kappa - Alpha Rho Omicron chapter, and the Aviation Voc-Air student organization. He also served as a resident assistant in the fall 2020 semester.

Zhaoxin Chen&nbsp;began his studies at WNCC in 2019 on the Scottsbluff Campus before transitioning to Sidney to enroll in the Aviation program. Chen was also an active member of the campus community, as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa – Alpha Rho Omicron chapter and the Aviation Voc-Air student organization.

A memorial fund has been established to help support Aviation students during this difficult time.

"We have received an outpouring of support from the community over the last two weeks," WNCC President Dr. Carmen Simone said. "It's been an incredibly difficult time for so many.&nbsp;As we move forward, I am grateful to our Foundation for their willingness to work alongside us in meeting the critical needs of our Aviation students.&nbsp;I can’t thank the community enough for their support.

The fund is to help current aviation students cover expenses such as travel, counseling services, living expenses, and other additional needs as instruction was paused following the tragedy that occurred.

Any remaining funds will be used to establish a memorial scholarship for future Aviation students to honor Yemin and Zhaoxin. For more information on the memorial fund, or to donate, please visit WNCC.edu/community/foundation.

SIDNEY -&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial service for Western Nebraska Community College students Yemin An and Zhaoxin Chen will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, April&nbsp;17, at the Elk's Lodge #1894 in Sidney. An and Chen died Thursday, April 1, in an accident during hands-on instruction at the WNCC Aviation Maintenance Facility in Sidney.Facial coverings will be required at the service and social distancing will be observed. Additionally, to honor the traditions and customs of the families, WNCC respectfully asks that individuals refrain from wearing red or pink attire.Yemin An&nbsp;began his education at WNCC in 2019 as an Aviation student. He was an active student on the Sidney Campus, as a member of Phi Theta Kappa - Alpha Rho Omicron chapter, and the Aviation Voc-Air student organization. He also served as a resident assistant in the fall 2020 semester.Zhaoxin Chen&nbsp;began his studies at WNCC in 2019 on the Scottsbluff Campus before transitioning to Sidney to enroll in the Aviation program. Chen was also an active member of the campus community, as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa – Alpha Rho Omicron chapter and the Aviation Voc-Air student organization.A memorial fund has been established to help support Aviation students during this difficult time."We have received an outpouring of support from the community over the last two weeks," WNCC President Dr. Carmen Simone said. "It's been an incredibly difficult time for so many.&nbsp;As we move forward, I am grateful to our Foundation for their willingness to work alongside us in meeting the critical needs of our Aviation students.&nbsp;I can’t thank the community enough for their support.The fund is to help current aviation students cover expenses such as travel, counseling services, living expenses, and other additional needs as instruction was paused following the tragedy that occurred.Any remaining funds will be used to establish a memorial scholarship for future Aviation students to honor Yemin and Zhaoxin. For more information on the memorial fund, or to donate, please visit WNCC.edu/community/foundation.

Memorial service planned for Aviation students; fund established

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts says he has rejected a federal request to help house unaccompanied migrant children. 

The Republican governor says he disagrees with the Biden administration’s policy of allowing children to go to “sponsors” in the United States, usually parents or close relatives, while they pursue asylum cases in heavily backlogged immigration courts. 

He says he wants the state's resources used for children already in Nebraska. 

Ricketts says federal officials should instead work with Central American governments to reunite the children with their families in their home countries.

 His statement came days after Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds made a similar announcement.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts says he has rejected a federal request to help house unaccompanied migrant children. The Republican governor says he disagrees with the Biden administration’s policy of allowing children to go to “sponsors” in the United States, usually parents or close relatives, while they pursue asylum cases in heavily backlogged immigration courts. He says he wants the state's resources used for children already in Nebraska. Ricketts says federal officials should instead work with Central American governments to reunite the children with their families in their home countries. His statement came days after Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds made a similar announcement.

Nebraska governor declines to help house migrant children

🎙 Post Podcast: Karen Benzel of United Way of Western Nebraska

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials said they will stop distributing Johnson &amp; Johnson's coronavirus vaccine while federal officials investigate six reports of people developing blood clots after receiving that shot, including one case in the state.

