OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials will keep their focus on vaccinating older residents during the next phase of the state’s coronavirus response, which could begin in some regions by the end of the month.

 Gov. Pete Ricketts says the state has directed local health districts to give 90% of their available doses to residents between the ages of 50 and 64 during the upcoming vaccination phase. 

The remaining 10% will be set aside for people of all ages with existing health conditions. 

Ricketts says doctors working with local public health directors will determine who qualifies.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials will keep their focus on vaccinating older residents during the next phase of the state’s coronavirus response, which could begin in some regions by the end of the month. Gov. Pete Ricketts says the state has directed local health districts to give 90% of their available doses to residents between the ages of 50 and 64 during the upcoming vaccination phase. The remaining 10% will be set aside for people of all ages with existing health conditions. Ricketts says doctors working with local public health directors will determine who qualifies.

Nebraska to keep focus on older people in next vaccine phase

By GEORGE LEDBETTER, Chadron State College

CHADRON – A North Dakota animal science professor who is also a veterinarian and cattle producer will lead the Chadron State College Rangeland Management program’s 2021 Practitioner in Residence class beginning later in March.

Dr. Gerald Stokka, DVM, will teach the one-credit course, A Stewardship Systems Approach to Beef Cattle Health and Well-Being, Thursday evenings beginning March 18 through April 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., said Dr. Ron Bolze, associate professor.

CSC students do not need to take the course for credit and area residents are welcome to attend at no cost.

Cattle stewardship is a topic of increasing importance to consumers and the beef cattle industry, according to Bolze.

“Most ranchers have based most of their management decisions on what results in the greatest production, without consideration for what it cost to get there or what impact it might have on cattle welfare or environmental issues,” he said. “Traditional approaches to raising cattle consider individual disciplines such as nutrition, genetics, economics and labor separately, without a clear picture of the overall system of each producer’s unique operation. A systems approach takes into account the impact of management decisions on other important issues besides just gross production.”

Stokka currently teaches in the Animal Sciences department at North Dakota State University, and works with feedlots, stocker and cow-calf operations throughout the region. A member of numerous livestock industry organizations, he has experience with international agriculture projects in Africa and Central and South America. He is also a partner in a commercial Angus and registered Red Angus operation.

Bolze said he has worked on educational programs with Stokka and is confident the course will include practical takeaways for producers.

“He has the gift of conveying scientific principles in layman’s terminology,” Bolze said.

This is the fifth year CSC has offered Practitioner in Residence courses to students and area livestock producers through funding provided by the Bill and Virginia Coffee Family Foundation. Previous topics have included rangeland reclamation, insect pollinators, and ecosystem services.

“Past sessions have generated great discussions and broadened the horizons for our student and community participants,” Bolze said.

For more information, contact Bolze at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rbolze@csc.edu" target="_blank">rbolze@csc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308-432-6237.

By GEORGE LEDBETTER, Chadron State CollegeCHADRON – A North Dakota animal science professor who is also a veterinarian and cattle producer will lead the Chadron State College Rangeland Management program’s 2021 Practitioner in Residence class beginning later in March.Dr. Gerald Stokka, DVM, will teach the one-credit course, A Stewardship Systems Approach to Beef Cattle Health and Well-Being, Thursday evenings beginning March 18 through April 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., said Dr. Ron Bolze, associate professor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614795505035.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CSC students do not need to take the course for credit and area residents are welcome to attend at no cost.Cattle stewardship is a topic of increasing importance to consumers and the beef cattle industry, according to Bolze.“Most ranchers have based most of their management decisions on what results in the greatest production, without consideration for what it cost to get there or what impact it might have on cattle welfare or environmental issues,” he said. “Traditional approaches to raising cattle consider individual disciplines such as nutrition, genetics, economics and labor separately, without a clear picture of the overall system of each producer’s unique operation. A systems approach takes into account the impact of management decisions on other important issues besides just gross production.”Stokka currently teaches in the Animal Sciences department at North Dakota State University, and works with feedlots, stocker and cow-calf operations throughout the region. A member of numerous livestock industry organizations, he has experience with international agriculture projects in Africa and Central and South America. He is also a partner in a commercial Angus and registered Red Angus operation.Bolze said he has worked on educational programs with Stokka and is confident the course will include practical takeaways for producers.“He has the gift of conveying scientific principles in layman’s terminology,” Bolze said.This is the fifth year CSC has offered Practitioner in Residence courses to students and area livestock producers through funding provided by the Bill and Virginia Coffee Family Foundation. Previous topics have included rangeland reclamation, insect pollinators, and ecosystem services.“Past sessions have generated great discussions and broadened the horizons for our student and community participants,” Bolze said.For more information, contact Bolze at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rbolze@csc.edu" target="_blank">rbolze@csc.edu</a>&nbsp;or 308-432-6237.

CSC livestock stewardship course open to students, public

The Alliance City Council held a special meeting on Feb. 23 and voted to hire Jeff Hecksel as the new Alliance City Manager. Hecksel has recently withdrawn as a candidate for the position.&nbsp; Council voted 4-1 last month to hire Jeff Hecksel of Oregon for the position.&nbsp; &nbsp; "Jeff Hecksel has withdrawn his application," Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney said. "He and his wife, after much discussion, feel the timing is not right for them." Jeff Hecksel is currently the&nbsp;County Administrator for Hood River County.&nbsp; "My decision to withdraw was not in any way shape or form related to my experience in the City of Alliance either with the city council or city staff ," Hecksel said. "Both of those experiences with the staff and city council were great. I would also say that I&nbsp;thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the community." Hecksel said he felt Alliance was a nice community. "I would further say it was not the offer in and of itself that the city made to me," Hecksel said. "I felt like the city made a really good offer. It was in the realm of my expectations. For myself and my family at this particular point in time it's important that both I work and my wife works. In order for this to work for us my wife would have needed to secure employment within a reasonable amount of time at or close to the level at which she is employed now. After spending a fair amount of time looking into opportunities it was pretty clear that would not work. Unfortunately, it just didn't work for us and that's a huge disappointment." Hecksel said he appreciated Mayor Mike Dafney and city staff.&nbsp; "I was very appreciative of the mayor and his candor and that of everyone else as well," Hecksel said. "I felt that everyone was really good. My experience in Alliance was really good."&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Alliance City Council held a special meeting on Feb. 23 and voted to hire Jeff Hecksel as the new Alliance City Manager. Hecksel has recently withdrawn as a candidate for the position.&nbsp; Council voted 4-1 last month to hire Jeff Hecksel of Oregon for the position.&nbsp; &nbsp; "Jeff Hecksel has withdrawn his application," Alliance Mayor Mike Dafney said. "He and his wife, after much discussion, feel the timing is not right for them." Jeff Hecksel is currently the&nbsp;County Administrator for Hood River County.&nbsp; "My decision to withdraw was not in any way shape or form related to my experience in the City of Alliance either with the city council or city staff ," Hecksel said. "Both of those experiences with the staff and city council were great. I would also say that I&nbsp;thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the community." Hecksel said he felt Alliance was a nice community. "I would further say it was not the offer in and of itself that the city made to me," Hecksel said. "I felt like the city made a really good offer. It was in the realm of my expectations. For myself and my family at this particular point in time it's important that both I work and my wife works. In order for this to work for us my wife would have needed to secure employment within a reasonable amount of time at or close to the level at which she is employed now. After spending a fair amount of time looking into opportunities it was pretty clear that would not work. Unfortunately, it just didn't work for us and that's a huge disappointment." Hecksel said he appreciated Mayor Mike Dafney and city staff.&nbsp; "I was very appreciative of the mayor and his candor and that of everyone else as well," Hecksel said. "I felt that everyone was really good. My experience in Alliance was really good."&nbsp;&nbsp;

UPDATE: Hecksel elects not to accept Alliance City Manager position

🎙 Post Podcast: Alliance Interim Co-City Manager Randy Waggener

LINCOLN — Every person and every state park has a story to tell, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission wants yours.

With the parks system centennial year underway, we want to hear your best and unforgettable experiences. Your epic camping fails. Your firsts: time on a horse, ski attempt, wildlife encounter or living history adventure. We want to hear your sentimental memories and your “never again” moments experienced at one of Nebraska’s 78 state park areas or trails.

Share your story on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram by using the hashtag #NEParks100, or share your story online through our web-based form at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDIuMzYyMzEwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3BhcmtzMTAwLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvbmVwYXJrczEwMCJ9.y6oksUpMS2ljOyg_1GrKNiCY8ypTrX9fNTcrGqh9SB4/s/497221906/br/99160522341-l" target="_blank">YourNebraskaParks100.org/NEparks100</a>. Game and Parks will re-share your stories and pictures throughout our centennial year celebrations.

The Nebraska state park system includes state parks, historical parks, recreation areas, and recreational trails. Game and Parks’ first state park, Chadron State Park, was established in 1921, and now, every Nebraskan has at least one state park area within an hour’s drive of their home. Outdoor recreation opportunities offered at those parks are endless.

“Outdoor enthusiasts’ interests are as diverse as our state and as individual as we come,” said Jim Swenson, Parks Division administrator. “We look forward to hearing how people’s adventures have led to great memories at their state parks.”

