OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska taxpayers who want to claim an income tax credit for some of the property taxes they paid have a new tool to help them calculate what they’re owed. 

It’s available at the state Department of Revenue’s website, <a href="http://revenue.nebraska.gov">http://revenue.nebraska.gov</a>.

The feature on the website is called the Nebraska School District Property Tax Lookup Tool. 

Taxpayers who want to find what they’re owed need to plug in the county where their property is located, the parcel number for the property and their property tax statement year.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska taxpayers who want to claim an income tax credit for some of the property taxes they paid have a new tool to help them calculate what they’re owed. It’s available at the state Department of Revenue’s website, <a href="http://revenue.nebraska.gov">http://revenue.nebraska.gov</a>. The feature on the website is called the Nebraska School District Property Tax Lookup Tool. Taxpayers who want to find what they’re owed need to plug in the county where their property is located, the parcel number for the property and their property tax statement year.

Nebraska launches new site to calculate property tax refund

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing Coordinator

CHADRON – No live audience members will be in Chadron State College’s Black Box Theatre when four actors take to the stage in Seventy Scenes of Halloween later this month. Those who wish to watch the show on CSC Live should register to obtain a password for viewing at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/theatre/seatreservation/index.csc" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/theatre/seatreservation/index.csc</a>. The password is good for one performance. None of the performances will be recorded.&nbsp; The Feb. 25 through 27 performances will be at 7 p.m., and the Feb. 28 performance will be at 2 p.m.

David Craven, interim director of theatrical performances, said the comedy drama, Seventy Scenes of Halloween, is an absurdist piece centered on the relationship of the couple who has been together nine years.

“Their relationship is hitting some road bumps and there are a lot of things going on. The author decided to explore the relationship of this couple by writing all these scenes that revolve around Halloween. The scenes explore what this couple has been through and Halloween seems the perfect holiday to place a couple in jeopardy. All the demons of their relationship come out,” Craven said.

The play includes 70 scenes that range from 15 seconds to three and a half minutes, but they are not presented in a set order. After opening night, the actors will know the order of scenes for the remainder of the run.

“It would be too cruel to change the order every night,” Craven said.&nbsp;“The author wrote 70 scenes but it's up to the director to decide what story he or she is trying to tell. Therefore, the director decides what the arc of the story is and puts the scenes in the order to tell that story. I've been wanting to work on this piece for years. I looked back at the author’s original order of scenes which has a more nonchalant, hopeful ending. I am taking it to a darker place with the order of scenes I’ve selected.”

Craven said this show is going to be great for audiences who have become accustomed to three to five-minute video clips because they won’t get bored. He and Cavin also planned scene transitions to maintain the momentum of the show.

“One of the things I initially wanted to do as the director is avoid a blackout after every scene. Scott helped me work on this challenge to make sure that as soon as the previous scene stops there's nobody on stage resetting the scene. The next scene starts almost exactly where the last scene stopped,” Craven said.

Jeff: Zackary Wellnitz of Rushville, Neb.

Joan: Trinity Dietrich of Spearfish, S.D.

Stage Manager: Kyeisha Garza of Scottsbluff, Neb.

Asst Stage Manager: Levi O’Dell of Piedmont, S.D.

Sound Designer: Christopher Lidgett of Norfolk, Neb.

Sound Board Operator: Jarrod Paul of Gordon, Neb.

Light Board Operator: Oliva Freeze of Bridgeport, Neb.

Camera Operators: Samuel LaRive of Hot Springs, S.D. and Reidun Hammer of Dubois, Wyo.

Costume Supervisor: Cheyenne Bacon of Lewellen, Neb.

By TENA L. COOK, CSC Marketing CoordinatorCHADRON – No live audience members will be in Chadron State College’s Black Box Theatre when four actors take to the stage in Seventy Scenes of Halloween later this month. Those who wish to watch the show on CSC Live should register to obtain a password for viewing at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/theatre/seatreservation/index.csc" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/theatre/seatreservation/index.csc</a>. The password is good for one performance. None of the performances will be recorded.&nbsp; The Feb. 25 through 27 performances will be at 7 p.m., and the Feb. 28 performance will be at 2 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613613597341.jpeg" alt="Trinity Dietrich and Zak Wellnitz, foreground, and Caleb Twite and Kiersten Luce, background, rehearse a scene in "70 Scenes of Halloween" Feb. 15, 2021, in Memorial Hall. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Trinity Dietrich and Zak Wellnitz, foreground, and Caleb Twite and Kiersten Luce, background, rehearse a scene in "70 Scenes of Halloween" Feb. 15, 2021, in Memorial Hall. (Photo by Daniel Binkard/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>David Craven, interim director of theatrical performances, said the comedy drama, Seventy Scenes of Halloween, is an absurdist piece centered on the relationship of the couple who has been together nine years.“Their relationship is hitting some road bumps and there are a lot of things going on. The author decided to explore the relationship of this couple by writing all these scenes that revolve around Halloween. The scenes explore what this couple has been through and Halloween seems the perfect holiday to place a couple in jeopardy. All the demons of their relationship come out,” Craven said.The play includes 70 scenes that range from 15 seconds to three and a half minutes, but they are not presented in a set order. After opening night, the actors will know the order of scenes for the remainder of the run.“It would be too cruel to change the order every night,” Craven said.&nbsp;“The author wrote 70 scenes but it's up to the director to decide what story he or she is trying to tell. Therefore, the director decides what the arc of the story is and puts the scenes in the order to tell that story. I've been wanting to work on this piece for years. I looked back at the author’s original order of scenes which has a more nonchalant, hopeful ending. I am taking it to a darker place with the order of scenes I’ve selected.”Craven said this show is going to be great for audiences who have become accustomed to three to five-minute video clips because they won’t get bored. He and Cavin also planned scene transitions to maintain the momentum of the show.“One of the things I initially wanted to do as the director is avoid a blackout after every scene. Scott helped me work on this challenge to make sure that as soon as the previous scene stops there's nobody on stage resetting the scene. The next scene starts almost exactly where the last scene stopped,” Craven said.CASTJeff: Zackary Wellnitz of Rushville, Neb.Joan: Trinity Dietrich of Spearfish, S.D.Beast: Caleb Twite of White River, S.D.Witch: Kiersten Luce of Cheyenne, Wyo.CREWStage Manager: Kyeisha Garza of Scottsbluff, Neb.Asst Stage Manager: Levi O’Dell of Piedmont, S.D.Sound Designer: Christopher Lidgett of Norfolk, Neb.Sound Board Operator: Jarrod Paul of Gordon, Neb.Light Board Operator: Oliva Freeze of Bridgeport, Neb.Camera Operators: Samuel LaRive of Hot Springs, S.D. and Reidun Hammer of Dubois, Wyo.Costume Supervisor: Cheyenne Bacon of Lewellen, Neb.

Upcoming Theatre performance will be live streamed

LINCOLN – Visitors to Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala state recreation areas in 2021 will continue to see improvements to infrastructure, amenities, facilities and accessibility around the two popular reservoirs.

Projects the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has scheduled for construction in 2021 are:

• A large boating access project at Martin Bay and Cedar View has begun and will include improvements, such as new boat ramps and docks, accessible parking, a fish-cleaning station, restrooms and area lighting. The $3 million project utilizes the Commission’s Capital Maintenance Fund and various other state and federal funds. Construction has begun and will take place throughout 2021.