 The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said last week that an individual in Douglas County in their late 40s had developed blood clots two weeks after receiving the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine. 

The J&amp;J vaccine was a relatively small part of the state’s plans this week because officials expected to receive only 3,300 doses of it after getting 27,600 doses last week. 

Nebraska is expecting to receive 90,250 doses of the other two coronavirus vaccines this week.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska officials said they will stop distributing Johnson &amp; Johnson's coronavirus vaccine while federal officials investigate six reports of people developing blood clots after receiving that shot, including one case in the state. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services said last week that an individual in Douglas County in their late 40s had developed blood clots two weeks after receiving the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine. The J&amp;J vaccine was a relatively small part of the state’s plans this week because officials expected to receive only 3,300 doses of it after getting 27,600 doses last week. Nebraska is expecting to receive 90,250 doses of the other two coronavirus vaccines this week.

Nebraska will stop using J&J virus shot while it is reviewed

As part of the Big Event, Chadron State College students are helping Closer to Home restock its pantry.&nbsp;

Closer to Home served 9,637 meals to those in need in 2020. Adult meal request were up 48% and child meal requests were up 75%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

You can help by bringing non-perishable food items to Closer to Home located at 4th and Main in the Masonic Lodge from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on April 17. 

All non-perishable food items are welcome. 

These items are low: -Large Cans of chicken, tuna, etc.

-Cooking soups (Cream of chicken, mushroom, etc )

-Canned fruit or individual serving-size fruits (eg. mandarin oranges)

-Canned corn, green beans (consider #10 cans instead of multiple small cans)

The purpose of the Closer to Home Fund is to provide meals and other support to in-need, indigent and homeless people in Chadron.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostAs part of the Big Event, Chadron State College students are helping Closer to Home restock its pantry.&nbsp;Closer to Home served 9,637 meals to those in need in 2020. Adult meal request were up 48% and child meal requests were up 75%.&nbsp;&nbsp;You can help by bringing non-perishable food items to Closer to Home located at 4th and Main in the Masonic Lodge from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on April 17. All non-perishable food items are welcome. These items are low: -Large Cans of chicken, tuna, etc.-Cooking soups (Cream of chicken, mushroom, etc )-Canned fruit or individual serving-size fruits (eg. mandarin oranges)-Canned corn, green beans (consider #10 cans instead of multiple small cans)-Crackers-Spaghetti sauce-Baked Beans-Chili SoupThe purpose of the Closer to Home Fund is to provide meals and other support to in-need, indigent and homeless people in Chadron.

CSC students helping 'Closer to Home' food drive 

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Rapid City police are looking for two additional suspects in connection with a fatal motel shooting. 

Authorities believe five people were involved in the death of 20-year-old Jesus Vance at the South Dakota Rose Inn last Friday. 

Three are in custody, including a 37-year-old man who was wounded at the motel.

 Investigators say surveillance footage showed two vehicles leaving the area shortly after the shooting took place. 

Officers located the vehicles and detained occupants of both vehicles.

 Two of three in custody are being held on second-degree kidnapping and aggravated assault charges.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Rapid City police are looking for two additional suspects in connection with a fatal motel shooting. Authorities believe five people were involved in the death of 20-year-old Jesus Vance at the South Dakota Rose Inn last Friday. Three are in custody, including a 37-year-old man who was wounded at the motel. Investigators say surveillance footage showed two vehicles leaving the area shortly after the shooting took place. Officers located the vehicles and detained occupants of both vehicles. Two of three in custody are being held on second-degree kidnapping and aggravated assault charges.

2 additional suspects sought in fatal Rapid City motel shooting

WESTCO is pleased to announce scholarship recipients for the 2020-21 WESTCO scholarship program. 

A total of 14 recipients from the WESTCO trade area 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.

· Courtney Cox of Alliance High School. Courtney is the daughter of K.C. and Rhonda Cox and will attend the University of Nebraska-Kearney to study Business Administration.

· Danea Hanson of Hemingford High School. Danea is the daughter of Joshua and April Hanson and will attend Chadron State College to study Psychology.