To a find park near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDIuMzYyMzEwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3BhcmtzMTAwLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZXhwbG9yZXBhcmtzIn0.deSnKUed3ZDCrlE6h_2kNLc03YAWD7odnLJu8TJSnek/s/497221906/br/99160522341-l" target="_blank">YourNebraskaParks100.org/exploreparks</a>. A park entry permit is required of each vehicle visiting a state park area; buy one at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDIuMzYyMzEwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.RmFncfLcKWaV0slTfONF5s28ene3344pNbBveLQIzmg/s/497221906/br/99160522341-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

LINCOLN — Every person and every state park has a story to tell, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission wants yours.With the parks system centennial year underway, we want to hear your best and unforgettable experiences. Your epic camping fails. Your firsts: time on a horse, ski attempt, wildlife encounter or living history adventure. We want to hear your sentimental memories and your “never again” moments experienced at one of Nebraska’s 78 state park areas or trails.Share your story on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram by using the hashtag #NEParks100, or share your story online through our web-based form at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDIuMzYyMzEwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3BhcmtzMTAwLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvbmVwYXJrczEwMCJ9.y6oksUpMS2ljOyg_1GrKNiCY8ypTrX9fNTcrGqh9SB4/s/497221906/br/99160522341-l" target="_blank">YourNebraskaParks100.org/NEparks100</a>. Game and Parks will re-share your stories and pictures throughout our centennial year celebrations.The Nebraska state park system includes state parks, historical parks, recreation areas, and recreational trails. Game and Parks’ first state park, Chadron State Park, was established in 1921, and now, every Nebraskan has at least one state park area within an hour’s drive of their home. Outdoor recreation opportunities offered at those parks are endless.“Outdoor enthusiasts’ interests are as diverse as our state and as individual as we come,” said Jim Swenson, Parks Division administrator. “We look forward to hearing how people’s adventures have led to great memories at their state parks.”To a find park near you, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDIuMzYyMzEwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3BhcmtzMTAwLm91dGRvb3JuZWJyYXNrYS5nb3YvZXhwbG9yZXBhcmtzIn0.deSnKUed3ZDCrlE6h_2kNLc03YAWD7odnLJu8TJSnek/s/497221906/br/99160522341-l" target="_blank">YourNebraskaParks100.org/exploreparks</a>. A park entry permit is required of each vehicle visiting a state park area; buy one at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDIuMzYyMzEwMzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.RmFncfLcKWaV0slTfONF5s28ene3344pNbBveLQIzmg/s/497221906/br/99160522341-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>.

Share your favorite Nebraska state park experiences on social

The deadline for entering the annual Stars of Tomorrow contest sponsored by the Chadron Kiwanis Club is Monday, March 8. 

The contest will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 14 in the Chadron High School Auditorium.

There will be four divisions: Division I, students in kindergarten through the third grades; Division II, fourth through sixth grades; Division III, seventh through ninth grades; and Division IV, 10th through 12th grades.

The first place winner in division IV will receive $150.00 scholarship and the right to represent the Chadron Kiwanis Club at the district contest later this spring.

The top three place winners in each division will be awarded tropies.

There is no entry fee. The acts should last no more than about 6 minutes. Both soloists and small groups may compete.

Entry forms are available by contacting Duane Gardener at Home Haven Furniture and Appliance at 1610 w 6th street in Chadron. The entries should also be submitted to Gardener

ENTRY FORM “STARS OF TOMORROW” TALENT CONTEST

Sponsored by the Chadron Kiwanis Club -- March 14th, 2021, 3 p.m.

Contestant’s Name____________________________________________________________

Parent’s Name(s)______________________________________________________________

Mailing Address_______________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

Phone Number__________________________ Grade_____________ Age__________

Name of School________________________________________________________________

Division: (check appropriate grade level)

Division I (K-3)______Division II (4-6)_____Division III (7-9)_______Division IV (10-12)______

Type of act___________________________________________________________________

Name of the act_______________________________________________________________

Names of all individuals in the act________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

Teacher of your talent_________________________________________________________

Will you have an accompaniment tape? Yes_____ No____ a CD? Yes_____ No_____

Name of Accompanist (if applicable)_____________________________________________

***To help the emcee introduce you, please give a brief answer to the follow questions

Education Plans_____________________________________________________________

Career Plans________________________________________________________________

Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature__________________________________________________

Return this form before Monday, March 8, at 5 p.m. to Chadron Kiwanis Club, Duane Gardener, Home Haven Furniture and Appliance, 1610 West 6th Street, Chadron, Neb., 69337.

The deadline for entering the annual Stars of Tomorrow contest sponsored by the Chadron Kiwanis Club is Monday, March 8. The contest will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 14 in the Chadron High School Auditorium.There will be four divisions: Division I, students in kindergarten through the third grades; Division II, fourth through sixth grades; Division III, seventh through ninth grades; and Division IV, 10th through 12th grades.The first place winner in division IV will receive $150.00 scholarship and the right to represent the Chadron Kiwanis Club at the district contest later this spring.The top three place winners in each division will be awarded tropies.There is no entry fee. The acts should last no more than about 6 minutes. Both soloists and small groups may compete.Entry forms are available by contacting Duane Gardener at Home Haven Furniture and Appliance at 1610 w 6th street in Chadron. The entries should also be submitted to GardenerENTRY FORM “STARS OF TOMORROW” TALENT CONTESTSponsored by the Chadron Kiwanis Club -- March 14th, 2021, 3 p.m.Please Print or TypeContestant’s Name____________________________________________________________Parent’s Name(s)______________________________________________________________Mailing Address_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Phone Number__________________________ Grade_____________ Age__________Name of School________________________________________________________________Division: (check appropriate grade level)Division I (K-3)______Division II (4-6)_____Division III (7-9)_______Division IV (10-12)______Type of act___________________________________________________________________Name of the act_______________________________________________________________Names of all individuals in the act___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Teacher of your talent_________________________________________________________Will you have an accompaniment tape? Yes_____ No____ a CD? Yes_____ No_____Name of Accompanist (if applicable)_____________________________________________***To help the emcee introduce you, please give a brief answer to the follow questionsEducation Plans_____________________________________________________________Career Plans________________________________________________________________Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature__________________________________________________Return this form before Monday, March 8, at 5 p.m. to Chadron Kiwanis Club, Duane Gardener, Home Haven Furniture and Appliance, 1610 West 6th Street, Chadron, Neb., 69337.

Chadron 'Stars of Tomorrow' deadline approaching 

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty

The federal government has begun accepting applications for the second round of Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loans. Only businesses with fewer than 20 employees will be allowed to apply during the two weeks starting February 24 through March 10. Larger businesses with up to 300 employees (500 employees if they qualified under PPP1) can apply after March 10. The loan period ends March 31.

The businesses who can receive loans has been expanded to include companies without employees, like sole proprietors, independent contractors, and other self-employed individuals.

Lawful US residents who are not yet citizens but are small business owners and business owners with student loan debt delinquencies are eligible for PPP loans. Local media like newspapers and radio stations can apply. Businesses are not eligible if their primary purpose is political, if they are listed on a securities exchange, if their owners are Chinese, or if they have permanently closed.

When the first round of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trust-bbb.org/torchtalk/stimulus-bill-provides-350b-in-relief-to-small-businesses" target="_blank">Payroll Protection Program</a>&nbsp;rolled out in April 2020, it was designed to keep businesses afloat during a nationwide shutdown. However, once companies started to reopen, COVID-19 cases increased and we had another economic downturn. The initial allotment of funds couldn’t cover the full extent of business losses. Some large businesses and chains were allowed to claim large amounts of the allocated PPP funds. The PPP2 loan amount is 2.5 times the average monthly payroll costs in the year prior or 2019 calendar year, except food service providers who receive 3.5 times the average monthly payroll costs. Necessity certification is required. Sba.gov has a necessity questionnaire that must be completed. Companies must show a 25% decrease in revenue from 2019 to 2020 for loans of more than $150,000. Businesses can compare any quarter in 2019 to the same quarter in 2020 to show a loss or use overall revenue reduction. If a company can document that the loan funds were spent as required, the loan will be forgiven – will not need to be repaid to the government.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Expenses that can be covered by a PPP loan are not limited to payroll. 60% is allowed for payroll and benefits like insurance. 40% may be spent for other costs required by a government entity to comply with COVID restrictions including PPE equipment, property damage, and cloud computing. A portion of the 40% may be used for expenses like rent and utilities. There are many small businesses in our area that might qualify for a PPP2 loan. If you own one of them, google BBB PPP2 and watch the short video created by the Better Business Bureau. Then talk to your accountant about applying.&nbsp;

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on PovertyThe federal government has begun accepting applications for the second round of Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loans. Only businesses with fewer than 20 employees will be allowed to apply during the two weeks starting February 24 through March 10. Larger businesses with up to 300 employees (500 employees if they qualified under PPP1) can apply after March 10. The loan period ends March 31.The businesses who can receive loans has been expanded to include companies without employees, like sole proprietors, independent contractors, and other self-employed individuals.Lawful US residents who are not yet citizens but are small business owners and business owners with student loan debt delinquencies are eligible for PPP loans. Local media like newspapers and radio stations can apply. Businesses are not eligible if their primary purpose is political, if they are listed on a securities exchange, if their owners are Chinese, or if they have permanently closed.When the first round of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trust-bbb.org/torchtalk/stimulus-bill-provides-350b-in-relief-to-small-businesses" target="_blank">Payroll Protection Program</a>&nbsp;rolled out in April 2020, it was designed to keep businesses afloat during a nationwide shutdown. However, once companies started to reopen, COVID-19 cases increased and we had another economic downturn. The initial allotment of funds couldn’t cover the full extent of business losses. Some large businesses and chains were allowed to claim large amounts of the allocated PPP funds. The PPP2 loan amount is 2.5 times the average monthly payroll costs in the year prior or 2019 calendar year, except food service providers who receive 3.5 times the average monthly payroll costs. Necessity certification is required. Sba.gov has a necessity questionnaire that must be completed. Companies must show a 25% decrease in revenue from 2019 to 2020 for loans of more than $150,000. Businesses can compare any quarter in 2019 to the same quarter in 2020 to show a loss or use overall revenue reduction. If a company can document that the loan funds were spent as required, the loan will be forgiven – will not need to be repaid to the government.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Expenses that can be covered by a PPP loan are not limited to payroll. 60% is allowed for payroll and benefits like insurance. 40% may be spent for other costs required by a government entity to comply with COVID restrictions including PPE equipment, property damage, and cloud computing. A portion of the 40% may be used for expenses like rent and utilities. There are many small businesses in our area that might qualify for a PPP2 loan. If you own one of them, google BBB PPP2 and watch the short video created by the Better Business Bureau. Then talk to your accountant about applying.&nbsp;

Poverty In Our Area: PPP2 loans for super small businesses

News Release Nebraska Broadcasters Assn.

