The water main break in the 1400-1600 block of Emerson has been repaired.&nbsp;

A water main has broke in the City of Alliance.&nbsp;

On Jan. 12 a water main broke leaving residents without water from the 1400-1600 block of Emerson. 

At this time the City of Alliance is unsure of the length of time it will take to repair the water main. 

A press release said, "We will update our Facebook page @CityofAlliance with additional information as it comes in."

Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostJan. 9, 11:11 a.m.The water main break in the 1400-1600 block of Emerson has been repaired.&nbsp;________________________________________A water main has broke in the City of Alliance.&nbsp;On Jan. 12 a water main broke leaving residents without water from the 1400-1600 block of Emerson. At this time the City of Alliance is unsure of the length of time it will take to repair the water main. A press release said, "We will update our Facebook page @CityofAlliance with additional information as it comes in."Please contact the City Administration Offices at (308) 762-5400 for any questions or for more information.

UPDATED Water main breaks on Emerson in Alliance

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — More than 40% of Nebraska’s 90,000 health care workers have received the first of two doses of the coronavirus vaccine as the state continues to ramp up distribution. 

State health officials said 78,074 of the 144,363 doses Nebraska has received so far have been administered so far — primarily to health care workers. 

Residents and workers at long-term care facilities have also begun getting vaccines. 

Nebraska said 1,197 doses of the vaccine were administered on Sunday, which is typically a slower day. 

The state administered an average of 5,811 doses each day last week. 

The state reported 644 new cases of the virus and 12 deaths Monday.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — More than 40% of Nebraska’s 90,000 health care workers have received the first of two doses of the coronavirus vaccine as the state continues to ramp up distribution. State health officials said 78,074 of the 144,363 doses Nebraska has received so far have been administered so far — primarily to health care workers. Residents and workers at long-term care facilities have also begun getting vaccines. Nebraska said 1,197 doses of the vaccine were administered on Sunday, which is typically a slower day. The state administered an average of 5,811 doses each day last week. The state reported 644 new cases of the virus and 12 deaths Monday.

Over 40% of Nebraska's health care workers receive vaccine

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska appears to have avoided a post-Christmas spike in coronavirus cases that many had feared, although it’s not entirely clear why. 

Gov. Pete Ricketts says it may be because people followed virus safety guidelines warning against attending holiday gatherings. 

The Republican governor says the decision not to impose a statewide lockdown may also have played a role because it helped avoid pandemic fatigue that leads some people to ignore the recommendations. 

Other states, such as California, reported large increases in cases in December.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska appears to have avoided a post-Christmas spike in coronavirus cases that many had feared, although it’s not entirely clear why. Gov. Pete Ricketts says it may be because people followed virus safety guidelines warning against attending holiday gatherings. The Republican governor says the decision not to impose a statewide lockdown may also have played a role because it helped avoid pandemic fatigue that leads some people to ignore the recommendations. Other states, such as California, reported large increases in cases in December.

Nebraska largely avoids post-Christmas spike in virus cases

Bev Hanks of Hemingford received her COVID vaccine last week and was anxious to get it because of her age and health issues like asthma and heart problems. As a former educator, she did her homework and made an informed decision. She found out it would be the Moderna vaccine offered locally and it was long-lasting so she called to get on the list as a currently eligible population (75+).

“I feel blessed to be able to get it,” Hanks shared. “My arm hurt for a couple of days, but otherwise I have been fine and am looking forward to my follow-up dose in a few weeks.”

“When we have the opportunity to protect us from a virus that can be so deadly, we should take advantage and be proactive,” said Hanks.

Anyone that lined the halls of Hemingford High School in the late ‘70s through the ‘90s clearly remembers her as their history teacher with affectionate catchphrases like, “Tuesday @ 10” or “852 things.”

“As a former student of Hanks,” said Jessica Davies, Assistant Health Director with Panhandle Public Health District, “I’m proud to see her and other eligible populations so ready to be leaders in the area in getting their COVID vaccine. This is how we continue getting back to as close to normal life as possible.”

Vaccine reminder:&nbsp;Anyone 75 and older and interested in getting a COVID vaccine, please complete the form at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d</a>&nbsp;or call 308-262-5764 or 308-633-2866 ext. 101 with your name, date of birth, county, and phone number.

Nearly 2,500 people 75+ have signed up so far! Be sure to help your elderly family, friends, and neighbors get signed up! This will put them on an aggregated list that is being coordinated with local hospital, healthcare, and vaccine providers, they will be called by a local provider when vaccines are available. It may be several weeks.

To date, 3,761 people in the eligible populations have received the COVID vaccine in the Panhandle. This number will continue to increase with each weekly vaccine allocation to the eligible populations at the corresponding times.

Nineteen additional COVID-related deaths in the Panhandle are being reported. This brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 155. The deaths are being announced as follows:

“We extend our sincere condolences with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents and wish you peace and comfort,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

Unified Command confirms 56 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Thursday, January 7. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.

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

By PPHDBev Hanks of Hemingford received her COVID vaccine last week and was anxious to get it because of her age and health issues like asthma and heart problems. As a former educator, she did her homework and made an informed decision. She found out it would be the Moderna vaccine offered locally and it was long-lasting so she called to get on the list as a currently eligible population (75+).“I feel blessed to be able to get it,” Hanks shared. “My arm hurt for a couple of days, but otherwise I have been fine and am looking forward to my follow-up dose in a few weeks.”“When we have the opportunity to protect us from a virus that can be so deadly, we should take advantage and be proactive,” said Hanks.Anyone that lined the halls of Hemingford High School in the late ‘70s through the ‘90s clearly remembers her as their history teacher with affectionate catchphrases like, “Tuesday @ 10” or “852 things.”“As a former student of Hanks,” said Jessica Davies, Assistant Health Director with Panhandle Public Health District, “I’m proud to see her and other eligible populations so ready to be leaders in the area in getting their COVID vaccine. This is how we continue getting back to as close to normal life as possible.”Vaccine reminder:&nbsp;Anyone 75 and older and interested in getting a COVID vaccine, please complete the form at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/ycpxzr5d</a>&nbsp;or call 308-262-5764 or 308-633-2866 ext. 101 with your name, date of birth, county, and phone number.Nearly 2,500 people 75+ have signed up so far! Be sure to help your elderly family, friends, and neighbors get signed up! This will put them on an aggregated list that is being coordinated with local hospital, healthcare, and vaccine providers, they will be called by a local provider when vaccines are available. It may be several weeks.To date, 3,761 people in the eligible populations have received the COVID vaccine in the Panhandle. This number will continue to increase with each weekly vaccine allocation to the eligible populations at the corresponding times.Nineteen additional COVID-related deaths in the Panhandle are being reported. This brings the total deaths in the Panhandle to 155. The deaths are being announced as follows:<ul>
 <li>Box Butte County female in her 90s</li><li>Cheyenne County: two males both in their 90s</li><li>Grant County male in his 70s</li><li>Morrill County: one female and one male both in their 60s</li><li>Scotts Bluff County</li><li>Three females: One in her 50s, one in her 60s, one in her 90s</li><li>Nine males: One in his 50s, two in their 60s, four in their 70s, two in their 80s</li><li>Sheridan County female in her 80s</li>
 </ul>“We extend our sincere condolences with the friends and loved ones in the loss of our fellow Panhandle residents and wish you peace and comfort,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.Unified Command confirms 56 more cases of COVID in the Panhandle since last reporting on Thursday, January 7. The investigations are underway, all close contacts will be quarantined.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610411300927.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 2, 2020-January 11, 2021<ul>
 <li>Total Tests Conducted: 31,153</li><li>Positive: 7,966</li><li>Last 14 days (active) cases: 405</li><li>Last week’s cases: 229</li><li>Last week’s positivity rate: 27.5%</li><li>Deaths: 155</li><li>Active Hospitalizations: 17</li><li>Total Cumulative Hospitalizations: 498</li><li>Doubling time (November 10, 2020-January 10, 2021): 61 days</li>
 </ul>Avoid the Three Cs:<ul>
 <li>Avoid Crowded Places – Avoid gathering in groups where you cannot maintain 6-feet of distance from others</li><li>Avoid Close Contact – Wear a mask over your nose and mouth or maintain 6-feet distance when you are spending more than 15 total minutes with people you don’t live with</li><li>Avoid Confined Spaces – Avoid enclosed spaces with poor ventilation</li>
 </ul>Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>.