• The Martin Bay Entrance Project will include the reconstruction of the Martin Bay entrance to Shoreline Road, with expanded stacking lanes, two new entrance booths, area lighting and signage. The estimated $1-2 million project is funded by the State Recreation Road Fund and revenues from park user fees. Construction is expected to begin in the fall.

• Installation of an accessible vault latrine at the Spillway Bay Boat Ramp will cost approximately $20,000 and be funded by revenues from park user fees. Construction is expected in the fall.

• New directional and regulatory signs will be installed on Shoreline Road, Cedar View Road and Lake Ogallala Road to aid visitor navigation at the parks. The estimated cost is $20,000 and is funded by revenues from park user fees. Construction has begun and will continue throughout 2021.

• Gating systems are being installed at Sandy Beach and Arthur Bay entrances to better manage late night entry into the park areas and to collect required fees. The project is funded by revenues from park user fees and will take place into 2021.

• Design work will continue, under the State Recreation Road Fund, for improvements to the Martin Bay Area. It may include an expanded RV Dump and Fill Station, new parking areas at beach access points and overlay of existing roads not completed in the 2020 Shoreline Road Improvement Project.

These improvements are the latest in the continuation of Game and Parks’ Lake McConaughy/Lake Ogallala Master Plan, a 20-year outline of enhancements developed in concert with local stakeholders. Since its inception in 2016, more than $6 million has been invested in repairs and developments at the reservoir and recreation area, funded largely by the Commission’s Capital Maintenance Fund, park revenues, the Nebraska Department of Transportation Recreational Road Program and Keith County Visitors Committee tourism grants.

Game and Parks and local stakeholders will continue to make significant investments in infrastructure and services. By expanding recreational opportunities and providing safe, family-friendly outdoor experiences, the hope is to bring this area into the future for the next generation of park users.

Some of the improvements that have been made since 2016 at the recreation areas include:

• Overlay of most of Shoreline Road from Martin Bay to Sandy Beach.

• Constructed two wastewater treatment lagoons, one at Martin Bay and one at Lone Eagle Campground.

• Completed accessible campsites with seven at Cedar View Campground, five at Lone Eagle Campground and two at Little Thunder Campground.

• Installed new shower and restroom facilities at Martin Bay, Lake Ogallala East, Arthur Bay and Cedar View Campgrounds. Work at Cedar View and Arthur Bay locations will be completed this winter.

• Completed three new campgrounds with “basic” type campsites at Lake Ogallala West, Martin Bay and Sandy Beach, totaling nearly 170 sites, each with a picnic table and grill. Included are grass sites, gravel/rock pads, tent-only sites and group sites for multiple RVs or tents.

• Expanded the Lake McConaughy Visitor Center’s Nature Trail, bringing the distance to about one-quarter mile and installed a large pollinator plot at the same location for visitors to view while hiking.

• Lake Ogallala East, Little Thunder, Lone Eagle and Cedar View Campgrounds have been upgraded with new utilities, restrooms, tables, grills and more than 400 new trees. Financial assistance from the Keith County Visitor’s Committee made many of these projects possible.

• Contracted services, including refuse removal and portable restrooms, have been expanded.

• New gatehouses were installed at Cedar View and Lake Ogallala.

• Angler access improvements have been made in the northwest corner of Lake Ogallala, featuring an accessible peninsula and floating fishing bridge.

• New boat docks were installed on the west side of Lake Ogallala; the northern dock features an accessible kayak and canoe launch.

A park entry permit is required of each vehicle visiting Lake McConaughy or Lake Ogallala state recreation area. Find out more at OutdoorNebraska.org.

LINCOLN – Visitors to Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala state recreation areas in 2021 will continue to see improvements to infrastructure, amenities, facilities and accessibility around the two popular reservoirs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613585958443.jpeg" alt="Anglers at Lake Ogallala can enjoy improved access as a floating fishing bridge has been installed at the northwest corner of the lake. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)" />
 <figcaption>Anglers at Lake Ogallala can enjoy improved access as a floating fishing bridge has been installed at the northwest corner of the lake. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)</figcaption>
 </figure>Projects the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has scheduled for construction in 2021 are:• A large boating access project at Martin Bay and Cedar View has begun and will include improvements, such as new boat ramps and docks, accessible parking, a fish-cleaning station, restrooms and area lighting. The $3 million project utilizes the Commission’s Capital Maintenance Fund and various other state and federal funds. Construction has begun and will take place throughout 2021.• The Martin Bay Entrance Project will include the reconstruction of the Martin Bay entrance to Shoreline Road, with expanded stacking lanes, two new entrance booths, area lighting and signage. The estimated $1-2 million project is funded by the State Recreation Road Fund and revenues from park user fees. Construction is expected to begin in the fall.• Installation of an accessible vault latrine at the Spillway Bay Boat Ramp will cost approximately $20,000 and be funded by revenues from park user fees. Construction is expected in the fall.• New directional and regulatory signs will be installed on Shoreline Road, Cedar View Road and Lake Ogallala Road to aid visitor navigation at the parks. The estimated cost is $20,000 and is funded by revenues from park user fees. Construction has begun and will continue throughout 2021.• Gating systems are being installed at Sandy Beach and Arthur Bay entrances to better manage late night entry into the park areas and to collect required fees. The project is funded by revenues from park user fees and will take place into 2021.• Design work will continue, under the State Recreation Road Fund, for improvements to the Martin Bay Area. It may include an expanded RV Dump and Fill Station, new parking areas at beach access points and overlay of existing roads not completed in the 2020 Shoreline Road Improvement Project.These improvements are the latest in the continuation of Game and Parks’ Lake McConaughy/Lake Ogallala Master Plan, a 20-year outline of enhancements developed in concert with local stakeholders. Since its inception in 2016, more than $6 million has been invested in repairs and developments at the reservoir and recreation area, funded largely by the Commission’s Capital Maintenance Fund, park revenues, the Nebraska Department of Transportation Recreational Road Program and Keith County Visitors Committee tourism grants.Game and Parks and local stakeholders will continue to make significant investments in infrastructure and services. By expanding recreational opportunities and providing safe, family-friendly outdoor experiences, the hope is to bring this area into the future for the next generation of park users.Some of the improvements that have been made since 2016 at the recreation areas include:• Overlay of most of Shoreline Road from Martin Bay to Sandy Beach.• Constructed two wastewater treatment lagoons, one at Martin Bay and one at Lone Eagle Campground.• Completed accessible campsites with seven at Cedar View Campground, five at Lone Eagle Campground and two at Little Thunder Campground.• Installed new shower and restroom facilities at Martin Bay, Lake Ogallala East, Arthur Bay and Cedar View Campgrounds. Work at Cedar View and Arthur Bay locations will be completed this winter.• Completed three new campgrounds with “basic” type campsites at Lake Ogallala West, Martin Bay and Sandy Beach, totaling nearly 170 sites, each with a picnic table and grill. Included are grass sites, gravel/rock pads, tent-only sites and group sites for multiple RVs or tents.• Expanded the Lake McConaughy Visitor Center’s Nature Trail, bringing the distance to about one-quarter mile and installed a large pollinator plot at the same location for visitors to view while hiking.• Lake Ogallala East, Little Thunder, Lone Eagle and Cedar View Campgrounds have been upgraded with new utilities, restrooms, tables, grills and more than 400 new trees. Financial assistance from the Keith County Visitor’s Committee made many of these projects possible.• Contracted services, including refuse removal and portable restrooms, have been expanded.• New gatehouses were installed at Cedar View and Lake Ogallala.• Angler access improvements have been made in the northwest corner of Lake Ogallala, featuring an accessible peninsula and floating fishing bridge.• New boat docks were installed on the west side of Lake Ogallala; the northern dock features an accessible kayak and canoe launch.A park entry permit is required of each vehicle visiting Lake McConaughy or Lake Ogallala state recreation area. Find out more at OutdoorNebraska.org.