The
Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation (NBAF) is awarding
$1,000.00
scholarships
to four Nebraska high school seniors with plans to earn a
broadcasting-related degree and aspirations to work in broadcasting.
Applications were reviewed by a panel of NBA board members, resulting
in the following students earning a scholarship:

Corie
McCowin,
Omaha North High School. Corie will attend the University of Nebraska
–
Lincoln
to
pursue
a degree in Journalism/Mass Communications;

Jenna
Reynolds,
Millard West High School. Jenna will attend the University of
Nebraska
–
Lincoln
to
pursue a degree in Broadcast Journalism/Marketing;

Camden
Rine,
Waverly High School. Camden will attend the University of Nebraska
–
Lincoln
to
pursue
a degree in Sports Media and Communication;

Jonathan
Willis,
Millard West High School. Jonathan will attend the University of
Nebraska
–
Kearney
to pursue a degree in Sports Communication.

NBA
Board Chairman Mark Jensen, owner of KBRY (Broken Bow) and KNLV AM/FM
(Ord) said:

“The
NBA Board of Directors has emphasized supporting students interested
in broadcasting from an early age. Beyond the scholarships we provide
to college students, we see a need to assist graduating high school
seniors as they begin college and their journey to joining the
broadcast industry. We are proud to support these outstanding
students who we hope will become a part of the

next
generation of outstanding Nebraska broadcasters.”


The
NBAF also offers scholarships to assist students enrolled in radio
and/or television broadcasting or broadcast journalism educational
programs at colleges, universities or technical colleges in Nebraska.
Over $300,000 in scholarships has been awarded by the NBA and NBAF
since the NBA first began a scholarship program in 1977.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614785787760.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska Broadcasters Assn.
The
Nebraska Broadcasters Association Foundation (NBAF) is awarding
$1,000.00
scholarships
to four Nebraska high school seniors with plans to earn a
broadcasting-related degree and aspirations to work in broadcasting.
Applications were reviewed by a panel of NBA board members, resulting
in the following students earning a scholarship:Corie
McCowin,
Omaha North High School. Corie will attend the University of Nebraska
–
Lincoln
to
pursue
a degree in Journalism/Mass Communications;
Jenna
Reynolds,
Millard West High School. Jenna will attend the University of
Nebraska
–
Lincoln
to
pursue a degree in Broadcast Journalism/Marketing;
Camden
Rine,
Waverly High School. Camden will attend the University of Nebraska
–
Lincoln
to
pursue
a degree in Sports Media and Communication;
Jonathan
Willis,
Millard West High School. Jonathan will attend the University of
Nebraska
–
Kearney
to pursue a degree in Sports Communication.NBA
Board Chairman Mark Jensen, owner of KBRY (Broken Bow) and KNLV AM/FM
(Ord) said:
“The
NBA Board of Directors has emphasized supporting students interested
in broadcasting from an early age. Beyond the scholarships we provide
to college students, we see a need to assist graduating high school
seniors as they begin college and their journey to joining the
broadcast industry. We are proud to support these outstanding
students who we hope will become a part of thenext
generation of outstanding Nebraska broadcasters.”
The
NBAF also offers scholarships to assist students enrolled in radio
and/or television broadcasting or broadcast journalism educational
programs at colleges, universities or technical colleges in Nebraska.
Over $300,000 in scholarships has been awarded by the NBA and NBAF
since the NBA first began a scholarship program in 1977.

Nebraska Broadcasters announce 2021 scholarship winners

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Biden administration’s plan to funnel more coronavirus aid into states with greater unemployment has irked governors with lower jobless rates, even though many have economies that weren’t hit as hard by the pandemic. 

The $1.9 trillion relief bill working its way through Congress allocates extra money to larger, mostly Democratic-run states with higher unemployment rates. 

Rural Midwestern and Southern states that tend to have Republican governors and better jobless numbers would benefit less. 

The White House is defending its distribution plan. 

It says the plan targets money to areas where it will have the biggest impact.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The Biden administration’s plan to funnel more coronavirus aid into states with greater unemployment has irked governors with lower jobless rates, even though many have economies that weren’t hit as hard by the pandemic. The $1.9 trillion relief bill working its way through Congress allocates extra money to larger, mostly Democratic-run states with higher unemployment rates. Rural Midwestern and Southern states that tend to have Republican governors and better jobless numbers would benefit less. The White House is defending its distribution plan. It says the plan targets money to areas where it will have the biggest impact.

Biden plan to distribute virus aid irks some governors

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials administered nearly 87,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines last week as the state worked to distribute more shots.

 The number of doses of the vaccines administered jumped to 86,737 last week from the previous week’s total of 52,731. 

State health officials said 436,474 doses of the vaccines have now been administered, and 10% of Nebraska’s population has now been fully vaccinated. 

The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, from 500.29 new cases per day on Feb. 15 to 271.57 new cases per day on Monday.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska health officials administered nearly 87,000 doses of coronavirus vaccines last week as the state worked to distribute more shots. The number of doses of the vaccines administered jumped to 86,737 last week from the previous week’s total of 52,731. State health officials said 436,474 doses of the vaccines have now been administered, and 10% of Nebraska’s population has now been fully vaccinated. The seven-day rolling average of daily new cases in Nebraska decreased over the past two weeks, from 500.29 new cases per day on Feb. 15 to 271.57 new cases per day on Monday.

Nebraska administered nearly 87,000 vaccine doses last week

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska woman has pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder for the November stabbing death of her live-in boyfriend in North Platte. 

The North Platte Telegraph reports that 20-year-old Harlie Saathoff entered the not guilty plea Monday in Lincoln County District Court.

 Police say it was Saathoff who called 911 on Nov. 12 to report she had stabbed 20-year-old Bryce Wood during an argument. 

Arriving officers and medics found Wood lying face down on a bedroom floor in a pool of blood and an 11-inch kitchen knife that police said Saathoff admitted using to stab Wood.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska woman has pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder for the November stabbing death of her live-in boyfriend in North Platte. The North Platte Telegraph reports that 20-year-old Harlie Saathoff entered the not guilty plea Monday in Lincoln County District Court. Police say it was Saathoff who called 911 on Nov. 12 to report she had stabbed 20-year-old Bryce Wood during an argument. Arriving officers and medics found Wood lying face down on a bedroom floor in a pool of blood and an 11-inch kitchen knife that police said Saathoff admitted using to stab Wood.

Nebraska woman pleads not guilty to killing boyfriend

POST PODCAST: Karen Benzel, United Way

LINCOLN – Several virtual events are scheduled by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to kick off March, which Gov. Pete Ricketts has proclaimed Nebraska Outdoor Women’s Month.

These free events include a women’s career panel, women’s conservation history event, and women’s birding event, among others. Registration is required at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxMzM4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.VCFQFzGwI2ZAe42Od0dX_rA9v1wr9ivBJRad2ZCU67A/s/497221906/br/98490608285-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.org</a>.

Game and Parks encourages women to get outdoors and engage other women in the outdoors. Throughout March, women in the outdoors and women’s outdoor achievements will be highlighted on the agency’s social media, including on the Nebraska Wildlife Education’s Facebook. Posts will include information and basics on how to get started in outdoor activities.

For more information about Nebraska Outdoor Women’s Month, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxMzM4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9OT1cvIn0.azw8UJerhQfDm9Zwh1CeK3d8TVOBMwLEK_hk0MbYXiA/s/497221906/br/98490608285-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/NOW</a>.

LINCOLN – Several virtual events are scheduled by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to kick off March, which Gov. Pete Ricketts has proclaimed Nebraska Outdoor Women’s Month.These free events include a women’s career panel, women’s conservation history event, and women’s birding event, among others. Registration is required at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxMzM4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.VCFQFzGwI2ZAe42Od0dX_rA9v1wr9ivBJRad2ZCU67A/s/497221906/br/98490608285-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.org</a>.Game and Parks encourages women to get outdoors and engage other women in the outdoors. Throughout March, women in the outdoors and women’s outdoor achievements will be highlighted on the agency’s social media, including on the Nebraska Wildlife Education’s Facebook. Posts will include information and basics on how to get started in outdoor activities.For more information about Nebraska Outdoor Women’s Month, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMDEuMzYxMzM4NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9OT1cvIn0.azw8UJerhQfDm9Zwh1CeK3d8TVOBMwLEK_hk0MbYXiA/s/497221906/br/98490608285-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/NOW</a>.