PPHD: Former Hemingford educator feels blessed to receive vaccine locally

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts says Nebraska will take steps to ensure public safety at the state Capitol on Inauguration Day, although he notes that last week’s rally in Lincoln to support President Donald Trump was peaceful.

 Ricketts made the comments as supporters of the outgoing president prepare for protests at state capitols throughout the country. 

A violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol last week to try to stop Congress from certifying that President-elect Joe Biden had won the race.

 A gathering last week at the Nebraska Capitol drew about 400 protesters, but the event remained peaceful and ended after a few hours. 

Ricketts says the protesters have a right to make their voices heard, but condemned the violence at the U.S. Capitol.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Gov. Pete Ricketts says Nebraska will take steps to ensure public safety at the state Capitol on Inauguration Day, although he notes that last week’s rally in Lincoln to support President Donald Trump was peaceful.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580351590111.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.org" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy: Great Plains James, www.greatplainsjames.org</figcaption>
 </figure> Ricketts made the comments as supporters of the outgoing president prepare for protests at state capitols throughout the country. A violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol last week to try to stop Congress from certifying that President-elect Joe Biden had won the race. A gathering last week at the Nebraska Capitol drew about 400 protesters, but the event remained peaceful and ended after a few hours. Ricketts says the protesters have a right to make their voices heard, but condemned the violence at the U.S. Capitol.

Nebraska Capitol preparing for inauguration protests

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested three people and seized 177 pounds of marijuana and one handgun during two separate incidents on Sunday.

At approximately 10:10 a.m. a trooper was at a gas station at the Milford interchange of Interstate 80, at mile marker 382, when he began speaking with the driver of a Ford Expedition, who had also stopped at the gas station. During the encounter, the trooper detected the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.

A search of the vehicle revealed 163 pounds of marijuana, contained in duffel bags in a rooftop luggage carrier. The trooper also located a handgun in the possession of a passenger.

The driver, Richard Hunter, 55, and passenger, Jack Skinner, 45, both of Medford, Oregon, were arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound and possession with intent to deliver. Skinner was also arrested for possession of a firearm during a drug violation. Both were lodged in Seward County Jail.

Approximately one hour later, at 11:15 a.m., another trooper performed a traffic stop on an eastbound Nissan Altima for speeding at 95 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Kearney, at mile marker 267. During the traffic stop, the trooper discovered that the driver had a suspended driver’s license.

The trooper performed a search of the vehicle and located 14 pounds of marijuana. The driver, Davon Canada, 35, of Des Moines, Iowa, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, and driving with a suspended license. He was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

LINCOLN&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) have arrested three people and seized 177 pounds of marijuana and one handgun during two separate incidents on Sunday.At approximately 10:10 a.m. a trooper was at a gas station at the Milford interchange of Interstate 80, at mile marker 382, when he began speaking with the driver of a Ford Expedition, who had also stopped at the gas station. During the encounter, the trooper detected the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.A search of the vehicle revealed 163 pounds of marijuana, contained in duffel bags in a rooftop luggage carrier. The trooper also located a handgun in the possession of a passenger.The driver, Richard Hunter, 55, and passenger, Jack Skinner, 45, both of Medford, Oregon, were arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound and possession with intent to deliver. Skinner was also arrested for possession of a firearm during a drug violation. Both were lodged in Seward County Jail.Approximately one hour later, at 11:15 a.m., another trooper performed a traffic stop on an eastbound Nissan Altima for speeding at 95 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Kearney, at mile marker 267. During the traffic stop, the trooper discovered that the driver had a suspended driver’s license.The trooper performed a search of the vehicle and located 14 pounds of marijuana. The driver, Davon Canada, 35, of Des Moines, Iowa, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, and driving with a suspended license. He was lodged in Buffalo County Jail.

Troopers locate 177 LBs of marijuana, gun in two I-80 incidents

At approximately 7:03 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9 the Alliance Police Department responded to the 1500 block of Toluca Ave. regarding a juvenile male with a gunshot wound. 

&nbsp;APD said it appears to have been an accidental, self-inflicted shooting from recounts of numerous witnesses at the scene.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“The Alliance Police Department and the community as a whole are deeply saddened at this tragedy," said Philip Lukens, Alliance Police Chief. "Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the family and the children of our community as they endure the days to come. Our officers have coordinated with the schools, the Crisis Response Team and the Native Futures Leader to provide support across the community.”

The case remains under investigation at this time.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostAt approximately 7:03 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9 the Alliance Police Department responded to the 1500 block of Toluca Ave. regarding a juvenile male with a gunshot wound. &nbsp;APD said it appears to have been an accidental, self-inflicted shooting from recounts of numerous witnesses at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Alliance Police Department and the community as a whole are deeply saddened at this tragedy," said Philip Lukens, Alliance Police Chief. "Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the family and the children of our community as they endure the days to come. Our officers have coordinated with the schools, the Crisis Response Team and the Native Futures Leader to provide support across the community.”The case remains under investigation at this time.No names have been released.&nbsp;

APD respond to juvenile with gunshot wound 

Today, Attorney General Doug Peterson joined Governor Ricketts in recognizing National Human Trafficking Awareness Day and January as awareness month. Attorney General Peterson announced the release of new hotline posters, updated educational videos, and the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force 2020 Review.

The Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force (NHTTF) 2020 Review discusses the significant momentum in combating trafficking over the past year. The Task Force increased by 46 agencies and saw an increase in prosecutions – more than a third of all prosecutions ever brought in the state court began in 2020. The NHTTF Team was able to train strategic groups, such as police recruits, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Nebraska paralegals, school staff, and Nebraska appellate judges.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation has begun updating human trafficking hotline posters in every rest area on I-80. The new posters have both the National Human Trafficking Hotline as well as a QR code that immediately takes a person to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/identifying-trafficking-0" target="_blank">Attorney General’s website</a>, where short videos inform about the different signs of trafficking. The Attorney General’s Office also updated these videos, as well as specialized videos for law enforcement and educators. Adapted materials are also being created for key additional state agencies, including probation and the Department of Health and Human Services.

The poster printed in both English and Spanish, provides the National Human Trafficking Hotline number: 1-888-373- 7888, which is available to receive calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The hotline funnels calls to the in-state network established by the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force (NHTTF). Help is available in English, Spanish, and more than 200 additional languages through an on-call interpreter.

Due to COVID limits for the event, many NHTTF partners and friends joined via Zoom gallery (see attached list of attendees).

To learn more about NHTTF and human trafficking in Nebraska, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking" target="_blank">https://ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking</a>.