· Kelsey Horton of Alliance High School. Kelsey is the daughter of Lyle and Kate Horton and will attend Wayne State College to study Pre-Nursing.

· Chase King of Alliance High School. Chase is the son of Dan and Sharla King and will attend Mount Marty University. Chase’s area of study is currently undecided.

WESTCO is pleased to announce scholarship recipients for the 2020-21 WESTCO scholarship program. A total of 14 recipients from the WESTCO trade area 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.Box Butte County recipients include:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618324850306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>· Courtney Cox of Alliance High School. Courtney is the daughter of K.C. and Rhonda Cox and will attend the University of Nebraska-Kearney to study Business Administration.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618324883356.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>· Danea Hanson of Hemingford High School. Danea is the daughter of Joshua and April Hanson and will attend Chadron State College to study Psychology.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618324906909.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>· Kelsey Horton of Alliance High School. Kelsey is the daughter of Lyle and Kate Horton and will attend Wayne State College to study Pre-Nursing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618324930209.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>· Chase King of Alliance High School. Chase is the son of Dan and Sharla King and will attend Mount Marty University. Chase’s area of study is currently undecided.

WESTCO announces scholarship recipients

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are confirming 187 new COVID-19 cases and one new death over the last two days.

 The state Department of Health reported that a Hughes County man in his 60s died from complications due to the coronavirus. 

There have been 12 fatalities in April and 1,947 deaths since the start of the pandemic. 

The COVID Tracking Project reports that South Dakota’s death count is the eighth highest per capita in the country at nearly 221 deaths per 100,000 people. 

There were 279 new cases per 100,000 people in South Dakota over the past two weeks, which ranks 21st in the country for new cases per capita.

 One in every 656 people in South Dakota tested positive in the past week.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are confirming 187 new COVID-19 cases and one new death over the last two days. The state Department of Health reported that a Hughes County man in his 60s died from complications due to the coronavirus. There have been 12 fatalities in April and 1,947 deaths since the start of the pandemic. The COVID Tracking Project reports that South Dakota’s death count is the eighth highest per capita in the country at nearly 221 deaths per 100,000 people. There were 279 new cases per 100,000 people in South Dakota over the past two weeks, which ranks 21st in the country for new cases per capita. One in every 656 people in South Dakota tested positive in the past week.

South Dakota reports 187 new COVID-19 cases in last 2 days

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nearly 3,000 students who attend one of Nebraska’s state colleges will be eligible for up to $3,000 in additional aid because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Full-time students who attend Chadron, Wayne or Peru state colleges during the 2021-2022 school year and who are eligible for federal Pell grants will qualify to receive the money that is part of the federal stimulus bill that approved last month. 

The Nebraska State College System expects to receive more than $14 million from the federal government with half that money earmarked for students and the other half set to go to the colleges.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nearly 3,000 students who attend one of Nebraska’s state colleges will be eligible for up to $3,000 in additional aid because of the coronavirus pandemic. Full-time students who attend Chadron, Wayne or Peru state colleges during the 2021-2022 school year and who are eligible for federal Pell grants will qualify to receive the money that is part of the federal stimulus bill that approved last month. The Nebraska State College System expects to receive more than $14 million from the federal government with half that money earmarked for students and the other half set to go to the colleges.

Some college students to get $3,000 in pandemic aid including CSC

Additional community locations to access the COVID vaccine have been added. Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule for their COVID vaccine with two easy steps:

The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. Residents can easily get vaccinated this week. There is no charge for the vaccine.

For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results. Johnson and Johnson (one dose) is widely available throughout the Panhandle. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov.

Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;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&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.