Events kick off March as Nebraska Outdoor Women’s Month

Alliance – Panhandle Tree Service will begin trimming trees for the City of Alliance along streets and alleys. 

Trees will be trimmed for electric line, streetlight and refuse truck clearance.

The project will begin on Potash Avenue from 1st Street to 7th Street and proceed East to Flack. Once those are complete they will be working from 1st street to 10th street, Box Butte to the West. 

This will be an ongoing project lasting well into the summer months.

Any questions or concerns please contact Public Works at (308) 762-1907.

Alliance – Panhandle Tree Service will begin trimming trees for the City of Alliance along streets and alleys. Trees will be trimmed for electric line, streetlight and refuse truck clearance.The project will begin on Potash Avenue from 1st Street to 7th Street and proceed East to Flack. Once those are complete they will be working from 1st street to 10th street, Box Butte to the West. This will be an ongoing project lasting well into the summer months.Any questions or concerns please contact Public Works at (308) 762-1907.

City of Alliance to begin trimming street, alley trees

Panhandle Unified Command announced on today’s briefing the risk dial has moved to yellow, moderate risk of COVID spread. The Panhandle hasn’t seen this risk level since last fall.

Important and optimistic factors that are shifting this risk level are no active hospitalizations and the lowest positivity rate in months. Panhandle residents are encouraged to take the important precautions according to the yellow risk level: maintain a physical distance from anyone outside the home, wear a mask, frequently wash or sanitize your hands, be cautious with gatherings and consider outdoor activities when possible, and stay home and get tested if experiencing any COVID-like symptoms.

As of today, 11,324 or 17.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. Local vaccine providers will continue to vaccinate individuals 65 and older and moving towards other tiers of phase 1b including educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees.&nbsp;

“There are now three vaccine brands that have received the FDA Emergency Use Authorization-Pfizer, Moderna, &amp; Johnson &amp; Johnson. We anticipate seeing the newest brand in the Panhandle beginning as soon as next week,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

She added, “It’s not a fair assessment to compare one vaccine to the other. Overall, they provide 100% assurance in preventing hospitalizations, 100% assurance in preventing deaths, and 0% difference in the things that matter the most.”

The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program includes three locations in the Panhandle: Alliance Community Pharmacy and Walmart in Chadron and Scottsbluff.&nbsp; All are using the coordinated Panhandle list. This is in addition to the current vaccine providers that have been offering COVID vaccines in the Panhandle.

All Panhandle residents over the age of 18 that have not registered, please do so now at&nbsp;vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. Registration is simple and takes less than a couple of minutes. If you have already registered, rest assured, you are on the list and do not need to register again.

If you need help registering, call either of these numbers: 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. The Spanish version will be coming soon.

COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.

Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn. People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.

If you have had COVID, you are still encouraged to get the vaccine once you no longer have symptoms and after you have been released from isolation. If you received the monoclonal antibody treatment, it is recommended to get the vaccine no sooner than 90 days after treatment.

If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.

Four Panhandle residents were announced as the most recent COVID deaths, a Sheridan County female in her 70s and three Scotts Bluff County residents, two males in their 70s and one female in her 70s, bringing the Panhandle total to 186.

“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel.

Unified Command confirms 31 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, February 22. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

By PPHDPanhandle Unified Command announced on today’s briefing the risk dial has moved to yellow, moderate risk of COVID spread. The Panhandle hasn’t seen this risk level since last fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614699505018.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Important and optimistic factors that are shifting this risk level are no active hospitalizations and the lowest positivity rate in months. Panhandle residents are encouraged to take the important precautions according to the yellow risk level: maintain a physical distance from anyone outside the home, wear a mask, frequently wash or sanitize your hands, be cautious with gatherings and consider outdoor activities when possible, and stay home and get tested if experiencing any COVID-like symptoms.As of today, 11,324 or 17.3% of Panhandle adults have received the COVID vaccine. Local vaccine providers will continue to vaccinate individuals 65 and older and moving towards other tiers of phase 1b including educators, childcare providers, grocery and convenience store workers, railroad employees, truckers, public transit, postal service, cooperatives, and meat and food processing facility employees.&nbsp;“There are now three vaccine brands that have received the FDA Emergency Use Authorization-Pfizer, Moderna, &amp; Johnson &amp; Johnson. We anticipate seeing the newest brand in the Panhandle beginning as soon as next week,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.She added, “It’s not a fair assessment to compare one vaccine to the other. Overall, they provide 100% assurance in preventing hospitalizations, 100% assurance in preventing deaths, and 0% difference in the things that matter the most.”The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program includes three locations in the Panhandle: Alliance Community Pharmacy and Walmart in Chadron and Scottsbluff.&nbsp; All are using the coordinated Panhandle list. This is in addition to the current vaccine providers that have been offering COVID vaccines in the Panhandle.All Panhandle residents over the age of 18 that have not registered, please do so now at&nbsp;vaccinate.ne.gov&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. Registration is simple and takes less than a couple of minutes. If you have already registered, rest assured, you are on the list and do not need to register again.If you need help registering, call either of these numbers: 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. The Spanish version will be coming soon.COVID vaccinations are also available at the Scottsbluff Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) for&nbsp;veterans enrolled in the VA Health Care system. Vaccinations are by appointment only, no walk-ins. Call 308-225-5330 for appointment scheduling.Vaccines are one of the single greatest achievements in public health, be sure to get your COVID shot when it’s your turn. People who are fully COVID vaccinated will not be required to quarantine due to close contact.If you have had COVID, you are still encouraged to get the vaccine once you no longer have symptoms and after you have been released from isolation. If you received the monoclonal antibody treatment, it is recommended to get the vaccine no sooner than 90 days after treatment.If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.Four Panhandle residents were announced as the most recent COVID deaths, a Sheridan County female in her 70s and three Scotts Bluff County residents, two males in their 70s and one female in her 70s, bringing the Panhandle total to 186.“We share peace and comfort with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents,” said Engel.Unified Command confirms 31 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Monday, February 22. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614699615630.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-March 1, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 34,824</li><li>Positive: 8,685</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 103</li><li>Last week’s cases: 31</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 7.5%</li><li>Deaths: 186</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 0</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 532</li><li>Doubling time (November 12, 2020-March 1, 2021): 110 days</li>
 </ul>

PPHD: Panhandle moves to yellow on the virus risk dial

GERING – A virtual program from the Wildcat Hills Nature Center will explore the traditions and celebrations of the spring equinox. The program will be 10 a.m. MST on Saturday, March 13.

The spring equinox, which is the astronomical first day of spring in the northern hemisphere, is March 20 this year. After the equinox, the northern half of the globe will begin tilting closer to the sun.

Amanda Filipi, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission outdoor education specialist who is presenting the program, hopes the educational opportunity will spark new traditions for families who participate.

To register for the free program, which will be on the meeting platform Zoom, visit <a href="https://tinyurl.com/4so74egs">https://tinyurl.com/4so74egs</a>.

GERING – A virtual program from the Wildcat Hills Nature Center will explore the traditions and celebrations of the spring equinox. The program will be 10 a.m. MST on Saturday, March 13.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587140447752.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Great Plains James" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Great Plains James</figcaption>
 </figure>The spring equinox, which is the astronomical first day of spring in the northern hemisphere, is March 20 this year. After the equinox, the northern half of the globe will begin tilting closer to the sun.Amanda Filipi, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission outdoor education specialist who is presenting the program, hopes the educational opportunity will spark new traditions for families who participate.To register for the free program, which will be on the meeting platform Zoom, visit <a href="https://tinyurl.com/4so74egs">https://tinyurl.com/4so74egs</a>.

Spring equinox is program topic at Wildcat Hills Nature Center

March 6th&nbsp;marks one year since the first positive case of coronavirus was confirmed in Nebraska.&nbsp; Over the past year, it’s been an all-hands-on-deck effort to protect hospital capacity, support our healthcare workers, and help keep Nebraskans healthy.&nbsp; We continue to see encouraging trends in our fight against the coronavirus.&nbsp; During the past week, the number of coronavirus-related hospitalizations has been at its lowest point in over six months.&nbsp; And by the latest measures, over a quarter-million Nebraskans have now received their initial dose of vaccine.

Throughout the pandemic, Nebraska has struck a balance between slowing the spread of the virus, while helping people lead a more normal life.&nbsp; We kept businesses open instead of imposing a strict lockdown.&nbsp; We engaged faith communities to find ways for them to join together and worship.&nbsp; We worked hard to put protocols in place so that students could return to school.&nbsp; These efforts helped people stay connected, while minimizing disruptions to Nebraskans’ livelihoods and educations.

Through it all, we’ve been working to grow opportunities and keep our state moving forward. &nbsp;We’ve created an environment where existing businesses like Scoular and Becton Dickinson have chosen to expand and where major companies like Amazon have made new investments.&nbsp; We’ve also made it possible for Main Street to thrive, ranking among the best states in America for small business performance during 2020.&nbsp; These successes have helped us achieve the nation’s lowest unemployment rate for five months in a row.