Today, Attorney General Doug Peterson joined Governor Ricketts in recognizing National Human Trafficking Awareness Day and January as awareness month. Attorney General Peterson announced the release of new hotline posters, updated educational videos, and the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force 2020 Review.The Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force (NHTTF) 2020 Review discusses the significant momentum in combating trafficking over the past year. The Task Force increased by 46 agencies and saw an increase in prosecutions – more than a third of all prosecutions ever brought in the state court began in 2020. The NHTTF Team was able to train strategic groups, such as police recruits, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Nebraska paralegals, school staff, and Nebraska appellate judges.The Nebraska Department of Transportation has begun updating human trafficking hotline posters in every rest area on I-80. The new posters have both the National Human Trafficking Hotline as well as a QR code that immediately takes a person to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/identifying-trafficking-0" target="_blank">Attorney General’s website</a>, where short videos inform about the different signs of trafficking. The Attorney General’s Office also updated these videos, as well as specialized videos for law enforcement and educators. Adapted materials are also being created for key additional state agencies, including probation and the Department of Health and Human Services.The poster printed in both English and Spanish, provides the National Human Trafficking Hotline number: 1-888-373- 7888, which is available to receive calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The hotline funnels calls to the in-state network established by the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force (NHTTF). Help is available in English, Spanish, and more than 200 additional languages through an on-call interpreter.Due to COVID limits for the event, many NHTTF partners and friends joined via Zoom gallery (see attached list of attendees).To learn more about NHTTF and human trafficking in Nebraska, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking" target="_blank">https://ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking</a>.

Attorney General Peterson recognizes National Human Trafficking Awareness Day

By Daryl Bauer, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. – Venture to a tackle shop where ice-fishing gear is on display and you will see aisles filled with ice-fishing rods and reels. The first thing you will notice about that equipment is the length. The rods are short. They are short to allow anglers to fish closer to their hole.

However, if you are just getting started ice-fishing, do not think you have to purchase specialized ice-fishing rods and reels. You can use some of the rods and reels you already own. You will just stand a little farther from the hole.

Generally, you will want to use lighter lines and corresponding rods and reels to catch fish through the ice. Waters tend to be clearer under the ice, and fish tend to feed less in the colder water. Therefore, lighter lines, and the tackle needed to handle those lighter lines and smaller baits, are most appropriate for ice-fishing.

For panfish, lines as light as 2- and even 1-pound test may be needed to catch fish in the clearest water. However, 4- and 6-pound test lines are good all-purpose lines for most panfish caught through the ice. Heavier lines may be appropriate for larger predator fish like bass and walleyes, but even 6-, 8-, and 10-pound test lines will work for almost all situations. Any lines heavier than that usually will only be used for specialized ice-fishing gear like tip-ups.

If you are going to use some of the open-water gear you already own, you will probably want to select the lightest and shortest to get started. Also consider that you might be able to take retired gear and even broken rods and modify them for use on the ice.

If you are ready to invest in rods and reels specifically designed for ice-fishing, you will find a variety of options and prices. You do not have to spend a lot of money to get started, and rod-and-reel combinations are good starter outfits. Fiberglass rods and matching reels can be relatively inexpensive and work very well. Keep in mind that the main variables to consider are length of the rod, weight and action. Stay on the light side for panfish, tackle up to heavier rods with stiffer actions for larger fish, but even then think light for ice-fishing.

All ice-fishing rods are relatively short, but it is all relative. The shortest rods are best for fishing inside shelters, while longer ice-fishing rods are favored by anglers who stay mobile and fish outside of shelters.

Spinning gear is most commonly used for ice-fishing, but spincast and even casting gear can be adapted and used in some situations. Again, select reels that are appropriate for the lines being used and can be matched to the corresponding rods. Spend what you can afford, but quality reels that will get the job done do not have to be the most expensive. You may be able to “double-up” and switch some reels from open-water to ice-fishing, or if you wish, devote reels to full-time ice-fishing use.

Dress warm, be safe and have fun on the ice this winter. For information on ice-fishing safety, watch a video at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMTEuMzMxMDIzNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.R_UFtkU2LoAU5ZL3i2ISLX737JNiLielpwobdgeA3bE/s/497221906/br/92917735849-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/howtofish</a>.

Anglers can learn the basics of ice-fishing or pick up a few new tips from experienced anglers at virtual Discover Ice-Fishing clinics in Jan. 16 and 19. Game and Parks Commission and the Nebraska Fish and Game Association will host the classroom clinics via Zoom. Register to attend one or both sessions by going to the calendar event entries at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMTEuMzMxMDIzNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.2mLNpc5nwNfCmVPN4PJPtCL0QLAmywuXvWHF20XhXCM/s/497221906/br/92917735849-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

By Daryl Bauer, Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionLINCOLN, Neb. – Venture to a tackle shop where ice-fishing gear is on display and you will see aisles filled with ice-fishing rods and reels. The first thing you will notice about that equipment is the length. The rods are short. They are short to allow anglers to fish closer to their hole.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610385353051.jpeg" alt="A spinning rod and reel is the popular choice of equipment used for ice-fishing. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)" />
 <figcaption>A spinning rod and reel is the popular choice of equipment used for ice-fishing. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)</figcaption>
 </figure>However, if you are just getting started ice-fishing, do not think you have to purchase specialized ice-fishing rods and reels. You can use some of the rods and reels you already own. You will just stand a little farther from the hole.Generally, you will want to use lighter lines and corresponding rods and reels to catch fish through the ice. Waters tend to be clearer under the ice, and fish tend to feed less in the colder water. Therefore, lighter lines, and the tackle needed to handle those lighter lines and smaller baits, are most appropriate for ice-fishing.For panfish, lines as light as 2- and even 1-pound test may be needed to catch fish in the clearest water. However, 4- and 6-pound test lines are good all-purpose lines for most panfish caught through the ice. Heavier lines may be appropriate for larger predator fish like bass and walleyes, but even 6-, 8-, and 10-pound test lines will work for almost all situations. Any lines heavier than that usually will only be used for specialized ice-fishing gear like tip-ups.If you are going to use some of the open-water gear you already own, you will probably want to select the lightest and shortest to get started. Also consider that you might be able to take retired gear and even broken rods and modify them for use on the ice.If you are ready to invest in rods and reels specifically designed for ice-fishing, you will find a variety of options and prices. You do not have to spend a lot of money to get started, and rod-and-reel combinations are good starter outfits. Fiberglass rods and matching reels can be relatively inexpensive and work very well. Keep in mind that the main variables to consider are length of the rod, weight and action. Stay on the light side for panfish, tackle up to heavier rods with stiffer actions for larger fish, but even then think light for ice-fishing.All ice-fishing rods are relatively short, but it is all relative. The shortest rods are best for fishing inside shelters, while longer ice-fishing rods are favored by anglers who stay mobile and fish outside of shelters.Spinning gear is most commonly used for ice-fishing, but spincast and even casting gear can be adapted and used in some situations. Again, select reels that are appropriate for the lines being used and can be matched to the corresponding rods. Spend what you can afford, but quality reels that will get the job done do not have to be the most expensive. You may be able to “double-up” and switch some reels from open-water to ice-fishing, or if you wish, devote reels to full-time ice-fishing use.Dress warm, be safe and have fun on the ice this winter. For information on ice-fishing safety, watch a video at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMTEuMzMxMDIzNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ob3d0b2Zpc2gvIn0.R_UFtkU2LoAU5ZL3i2ISLX737JNiLielpwobdgeA3bE/s/497221906/br/92917735849-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/howtofish</a>.Anglers can learn the basics of ice-fishing or pick up a few new tips from experienced anglers at virtual Discover Ice-Fishing clinics in Jan. 16 and 19. Game and Parks Commission and the Nebraska Fish and Game Association will host the classroom clinics via Zoom. Register to attend one or both sessions by going to the calendar event entries at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMTEuMzMxMDIzNTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.2mLNpc5nwNfCmVPN4PJPtCL0QLAmywuXvWHF20XhXCM/s/497221906/br/92917735849-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>.