The Governor will soon be updating the Directed Health Measure to include the following:

Unified Command confirms 34 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 12.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

By PPHDAdditional community locations to access the COVID vaccine have been added. Panhandle residents 18 and older can self-schedule for their COVID vaccine with two easy steps:<ul>
 <li>Register on the vaccinate.ne.gov website.</li><li>For the corresponding counties, pick a location, day, and time that works for you.&nbsp;Dates and times will be added to the links as they are made available.</li><li>Box Butte/Grant:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/25mwaapu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Cheyenne/Deuel:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/5b5uac8p</a>,&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Dawes/Sioux:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/x5d5nnbn</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li><li>Garden:&nbsp;sign up at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov</a>&nbsp;– a provider will call you</li><li>Kimball:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/d2u8txrs</a></li><li>Morrill:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/sb8mvumm</a></li><li>Sheridan:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/cvrmkv38</a></li><li>Scottsbluff/Banner:&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/w6b84fkf</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.walmart.com/cp/immunizations-flu-shots/1228302" target="_blank">walmart.com</a>,&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.safeway.com/pharmacy/covid-19.html" target="_blank">safeway.com</a></li>
 </ul>The two steps are encouraged to ease the vaccine process. Residents can easily get vaccinated this week. There is no charge for the vaccine.For the Moderna shot, the second dose is needed to produce the best immunity results. Johnson and Johnson (one dose) is widely available throughout the Panhandle. Pfizer will be coming soon to the Panhandle. Teens ages 16 &amp; 17 can register now at vaccinate.ne.gov.Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn.<a>&nbsp;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&nbsp;</a><a href="https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2zh7uhhu</a>.The Governor will soon be updating the Directed Health Measure to include the following:<ul>
 <li>Unvaccinated persons who have tested antibody positive within 3 months before or immediately following an exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID and who have remained asymptomatic since the current COVID exposure do not need to quarantine in low-risk situations.</li><li>Low risk situations include settings where contact with persons at high risk of COVID severe illness, including older adults and persons with certain medical conditions, is not anticipated for at least 10 days following exposure.</li><li>Contacts to COVID should still monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID during the 14 days after exposure and if symptoms of COVID develop, they should self-isolate and seek testing.</li><li>It will be verified by public health.</li>
 </ul>Unified Command confirms 34 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, April 12.&nbsp;The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618268567166.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-April 12, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 37,174</li><li>Positive: 8,945</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 45</li><li>Last week’s cases: 32</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 10.2%</li><li>Deaths: 191</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 3</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 537</li><li>Doubling time (November 15, 2020 – April 12, 2021): 148 days</li>
 </ul>Avoid the Three Cs:<ul>
 <li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>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</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

PPHD: 34 more virus cases reported in the Panhandle 

By&nbsp;Department of Health and Human Services

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Nebraska Public Health Lab (NPHL) have confirmed that the New York variant of COVID-19, known as B1.526 has arrived in the state. The initial case has been identified as a Douglas County resident. An investigation is underway and ongoing. The identified B1.526 variant has been spreading throughout the United States, specifically in the Northeast, and is still being studied to determine the level of contagiousness and severity. Testing platforms like Test Nebraska and others will still produce a “positive" result for the identified B1.526 variant (and other variants). It is expected that vaccinations will remain effective.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gary Anthone said, “We have continued to stress that Nebraskans cannot let up on our mitigation efforts and testing remains critical against not only the spread, but preventing another major surge of COVID-19 cases. As these variants continue to be discovered in the state, vaccinations, testing, masking, and distancing remain the best defenses we have in this fight. I strongly encourage that individuals continue to get tested, especially if they have symptoms and have not yet been vaccinated."

As researchers learn more about this and other variants it remains as important as ever to continue masking, distancing, and avoiding the 3Cs. Get a test if you're exposed or if you develop symptoms. Register now at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/">vaccinate.​ne.gov&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;and get the vaccine when it's offered to you to help Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/FinishStrong.aspx">FinishStrong</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

DHHS and NPHL have been working to increase sequencing capabilities within the state. Higher volumes of in-state sequencing began in January and NPHL currently has capacity to sequence more than 100 specimens per week. Creighton University is also sequencing roughly 100 specimens per week.

Nebraska's top goal remains protecting hospital capacity. The efforts undertaken by the state over the course of the emergency have resulted in significantly lower hospitalizations as compared to the last several months.&nbsp;

Nebraska continues to move through Phase 2B, which means anyone in the state 16 and older can get vaccinated.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are several options available. Residents can register at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>, or with a local health district, interested individuals can also check with area pharmacies that may be scheduling appointments. Scheduling vaccination as soon as possible will help Nebraska Finish Strong!