According to the University of Nebraska Bureau of Business Research (NU-BBR), the future looks bright. &nbsp;On February 24th, NU-BBR reported that Nebraska’s leading economic indicator—which predicts near-term trends—has risen for the fourth consecutive month.&nbsp; “The rising indicator provides another signal that economic growth will be solid in Nebraska through mid-2021,” said Dr. Eric Thompson, director of NU-BBR.&nbsp; Dr. Thompson relayed encouraging data from state businesses, noting that “respondents to the January&nbsp;Survey of Nebraska Business&nbsp;reported plans to expand sales and employment over the next six months.”

Nebraska’s economy continues to deliver great opportunities in the midst of the pandemic, resulting in strong tax revenues.&nbsp; Last Friday, the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board voted to increase the State’s projected revenues by $462 million. &nbsp;The increased forecast gives the State the opportunity to continue controlling spending, so we can deliver even more property tax relief for the people of Nebraska.

This session, the Legislature will debate and pass the next two-year budget for the State of Nebraska.&nbsp; My budget recommendation controls spending by limiting the average annual rate of growth to 1.5%.

My top priority continues to be property tax relief. &nbsp;Property taxes have been increasing faster than Nebraska’s families can afford.&nbsp; By controlling spending in the context of strong revenue growth, the Legislature can deliver significant property tax relief to Nebraska families. &nbsp;In January, my budget proposed $1.36 billion in relief over the next two years. &nbsp;With the new and improved forecast, the Legislature is now positioned to deliver even more property tax relief.

While we reduce the property tax burden, we will still achieve other key priorities, including expanding educational opportunities and protecting public safety.&nbsp; I’m proposing for the State to invest a record-high amount of aid—$1.1 billion—in schools in each of the next two fiscal years. &nbsp;Every child is unique and deserves the best educational setting for his or her needs, whether that’s a public school, private school, or homeschool.&nbsp; My budget includes $4 million in K-12 Opportunity Scholarships to give more students from low-income families the opportunity to attend private schools. &nbsp;I’m also recommending a $3 million investment in the textbook loan program for private school students. &nbsp;Empowering all Nebraska families with the freedom to choose the best educational options for their children is one of the best ways we can help the next generation achieve their dreams.

My budget includes $12 million for Nebraska Career Scholarships over the next two years at our community colleges, state colleges, and public universities.&nbsp; I’m also recommending $3 million to expand the Career Scholarship program to the private colleges in our state.&nbsp; This will bring the total number of career scholarships to at least 2,110 by 2023.&nbsp; These scholarships are equipping Nebraska’s young adults to take great jobs in high-demand fields such as healthcare and manufacturing.

Our strong fiscal position also gives us the opportunity to make a critical investment in public safety.&nbsp; The Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP), which opened in 1869, is a decaying structure nearing the end of its lifespan.&nbsp; My budget proposes building a replacement for the NSP in anticipation of the current facility aging out of service by the end of the decade.&nbsp; In the interest of protecting our communities and giving our corrections officers a safe work environment, we must ensure that we have sufficient operational capacity to adequately manage our inmate population in the years ahead.&nbsp; My plan would invest the initial funds needed to have the NSP’s modernized replacement completed and operational by 2025.

Thanks to Nebraska’s strong economy, the Legislature can deliver significant property tax relief, invest in our schools, train the next generation of leaders in key industries, and protect public safety.&nbsp; You can view my plan to accomplish these priorities at&nbsp;<a href="https://budget.nebraska.gov/biennium-2021-2023.html" target="_blank">budget.nebraska.gov/biennium-2021-2023.html</a>.&nbsp; If you want additional property tax relief, call your State Senator to make your voice heard.&nbsp; You can find their information at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cfb6ed77d403540e7adb908d8dcf9ce62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637502312758271205%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=gltCblNTWx1V9mmZGzLhcLIMUnpH0vy%2BnC9w%2FbIOZC8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.NebraskaLegislature.gov</a>. &nbsp;If you have questions about my budget proposal, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

March 6th&nbsp;marks one year since the first positive case of coronavirus was confirmed in Nebraska.&nbsp; Over the past year, it’s been an all-hands-on-deck effort to protect hospital capacity, support our healthcare workers, and help keep Nebraskans healthy.&nbsp; We continue to see encouraging trends in our fight against the coronavirus.&nbsp; During the past week, the number of coronavirus-related hospitalizations has been at its lowest point in over six months.&nbsp; And by the latest measures, over a quarter-million Nebraskans have now received their initial dose of vaccine.Throughout the pandemic, Nebraska has struck a balance between slowing the spread of the virus, while helping people lead a more normal life.&nbsp; We kept businesses open instead of imposing a strict lockdown.&nbsp; We engaged faith communities to find ways for them to join together and worship.&nbsp; We worked hard to put protocols in place so that students could return to school.&nbsp; These efforts helped people stay connected, while minimizing disruptions to Nebraskans’ livelihoods and educations.Through it all, we’ve been working to grow opportunities and keep our state moving forward. &nbsp;We’ve created an environment where existing businesses like Scoular and Becton Dickinson have chosen to expand and where major companies like Amazon have made new investments.&nbsp; We’ve also made it possible for Main Street to thrive, ranking among the best states in America for small business performance during 2020.&nbsp; These successes have helped us achieve the nation’s lowest unemployment rate for five months in a row.According to the University of Nebraska Bureau of Business Research (NU-BBR), the future looks bright. &nbsp;On February 24th, NU-BBR reported that Nebraska’s leading economic indicator—which predicts near-term trends—has risen for the fourth consecutive month.&nbsp; “The rising indicator provides another signal that economic growth will be solid in Nebraska through mid-2021,” said Dr. Eric Thompson, director of NU-BBR.&nbsp; Dr. Thompson relayed encouraging data from state businesses, noting that “respondents to the January&nbsp;Survey of Nebraska Business&nbsp;reported plans to expand sales and employment over the next six months.”Nebraska’s economy continues to deliver great opportunities in the midst of the pandemic, resulting in strong tax revenues.&nbsp; Last Friday, the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board voted to increase the State’s projected revenues by $462 million. &nbsp;The increased forecast gives the State the opportunity to continue controlling spending, so we can deliver even more property tax relief for the people of Nebraska.This session, the Legislature will debate and pass the next two-year budget for the State of Nebraska.&nbsp; My budget recommendation controls spending by limiting the average annual rate of growth to 1.5%.My top priority continues to be property tax relief. &nbsp;Property taxes have been increasing faster than Nebraska’s families can afford.&nbsp; By controlling spending in the context of strong revenue growth, the Legislature can deliver significant property tax relief to Nebraska families. &nbsp;In January, my budget proposed $1.36 billion in relief over the next two years. &nbsp;With the new and improved forecast, the Legislature is now positioned to deliver even more property tax relief.While we reduce the property tax burden, we will still achieve other key priorities, including expanding educational opportunities and protecting public safety.&nbsp; I’m proposing for the State to invest a record-high amount of aid—$1.1 billion—in schools in each of the next two fiscal years. &nbsp;Every child is unique and deserves the best educational setting for his or her needs, whether that’s a public school, private school, or homeschool.&nbsp; My budget includes $4 million in K-12 Opportunity Scholarships to give more students from low-income families the opportunity to attend private schools. &nbsp;I’m also recommending a $3 million investment in the textbook loan program for private school students. &nbsp;Empowering all Nebraska families with the freedom to choose the best educational options for their children is one of the best ways we can help the next generation achieve their dreams.My budget includes $12 million for Nebraska Career Scholarships over the next two years at our community colleges, state colleges, and public universities.&nbsp; I’m also recommending $3 million to expand the Career Scholarship program to the private colleges in our state.&nbsp; This will bring the total number of career scholarships to at least 2,110 by 2023.&nbsp; These scholarships are equipping Nebraska’s young adults to take great jobs in high-demand fields such as healthcare and manufacturing.Our strong fiscal position also gives us the opportunity to make a critical investment in public safety.&nbsp; The Nebraska State Penitentiary (NSP), which opened in 1869, is a decaying structure nearing the end of its lifespan.&nbsp; My budget proposes building a replacement for the NSP in anticipation of the current facility aging out of service by the end of the decade.&nbsp; In the interest of protecting our communities and giving our corrections officers a safe work environment, we must ensure that we have sufficient operational capacity to adequately manage our inmate population in the years ahead.&nbsp; My plan would invest the initial funds needed to have the NSP’s modernized replacement completed and operational by 2025.Thanks to Nebraska’s strong economy, the Legislature can deliver significant property tax relief, invest in our schools, train the next generation of leaders in key industries, and protect public safety.&nbsp; You can view my plan to accomplish these priorities at&nbsp;<a href="https://budget.nebraska.gov/biennium-2021-2023.html" target="_blank">budget.nebraska.gov/biennium-2021-2023.html</a>.&nbsp; If you want additional property tax relief, call your State Senator to make your voice heard.&nbsp; You can find their information at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nebraskalegislature.gov%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7Cfb6ed77d403540e7adb908d8dcf9ce62%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637502312758271205%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=gltCblNTWx1V9mmZGzLhcLIMUnpH0vy%2BnC9w%2FbIOZC8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.NebraskaLegislature.gov</a>. &nbsp;If you have questions about my budget proposal, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244.

Gov. Ricketts: Controlling spending for property tax relief

Longtime Chadron resident and local and college sports reporter Con Marshall was happy to receive his first COVID shot in early February.