Specialized rods, reels not necessary for ice-fishing beginners

The Scottsbluff and Gering Fire Departments battled a house fire over the weekend.&nbsp;

At approximately 5 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9 the Scottsbluff and Gering Fire Departments were called to a house fire in the 1600 block of 15th Avenue in Scottsbluff.

 Scottsbluff police officers evacuated two residents from the home. 

The fire was visible through the roof when fire crews arrived and appeared to be in the attic.&nbsp;

"Crews extinguished the fire and were on scene for over three hours," said Anthony Murphy, Scottsbluff Fire Department Fire Marshal. "The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental, caused by overloaded electrical circuits in the older home through the excessive use of space heaters."

"The fire department would like to remind the public to ensure you have working smoke alarms and avoid the use of space heaters whenever possible," Murphy added. "If the use of them is necessary, space heaters should always be plugged directly into an outlet without the use of extension cords or power strips, and have at least 3 feet of clear space around them. Older homes are especially susceptible to circuit overloads and should not have more than one space heater in use on the same circuit."

The Scottsbluff Fire Department was assisted by the Scotts Bluff County Communications Center, Scottsbluff Police Department, Gering Fire Department, Valley Ambulance, Black Hills Energy and Nebraska Public Power District. 

Firefighter Ministries responded to assist the displaced residents.

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostThe Scottsbluff and Gering Fire Departments battled a house fire over the weekend.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610379866869.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>At approximately 5 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9 the Scottsbluff and Gering Fire Departments were called to a house fire in the 1600 block of 15th Avenue in Scottsbluff. Scottsbluff police officers evacuated two residents from the home. The fire was visible through the roof when fire crews arrived and appeared to be in the attic.&nbsp;"Crews extinguished the fire and were on scene for over three hours," said Anthony Murphy, Scottsbluff Fire Department Fire Marshal. "The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental, caused by overloaded electrical circuits in the older home through the excessive use of space heaters."Damage is estimated at over $20,000. "The fire department would like to remind the public to ensure you have working smoke alarms and avoid the use of space heaters whenever possible," Murphy added. "If the use of them is necessary, space heaters should always be plugged directly into an outlet without the use of extension cords or power strips, and have at least 3 feet of clear space around them. Older homes are especially susceptible to circuit overloads and should not have more than one space heater in use on the same circuit."The Scottsbluff Fire Department was assisted by the Scotts Bluff County Communications Center, Scottsbluff Police Department, Gering Fire Department, Valley Ambulance, Black Hills Energy and Nebraska Public Power District. Firefighter Ministries responded to assist the displaced residents.

Scottsbluff, Gering Fire Departments battle house fire over the weekend

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in Nebraska has continued to shrink this month. 

The state said there were 475 people being treated for COVID-19 Sunday in Nebraska hospitals. 

That is down from 517 at the start of January. 

The number of hospitalizations is less than half of the November peak, but it remains more than double where it was at the start of October. 

Nebraska reported 406 new virus cases Sunday to give the state 176,026 total cases. 

That is significantly less that the average of 1,051.14 new cases per day the state has been reporting over the past week.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — The number of people hospitalized with the coronavirus in Nebraska has continued to shrink this month. The state said there were 475 people being treated for COVID-19 Sunday in Nebraska hospitals. That is down from 517 at the start of January. The number of hospitalizations is less than half of the November peak, but it remains more than double where it was at the start of October. Nebraska reported 406 new virus cases Sunday to give the state 176,026 total cases. That is significantly less that the average of 1,051.14 new cases per day the state has been reporting over the past week.

Nebraska reports fewer virus hospitalizations and new cases

LINCOLN – Spring turkey hunting permits for 2021 will be available from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission beginning Jan. 11.

Nebraska offers the best turkey hunting opportunities in the nation. Nebraska offers birds in every county of the state. The state also offers plentiful and affordable permits, long seasons, great public access and $8 permits for youth.

Wild turkey hunters in Nebraska enjoy high success rates. In the spring, hunters can purchase as many as three permits, with a bag limit of one turkey per permit.

The spring archery season opens March 25, youth shotgun on April 10, and the regular shotgun on April 17. All spring turkey seasons close May 31.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDguMzMwMDg2NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.pPR_GipOi31iKFXvybzW6xPUIZ_aJLEnXZ64IbyBGIQ/s/497221906/br/92856755277-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or Game and Parks permitting offices to purchase permits starting Jan. 11.

For more information on turkey hunting in Nebraska, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDguMzMwMDg2NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi93aWxkdHVya2V5LyJ9.F1XVg45vo9FQKYNFhv2f1L_NVzz9MvqyoBstuOIjLtM/s/497221906/br/92856755277-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/wildturkey</a>&nbsp;or read the 2021 Turkey Guide, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDguMzMwMDg2NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.kCRgxGcksIqZWa_dlwNF2GymKr10Tif1o5oqaBXluEM/s/497221906/br/92856755277-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>&nbsp;or wherever permits are sold.

LINCOLN – Spring turkey hunting permits for 2021 will be available from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission beginning Jan. 11.Nebraska offers the best turkey hunting opportunities in the nation. Nebraska offers birds in every county of the state. The state also offers plentiful and affordable permits, long seasons, great public access and $8 permits for youth.Wild turkey hunters in Nebraska enjoy high success rates. In the spring, hunters can purchase as many as three permits, with a bag limit of one turkey per permit.The spring archery season opens March 25, youth shotgun on April 10, and the regular shotgun on April 17. All spring turkey seasons close May 31.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDguMzMwMDg2NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.pPR_GipOi31iKFXvybzW6xPUIZ_aJLEnXZ64IbyBGIQ/s/497221906/br/92856755277-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org</a>&nbsp;or Game and Parks permitting offices to purchase permits starting Jan. 11. For more information on turkey hunting in Nebraska, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDguMzMwMDg2NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi93aWxkdHVya2V5LyJ9.F1XVg45vo9FQKYNFhv2f1L_NVzz9MvqyoBstuOIjLtM/s/497221906/br/92856755277-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/wildturkey</a>&nbsp;or read the 2021 Turkey Guide, available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDguMzMwMDg2NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ndWlkZXMvIn0.kCRgxGcksIqZWa_dlwNF2GymKr10Tif1o5oqaBXluEM/s/497221906/br/92856755277-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides</a>&nbsp;or wherever permits are sold.

Spring turkey permits available Jan. 11

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are reporting 15 deaths due to the coronavirus in the last day, lifting the totals to 29 over the weekend, 97 in January and 1,585 since the start of the pandemic.

 Data complied Saturday by The COVID Tracking Project ranks the state fifth highest per capita in the country at 178 deaths per 100,000 people. 

State health officials listed 417 new cases in its new report, increasing the total number to 103,318. 

There were 62 children under 19 and 77 people in their 20s included in the new group of positive tests.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota health officials are reporting 15 deaths due to the coronavirus in the last day, lifting the totals to 29 over the weekend, 97 in January and 1,585 since the start of the pandemic. Data complied Saturday by The COVID Tracking Project ranks the state fifth highest per capita in the country at 178 deaths per 100,000 people. State health officials listed 417 new cases in its new report, increasing the total number to 103,318. There were 62 children under 19 and 77 people in their 20s included in the new group of positive tests.