To-date about 29% of Nebraskans are fully vaccinated. To&nbsp;&nbsp;schedule an appointment visit&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>. Those interested in registering will need to provide name and contact information, date of birth and answer health questions used to help determine priority group eligibility. Any information entered is strictly confidential and used solely for this purpose. Friends, family and caregivers are encouraged to assist others with vaccine sign-up if needed. The DHHS Information line can assist those with limited technology, language or Internet access, and is available by calling (531)&nbsp;249-1873 or (833)&nbsp;998-2275.

By&nbsp;Department of Health and Human ServicesThe Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Nebraska Public Health Lab (NPHL) have confirmed that the New York variant of COVID-19, known as B1.526 has arrived in the state. The initial case has been identified as a Douglas County resident. An investigation is underway and ongoing. The identified B1.526 variant has been spreading throughout the United States, specifically in the Northeast, and is still being studied to determine the level of contagiousness and severity. Testing platforms like Test Nebraska and others will still produce a “positive" result for the identified B1.526 variant (and other variants). It is expected that vaccinations will remain effective.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gary Anthone said, “We have continued to stress that Nebraskans cannot let up on our mitigation efforts and testing remains critical against not only the spread, but preventing another major surge of COVID-19 cases. As these variants continue to be discovered in the state, vaccinations, testing, masking, and distancing remain the best defenses we have in this fight. I strongly encourage that individuals continue to get tested, especially if they have symptoms and have not yet been vaccinated."As researchers learn more about this and other variants it remains as important as ever to continue masking, distancing, and avoiding the 3Cs. Get a test if you're exposed or if you develop symptoms. Register now at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/">vaccinate.​ne.gov&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;and get the vaccine when it's offered to you to help Nebraska&nbsp;<a href="https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/FinishStrong.aspx">FinishStrong</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;DHHS and NPHL have been working to increase sequencing capabilities within the state. Higher volumes of in-state sequencing began in January and NPHL currently has capacity to sequence more than 100 specimens per week. Creighton University is also sequencing roughly 100 specimens per week.Nebraska's top goal remains protecting hospital capacity. The efforts undertaken by the state over the course of the emergency have resulted in significantly lower hospitalizations as compared to the last several months.&nbsp;Nebraska continues to move through Phase 2B, which means anyone in the state 16 and older can get vaccinated.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are several options available. Residents can register at&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>, or with a local health district, interested individuals can also check with area pharmacies that may be scheduling appointments. Scheduling vaccination as soon as possible will help Nebraska Finish Strong!To-date about 29% of Nebraskans are fully vaccinated. To&nbsp;&nbsp;schedule an appointment visit&nbsp;<a href="http://vaccinate.ne.gov/" target="_blank">vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;</a>. Those interested in registering will need to provide name and contact information, date of birth and answer health questions used to help determine priority group eligibility. Any information entered is strictly confidential and used solely for this purpose. Friends, family and caregivers are encouraged to assist others with vaccine sign-up if needed. The DHHS Information line can assist those with limited technology, language or Internet access, and is available by calling (531)&nbsp;249-1873 or (833)&nbsp;998-2275.

New York variant of COVID-19 identified in Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A federal judge has granted a Nebraska prisoner’s request for an abortion and ordered state officials to transport her to a clinic so she can get the procedure as scheduled on Tuesday.

 Prison officials had rejected the woman’s request, prompting her to file a civil rights lawsuit on Friday with support from the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska. 

U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Bataillon ordered prison officials to transport the inmate to a Planned Parenthood clinic in Lincoln for the abortion. 

The woman, identified in the lawsuit as Jane Roe, is a little more than 15 weeks pregnant and has been in prison since Feb. 18. 

She’s serving a 26-month sentence at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — A federal judge has granted a Nebraska prisoner’s request for an abortion and ordered state officials to transport her to a clinic so she can get the procedure as scheduled on Tuesday. Prison officials had rejected the woman’s request, prompting her to file a civil rights lawsuit on Friday with support from the American Civil Liberties Union of Nebraska. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Bataillon ordered prison officials to transport the inmate to a Planned Parenthood clinic in Lincoln for the abortion. The woman, identified in the lawsuit as Jane Roe, is a little more than 15 weeks pregnant and has been in prison since Feb. 18. She’s serving a 26-month sentence at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women.