“My wife Peggy and I were able to get our shots at Western Community Health Resources and have had no pain and no problems whatsoever,” said Marshall in a recent phone interview.

On the morning of the conversation, Marshall was anxious to get off the phone so he could get the weekend stories and sports updates compiled with a Monday end-of-day deadline. He jokingly shared “he needed to get back to his half-day,” which he estimated to be 5am to 5pm.&nbsp;

Marshall and his wife have been getting their flu shot annually and had just had a conversation about how they haven’t even had so much as a sniffle in the past 3-4 years. This helped convince them about how important vaccines are. He also shared three of his friends passed away from COVID this past year.

“None of them had any previous problems or health conditions at all, one was one of the most successful CSC graduates and played football in the early ‘80s,” he shared. “It’s really important that we do what we can to prevent getting this virus. I sincerely appreciate all the healthcare workers and all that are working so hard.”

Marshall is no stranger to the Chadron community and college sports with his 50+ year tenure at Chadron State College. He and his wife are looking forward to getting their second COVID shot next week.

Panhandle Public Health District is grateful Marshall is an iCon for the Panhandle community and encourages others to share their important COVID vaccine stories and experiences.

Panhandle residents 65 or older are encouraged to register now for their COVID vaccine at vaccinate.ne.gov or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. There’s no need to wait, anyone 65 or older is encouraged to register now so local vaccine providers can determine when to move to the next critical phases who are anxiously awaiting getting theirs. Please help your family, friends, and neighbors sign up now.

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.</a>

By PPHDLongtime Chadron resident and local and college sports reporter Con Marshall was happy to receive his first COVID shot in early February.“My wife Peggy and I were able to get our shots at Western Community Health Resources and have had no pain and no problems whatsoever,” said Marshall in a recent phone interview.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614647939922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On the morning of the conversation, Marshall was anxious to get off the phone so he could get the weekend stories and sports updates compiled with a Monday end-of-day deadline. He jokingly shared “he needed to get back to his half-day,” which he estimated to be 5am to 5pm.&nbsp;Marshall and his wife have been getting their flu shot annually and had just had a conversation about how they haven’t even had so much as a sniffle in the past 3-4 years. This helped convince them about how important vaccines are. He also shared three of his friends passed away from COVID this past year.“None of them had any previous problems or health conditions at all, one was one of the most successful CSC graduates and played football in the early ‘80s,” he shared. “It’s really important that we do what we can to prevent getting this virus. I sincerely appreciate all the healthcare workers and all that are working so hard.”Marshall is no stranger to the Chadron community and college sports with his 50+ year tenure at Chadron State College. He and his wife are looking forward to getting their second COVID shot next week.Panhandle Public Health District is grateful Marshall is an iCon for the Panhandle community and encourages others to share their important COVID vaccine stories and experiences.Panhandle residents 65 or older are encouraged to register now for their COVID vaccine at vaccinate.ne.gov or&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 833-998-2275 or 531-249-1873. There’s no need to wait, anyone 65 or older is encouraged to register now so local vaccine providers can determine when to move to the next critical phases who are anxiously awaiting getting theirs. Please help your family, friends, and neighbors sign up now.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.</a>If you have had COVID, you are still encouraged to get the vaccine once you no longer have symptoms and after you have been released from isolation. If you received the monoclonal antibody treatment, it is recommended to get the vaccine no sooner than 90 days after treatment.If you have received your first dose and have not heard when you will receive your second dose, don’t panic, you will be contacted by the vaccine provider that administered your first dose.

Longtime Chadron resident Con Marshall happy to receive his COVID shot

By LACEY NEWLIN <a href="https://www.hpj.com/ag_news/wind-energy-a-breeze-or-a-bust-for-rural-america/article_b162f790-77bd-11eb-beff-fb391dfc4f8f.html#utm_source=hpj.com&amp;utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletters%2Flists%2Fhpj-weekly%2F%3F-dc%3D1614362416&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=headline">High Plains Journal</a>

Built to withstand hurricane level 
winds with blades longer than a Boeing 747, the massive wind turbines 
popping up across the plains of rural America are hard to miss. With the
 Biden administration taking the helm in 2021, touting clean and 
renewable energy as a main objective, it seems energy sources, like 
wind, will only gain momentum.

The
 president made good on his energy stance when he recently signed an 
executive order to replace the 645,000 federal vehicle fleet with 
electric cars, truck and vans. Much to the dismay of many oil and gas 
workers, he also signed an executive order to halt the Keystone Pipeline
 and ended federal subsidies for fossil fuels with the stroke of a pen. 
To counteract his plans to slow down oil and gas production, POTUS 
announced an objective to double United States offshore wind capacity by
 2030. These efforts are part of the Biden administration’s goal of 
reaching a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035, which would put 
the U.S. on a path to a net-zero economy by 2050.

Right now only about 15% of the world’s 
power is produced by renewable energy, and to meet these somewhat 
fanciful energy ambitions, change could be coming in a big way. 
Uncertainty of how these shifts will affect rural Americans and 
agriculture is palpable. Since half of the wind energy in the U.S. is 
produced in rural areas such Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa and Kansas, wind 
energy will have a significant effect on these communities—for better or
 for worse.

Finally, a good reason for the wind to blow

According
 to the Center for Climate and Energy Solution, wind energy is the 
second largest renewable energy source after hydropower. One of the 
reasons wind turbines are considered to be a key to the future of energy
 is that they do not produce any greenhouse gases or pollutants while in
 operation and are considerably cheap to run. The U.S. Department of 
Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy describes wind
 power as one of the lowest-priced energy sources available, costing 
$0.01 to $0.02 per kilowatt per hour after the production tax credit.

Power
 prices are also more stable than coal, gas or oil because electricity 
from wind farms is sold at a fixed price over a long period of time. 
Unlike fossil fuels, wind is renewable, sustainable and as anyone across
 the plains of Texas, Oklahoma or Kansas can attest, the wind only seems
 to blow stronger each year. Finally, wind is a domestic source of 
energy that cannot be hijacked or price gouged by foreign countries.

According
 to the American Wind Energy Association, there are nearly 60,000 wind 
turbines operating in 41 states and two U.S. territories. Construction 
activity reached a new record in the first quarter of 2020, with 24,690 
megawatts under construction across the country and many of the 
individuals profiting from these wind projects are farmers and ranchers.

Brady
 Weeks, president of Allegiant Land Services &amp; Consulting, in 
Seiling, Oklahoma, and landowner with wind turbines on his property, 
plays the middleman between landowners and energy companies during 
contract negotiations. He works with oil, gas and renewable energy 
companies to secure leases, so he sees all sides of these industries and
 recognizes wind power for its benefits to rural property owners.

“Everyone
 knows when you get an oil and gas well it has a chance to be a barn 
burner or maybe it’s just average, but one thing that you do know in the
 oil and gas industry is that it is going to drop off eventually,” Weeks
 explained. “The takeaway from wind energy from a land owner’s 
standpoint is the generational income, and on top of that it is an 
increasing revenue stream that could last for 40 to 50 years. Our state 
is built around oil and gas, so we go up and down with that industry, 
which is kind of our downfall. The beauty of wind energy is that it is 
not a commodity like oil. It’s steady and doesn’t jump around.”

Weeks
 said the checks landowners are cut each year are dependent on how big 
their turbines are, but with newer contracts many landowners can expect 
$10,000 to $15,000 per turbine annually. Additionally, Weeks said the 
industry is moving toward bigger turbines and fewer of them, so payments
 are getting larger compared to what they were 20 years ago.

“Depending
 on the turbine and the megawatt capacity, with these newer projects 
landowners could be getting paid anywhere from $500,000 to $750,000 per 
turbine over the life of the contracts,” Weeks said. “It’s serious 
money. If you look at that from a landowner’s perspective, it’s a 
no-brainer. You may miss a crop, but you have another source of income.”

Fortunately,
 landowners are still able to use the land around the turbines for 
agriculture like crops or livestock, with minimal production area taken 
out of commission.

“Usually one
 turbine is going to remove one and half to two acres out of 
production,” he said. “We haven’t perfected the invisible turbine yet, 
but the surface impact is minimal.”

However,
 the property owner is not the only one to benefit financially from wind
 turbines. According to Weeks, the oil and gas industry pays a gross 
production tax, which is distributed across all the counties in the 
state. However, with wind energy projects, all the taxes stay in the 
county where the wind turbines stand, keeping the revenue stream local. 
Weeks said some larger wind farm projects—depending on the megawatt 
capacity—could be anywhere from $400 million to even billion dollar 
investments, which will benefit rural America, not only with tax 
dollars, but with good paying jobs that bring families to farming 
communities and keep small towns alive.

“Any money you can bring in from bigger 
companies to small, rural America is only going to improve the 
survivability of producers,” Weeks explained.

In
 fact, in Dewey County, Oklahoma, where Weeks resides, the schools are 
able to stay off the state school funding formula due in large part to 
the amount of taxes paid through wind turbine companies. Although many 
fear wind turbine installation across the plains because they associate 
them with the Green New Deal and calls for taxes on cow flatulence, to 
Weeks, there is a place for oil, gas and renewable energy in this 
country and the more energy production in his state, the better—no 
matter the type.

“I think we 
need to focus on the positives of wind energy and how the oil and gas 
and wind industries can coexist and work together on the grid,” he said.
 “Some people see it as an us versus them mentality and it couldn’t be 
any further from the truth from the landowner’s perspective. Yes, I 
think renewables are going to become more prevalent, but I think we’ll 
always be drilling for oil. The bottom line is Trump never stopped the 
windmills and Biden will never stop the fracking.”