South Dakota confirms 15 new deaths due to the coronavirus

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Health advocates are working with the new Legislature and state agencies to strengthen and streamline Nebraska's Medicaid program. A recent&nbsp;<a href="https://neappleseed.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Core-Issues_STREAMLINING-THE-MEDICAID-PROGRAM-Nov-2020.pdf" target="_blank">Nebraska Appleseed report</a>&nbsp;includes recommendations for getting more eligible Nebraskans to sign up for and keep health coverage during the global pandemic. Sarah Maresh, health-care access staff attorney with the group, said there are also administrative tweaks agencies can make to ensure the program, which she calls vital for the state's physical and economic wellbeing, is running as efficiently as possible. "It provides health coverage to thousands of Nebraskans who would not otherwise have health coverage," Maresh explained. "It not only supports the health and wellbeing of Nebraskans but it also supports our workforce and health systems and economy." More than one in ten Nebraskans get health coverage through Medicaid, and 65% of participants are children. Nebraska voters approved expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act in 2018, but the program didn't officially launch until almost two years later. As of Dec. 1, some 22,000 Nebraskans were enrolled in Medicaid expansion. Maresh noted nearly 68,000 more Nebraskans are estimated to be eligible for coverage. When people don't have health coverage, Maresh observed they're less likely to get primary care, and patients with untreated conditions are more likely to turn to costly emergency-room visits. She contended Medicaid also is critical for keeping hospital doors open, especially in the state's rural areas, by compensating providers when patients can't pay for care. "When someone goes into the doctor, if they don't have health insurance, if they don't have Medicaid coverage, and they're not able to pay those bills, the provider ends up oftentimes eating those costs," Maresh warned. Maresh added one big barrier to getting more Nebraskans health coverage could be eliminated by reducing paperwork. If state and federal agencies shared eligibility data, it would be easier to get people seeking food, housing or utility assistance enrolled in Medicaid. If someone you know lacks health coverage, assistance with enrollment is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://enroll-ne.org/" target="_blank">enroll-ne.org</a>.

From Nebraska News ConnectionBy Eric GalatasLINCOLN, Neb. -- Health advocates are working with the new Legislature and state agencies to strengthen and streamline Nebraska's Medicaid program. A recent&nbsp;<a href="https://neappleseed.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Core-Issues_STREAMLINING-THE-MEDICAID-PROGRAM-Nov-2020.pdf" target="_blank">Nebraska Appleseed report</a>&nbsp;includes recommendations for getting more eligible Nebraskans to sign up for and keep health coverage during the global pandemic. Sarah Maresh, health-care access staff attorney with the group, said there are also administrative tweaks agencies can make to ensure the program, which she calls vital for the state's physical and economic wellbeing, is running as efficiently as possible. "It provides health coverage to thousands of Nebraskans who would not otherwise have health coverage," Maresh explained. "It not only supports the health and wellbeing of Nebraskans but it also supports our workforce and health systems and economy." More than one in ten Nebraskans get health coverage through Medicaid, and 65% of participants are children. Nebraska voters approved expanding Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act in 2018, but the program didn't officially launch until almost two years later. As of Dec. 1, some 22,000 Nebraskans were enrolled in Medicaid expansion. Maresh noted nearly 68,000 more Nebraskans are estimated to be eligible for coverage. When people don't have health coverage, Maresh observed they're less likely to get primary care, and patients with untreated conditions are more likely to turn to costly emergency-room visits. She contended Medicaid also is critical for keeping hospital doors open, especially in the state's rural areas, by compensating providers when patients can't pay for care. "When someone goes into the doctor, if they don't have health insurance, if they don't have Medicaid coverage, and they're not able to pay those bills, the provider ends up oftentimes eating those costs," Maresh warned. Maresh added one big barrier to getting more Nebraskans health coverage could be eliminated by reducing paperwork. If state and federal agencies shared eligibility data, it would be easier to get people seeking food, housing or utility assistance enrolled in Medicaid. If someone you know lacks health coverage, assistance with enrollment is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://enroll-ne.org/" target="_blank">enroll-ne.org</a>.

Officials Urged: Get more Nebraskans health coverage during pandemic

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s bid to attract the U.S. Space Command’s headquarters to Offutt Air Force Base includes $107 million of public and private money.

 Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce President David Brown, who is one of the backers of the proposal, said last week that the local money is meant to help offset the roughly $1 billion cost of building the new headquarters.

 Offutt is one of the six finalists to become the headquarters. 

Other finalists are Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, Patrick Air Force Base in Florida, Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado, Redstone Army Airfield in Alabama and the former Kelly Air Force Base in Texas.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska’s bid to attract the U.S. Space Command’s headquarters to Offutt Air Force Base includes $107 million of public and private money. Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce President David Brown, who is one of the backers of the proposal, said last week that the local money is meant to help offset the roughly $1 billion cost of building the new headquarters. Offutt is one of the six finalists to become the headquarters. Other finalists are Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, Patrick Air Force Base in Florida, Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado, Redstone Army Airfield in Alabama and the former Kelly Air Force Base in Texas.

Nebraska bid to attract Space Command includes $107 million

LINCOLN –&nbsp; Governor Pete Ricketts, in accordance with a proclamation from President Donald J. Trump, announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff to honor the service and sacrifice of United States Capitol Police Officers Brian D. Sicknick and Howard Liebengood, and all Capitol Police Officers and law enforcement across the country.

Flags will be flown at half-staff until sunset on January 13, 2021. &nbsp;The President’s proclamation can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2Fproclamation-honoring-united-states-capitol-police-officers%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C6376ad412a5d487fa2ea08d8b5d07e46%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637459254365159344%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=2BPTxtDH3D6U3z08upiX9UswfnDTaJrBAoUSk4jcAFk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp; Governor Pete Ricketts, in accordance with a proclamation from President Donald J. Trump, announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags are to be flown at half-staff to honor the service and sacrifice of United States Capitol Police Officers Brian D. Sicknick and Howard Liebengood, and all Capitol Police Officers and law enforcement across the country.Flags will be flown at half-staff until sunset on January 13, 2021. &nbsp;The President’s proclamation can be found by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.whitehouse.gov%2Fpresidential-actions%2Fproclamation-honoring-united-states-capitol-police-officers%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C6376ad412a5d487fa2ea08d8b5d07e46%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637459254365159344%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=2BPTxtDH3D6U3z08upiX9UswfnDTaJrBAoUSk4jcAFk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

Flags to fly at half-staff to honor U.S. Capitol Police Officers

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has issued an executive order to officially direct a lawsuit challenging a voter-approved constitutional amendment to legalize recreational marijuana. 

The order is an effort to ensure that Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Rick Miller has legal standing to sue to overturn the constitutional amendment because he was acting on behalf of the Republican governor.

 Lawyers defending the constitutional amendment had argued that Miller did not have legal standing to sue and asked a South Dakota judge to dismiss the case. 

South Dakota in November passed a constitutional amendment to legalize recreation pot.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem has issued an executive order to officially direct a lawsuit challenging a voter-approved constitutional amendment to legalize recreational marijuana. The order is an effort to ensure that Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Rick Miller has legal standing to sue to overturn the constitutional amendment because he was acting on behalf of the Republican governor. Lawyers defending the constitutional amendment had argued that Miller did not have legal standing to sue and asked a South Dakota judge to dismiss the case. South Dakota in November passed a constitutional amendment to legalize recreation pot.

Noem issues order to direct lawsuit against recreational marijuana

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will push to reduce property taxes during this legislative session by limiting local government spending, and he warns the issue could go to voters if lawmakers don't approve changes.