Judge orders Nebraska to transport prisoner for abortion

Post Podcast: Rapid City Rush Fights Cancer Night

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska residents who have tested positive for coronavirus antibodies in the last three months are no longer required to quarantine if they get exposed to the virus again, but they’ll still have to wear a mask in public. 

A Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services administrator said Monday that the agency plans to update its public health requirements this week to match new guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Previously, people who were exposed to the virus were required by the state’s health directives to self-isolate at least 14 days.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska residents who have tested positive for coronavirus antibodies in the last three months are no longer required to quarantine if they get exposed to the virus again, but they’ll still have to wear a mask in public. A Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services administrator said Monday that the agency plans to update its public health requirements this week to match new guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Previously, people who were exposed to the virus were required by the state’s health directives to self-isolate at least 14 days.

Nebraska tweaks virus rules for people who had COVID-19

An accidental fire in the roof of the BNSF terminal building in Alliance left millions in estimated damage on April 11.

The Alliance Fire Department was called to the BNSF terminal building, also known as the yard office, at 12:20 p.m. for a fire.

Alliance Fire Chief Troy Shoemaker said firefighters from his department found the blaze in between the metallic roof and a roof membrane in the area where the roof met the exterior wall of the tower structure.&nbsp;

Alliance Volunteer Fire Department worked the wind-driven exterior fire with mutual aid provided by Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department.

"The flames continued toward the southeast corner of the building and was extinguished several hours later, even as the department had to respond to an EMS call...as well as a possible corn field fire in the southwestern part of the county that included a response from Hemingford and the Bayard Fire Department," Shoemaker said.&nbsp;

Shoemaker said the overall potential damage caused by the fire and response was set at about $3 million. 

"Structural damage to the roof comprised only about $100,000 of the damage, with the rest primarily water and smoke damage to the interior and contents," Shoemaker said. "The fire originated near a drain on the roof...and with the damage to membrane and insulation, every drop of water poured onto the roof to fight the flames entered the interior."

Shoemaker said&nbsp; in addition to damage to sheetrock, AFD officials and the State Fire Marshal estimated potential damage to sensitive electronics inside the building at $2 million. That figure will have to be finalized by BNSF. 

"There were some silver linings, in that there were no injuries to either BNSF or fire personnel," Shoemaker said. "Railroad officials were able to retrieve some equipment deemed very important to their duties out of the Alliance facility. Terminal officials say some vital equipment was not touched by the water, including some of the signal and switching equipment used by staff."

AVFD and HVFD cleared the scene at approximately 5 p.m.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostAn accidental fire in the roof of the BNSF terminal building in Alliance left millions in estimated damage on April 11.The Alliance Fire Department was called to the BNSF terminal building, also known as the yard office, at 12:20 p.m. for a fire.Alliance Fire Chief Troy Shoemaker said firefighters from his department found the blaze in between the metallic roof and a roof membrane in the area where the roof met the exterior wall of the tower structure.&nbsp;Alliance Volunteer Fire Department worked the wind-driven exterior fire with mutual aid provided by Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department."The flames continued toward the southeast corner of the building and was extinguished several hours later, even as the department had to respond to an EMS call...as well as a possible corn field fire in the southwestern part of the county that included a response from Hemingford and the Bayard Fire Department," Shoemaker said.&nbsp;Shoemaker said the overall potential damage caused by the fire and response was set at about $3 million. "Structural damage to the roof comprised only about $100,000 of the damage, with the rest primarily water and smoke damage to the interior and contents," Shoemaker said. "The fire originated near a drain on the roof...and with the damage to membrane and insulation, every drop of water poured onto the roof to fight the flames entered the interior."Shoemaker said&nbsp; in addition to damage to sheetrock, AFD officials and the State Fire Marshal estimated potential damage to sensitive electronics inside the building at $2 million. That figure will have to be finalized by BNSF. "There were some silver linings, in that there were no injuries to either BNSF or fire personnel," Shoemaker said. "Railroad officials were able to retrieve some equipment deemed very important to their duties out of the Alliance facility. Terminal officials say some vital equipment was not touched by the water, including some of the signal and switching equipment used by staff."AVFD and HVFD cleared the scene at approximately 5 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FPanhandlePost%2Fvideos%2F809978759917287%2F&show_text=false&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