Wind power is green energy and benefits 
rural landowners and communities financially, but some still see them as
 noisy eyesores that besmirch sunset views and take away for the beauty 
of the High Plains. Although wind turbines have a good reputation among 
most in the renewable energy sector, one must only look to the 
Environmental Protection Agency, of all places, to get the dirt on this 
clean energy. An EPA renewable energy briefing paper published January 
2021 painted wind turbines in a less than glowing light when it stated 
that there are chemical management concerns as wind turbines contain 
oils and other lubricants that can leak out and contaminate soil and 
water.

Additionally, EPA said 
although wind turbines produce carbon-neutral energy, large amounts of 
fossil fuels are needed to install, transport and monitor turbines. The 
paper also said in most leases, wind farm operators are responsible for 
returning the land to its previous state at the end of the wind farm’s 
life, but if the windmill owner goes out of business before the end of 
the lease, the landowner is responsible for decommissioning and removal.
 Additionally, farmers have complained of difficulties crop dusting 
where wind turbines are present and the radio frequencies emitted from 
the turbines are known to foul up GPS systems.

Although
 they are known for being environmentally friendly, the U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service says between 140,000 and 500,000 birds of over 200 
species are killed each year by wind turbines in the U.S. alone. The FWS
 predicts the average bird deaths from turbine collisions could reach 
1.4 million a year if wind farms are increased with the DOE’s mandates. 
Wind turbines can also affect animal habitats like that of the lesser 
prairie-chicken, which is listed as a vulnerable species. Wind turbines 
and lesser prairie-chickens require the same rural plains in Kansas, 
Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Colorado and they do not coexist well 
together. Lesser prairie-chickens fear vertical structures because their
 instincts associate them with raptor perches, making it difficult for 
them to find nesting areas to lay their eggs. Aside from this list of 
concerns wind energy’s seemingly squeaky clean reputation can be marred 
with one simple fact, decommissioned blades are piling up in landfills.

“Windmills
 are perhaps the least energy-producing and most physically difficult 
renewable waste stream to deal with,” the EPA briefing stated. “These 
behemoth power generators are not only laborious and expensive to 
transport and install, but they are burdensome to remove and recycle 
too.”

The briefing paper goes 
on to reveal the larger the wind turbine, the larger the blade diameter,
 and the more power generated, so turbine manufacturers are incentivized
 to install the largest turbines they can, which makes them more 
difficult to dispose. Although 85% of the turbine, including steel, 
copper wire, electronics and gears, can be recycled, the blades are made
 of fiberglass or carbon fiber—depending on their age—leaving companies 
with few choices when blades reach the end of their lifetime. Of the 
8,000 blades decommissioned each year, most are scrapped and buried in 
one of three landfills in the U.S. that accepts them, including Lake 
Mills, Iowa, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Casper, Wyoming. The Casper 
Municipal Landfill alone is home to almost 900 blades that are buried 30
 feet underground.

The topic of
 wind turbine blade graveyards is not only timely because of the current
 push toward 100% renewable energy, but also because blades last about 
20 to 25 years, so many of the original turbines that were installed 
when wind energy became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s are 
reaching the end of their life, so this issue will only grow without 
some major problem solving by the wind industry.

The
 EPA’s briefing paper summed it up best when it stated: “Until such a 
time as windmills can be efficiently dismantled so that component 
elements are separated out into units small enough to enter the existing
 waste stream and be reused or properly disposed of, each windfarm is a 
towering promise of future wreckage.”

Fortunately,
 wind energy companies are focused on discovering ways to recycle old 
blades and engineer the new blades to be reused in the future. A company
 called Global Fiberglass Solutions has devised a patented solution to 
break down the old blades and press them into pellets and fiber boards 
to be used for flooring and walls. GFS has opened plants in Texas and 
Iowa where they are able to process 99.9% of a blade and expect to break
 down 6,000 to 7,000 blades per year per plant—which is a big step in 
the right direction.

Whether 
they are spinning 300 feet high in the sky or buried 30 feet under, wind
 turbines will continue to play a part in the world’s energy production 
and rural America can prepare itself by learning the advantages and 
drawbacks of wind energy production and what is just hot air.