Ricketts said he's hopeful lawmakers will take steps to slow local government spending, similar to a package he proposed last year that faced strong resistance from K-12 schools. Lawmakers ultimately&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-lincoln-nebraska-omaha-f059f8c52756fc1dd127e64a33c45237" target="_blank">approved a tax credit</a>&nbsp;for property owners to offset some of their local property taxes but scrapped provisions that would have restricted school spending.

"It's important that the Legislature acts on this or, as history demonstrates, the people of Nebraska will do it for them," Ricketts said in an Associated Press interview.

Ricketts declined to say whether he would support a citizen-led ballot measure to restrict local spending, but the former TD Ameritrade executive has a history of bankrolling ballot campaigns with his own money.

In 2016, Ricketts spent $300,000 on a successful ballot measure that reinstated the death penalty after lawmakers voted to override his veto and abolish capital punishment. He also has donated extensively to conservative legislative candidates, including some who challenged more moderate Republicans who supported ending the death penalty.

Anti-tax activists and conservative lawmakers have tried property tax ballot campaigns before, but most of their efforts failed in part due to poor funding.

In the interview, Ricketts pointed to a&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/revenue.nebraska.gov/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2013/annrpt2013-5_Property_Tax_History.pdf" target="_blank">1966 constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;that voters approved to bar the state from collecting property taxes. Farmers and some homeowners have complained in recent years that their property tax bills have soared over the last decade, and they've pressured lawmakers and Ricketts to intervene.

"I believe if it were on the ballot, people would overwhelmingly support it," Ricketts said.

Ricketts said lawmakers have made headway on property taxes, but "now what we need to do is slow the growth of government so that property tax relief actually ends up in people's pockets."

K-12 school officials argue they already spend conservatively, and some rural schools note they have lost state equalization aid because of Nebraska's school-funding formula. The formula distributes money to schools based on their needs and what they can generate locally through property taxes. Farmers argue the arrangement is unfair because they own large amounts of land and must pay higher taxes on it regardless of whether they make a profit.

State senators have passed dozens of laws over the last decade to try to slow the growth of property taxes, but rates have continued to rise.

Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, chairwoman of the tax-focused Revenue Committee, said more of the burden is shifting to homeowners in Nebraska's larger cities and pressure will build on urban lawmakers.

"People are going to get their property tax bills and see that they're not going down," she said. "We can't keep this up."

One state lawmaker who has worked on property tax ballot initiatives in the past said he's confident voters across the state would approve a tax cut.

"Every time we polled people, it was their number one issue, whether they were 18 or 80 and whether they lived in Scottsbluff or Omaha," said Sen. Steve Erdman, of Bayard, .

Erdman has introduced a constitutional amendment this year that would replace most of the state's taxes with a single "consumption tax," based on purchases, with tax credits for low-income residents who would be disproportionately affected. The proposal has eight cosponsors, but it still faces long odds in the Legislature.

Ricketts also said he'll propose additional money for Nebraska's prison system and a new, two-year state budget with a focus on controlling expenses. The state corrections department is seeking $230 million from lawmakers to build a new state prison.

He said he'll also be watching the Legislature's redistricting efforts this year, a once-a-decade ritual that's usually partisan and contentious.

He said he wants to ensure that "all Nebraskans, both urban and rural, are treated fairly" in the process, but declined to give specifics. Western Nebraska is expected to lose at least one legislative district because of population shifts from rural areas to Omaha and Lincoln.

By GRANT SCHULT-Associated Press LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will push to reduce property taxes during this legislative session by limiting local government spending, and he warns the issue could go to voters if lawmakers don't approve changes.Ricketts said he's hopeful lawmakers will take steps to slow local government spending, similar to a package he proposed last year that faced strong resistance from K-12 schools. Lawmakers ultimately&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-lincoln-nebraska-omaha-f059f8c52756fc1dd127e64a33c45237" target="_blank">approved a tax credit</a>&nbsp;for property owners to offset some of their local property taxes but scrapped provisions that would have restricted school spending."It's important that the Legislature acts on this or, as history demonstrates, the people of Nebraska will do it for them," Ricketts said in an Associated Press interview.Ricketts declined to say whether he would support a citizen-led ballot measure to restrict local spending, but the former TD Ameritrade executive has a history of bankrolling ballot campaigns with his own money.In 2016, Ricketts spent $300,000 on a successful ballot measure that reinstated the death penalty after lawmakers voted to override his veto and abolish capital punishment. He also has donated extensively to conservative legislative candidates, including some who challenged more moderate Republicans who supported ending the death penalty.Anti-tax activists and conservative lawmakers have tried property tax ballot campaigns before, but most of their efforts failed in part due to poor funding.In the interview, Ricketts pointed to a&nbsp;<a href="https://revenue.nebraska.gov/sites/revenue.nebraska.gov/files/doc/pad/research/annual-reports/2013/annrpt2013-5_Property_Tax_History.pdf" target="_blank">1966 constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;that voters approved to bar the state from collecting property taxes. Farmers and some homeowners have complained in recent years that their property tax bills have soared over the last decade, and they've pressured lawmakers and Ricketts to intervene."I believe if it were on the ballot, people would overwhelmingly support it," Ricketts said.Ricketts said lawmakers have made headway on property taxes, but "now what we need to do is slow the growth of government so that property tax relief actually ends up in people's pockets."K-12 school officials argue they already spend conservatively, and some rural schools note they have lost state equalization aid because of Nebraska's school-funding formula. The formula distributes money to schools based on their needs and what they can generate locally through property taxes. Farmers argue the arrangement is unfair because they own large amounts of land and must pay higher taxes on it regardless of whether they make a profit.State senators have passed dozens of laws over the last decade to try to slow the growth of property taxes, but rates have continued to rise.Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, chairwoman of the tax-focused Revenue Committee, said more of the burden is shifting to homeowners in Nebraska's larger cities and pressure will build on urban lawmakers."People are going to get their property tax bills and see that they're not going down," she said. "We can't keep this up."One state lawmaker who has worked on property tax ballot initiatives in the past said he's confident voters across the state would approve a tax cut."Every time we polled people, it was their number one issue, whether they were 18 or 80 and whether they lived in Scottsbluff or Omaha," said Sen. Steve Erdman, of Bayard, .Erdman has introduced a constitutional amendment this year that would replace most of the state's taxes with a single "consumption tax," based on purchases, with tax credits for low-income residents who would be disproportionately affected. The proposal has eight cosponsors, but it still faces long odds in the Legislature.Ricketts also said he'll propose additional money for Nebraska's prison system and a new, two-year state budget with a focus on controlling expenses. The state corrections department is seeking $230 million from lawmakers to build a new state prison.He said he'll also be watching the Legislature's redistricting efforts this year, a once-a-decade ritual that's usually partisan and contentious.He said he wants to ensure that "all Nebraskans, both urban and rural, are treated fairly" in the process, but declined to give specifics. Western Nebraska is expected to lose at least one legislative district because of population shifts from rural areas to Omaha and Lincoln.

Ricketts hints at ballot measure if property tax push fails

LINCOLN – Educators can explore handpicked activities to engage early learners in the changing seasons with virtual workshops Feb. 2 and Feb. 9.

Educators, after-school program leaders and in-home daycare providers who work with children ages 3 through 7 are invited to this free workshop. It focuses on the high-quality, easy-to-use Growing Up WILD: Exploring Nature with Young Children guide.

Participants will receive the Growing Up WILD educational activity guide containing 21 lesson plans that build on children’s sense of wonder about nature. This workshop is approved for three in-service hours and will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. each day. Participants must attend both days to receive free resources.

Registration is required for this Zoom workshop. See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDQuMzI3NzQzNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.btkHd-aABVOgcGwcIf3GMJfw_Rt6gRdo2x8-hP66WDg/s/497221906/br/92621077480-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for the registration link.