Investment in outdoor recreation continues at Lake McConaughy

The Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department responded to fires on Feb.15 in Hemingford and Feb. 16 in Sheridan County.&nbsp;

The first fire was a house fire that started around 10 p.m. on Monday night in the Village of Hemingford. HVFD crews battled the fire for around 5 hours.&nbsp; The fire was caused by a fireplace.&nbsp; "There were no injuries in the fire," Hemingford Fire Chief Shad Bryner said. "The house did receive major damage in the fire. The residents are displaced at this time. The house is not habitable at this time." The approximate damage to the house and items is around $350,000.&nbsp; "We had 18 members respond to the call," Bryner said. "We responded with five vehicles to the scene." The HVFD was assisted by the Nebraska State Fire Marshal Investigators, Hemingford Police Department, Village of Hemingford and Black Hills Energy.&nbsp; According to the Hemingford Chamber of Commerce, a "Randolph Fire Benefit" fund has been set up at the Hemingford Community Federal Credit Union. If you want to make a donation, you can mail a check to&nbsp;PO Box 991, Hemingford, NE 69348. While the HVFD was cleaning up from the house fire, they were dispatched to a barn fire in rural Sheridan County at 4 a.m. Fire crews were on scene for approximately four hours.&nbsp; Chief Bryner said the cause of the barn fire was a heating lamp used to keep the livestock warm.&nbsp; "There was some loss to livestock," Bryner said. "But nobody was harmed." The barn was a complete loss including equipment, hay, etc.&nbsp; "The freezing&nbsp;temperatures was another factor to deal with," Bryner added. "It was a long night." The HVFD responded with nine firefighters and five vehicles. They received mutual aid from Hay Springs and Alliance, both with two vehicles. PREMA and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal also assisted the HVFD.&nbsp; &nbsp;

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Hemingford Volunteer Fire Department responded to fires on Feb.15 in Hemingford and Feb. 16 in Sheridan County.&nbsp;The first fire was a house fire that started around 10 p.m. on Monday night in the Village of Hemingford. HVFD crews battled the fire for around 5 hours.&nbsp; The fire was caused by a fireplace.&nbsp; "There were no injuries in the fire," Hemingford Fire Chief Shad Bryner said. "The house did receive major damage in the fire. The residents are displaced at this time. The house is not habitable at this time." The approximate damage to the house and items is around $350,000.&nbsp; "We had 18 members respond to the call," Bryner said. "We responded with five vehicles to the scene." The HVFD was assisted by the Nebraska State Fire Marshal Investigators, Hemingford Police Department, Village of Hemingford and Black Hills Energy.&nbsp; According to the Hemingford Chamber of Commerce, a "Randolph Fire Benefit" fund has been set up at the Hemingford Community Federal Credit Union. If you want to make a donation, you can mail a check to&nbsp;PO Box 991, Hemingford, NE 69348. While the HVFD was cleaning up from the house fire, they were dispatched to a barn fire in rural Sheridan County at 4 a.m. Fire crews were on scene for approximately four hours.&nbsp; Chief Bryner said the cause of the barn fire was a heating lamp used to keep the livestock warm.&nbsp; "There was some loss to livestock," Bryner said. "But nobody was harmed." The barn was a complete loss including equipment, hay, etc.&nbsp; "The freezing&nbsp;temperatures was another factor to deal with," Bryner added. "It was a long night." The HVFD responded with nine firefighters and five vehicles. They received mutual aid from Hay Springs and Alliance, both with two vehicles. PREMA and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal also assisted the HVFD.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hemingford Fire Department battle house and barn fire

Northwest Community Action Partnership will be having a mobile food pantry on Feb. 24 at the Alliance Senior Center from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Northwest Community Action Partnership will be having a mobile food pantry on Feb. 24 at the Alliance Senior Center from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613582513121.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Northwest Community Action Partnership to hold mobile food pantry

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

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty

Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) and the Food Bank of the Heartland will be hosting a drive-through Mobile Food Pantry in Alliance on Wednesday, February 24. The mobile food pantry comes to Alliance three times a year. The goal is to provide food where there is a high need but limited resources. The mobile pantry is available free of charge!

Residents of Box Butte County who need assistance are invited to visit the mobile food pantry. They will be asked to sign a slip that says they are income eligible. The Food Bank of the Heartland, out of Omaha, determines what will be delivered each time. Generally, a family receives a box of dry goods, bread, desserts, produce, and meat. 

The truck will deliver the food items to the Alliance Senior Center, 212 Yellowstone, on Wednesday morning. RSVP volunteers and NCAP and City employees unload the truck and take everything inside, where it is sorted into the boxes each family will receive. 

Prior to the mobile food pantry, a press release will explain the route people are to follow to collect their food. From 4:00-6:00 pm vehicles will enter the parking lot. Patrons will remain in their vehicle while volunteers load the boxes into their car. Each vehicle will get one set of boxes. Food will not be handed out before 4:00, and no vehicle will receive more than one set of boxes. Call NCAP at 308-762-4960 for more information. 

For those facing food insecurity, remember that NCAP also operates the Extra Helpings Food Pantry at 1028 E 3rd St in Alliance in Building C, Rooms 100 and 200. The pantry is open Monday and Wednesday 9:30-noon, 1:00-3:00. Twice a month a household can pick up boxes of food. Items vary but generally include dry goods, canned vegetables, macaroni, and a protein item, frozen or canned meat. When distancing is no longer required, clients will be able to choose groceries from the shelves. To sign up, phone 308-762-4523. Proof of income is required. On Wednesdays the pantry makes deliveries to people with special needs.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

The Hemingford Ministerial Council organizes a food pantry for Hemingford area residents. The food pantry is in the northwest corner of the long white building behind the Mobius/ Hemingford Telephone office building and is open from 4:00-6:00 pm every Thursday. The food pantry has been funded by grants from Westco and Land O Lakes, and Hemingford residents donate funds and non-perishable food items.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 

Box Butte County residents can also receive a produce box and a gallon of milk from the Community Cares Food Box Distribution the first and third Fridays of every month. Food is available for pick up at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 2090 Emerson Avenue, Alliance, beginning at 10:30 am. This program, organized by NCAP, United Way, CASH-WA, and Food Bank of the Heartland, has been extended through June. 

Volunteers are needed! To help with the Mobile Food Pantry contact RSVP, 308-762-1293. To help staff the NCAP Extra Helpings Food Pantry on Mondays and Wednesdays call 308-762-4523.&nbsp;For the twice monthly Community Cares Food Box Distribution, call United Way at 308-763-8031. 