Lacey Newlin can be reached at 620-227-1871 or <a href="mailto:lnewlin@hpj.com">lnewlin@hpj.com</a>. Republished with permission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614369153575.png" alt="According to the American Wind Energy Association, there are nearly 60,000 wind turbines operating in 41 states and two U.S. territories. Construction activity reached a new record in the first quarter of 2020, with 24,690 megawatts under construction across the country and many of the individuals profiting from these wind projects are farmers and ranchers. Photo by Lacey Newlin" />
 <figcaption>According to the American Wind Energy Association, there are nearly 60,000 wind turbines operating in 41 states and two U.S. territories. Construction activity reached a new record in the first quarter of 2020, with 24,690 megawatts under construction across the country and many of the individuals profiting from these wind projects are farmers and ranchers. Photo by Lacey Newlin</figcaption>
 </figure>By LACEY NEWLIN <a href="https://www.hpj.com/ag_news/wind-energy-a-breeze-or-a-bust-for-rural-america/article_b162f790-77bd-11eb-beff-fb391dfc4f8f.html#utm_source=hpj.com&amp;utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletters%2Flists%2Fhpj-weekly%2F%3F-dc%3D1614362416&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=headline">High Plains Journal</a>Built to withstand hurricane level 
winds with blades longer than a Boeing 747, the massive wind turbines 
popping up across the plains of rural America are hard to miss. With the
 Biden administration taking the helm in 2021, touting clean and 
renewable energy as a main objective, it seems energy sources, like 
wind, will only gain momentum.The
 president made good on his energy stance when he recently signed an 
executive order to replace the 645,000 federal vehicle fleet with 
electric cars, truck and vans. Much to the dismay of many oil and gas 
workers, he also signed an executive order to halt the Keystone Pipeline
 and ended federal subsidies for fossil fuels with the stroke of a pen. 
To counteract his plans to slow down oil and gas production, POTUS 
announced an objective to double United States offshore wind capacity by
 2030. These efforts are part of the Biden administration’s goal of 
reaching a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035, which would put 
the U.S. on a path to a net-zero economy by 2050.Right now only about 15% of the world’s 
power is produced by renewable energy, and to meet these somewhat 
fanciful energy ambitions, change could be coming in a big way. 
Uncertainty of how these shifts will affect rural Americans and 
agriculture is palpable. Since half of the wind energy in the U.S. is 
produced in rural areas such Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa and Kansas, wind 
energy will have a significant effect on these communities—for better or
 for worse.<h2>Finally, a good reason for the wind to blow</h2>According
 to the Center for Climate and Energy Solution, wind energy is the 
second largest renewable energy source after hydropower. One of the 
reasons wind turbines are considered to be a key to the future of energy
 is that they do not produce any greenhouse gases or pollutants while in
 operation and are considerably cheap to run. The U.S. Department of 
Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy describes wind
 power as one of the lowest-priced energy sources available, costing 
$0.01 to $0.02 per kilowatt per hour after the production tax credit.Power
 prices are also more stable than coal, gas or oil because electricity 
from wind farms is sold at a fixed price over a long period of time. 
Unlike fossil fuels, wind is renewable, sustainable and as anyone across
 the plains of Texas, Oklahoma or Kansas can attest, the wind only seems
 to blow stronger each year. Finally, wind is a domestic source of 
energy that cannot be hijacked or price gouged by foreign countries.According
 to the American Wind Energy Association, there are nearly 60,000 wind 
turbines operating in 41 states and two U.S. territories. Construction 
activity reached a new record in the first quarter of 2020, with 24,690 
megawatts under construction across the country and many of the 
individuals profiting from these wind projects are farmers and ranchers.Brady
 Weeks, president of Allegiant Land Services &amp; Consulting, in 
Seiling, Oklahoma, and landowner with wind turbines on his property, 
plays the middleman between landowners and energy companies during 
contract negotiations. He works with oil, gas and renewable energy 
companies to secure leases, so he sees all sides of these industries and
 recognizes wind power for its benefits to rural property owners.“Everyone
 knows when you get an oil and gas well it has a chance to be a barn 
burner or maybe it’s just average, but one thing that you do know in the
 oil and gas industry is that it is going to drop off eventually,” Weeks
 explained. “The takeaway from wind energy from a land owner’s 
standpoint is the generational income, and on top of that it is an 
increasing revenue stream that could last for 40 to 50 years. Our state 
is built around oil and gas, so we go up and down with that industry, 
which is kind of our downfall. The beauty of wind energy is that it is 
not a commodity like oil. It’s steady and doesn’t jump around.”Weeks
 said the checks landowners are cut each year are dependent on how big 
their turbines are, but with newer contracts many landowners can expect 
$10,000 to $15,000 per turbine annually. Additionally, Weeks said the 
industry is moving toward bigger turbines and fewer of them, so payments
 are getting larger compared to what they were 20 years ago.“Depending
 on the turbine and the megawatt capacity, with these newer projects 
landowners could be getting paid anywhere from $500,000 to $750,000 per 
turbine over the life of the contracts,” Weeks said. “It’s serious 
money. If you look at that from a landowner’s perspective, it’s a 
no-brainer. You may miss a crop, but you have another source of income.”Fortunately,
 landowners are still able to use the land around the turbines for 
agriculture like crops or livestock, with minimal production area taken 
out of commission.“Usually one
 turbine is going to remove one and half to two acres out of 
production,” he said. “We haven’t perfected the invisible turbine yet, 
but the surface impact is minimal.”However,
 the property owner is not the only one to benefit financially from wind
 turbines. According to Weeks, the oil and gas industry pays a gross 
production tax, which is distributed across all the counties in the 
state. However, with wind energy projects, all the taxes stay in the 
county where the wind turbines stand, keeping the revenue stream local. 
Weeks said some larger wind farm projects—depending on the megawatt 
capacity—could be anywhere from $400 million to even billion dollar 
investments, which will benefit rural America, not only with tax 
dollars, but with good paying jobs that bring families to farming 
communities and keep small towns alive.“Any money you can bring in from bigger 
companies to small, rural America is only going to improve the 
survivability of producers,” Weeks explained.In
 fact, in Dewey County, Oklahoma, where Weeks resides, the schools are 
able to stay off the state school funding formula due in large part to 
the amount of taxes paid through wind turbine companies. Although many 
fear wind turbine installation across the plains because they associate 
them with the Green New Deal and calls for taxes on cow flatulence, to 
Weeks, there is a place for oil, gas and renewable energy in this 
country and the more energy production in his state, the better—no 
matter the type.“I think we 
need to focus on the positives of wind energy and how the oil and gas 
and wind industries can coexist and work together on the grid,” he said.
 “Some people see it as an us versus them mentality and it couldn’t be 
any further from the truth from the landowner’s perspective. Yes, I 
think renewables are going to become more prevalent, but I think we’ll 
always be drilling for oil. The bottom line is Trump never stopped the 
windmills and Biden will never stop the fracking.”<h2>How clean is wind energy?</h2>Wind power is green energy and benefits 
rural landowners and communities financially, but some still see them as
 noisy eyesores that besmirch sunset views and take away for the beauty 
of the High Plains. Although wind turbines have a good reputation among 
most in the renewable energy sector, one must only look to the 
Environmental Protection Agency, of all places, to get the dirt on this 
clean energy. An EPA renewable energy briefing paper published January 
2021 painted wind turbines in a less than glowing light when it stated 
that there are chemical management concerns as wind turbines contain 
oils and other lubricants that can leak out and contaminate soil and 
water.Additionally, EPA said 
although wind turbines produce carbon-neutral energy, large amounts of 
fossil fuels are needed to install, transport and monitor turbines. The 
paper also said in most leases, wind farm operators are responsible for 
returning the land to its previous state at the end of the wind farm’s 
life, but if the windmill owner goes out of business before the end of 
the lease, the landowner is responsible for decommissioning and removal.
 Additionally, farmers have complained of difficulties crop dusting 
where wind turbines are present and the radio frequencies emitted from 
the turbines are known to foul up GPS systems.Although
 they are known for being environmentally friendly, the U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service says between 140,000 and 500,000 birds of over 200 
species are killed each year by wind turbines in the U.S. alone. The FWS
 predicts the average bird deaths from turbine collisions could reach 
1.4 million a year if wind farms are increased with the DOE’s mandates. 
Wind turbines can also affect animal habitats like that of the lesser 
prairie-chicken, which is listed as a vulnerable species. Wind turbines 
and lesser prairie-chickens require the same rural plains in Kansas, 
Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Colorado and they do not coexist well 
together. Lesser prairie-chickens fear vertical structures because their
 instincts associate them with raptor perches, making it difficult for 
them to find nesting areas to lay their eggs. Aside from this list of 
concerns wind energy’s seemingly squeaky clean reputation can be marred 
with one simple fact, decommissioned blades are piling up in landfills.“Windmills
 are perhaps the least energy-producing and most physically difficult 
renewable waste stream to deal with,” the EPA briefing stated. “These 
behemoth power generators are not only laborious and expensive to 
transport and install, but they are burdensome to remove and recycle 
too.”The briefing paper goes 
on to reveal the larger the wind turbine, the larger the blade diameter,
 and the more power generated, so turbine manufacturers are incentivized
 to install the largest turbines they can, which makes them more 
difficult to dispose. Although 85% of the turbine, including steel, 
copper wire, electronics and gears, can be recycled, the blades are made
 of fiberglass or carbon fiber—depending on their age—leaving companies 
with few choices when blades reach the end of their lifetime. Of the 
8,000 blades decommissioned each year, most are scrapped and buried in 
one of three landfills in the U.S. that accepts them, including Lake 
Mills, Iowa, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Casper, Wyoming. The Casper 
Municipal Landfill alone is home to almost 900 blades that are buried 30
 feet underground.The topic of
 wind turbine blade graveyards is not only timely because of the current
 push toward 100% renewable energy, but also because blades last about 
20 to 25 years, so many of the original turbines that were installed 
when wind energy became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s are 
reaching the end of their life, so this issue will only grow without 
some major problem solving by the wind industry.The
 EPA’s briefing paper summed it up best when it stated: “Until such a 
time as windmills can be efficiently dismantled so that component 
elements are separated out into units small enough to enter the existing
 waste stream and be reused or properly disposed of, each windfarm is a 
towering promise of future wreckage.”Fortunately,
 wind energy companies are focused on discovering ways to recycle old 
blades and engineer the new blades to be reused in the future. A company
 called Global Fiberglass Solutions has devised a patented solution to 
break down the old blades and press them into pellets and fiber boards 
to be used for flooring and walls. GFS has opened plants in Texas and 
Iowa where they are able to process 99.9% of a blade and expect to break
 down 6,000 to 7,000 blades per year per plant—which is a big step in 
the right direction.Whether 
they are spinning 300 feet high in the sky or buried 30 feet under, wind
 turbines will continue to play a part in the world’s energy production 
and rural America can prepare itself by learning the advantages and 
drawbacks of wind energy production and what is just hot air.Lacey Newlin can be reached at 620-227-1871 or <a href="mailto:lnewlin@hpj.com">lnewlin@hpj.com</a>. Republished with permission.

Wind energy: A breeze or a bust for rural America?

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska could get its first doses of drug-maker Johnson &amp; Johnson's new coronavirus vaccine as early as this week, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Monday.

Ricketts said the state has been allowed to order up 15,000 doses, but state officials don't yet know how much they'll get.

The announcement came days after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/johnson-johnson-1-shot-dose-cleared-f13611719ad8d1655ed7b354af75a9a9" target="_blank">approved the vaccine,</a>&nbsp;clearing the way for a third shot that's shown to be effective. Unlike the vaccines from manufacturers Pfizer and Moderna, which require two doses to provide full immunity, the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine can be delivered in one shot.

Ricketts said the state also expects to get 18,720 Pfizer doses and 17,000 Moderna doses this week. He said he was told on a recent call between governors and the White House that the Johnson &amp; Johnson supplies may be inconsistent for the first few weeks of the rollout.

"We may be allowed to order 15,000 this week, but may not be able to get that many in weeks two and three," he said a coronavirus news conference.

Ricketts said residents who go to a clinic to get vaccinated will only be able to choose the vaccine that's available on site, at least for now. He said the newly approved Johnson &amp; Johnson won't change the state's plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-health-pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-2668c4173fcc9185dcdfe42b4a1badae" target="_blank">focus almost entirely on residents who are at least 65 years old,</a>&nbsp;the demographic that has been most likely to die from the virus in Nebraska.

But he said the greater flexibility of the one-dose vaccine could be helpful in rural areas or with certain groups that are harder to reach for a follow-up shot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602590971875.png" alt="Vaccine photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Vaccine photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>By GRANT SCHULTE-Associated Press OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska could get its first doses of drug-maker Johnson &amp; Johnson's new coronavirus vaccine as early as this week, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Monday.Ricketts said the state has been allowed to order up 15,000 doses, but state officials don't yet know how much they'll get.The announcement came days after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/johnson-johnson-1-shot-dose-cleared-f13611719ad8d1655ed7b354af75a9a9" target="_blank">approved the vaccine,</a>&nbsp;clearing the way for a third shot that's shown to be effective. Unlike the vaccines from manufacturers Pfizer and Moderna, which require two doses to provide full immunity, the Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine can be delivered in one shot.Ricketts said the state also expects to get 18,720 Pfizer doses and 17,000 Moderna doses this week. He said he was told on a recent call between governors and the White House that the Johnson &amp; Johnson supplies may be inconsistent for the first few weeks of the rollout."We may be allowed to order 15,000 this week, but may not be able to get that many in weeks two and three," he said a coronavirus news conference.Ricketts said residents who go to a clinic to get vaccinated will only be able to choose the vaccine that's available on site, at least for now. He said the newly approved Johnson &amp; Johnson won't change the state's plans to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-health-pete-ricketts-nebraska-coronavirus-pandemic-2668c4173fcc9185dcdfe42b4a1badae" target="_blank">focus almost entirely on residents who are at least 65 years old,</a>&nbsp;the demographic that has been most likely to die from the virus in Nebraska.But he said the greater flexibility of the one-dose vaccine could be helpful in rural areas or with certain groups that are harder to reach for a follow-up shot.Nebraska has confirmed 200,946 virus cases and 2,082 deaths since the pandemic began, according to the state's online tracking portal. Roughly 83% of those who have died were 65 or older.The number of new, known cases and the number of people hospitalized with the virus continue to trend downward since the record highs set in mid-November.