For more information, contact Jamie Bachmann at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jamie.bachmann@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">jamie.bachmann@nebraska.gov</a>.

LINCOLN – Educators can explore handpicked activities to engage early learners in the changing seasons with virtual workshops Feb. 2 and Feb. 9.Educators, after-school program leaders and in-home daycare providers who work with children ages 3 through 7 are invited to this free workshop. It focuses on the high-quality, easy-to-use Growing Up WILD: Exploring Nature with Young Children guide.Participants will receive the Growing Up WILD educational activity guide containing 21 lesson plans that build on children’s sense of wonder about nature. This workshop is approved for three in-service hours and will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. each day. Participants must attend both days to receive free resources.Registration is required for this Zoom workshop. See the calendar event entry at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMDQuMzI3NzQzNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vY2FsZW5kYXIub3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi8ifQ.btkHd-aABVOgcGwcIf3GMJfw_Rt6gRdo2x8-hP66WDg/s/497221906/br/92621077480-l" target="_blank">calendar.outdoornebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for the registration link.For more information, contact Jamie Bachmann at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jamie.bachmann@nebraska.gov" target="_blank">jamie.bachmann@nebraska.gov</a>.

Game and Parks to offer virtual workshop for early childhood educators

With temperatures dropping and interest in outdoor winter activities heightened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, UScellular wants to inform the public of the potential impact extreme cold temperatures can have on smartphones.

According to the wireless carrier, it is the lithium-ion batteries in smartphones and other connected devices that often create an issue in cold temperatures. Lithium-ion batteries contain liquid. When extreme cold temperatures are introduced, the molecules shrink, which causes potential issues for displays, buttons and battery life.

“We typically think of hot temperatures causing issues for smart devices, but extreme cold can do the same. Anything below 32 degrees is going to start slowing down your&nbsp;phone,” said Jared Blecha, UScellular’s director of sales for Nebraska. “We use our smart devices for nearly everything these days, so it’s important to keep them protected in extreme temperatures, so they maintain their functionality.”

If you deal with cold temperatures, UScellular recommends the following tips to keep your devices safe and working properly:

By US CellularWith temperatures dropping and interest in outdoor winter activities heightened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, UScellular wants to inform the public of the potential impact extreme cold temperatures can have on smartphones.According to the wireless carrier, it is the lithium-ion batteries in smartphones and other connected devices that often create an issue in cold temperatures. Lithium-ion batteries contain liquid. When extreme cold temperatures are introduced, the molecules shrink, which causes potential issues for displays, buttons and battery life.“We typically think of hot temperatures causing issues for smart devices, but extreme cold can do the same. Anything below 32 degrees is going to start slowing down your&nbsp;phone,” said Jared Blecha, UScellular’s director of sales for Nebraska. “We use our smart devices for nearly everything these days, so it’s important to keep them protected in extreme temperatures, so they maintain their functionality.”If you deal with cold temperatures, UScellular recommends the following tips to keep your devices safe and working properly:<ol>
 <li>Charge your device.&nbsp;Because battery power can be reduced in cold temperatures, it’s best to keep your device fully charged to avoid the battery being completely drained in outdoor temperatures. A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscellular.com/accessories/ubio-labs-wireless-power-pack-10k">portable charger</a>, such as the Ubio Labs 4-in-1 Portable Charger, is a good thing to carry.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Keep your device in a case. Think about it like a winter jacket. You would not go outside without one, so don’t do that to your phone. When it comes to protecting your phone, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscellular.com/accessories/otterbox-defender-black-case-for-iphone-12-and-12-pro">case</a>, such as the OtterBox Defender Case, is a first line of defense. It can create a barrier between your device and the outside elements.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Keep your device in a pocket. Humans are a natural source of heat. When you are out in the cold, try to keep your device in a coat pocket rather than in a purse or bag. This will help protect the device from the shock of the freezing conditions.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Let your device warm up before you try to use it. For optimal performance, users should avoid storing devices in frigid places, such as a parked car. If a phone powers off due to the cold, give it time to warm up to room temperature before you hit the power button. Never use heating sources, such as a blow dryer.</li>
 </ol>

Cold weather can harm smart devices

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts says he’s reasonably satisfied with the state’s distribution of coronavirus vaccines despite a slowdown last month. But he's urging residents to remain patient and expect some logistical delays. 

Ricketts says the state has received an additional 40,000 doses in the last couple of days. 

It will take a few more days to get them distributed. 

The state has distributed 133,896 doses so far. 

Nebraska saw two brief slowdowns in distribution around Christmas and after New Year’s Day. But the numbers increased sharply on Tuesday. 

Health officials administered 13,644 vaccines that day. That was up from 2,967 the previous day.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts says he’s reasonably satisfied with the state’s distribution of coronavirus vaccines despite a slowdown last month. But he's urging residents to remain patient and expect some logistical delays. Ricketts says the state has received an additional 40,000 doses in the last couple of days. It will take a few more days to get them distributed. The state has distributed 133,896 doses so far. Nebraska saw two brief slowdowns in distribution around Christmas and after New Year’s Day. But the numbers increased sharply on Tuesday. Health officials administered 13,644 vaccines that day. That was up from 2,967 the previous day.

Ricketts satisfied with vaccine rollout, urges patience

Hot Springs, SD - Fall River Health Services continues to provide COVID-19 Vaccine to 1A and now will be including 1C Partners, which are: Other Healthcare Workers, Public Health Workers, Emergency Medical Services, Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers. 

ONLY CONTACT FRHS for Phase 1A or Phase 1C Partners at this time to schedule your appointment. Call Tricia Davison, Clinic Manager, at 605.745.8928 ext:1259-<a href="http://www.frhssd.org/COVID">www.frhssd.org/COVID</a>

&nbsp;A "COVID-19: Expected Vaccine Availability Timeline" infographic is available on the South Dakota Department of Health 's website in English and Spanish. Check it out to get an estimated timeline of when the #COVID19 #vaccine will be available to your group:&nbsp;<a href="https://doh.sd.gov/COVID/Vaccine/" target="_blank">https://doh.sd.gov/COVID/Vaccine/</a>

Hot Springs, SD - Fall River Health Services continues to provide COVID-19 Vaccine to 1A and now will be including 1C Partners, which are: Other Healthcare Workers, Public Health Workers, Emergency Medical Services, Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers. ONLY CONTACT FRHS for Phase 1A or Phase 1C Partners at this time to schedule your appointment. Call Tricia Davison, Clinic Manager, at 605.745.8928 ext:1259-<a href="http://www.frhssd.org/COVID">www.frhssd.org/COVID</a>&nbsp;A "COVID-19: Expected Vaccine Availability Timeline" infographic is available on the South Dakota Department of Health 's website in English and Spanish. Check it out to get an estimated timeline of when the #COVID19 #vaccine will be available to your group:&nbsp;<a href="https://doh.sd.gov/COVID/Vaccine/" target="_blank">https://doh.sd.gov/COVID/Vaccine/</a>

Fall River Health Services continues to vaccinate 

By Dave Ostdiek, Communications Associate&nbsp;UNL Panhandle Research and Extension Center

As the new year begins, the research plots are quiet at the High Plains Ag Laboratory 6 miles northwest of Sidney. Winter wheat fields are dormant and summer crop fields are awaiting the spring planting season.

But inside, scientists and support staff are analyzing data, planning for 2021, and doing the other tasks of carrying out research that is aimed at helping crop and livestock producers in this semi-arid region be more efficient, sustainable and profitable.