It’s sad that we have these times of economic uncertainty. What a blessing that we have programs to help care for people! If your family needs assistance, please take advantage of food pantries to get the help you need.&nbsp;

By Patricia Jones, Task Force on Poverty Northwest Community Action Partnership (NCAP) and the Food Bank of the Heartland will be hosting a drive-through Mobile Food Pantry in Alliance on Wednesday, February 24. The mobile food pantry comes to Alliance three times a year. The goal is to provide food where there is a high need but limited resources. The mobile pantry is available free of charge! Residents of Box Butte County who need assistance are invited to visit the mobile food pantry. They will be asked to sign a slip that says they are income eligible. The Food Bank of the Heartland, out of Omaha, determines what will be delivered each time. Generally, a family receives a box of dry goods, bread, desserts, produce, and meat. The truck will deliver the food items to the Alliance Senior Center, 212 Yellowstone, on Wednesday morning. RSVP volunteers and NCAP and City employees unload the truck and take everything inside, where it is sorted into the boxes each family will receive. Prior to the mobile food pantry, a press release will explain the route people are to follow to collect their food. From 4:00-6:00 pm vehicles will enter the parking lot. Patrons will remain in their vehicle while volunteers load the boxes into their car. Each vehicle will get one set of boxes. Food will not be handed out before 4:00, and no vehicle will receive more than one set of boxes. Call NCAP at 308-762-4960 for more information. For those facing food insecurity, remember that NCAP also operates the Extra Helpings Food Pantry at 1028 E 3rd St in Alliance in Building C, Rooms 100 and 200. The pantry is open Monday and Wednesday 9:30-noon, 1:00-3:00. Twice a month a household can pick up boxes of food. Items vary but generally include dry goods, canned vegetables, macaroni, and a protein item, frozen or canned meat. When distancing is no longer required, clients will be able to choose groceries from the shelves. To sign up, phone 308-762-4523. Proof of income is required. On Wednesdays the pantry makes deliveries to people with special needs.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Hemingford Ministerial Council organizes a food pantry for Hemingford area residents. The food pantry is in the northwest corner of the long white building behind the Mobius/ Hemingford Telephone office building and is open from 4:00-6:00 pm every Thursday. The food pantry has been funded by grants from Westco and Land O Lakes, and Hemingford residents donate funds and non-perishable food items.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Box Butte County residents can also receive a produce box and a gallon of milk from the Community Cares Food Box Distribution the first and third Fridays of every month. Food is available for pick up at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 2090 Emerson Avenue, Alliance, beginning at 10:30 am. This program, organized by NCAP, United Way, CASH-WA, and Food Bank of the Heartland, has been extended through June. Volunteers are needed! To help with the Mobile Food Pantry contact RSVP, 308-762-1293. To help staff the NCAP Extra Helpings Food Pantry on Mondays and Wednesdays call 308-762-4523.&nbsp;For the twice monthly Community Cares Food Box Distribution, call United Way at 308-763-8031. It’s sad that we have these times of economic uncertainty. What a blessing that we have programs to help care for people! If your family needs assistance, please take advantage of food pantries to get the help you need.&nbsp;

Poverty In Our Area: Food pantries

By&nbsp;Mark Becker, Nebraska Public Power District

Updated at 1:15 p.m. &nbsp; SPP has declared an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) Level 1 for its entire 14-state balancing authority area. Generation is currently sufficient to serve system-wide demand across the region and to fully satisfy operating reserve requirements. We continue to urge all homes and businesses throughout our 14-state region to conserve electricity, but are not directing any interruptions of service at this time. The public should follow their service providers’ directions regarding local outages, tips for conservation and safety.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There had been anticipation that SPP would go to Level 3 at 9 a.m. We have been able to avoid service interruptions this morning but things may change quickly. SPP is currently remaining at a level 2. We will keep you informed if things change. We appreciate our customers efforts to continue conserving energy.

Nebraska Public Power District will be moving to Emergency Level 3 at 9 a.m. 

Rolling blackouts will be conducted throughout the NPPD service territory with power being out for 45 minutes or longer in various locations until further notice.&nbsp;

We will have very little, if any, notice of where these interruptions may take place.

System constraints are managed by SPP reliability coordinators and its member utilities.&nbsp;

 Energy Emergency Alerts include three levels. Level 1 indicates all available generation resources are in use.&nbsp;Level 2 indicates load management procedures are in effect.&nbsp;Level 3 indicates firm load interruptions are imminent or in progress.&nbsp;

NPPD is asking customers to conserve energy. The record cold forecast is putting a high demand on the electrical system. Follow these tips to reduce your energy usage:

By&nbsp;Mark Becker, Nebraska Public Power DistrictUpdated at 1:15 p.m. &nbsp; SPP has declared an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) Level 1 for its entire 14-state balancing authority area. Generation is currently sufficient to serve system-wide demand across the region and to fully satisfy operating reserve requirements. We continue to urge all homes and businesses throughout our 14-state region to conserve electricity, but are not directing any interruptions of service at this time. The public should follow their service providers’ directions regarding local outages, tips for conservation and safety.&nbsp;&nbsp;. . . .&nbsp;Updated at 9:09 a.m.&nbsp;There had been anticipation that SPP would go to Level 3 at 9 a.m. We have been able to avoid service interruptions this morning but things may change quickly. SPP is currently remaining at a level 2. We will keep you informed if things change. We appreciate our customers efforts to continue conserving energy.. . . .Nebraska Public Power District will be moving to Emergency Level 3 at 9 a.m. Rolling blackouts will be conducted throughout the NPPD service territory with power being out for 45 minutes or longer in various locations until further notice.&nbsp;We will have very little, if any, notice of where these interruptions may take place.System constraints are managed by SPP reliability coordinators and its member utilities.&nbsp; Energy Emergency Alerts include three levels. Level 1 indicates all available generation resources are in use.&nbsp;Level 2 indicates load management procedures are in effect.&nbsp;Level 3 indicates firm load interruptions are imminent or in progress.&nbsp; NPPD is asking customers to conserve energy. The record cold forecast is putting a high demand on the electrical system. Follow these tips to reduce your energy usage:<ol>
 <li>Turn down thermostats to 68 degrees and lower at night.</li><li>Close shades and blinds.</li><li>Turn off and un-plug non-essential lights and appliances.</li><li>Close the fireplace damper when not in use.</li><li>Avoid using large appliances</li><li>Business should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible.</li><li>Do not connect a generator to your home's electrical system. Consult a licensed electrician.</li><li>Do not use any grilling equipment for heat indoors</li>
 </ol>

UPDATED NPPD moving to Emergency Level 1

By&nbsp;Tif Robertson, Fall River Health Services&nbsp;Marketing Director

We are very happy to share that Fall River Health Services and Seven Sisters Living Center is opening up visitation as our County Positivity rate is below 10%. 

We are requiring all visits to be scheduled due to staffing and not more than 2 people at a time.

 We ask that all visitors call 745-3460 to schedule a visit at Seven Sisters Living Center or 745-8910 for the hospital. 

After a very long year of pandemic, the entire leadership and front-line team at Fall River Health Services continue to keep their community at heart.

By&nbsp;Tif Robertson, Fall River Health Services&nbsp;Marketing DirectorWe are very happy to share that Fall River Health Services and Seven Sisters Living Center is opening up visitation as our County Positivity rate is below 10%. We are requiring all visits to be scheduled due to staffing and not more than 2 people at a time. We ask that all visitors call 745-3460 to schedule a visit at Seven Sisters Living Center or 745-8910 for the hospital. After a very long year of pandemic, the entire leadership and front-line team at Fall River Health Services continue to keep their community at heart.

Fall River Health Services opening up limited visitation 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Another round of rolling power outages is likely in Nebraska Wednesday morning as Arctic air continues to linger over the region and energy demand strains the power grid. 