BNSF terminal building fire left millions in damage 

By OLIVIA BRYANT, CSC College Relations

CHADRON – More than 300 volunteers and 43 jobsites have committed to The Big Event, Chadron State College’s ninth annual day of community service.

Dr. Paul Turman, Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System, plans to participate in this year’s The Big Event. Turman and The Big Event staff encourage all Chadron State College students and employees to volunteer and become a part of the tradition.

The Big Event will take place Saturday, April 17 from 9 a.m. to noon, followed by a lunch at Memorial Park. Check-in will begin at the Chicoine Center at 8 a.m.

The Big Event staff members said planning for this year’s community service day was demanding due to the pandemic. Staff members were responsible for the additional tasks of creating smaller job sites and ordering personal protect equipment (PPE). Masks and social distancing will be required by all Big Event participants. Big Event Faculty Adviser and CSC Associate Professor Dr. Shaunda French-Collins credits the staff for their dedication.

“The Big Event staff has done a tremendous job this year planning. Put simply, planning has had unique challenges and yet the students have been resilient. If you know a student on The Big Event staff, please thank them for their hard work and efforts,” French-Collins said.

CSC student and Undergraduate Director Emily Hansen is excited to serve the Chadron community again.

“While this year's Big Event may look a little different than past years, I am thankful that we can serve the Chadron community. It has been fun to work with the staff to plan and prepare for The Big Event. I cannot wait for April 17,” Hansen said.

Graduate Assistant Kaci Waugh notes her gratitude to the CSC administration and is looking forward to working with new volunteers.

“The community is extremely grateful that The Big Event will happening in-person. This opportunity would not be possible without the support and assistance of the CSC COVID-19 Implementation Team and other administrators,” Waugh said. “A large number of registered CSC volunteers have not previously participated in The Big Event, so I am excited to see how they are positively impacted by this experience.”

Chancellor Turman’s 2021&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYcbr_xhjA4" target="_blank">Big Event video</a>&nbsp;is on CSC/s YouTube channel. To volunteer for The Big Event, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/thebigevent" target="_blank">csc.edu/thebigevent</a>. Contact French-Collins for more information at 308-432-6302 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sfrench@csc.edu" target="_blank">sfrench@csc.edu</a>.

By OLIVIA BRYANT, CSC College RelationsCHADRON – More than 300 volunteers and 43 jobsites have committed to The Big Event, Chadron State College’s ninth annual day of community service.Dr. Paul Turman, Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System, plans to participate in this year’s The Big Event. Turman and The Big Event staff encourage all Chadron State College students and employees to volunteer and become a part of the tradition.The Big Event will take place Saturday, April 17 from 9 a.m. to noon, followed by a lunch at Memorial Park. Check-in will begin at the Chicoine Center at 8 a.m.The Big Event staff members said planning for this year’s community service day was demanding due to the pandemic. Staff members were responsible for the additional tasks of creating smaller job sites and ordering personal protect equipment (PPE). Masks and social distancing will be required by all Big Event participants. Big Event Faculty Adviser and CSC Associate Professor Dr. Shaunda French-Collins credits the staff for their dedication.“The Big Event staff has done a tremendous job this year planning. Put simply, planning has had unique challenges and yet the students have been resilient. If you know a student on The Big Event staff, please thank them for their hard work and efforts,” French-Collins said.CSC student and Undergraduate Director Emily Hansen is excited to serve the Chadron community again.“While this year's Big Event may look a little different than past years, I am thankful that we can serve the Chadron community. It has been fun to work with the staff to plan and prepare for The Big Event. I cannot wait for April 17,” Hansen said.Graduate Assistant Kaci Waugh notes her gratitude to the CSC administration and is looking forward to working with new volunteers.“The community is extremely grateful that The Big Event will happening in-person. This opportunity would not be possible without the support and assistance of the CSC COVID-19 Implementation Team and other administrators,” Waugh said. “A large number of registered CSC volunteers have not previously participated in The Big Event, so I am excited to see how they are positively impacted by this experience.”Chancellor Turman’s 2021&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYcbr_xhjA4" target="_blank">Big Event video</a>&nbsp;is on CSC/s YouTube channel. To volunteer for The Big Event, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/thebigevent" target="_blank">csc.edu/thebigevent</a>. Contact French-Collins for more information at 308-432-6302 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sfrench@csc.edu" target="_blank">sfrench@csc.edu</a>.