The Nebraska Public Power District said the rotating power outages would likely begin around 9 a.m. Wednesday when demand for energy is at its highest. 

All the major utilities across the state implemented similar planned power outages in places on Monday and Tuesday. 

Nebraska’s utilities are tied into an organization that balances power demand across parts of 14 states. 

In that territory, energy demand is expected to exceed the supply of electricity available Wednesday morning.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Another round of rolling power outages is likely in Nebraska Wednesday morning as Arctic air continues to linger over the region and energy demand strains the power grid. The Nebraska Public Power District said the rotating power outages would likely begin around 9 a.m. Wednesday when demand for energy is at its highest. All the major utilities across the state implemented similar planned power outages in places on Monday and Tuesday. Nebraska’s utilities are tied into an organization that balances power demand across parts of 14 states. In that territory, energy demand is expected to exceed the supply of electricity available Wednesday morning.

More rolling power outages likely in Nebraska Wednesday

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The director of Nebraska’s prison system has unveiled plans to convert the state’s oldest prison into a minimum-security facility, but he says the plan would only work if lawmakers agree to build a separate, $230 million prison for higher-risk inmates.

 Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Director Scott Frakes says the proposal to overhaul the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln is part of a larger effort to ease overcrowding in the state prisons. 

Some lawmakers have questioned the costs. 

The penitentiary in Lincoln is the state’s oldest prison, dating back to 1869, and it's nearing the end of its useful life.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The director of Nebraska’s prison system has unveiled plans to convert the state’s oldest prison into a minimum-security facility, but he says the plan would only work if lawmakers agree to build a separate, $230 million prison for higher-risk inmates. Nebraska Department of Correctional Services Director Scott Frakes says the proposal to overhaul the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln is part of a larger effort to ease overcrowding in the state prisons. Some lawmakers have questioned the costs. The penitentiary in Lincoln is the state’s oldest prison, dating back to 1869, and it's nearing the end of its useful life.

Nebraska's oldest prison could house lower-risk inmates

WASHINGTON, D.C. and CHADRON —National History Day® (NHD) is pleased to announce the selection of Mr. Michael Sandstrom, a teacher at Chadron High School in Chadron, Nebraska, as one of only 15 educators who will create a valuable new classroom resource. These student guides will be the newest addition to the wealth of materials provided by the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) Consortium for educators in the United States and around the world.

Over the next several months, Mr. Sandstrom and the cohort of contributors will work directly with NHD and Library of Congress staff to write and test a series of five student guides based on the five NHD project categories: documentary, exhibit, paper, performance, and website. The guides will help students find, analyze, and integrate primary sources from the Library of Congress into their NHD projects. Mr. Sandstrom’s experience will include advanced virtual training with the Library of Congress and its TPS partners. Upon the guides’ completion, NHD will distribute the series online.

“Mr. Sandstrom and his fellow contributors bring many years of classroom and project-based teaching experience to this endeavor,” said Dr. Cathy Gorn, National History Day Executive Director. “Through this new series, these teachers will showcase the Library’s primary source collections for the benefit of National History Day students for many years to come. We are grateful for this opportunity to work with the Library of Congress as creation partners for this important project.”

The cohort of 15 teachers will begin its work with National History Day and Library of Congress staff immediately. The educators chosen for the program represent Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

NHD is a non-profit organization based in College Park, Maryland, which seeks to improve the teaching and learning of history. The National History Day Contest was established in 1974 and currently engages more than half a million students every year in conducting original research on historical topics of interest. Students present their research as a documentary, exhibit, paper, performance, or website. Projects compete first at the local and affiliate levels, where the top entries are invited to the National Contest at the University of Maryland at College Park. NHD is sponsored in part by, HISTORY®, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the National Park Service, Southwest Airlines, the Crown Family Foundation, The Better Angels Society, and the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation. For more information, visit nhd.org.

About the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Program

For more than a decade, the Teaching with Primary Sources program has provided extensive professional development opportunities for educators and enabled the creation and dissemination of teaching materials focused on using the Library’s digitized primary sources.

The Library of Congress is the world’s largest library, offering access to the creative record of the United States — and extensive materials from around the world — both on-site and online. It is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Explore collections, reference services and other programs and plan a visit at loc.gov; access the official site for U.S. federal legislative information at congress.gov; and register creative works of authorship at copyright.gov.

WASHINGTON, D.C. and CHADRON —National History Day® (NHD) is pleased to announce the selection of Mr. Michael Sandstrom, a teacher at Chadron High School in Chadron, Nebraska, as one of only 15 educators who will create a valuable new classroom resource. These student guides will be the newest addition to the wealth of materials provided by the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) Consortium for educators in the United States and around the world.Over the next several months, Mr. Sandstrom and the cohort of contributors will work directly with NHD and Library of Congress staff to write and test a series of five student guides based on the five NHD project categories: documentary, exhibit, paper, performance, and website. The guides will help students find, analyze, and integrate primary sources from the Library of Congress into their NHD projects. Mr. Sandstrom’s experience will include advanced virtual training with the Library of Congress and its TPS partners. Upon the guides’ completion, NHD will distribute the series online.“Mr. Sandstrom and his fellow contributors bring many years of classroom and project-based teaching experience to this endeavor,” said Dr. Cathy Gorn, National History Day Executive Director. “Through this new series, these teachers will showcase the Library’s primary source collections for the benefit of National History Day students for many years to come. We are grateful for this opportunity to work with the Library of Congress as creation partners for this important project.”The cohort of 15 teachers will begin its work with National History Day and Library of Congress staff immediately. The educators chosen for the program represent Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.About National History Day® (NHD)NHD is a non-profit organization based in College Park, Maryland, which seeks to improve the teaching and learning of history. The National History Day Contest was established in 1974 and currently engages more than half a million students every year in conducting original research on historical topics of interest. Students present their research as a documentary, exhibit, paper, performance, or website. Projects compete first at the local and affiliate levels, where the top entries are invited to the National Contest at the University of Maryland at College Park. NHD is sponsored in part by, HISTORY®, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the National Park Service, Southwest Airlines, the Crown Family Foundation, The Better Angels Society, and the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation. For more information, visit nhd.org.About the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources ProgramFor more than a decade, the Teaching with Primary Sources program has provided extensive professional development opportunities for educators and enabled the creation and dissemination of teaching materials focused on using the Library’s digitized primary sources.About the Library of CongressThe Library of Congress is the world’s largest library, offering access to the creative record of the United States — and extensive materials from around the world — both on-site and online. It is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Explore collections, reference services and other programs and plan a visit at loc.gov; access the official site for U.S. federal legislative information at congress.gov; and register creative works of authorship at copyright.gov.

Chadron educator named contributing teacher for Library of Congress

SCOTTSBLUFF&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) has arrested a Gering man following an investigation into a report of child abuse.

This morning, a warrant was issued in Scotts Bluff County for the arrest of Parrish Abel, 52, of Gering. The charges include intentional child abuse, witness tampering, and unlawful intrusion. Intentional child abuse and witness tampering are felony charges. The investigation stems from a report received by the Nebraska State Patrol, through the Gering Police Department, last month.

Nebraska State Patrol investigators arrested Abel at his home this afternoon without incident. Abel was lodged in Scotts Bluff County Jail.

SCOTTSBLUFF&nbsp; — The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) has arrested a Gering man following an investigation into a report of child abuse.This morning, a warrant was issued in Scotts Bluff County for the arrest of Parrish Abel, 52, of Gering. The charges include intentional child abuse, witness tampering, and unlawful intrusion. Intentional child abuse and witness tampering are felony charges. The investigation stems from a report received by the Nebraska State Patrol, through the Gering Police Department, last month.Nebraska State Patrol investigators arrested Abel at his home this afternoon without incident. Abel was lodged in Scotts Bluff County Jail.

Gering man arrested following child abuse investigation

Tom Kent, President &amp; CEO, held a media conference this morning to address the current power interruption event impacting customers due to the cold weather. Tom addresses why this has happened, what NPPD is doing to keep the power and furnaces on for its customers and for Nebraskans, and what to expect in the next 48 hours. Please take a listen and we will work to keep you updated in the upcoming hours.

 At this time, SPP has notified our system operators that we can stop the rolling 45-minute service interruptions to our customers. Our teammates are working diligently to restore power to all those impacted. Again, due to the cold weather, there might be issues with some equipment. Our lineworkers will address them on site. If you are still without power, please call 877-ASK-NPPD if you are an NPPD customer, or contact your local public power provider.

PLEASE NOTE, we are likely to see outages again tonight and possibly into tomorrow. So please plan for possible outages lasting 45 minutes or longer. Please continue to take all reasonable steps to conserve energy use. We will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve.

Nebraska's two largest utilities, Omaha Public Power District and the Nebraska Public Power District say expected rolling outrages were completed by mid-morning.

The need for more rolling outages may be possible over the next couple of days.

To maintain system reliability, we have just been informed by SPP that we need to do emergency coordinated interruptions of service. 

These 30-minute interruptions of service occur in real-time, so we have very little, if any, notice as to where these interruptions will take place. This is done to prevent longer, uncontrolled outages. 

If you experience a controlled outage,  it should only last approximately 30 minutes.

SPP’s service area unexpectedly lost some generating units earlier today, which caused them to declare an energy emergency. SPP directed power utilities in 14 states to share in an effort to shed load (interrupt service to customers) due to lack of electricity to meet demand because of the cold temperatures. 

NPPD’s first priority is to keep the electricity flowing for our customers and ensure the integrity and reliability of the region’s electric grid. We coordinated rolling, 30-minute outages impacting a few communities to keep the event from cascading and affecting more communities and customers. Our operators plan and prepare for events like this. 

However, we get very little notice. We take immediate action to keep the lights and furnaces on for as many Nebraskans as we can. 

What we can tell you is this. Things are OK now. But as temps drop later tonight and as people start their day in the morning, there is still the potential for service interruptions. 

You can help your family, friends, and neighbors by conserving electricity these next few days and staying prepared. And if power is interrupted, trust we will get power restored as quickly as possible for YOU, our friends, families, and neighbors.Stay warm. Stay safe. And thanks for your patience.

As more than half of the country finds itself under wind chill warnings and record low temperatures, the strain on the national electric grid is nearing unprecedented levels, forcing coordinated rolling blackouts to conserve energy.

The Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) is a member of the&nbsp;Southwest Power Pool (SPP), a non-profit regional transmission organization in the central part of the United States. SPP is mandated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure customers in the region receive reliable power, adequate transmission infrastructure, and competitively priced electricity. SPP and its members coordinate the flow of electricity across more than 65,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines spanning 14 states.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to NPPD, the SPP declared an Energy Emergency Alert Level 3 which means they were directed to do emergency coordinated interruptions of service which resulted in rolling, 30-minute outages across parts of their service territory to maintain system reliability. 

For the time being, SPP has paused these outages but may need to enforce them again. Due to these interruptions occurring in real-time, NPPD receives very little, if any, notice as to when these interruptions will take place over the next few days. Please continue to conserve energy and charge your cell phones, electric devices, and home medical devices.

Utilities across the nation are asking customers to voluntarily reduce the use of power.&nbsp;

• Turn down thermostats to 68 degrees and lower at night.

• Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.

• Close the fireplace damper when not in use.

• Business should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible.

• Do not connect a generator to your home's electrical system. Consult a licensed electrician.

• Do not use any grilling equipment for heat indoors

Follow NPPD's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nebraskapublicpowerdistrict">Facebook</a> page for updates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613403199374.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Carlson-NP PostTom Kent, President &amp; CEO, held a media conference this morning to address the current power interruption event impacting customers due to the cold weather. Tom addresses why this has happened, what NPPD is doing to keep the power and furnaces on for its customers and for Nebraskans, and what to expect in the next 48 hours. Please take a listen and we will work to keep you updated in the upcoming hours.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnebraskapublicpowerdistrict%2Fposts%2F10157668565646776&width=500&show_text=true&height=600&appId" width="500" height="600" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Update from NPPD February 16 2:30 pm At this time, SPP has notified our system operators that we can stop the rolling 45-minute service interruptions to our customers. Our teammates are working diligently to restore power to all those impacted. Again, due to the cold weather, there might be issues with some equipment. Our lineworkers will address them on site. If you are still without power, please call 877-ASK-NPPD if you are an NPPD customer, or contact your local public power provider.PLEASE NOTE, we are likely to see outages again tonight and possibly into tomorrow. So please plan for possible outages lasting 45 minutes or longer. Please continue to take all reasonable steps to conserve energy use. We will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve.Update February 16 11:15 a.m.Nebraska's two largest utilities, Omaha Public Power District and the Nebraska Public Power District say expected rolling outrages were completed by mid-morning.The need for more rolling outages may be possible over the next couple of days.Update from NPPD February 16 6:50 a.m.To maintain system reliability, we have just been informed by SPP that we need to do emergency coordinated interruptions of service. These 30-minute interruptions of service occur in real-time, so we have very little, if any, notice as to where these interruptions will take place. This is done to prevent longer, uncontrolled outages. If you experience a controlled outage, it should only last approximately 30 minutes.Update from NPPD February 15 7:11 p.m.SPP’s service area unexpectedly lost some generating units earlier today, which caused them to declare an energy emergency. SPP directed power utilities in 14 states to share in an effort to shed load (interrupt service to customers) due to lack of electricity to meet demand because of the cold temperatures. NPPD’s first priority is to keep the electricity flowing for our customers and ensure the integrity and reliability of the region’s electric grid. We coordinated rolling, 30-minute outages impacting a few communities to keep the event from cascading and affecting more communities and customers. Our operators plan and prepare for events like this. However, we get very little notice. We take immediate action to keep the lights and furnaces on for as many Nebraskans as we can. What we can tell you is this. Things are OK now. But as temps drop later tonight and as people start their day in the morning, there is still the potential for service interruptions. You can help your family, friends, and neighbors by conserving electricity these next few days and staying prepared. And if power is interrupted, trust we will get power restored as quickly as possible for YOU, our friends, families, and neighbors.Stay warm. Stay safe. And thanks for your patience.As more than half of the country finds itself under wind chill warnings and record low temperatures, the strain on the national electric grid is nearing unprecedented levels, forcing coordinated rolling blackouts to conserve energy.The Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) is a member of the&nbsp;Southwest Power Pool (SPP), a non-profit regional transmission organization in the central part of the United States. SPP is mandated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure customers in the region receive reliable power, adequate transmission infrastructure, and competitively priced electricity. SPP and its members coordinate the flow of electricity across more than 65,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines spanning 14 states.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to NPPD, the SPP declared an Energy Emergency Alert Level 3 which means they were directed to do emergency coordinated interruptions of service which resulted in rolling, 30-minute outages across parts of their service territory to maintain system reliability. For the time being, SPP has paused these outages but may need to enforce them again. Due to these interruptions occurring in real-time, NPPD receives very little, if any, notice as to when these interruptions will take place over the next few days. Please continue to conserve energy and charge your cell phones, electric devices, and home medical devices.Utilities across the nation are asking customers to voluntarily reduce the use of power.&nbsp;Some ways you can help are:• Turn down thermostats to 68 degrees and lower at night.• Close shades and blinds.• Turn off and unplug non-essential lights and appliances.• Close the fireplace damper when not in use.• Avoid using large appliances• Business should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible.• Do not connect a generator to your home's electrical system. Consult a licensed electrician.• Do not use any grilling equipment for heat indoorsFollow NPPD's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nebraskapublicpowerdistrict">Facebook</a> page for updates.