NSCS Chancellor among volunteers for The Big Event

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

Winter Storm Watches have been issued for the Snowy Range and South Laramie Range beginning Wednesday morning. 

Periods of rain and snowfall are expected across southeast WY and western NE Tuesday morning through Friday with the most impacts being Wednesday and Thursday.

 The area with the most travel impacts expected is I-80 between Cheyenne and Elk Mountain in terms of snowfall totals and blowing snow. 

Our confidence in these snowfall totals is still medium as there are a lot of unknowns, but as the system moves into our region today and tomorrow, we should have higher confidence and will adjust our headlines and snowfall totals accordingly.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYWinter Storm Watches have been issued for the Snowy Range and South Laramie Range beginning Wednesday morning. Periods of rain and snowfall are expected across southeast WY and western NE Tuesday morning through Friday with the most impacts being Wednesday and Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618238605575.png" alt="" />
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 </figure> The area with the most travel impacts expected is I-80 between Cheyenne and Elk Mountain in terms of snowfall totals and blowing snow. Our confidence in these snowfall totals is still medium as there are a lot of unknowns, but as the system moves into our region today and tomorrow, we should have higher confidence and will adjust our headlines and snowfall totals accordingly.

Winter Storm Watch issued for the Panhandle 

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Legislation signed into law by Gov. Mark Gordon will allow people to salvage road-killed animals for food. 

The measure directs the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Wyoming Department of Transportation to create rules for taking road-killed carcasses.

 Thirty other states including neighboring Idaho, Colorado and Montana have similar laws.

 The state transportation department takes about 3,000 reports of vehicles colliding with wildlife every year but not every hit is recorded.

 The Jackson Hole News &amp; Guide reports some species won't be allowed to be salvaged, including grizzly bears, bighorn sheep and mountain goats.

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Legislation signed into law by Gov. Mark Gordon will allow people to salvage road-killed animals for food. The measure directs the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Wyoming Department of Transportation to create rules for taking road-killed carcasses. Thirty other states including neighboring Idaho, Colorado and Montana have similar laws. The state transportation department takes about 3,000 reports of vehicles colliding with wildlife every year but not every hit is recorded. The Jackson Hole News &amp; Guide reports some species won't be allowed to be salvaged, including grizzly bears, bighorn sheep and mountain goats.

New Wyoming law will allow people to take road kill to eat

BOX ELDER, S.D. (AP) — One person is dead and three others hurt after their SUV overturned west of Box Elder. 

The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reports the crash occurred late Thursday afternoon. 

The Department of Public Safety said preliminary information indicates a 2005 Jeep Cherokee overturned on Country Road. 

A 27-year-old man died from his injuries.

 The 26-year-old female driver and two other male passengers, ages 21 and 25, were hurt as well. 

The South Dakota Highway Patrol is investigating the crash. 

Department of Public Safety spokesman Tony Mangan said charges are pending against the driver.

BOX ELDER, S.D. (AP) — One person is dead and three others hurt after their SUV overturned west of Box Elder. The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reports the crash occurred late Thursday afternoon. The Department of Public Safety said preliminary information indicates a 2005 Jeep Cherokee overturned on Country Road. A 27-year-old man died from his injuries. The 26-year-old female driver and two other male passengers, ages 21 and 25, were hurt as well. The South Dakota Highway Patrol is investigating the crash. Department of Public Safety spokesman Tony Mangan said charges are pending against the driver.

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