🎥 UPDATED Rolling blackouts begin in parts of Nebraska

Alliance -&nbsp;As of 12:31 p.m. Central time, SPP has downgraded the energy alert [EEA] to a level 1. As of this time the grid has evened out and is holding steady. SPP’s forecasts anticipate that due to high load and persistent cold weather, it is likely its system will fluctuate between levels over the next 48 hours. These levels can change on a moment’s notice and will require immediate action to correct. Rolling outages are still a possibility.

The community can continue to help by lowering thermostats by 3 degrees, unplug unnecessary appliances, close fireplace dampers, and refrain from large appliance use as much as possible.

&nbsp;SPP has declared an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) announcing controlled outages in the region.

We’ll be working to implement controlled interruptions of electric service. This is done as a last resort to preserve the reliability of the electric system as a whole. 

Individuals should continue to take steps to conserve energy. Different ways the community can help is by lowering thermostats by 3 degrees, unplug unnecessary appliances, close fireplace dampers, and refrain from large appliance use as much as possible.

Rolling blackouts of 30 to 60 minutes, or possibly longer, may be occurring to preserve the grid in an effort to prevent uncontrolled outages of even greater magnitude. 

This will remain a potential over the next few days due to the extreme cold temperatures.

The City of Alliance appreciates the community’s assistance in conserving electricity to help mitigate grid interruptions during these extremely cold conditions.

Alliance -&nbsp;As of 12:31 p.m. Central time, SPP has downgraded the energy alert [EEA] to a level 1. As of this time the grid has evened out and is holding steady. SPP’s forecasts anticipate that due to high load and persistent cold weather, it is likely its system will fluctuate between levels over the next 48 hours. These levels can change on a moment’s notice and will require immediate action to correct. Rolling outages are still a possibility.The community can continue to help by lowering thermostats by 3 degrees, unplug unnecessary appliances, close fireplace dampers, and refrain from large appliance use as much as possible.. . . .&nbsp;&nbsp;SPP has declared an Energy Emergency Alert (EEA) announcing controlled outages in the region.We’ll be working to implement controlled interruptions of electric service. This is done as a last resort to preserve the reliability of the electric system as a whole. Individuals should continue to take steps to conserve energy. Different ways the community can help is by lowering thermostats by 3 degrees, unplug unnecessary appliances, close fireplace dampers, and refrain from large appliance use as much as possible.Rolling blackouts of 30 to 60 minutes, or possibly longer, may be occurring to preserve the grid in an effort to prevent uncontrolled outages of even greater magnitude. This will remain a potential over the next few days due to the extreme cold temperatures.The City of Alliance appreciates the community’s assistance in conserving electricity to help mitigate grid interruptions during these extremely cold conditions.

UPDATED City of Alliance may experience controlled power outages 

SCOTTSBLUFF - The Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) has granted the Cancer Treatment Center a three-year accreditation to the cancer treatment program at Regional West.

To earn voluntary CoC accreditation, a cancer treatment program must meet or exceed 34 CoC quality care standards, be evaluated every three years through a survey process, and maintain levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient-centered care. Three-year accreditation is only awarded to a facility that exceeds standard requirements at the time of its triennial survey.

“The Cancer Treatment Center at Regional West is fortunate to again achieve this level of excellence through our providers and all the staff that support the cancer patients throughout the region,” said Michael Yung, MD, Chairman of the Regional West Cancer committee. During a cancer diagnosis and treatment, it is important to be able to keep as much “normal” as possible. Our cancer treatment center makes this possible by providing exemplary care close to home.”

The CoC Accreditation Program provides the framework for The Cancer Treatment Center at Regional West to improve its quality of patient care through various cancer-related programs that focus on the full spectrum of cancer care, including prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, optimal treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow up for recurrent disease, and end of life care. When patients receive care at a CoC facility, they also have access to information on clinical trials and new treatments, genetic counseling, and patient-centered services including psycho-social support, a patient navigation process, and a survivorship care plan that documents the care each patient receives and seeks to improve cancer survivors’ quality of life.

Established in 1922 by the American College of Surgeons, the CoC is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving patient outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education, and the monitoring of comprehensive, quality care. Its membership includes Fellows of the American College of Surgeons. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facs.org/cancer" target="_blank">www.facs.org/cancer</a>.

SCOTTSBLUFF - The Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) has granted the Cancer Treatment Center a three-year accreditation to the cancer treatment program at Regional West.To earn voluntary CoC accreditation, a cancer treatment program must meet or exceed 34 CoC quality care standards, be evaluated every three years through a survey process, and maintain levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient-centered care. Three-year accreditation is only awarded to a facility that exceeds standard requirements at the time of its triennial survey.“The Cancer Treatment Center at Regional West is fortunate to again achieve this level of excellence through our providers and all the staff that support the cancer patients throughout the region,” said Michael Yung, MD, Chairman of the Regional West Cancer committee. During a cancer diagnosis and treatment, it is important to be able to keep as much “normal” as possible. Our cancer treatment center makes this possible by providing exemplary care close to home.”The CoC Accreditation Program provides the framework for The Cancer Treatment Center at Regional West to improve its quality of patient care through various cancer-related programs that focus on the full spectrum of cancer care, including prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, optimal treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow up for recurrent disease, and end of life care. When patients receive care at a CoC facility, they also have access to information on clinical trials and new treatments, genetic counseling, and patient-centered services including psycho-social support, a patient navigation process, and a survivorship care plan that documents the care each patient receives and seeks to improve cancer survivors’ quality of life.Established in 1922 by the American College of Surgeons, the CoC is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving patient outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education, and the monitoring of comprehensive, quality care. Its membership includes Fellows of the American College of Surgeons. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facs.org/cancer" target="_blank">www.facs.org/cancer</a>.

Regional West Cancer Treatment Center earns national accreditation

By&nbsp;Cindy Randall, Alliance Arts Council

The Alliance Arts Council is sponsoring a unique family event this weekend.

FEAT Acrobatics is an acrobatic duo that will amaze you with their skills. They bill their performance as “Upside down, 10 feet off the ground, and crazy all around!”

FEAT performs a family friendly, circus-style variety arts show featuring acrobalance routines and graceful partner acrobatics.

The program is at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20 at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center. 

Masks will be required and seating will follow social distancing guidelines.

Business co-presenters are Harris Sales, KCOW/Double Q Country Radio, Western Nebraska Real Estate, First National Bank and Gregory’s Insurance.

Ticket prices are $10 Adult, $9 Senior and $5 for students. Advance tickets are available at Carnegie Arts Center and Redman’s Shoes. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

By&nbsp;Cindy Randall, Alliance Arts CouncilThe Alliance Arts Council is sponsoring a unique family event this weekend.FEAT Acrobatics is an acrobatic duo that will amaze you with their skills. They bill their performance as “Upside down, 10 feet off the ground, and crazy all around!”FEAT performs a family friendly, circus-style variety arts show featuring acrobalance routines and graceful partner acrobatics.The program is at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20 at the Alliance High School Performing Arts Center. Masks will be required and seating will follow social distancing guidelines.Business co-presenters are Harris Sales, KCOW/Double Q Country Radio, Western Nebraska Real Estate, First National Bank and Gregory’s Insurance.Ticket prices are $10 Adult, $9 Senior and $5 for students. Advance tickets are available at Carnegie Arts Center and Redman’s Shoes. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

FEAT Acrobatics to perform in Alliance 

The Chadron Police Department responded to two accidents on Monday, Feb. 15.

The first accident on Monday was called into Chadron dispatch at 9:04 a.m. and was located at the intersection of Highway 20 and Bordeaux Street. 

A Toyota Rav4 was stopped at the stop sign on the north side of the intersection, attempting to travel south onto the 300 block of Bordeaux Street. The Toyota pulled into the intersection and was struck by the westbound Ford F-150. 

"The female driver of the Toyota Rav4 received a minor injury to her head and was transported to the Chadron Community Hospital for treatment by the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department," Chadron Police Lt. Richard Hickstein said. "She was later released from the Chadron Community Hospital after receiving treatment for her injury. The driver and passenger of the Ford F-150 received no injuries."

Both vehicles were towed from the scene. 

The estimated damages to both vehicles is $4,000. 

Hickstein said all drivers and occupants were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the accident.

A citation was issued to the driver of the Rav4 for failing to yield the right of way.

The second injury accident was called into dispatch at 11:03 a.m. to the intersection of 8th Street and Maple Street. 

Chadron officers arrived on scene and located a Ford F-250 and a Chevrolet Malibu involved in the accident. 

Both vehicles were travelling south bound on Maple Street when the Chevrolet Malibu slowed or stopped to turn and was struck from behind by the Ford F-250. 

"The driver of the Chevrolet Malibu reported injuries to her neck and head and was transported to the Chadron Community Hospital by the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department for treatment," Lt. Hickstein said.

There was no damage to the Ford F-250. The Chevrolet Malibu received an estimated $1,000 in damage. 

A citation was issued to the driver of the Ford F-250 for following to close. Seatbelts were worn by both drivers during the accident.

"Ice and snow on the roadways played a role in each of these accidents and the Chadron Police Department would like to remind the motoring public to slow down and use caution in the wintery conditions we are experiencing," Lt. Hickstein said. "The roads are slick and are making it difficult to stop at intersections and crosswalks. We recommend motorists give themselves a little extra time to get&nbsp;to their destination, which will allow the motorists to travel at a slower speed and arrive safely to where they need to be."

No names of those involved in both accidents were released.&nbsp;

The Chadron Police Department was assisted by the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhande PostThe Chadron Police Department responded to two accidents on Monday, Feb. 15.The first accident on Monday was called into Chadron dispatch at 9:04 a.m. and was located at the intersection of Highway 20 and Bordeaux Street. A Toyota Rav4 was stopped at the stop sign on the north side of the intersection, attempting to travel south onto the 300 block of Bordeaux Street. The Toyota pulled into the intersection and was struck by the westbound Ford F-150. "The female driver of the Toyota Rav4 received a minor injury to her head and was transported to the Chadron Community Hospital for treatment by the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department," Chadron Police Lt. Richard Hickstein said. "She was later released from the Chadron Community Hospital after receiving treatment for her injury. The driver and passenger of the Ford F-150 received no injuries."Both vehicles were towed from the scene. The estimated damages to both vehicles is $4,000. Hickstein said all drivers and occupants were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the accident.A citation was issued to the driver of the Rav4 for failing to yield the right of way.The second injury accident was called into dispatch at 11:03 a.m. to the intersection of 8th Street and Maple Street. Chadron officers arrived on scene and located a Ford F-250 and a Chevrolet Malibu involved in the accident. Both vehicles were travelling south bound on Maple Street when the Chevrolet Malibu slowed or stopped to turn and was struck from behind by the Ford F-250. "The driver of the Chevrolet Malibu reported injuries to her neck and head and was transported to the Chadron Community Hospital by the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department for treatment," Lt. Hickstein said.There was no damage to the Ford F-250. The Chevrolet Malibu received an estimated $1,000 in damage. A citation was issued to the driver of the Ford F-250 for following to close. Seatbelts were worn by both drivers during the accident."Ice and snow on the roadways played a role in each of these accidents and the Chadron Police Department would like to remind the motoring public to slow down and use caution in the wintery conditions we are experiencing," Lt. Hickstein said. "The roads are slick and are making it difficult to stop at intersections and crosswalks. We recommend motorists give themselves a little extra time to get&nbsp;to their destination, which will allow the motorists to travel at a slower speed and arrive safely to where they need to be."No names of those involved in both accidents were released.&nbsp;The Chadron Police Department was assisted by the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department.

Chadron police respond to multiple accidents 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A second day of Arctic temperatures across Middle America have prompted rolling power outages in Nebraska and a call for energy conservation in Iowa. 

Residents in Nebraska experienced some of the coldest weather they've seen early Tuesday, putting a strain on the power grid that saw the state's power utilities implementing rolling outages. 

Omaha Public Power District, which serves multiple counties around Omaha, reported around 30,000 customers without power in areas mostly south of Dodge Street, which bisects the city. 

The Lincoln Electric System reported nearly 15,000 customers without power for a time Tuesday morning. 

In Iowa where overnight lows dipped to around 30 below zero in some places, MidAmerican Energy issued a plea for residents to dial back power use.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A second day of Arctic temperatures across Middle America have prompted rolling power outages in Nebraska and a call for energy conservation in Iowa. Residents in Nebraska experienced some of the coldest weather they've seen early Tuesday, putting a strain on the power grid that saw the state's power utilities implementing rolling outages. Omaha Public Power District, which serves multiple counties around Omaha, reported around 30,000 customers without power in areas mostly south of Dodge Street, which bisects the city. The Lincoln Electric System reported nearly 15,000 customers without power for a time Tuesday morning. In Iowa where overnight lows dipped to around 30 below zero in some places, MidAmerican Energy issued a plea for residents to dial back power use.

Freeze prompts rolling outages in parts of Nebraska, Iowa

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Police say an 82-year-old Rapid City woman who was found dead in her house was likely killed by someone who targeted her. 

Police say they have reason to believe that the suspect had a specific interest in victimizing Reta McGovern, but they did not provide details, citing the ongoing investigation.

 A relative found McGovern with a cut to her throat last Wednesday.

 Police are still searching for a suspect and they are asking neighbors to review surveillance footage for anyone who may have been on foot in the area on the morning of Feb. 10.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Police say an 82-year-old Rapid City woman who was found dead in her house was likely killed by someone who targeted her. Police say they have reason to believe that the suspect had a specific interest in victimizing Reta McGovern, but they did not provide details, citing the ongoing investigation. A relative found McGovern with a cut to her throat last Wednesday. Police are still searching for a suspect and they are asking neighbors to review surveillance footage for anyone who may have been on foot in the area on the morning of Feb. 10.

Local