The High Plains Ag Lab (HPAL) is operated by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR), under the supervision of IANR’s Panhandle Research and Extension Center at Scottsbluff, 75 miles to the northwest.

It was 50 years ago last August that the U.S. Department of Defense deeded more than 2,000 acres of land, previously part of a military munitions depot, to the University of Nebraska to use for research. Since then, HPAL has helped bring about some notable advances in crop and livestock production. It enters its sixth decade with improved and expanded facilities, equipment and capacity, and a new role as the base camp for the Nebraska Variety Testing Program.

HPAL’s 2,410 acres consist of working laboratories for both crops and livestock research: 710 acres for crops, divided into 17 fields, and the remaining approximately 1,700 acres for grazing land, divided into 12 pastures. Two of the crop fields are equipped with lateral-move sprinkler systems to simulate rain.

A new office-research building was constructed in 2015. Other buildings include a large shop, and several other buildings that remained from HPAL’s previous life as a military ordnance depot.

The 50th&nbsp;anniversary normally would have been observed during a summer annual field day. But the COVID pandemic intervened to change things in 2020. Instead of hosting group tours of the plots, HPAL created video tours of the research going on at the plots, and posted a virtual field day on the World Wide Web at&nbsp;<a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/panhandle/virtual-field-tours-2020/" target="_blank">https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/panhandle/virtual-field-tours-2020/</a>

Research at HPAL is supervised by Cody Creech, Dryland Cropping Systems Specialist, who is based at the Panhandle Center in Scottsbluff. The Sidney staff includes Farm Manager Jake Hansen, Research Assistant Professor Amanda Easterly, and research technicians Vern Florke, Bill Struckmeyer, Stephan Geu, and David Blanke, along with several graduate students.

Other UNL faculty based at the Panhandle Center also conduct research at HPAL in disciplines including soil science, nutrient management, plant breeding, plant pathology, entomology, weed science, economics, forage and range management, and yearling stocker grazing systems.

The locally based faculty and staff conduct research in collaboration with Lincoln-based IANR faculty, researchers from other universities, and researchers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS). Strategic direction is provided the HPAL Advisory Committee of local stakeholders, chaired by Keith Rexroth, a Sidney farmer.

The office and laboratory building dedicated in 2015 is named for Charles R. Fenster of Gering, in recognition of Fenster's lifetime work as a pioneering UNL cropping systems specialist. Fenster, who retired in 1982 and passed away in 2016, was the first faculty supervisor at HPAL and was instrumental in its establishment.

A profile of Fenster is at&nbsp;<a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/panhandle/remembering-charlie-fenster/" target="_blank">https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/panhandle/remembering-charlie-fenster/</a>

The 2,800-square-foot building provides offices for permanent staff; work stations for students or visiting scientists; a conference room; and space for processing and analyzing seed and plant material.

In 2019 HPAL became the new home of the Nebraska State Variety Testing Program, led by Creech and Easterly, whose goals are to develop the program into a leader regionally and to leverage new research opportunities. The program includes not only winter wheat, but also spring wheat, corn, and grain sorghum. And additional crops will follow in 2021.

New equipment and technology acquired in recent years will help carry out the variety trials program. A new plot combine makes harvesting quicker, improves data collection, and provides in-cab sampling. HPAL also has new equipment and technology to allow the use of barcodes to streamline data capture, and equipment to test the protein content of grain in-house. The staff constructed a new research drill for planting wheat in 2020. The new implement allows for precision application of seed and fertilizer and is fitted with Global Positioning System.

Although the university formally acquired HPAL in 1970, the groundwork had been laid nearly a decade earlier by a group of area ag and business leaders who saw the need for a research facility that could address the problems specific to the High Plains. Sidney is not only 350 miles west of UNL’s main campus in Lincoln. It is also about 3,500 feet higher in elevation and receives about half the annual average precipitation.

The locally based effort that recognized the need and lobbied the University of Nebraska, Nebraska State Legislature, and Department of Defense for support, funding, and the needed land is described in “College of Agriculture of the University of Nebraska Lincoln: The First Century,” a book by Elvin Frolik and Ralston J. Graham published in 1987.&nbsp;

As Frolik and Graham tell it, the work of the Cheyenne County Rural Area Development (RAD) Committee, largely through its crops committee, was instrumental in getting the Laboratory established. The need for the field laboratory was underscored in 1964, when there was a severe outbreak of black stem rust, wheat streak mosaic, and crown and root rot of wheat in the Panhandle. That year it was announced that the Department of Defense was phasing out the Sioux Army Ordnance Depot. The RAD Committee immediately explored the possibility of utilizing some of the land and facilities for an experiment station.

The ordnance depot was established during World War II, in 1942, according to a nearby highway marker erected by the Nebraska State Historical Society. The depot’s mission was the receipt, storage, and issue of all types of ammunition from small arms to 10,000-pound bombs, all types of general supplies from small automobile parts to jeeps, and various strategic and critical materials. The depot was a vast facility, occupying 19,771 acres with 801 ammunition storage igloos, 22 general supply warehouses, 392 support buildings, 225 family living quarters, 51 miles of railroad tracks, and 203 miles of roads. It was deactivated in 1967.

Beginning in 1962, representatives of the RAD committee, along with Extension staff and State Sen. George Fleming, made trips to Lincoln to seek support in establishing a field research laboratory from UNL administration (including Frolik, then University of Nebraska Dean of Agriculture).

Over the next several years, the Sidney delegation conducted shuttle diplomacy, meeting with UNL administrators, state officials and U.S. Department of Defense brass to provide evidence of the need for an ag lab, arrange to transfer ownership of part of the ordnance depot and convert it to the new use, and provide the funding and other support needed to establish and operate the lab.

In 1965 the Legislature approved a bill to establish the experiment station and appropriated $100,000 in funding. In 1966, the University of Nebraska Board of Regents applied to the U.S. Government for a transfer of land, improvements and equipment. After lengthy negotiations, the government issued an interim use permit for the University to initiate operations. On April 7, 1967, the U.S. Government made available to the University of Nebraska 2,410 acres of land along with 14 round igloos, two warehouse buildings, and one headquarters building, as well as farm equipment, industrial equipment, and tools.

In 1970 the federal government deeded the land to the university.

Under Fenster's guidance a research program was initiated immediately upon the university's obtaining possession of the property. In addition to Fenster, subsequent faculty supervisors have included David Baltensperger, Drew Lyon, and Cody Creech. When the RAD Committee was terminated in 1971, Director John L. Weihing of the Panhandle Station prevailed upon the members to become the advisory group for the HPAL.

By Dave Ostdiek, Communications Associate&nbsp;UNL Panhandle Research and Extension CenterAs the new year begins, the research plots are quiet at the High Plains Ag Laboratory 6 miles northwest of Sidney. Winter wheat fields are dormant and summer crop fields are awaiting the spring planting season.But inside, scientists and support staff are analyzing data, planning for 2021, and doing the other tasks of carrying out research that is aimed at helping crop and livestock producers in this semi-arid region be more efficient, sustainable and profitable.The High Plains Ag Lab (HPAL) is operated by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR), under the supervision of IANR’s Panhandle Research and Extension Center at Scottsbluff, 75 miles to the northwest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610131283209.jpeg" alt="Cody Creech and Amanda Easterly at the HPAL office and research building." />
 <figcaption>Cody Creech and Amanda Easterly at the HPAL office and research building.</figcaption>
 </figure>It was 50 years ago last August that the U.S. Department of Defense deeded more than 2,000 acres of land, previously part of a military munitions depot, to the University of Nebraska to use for research. Since then, HPAL has helped bring about some notable advances in crop and livestock production. It enters its sixth decade with improved and expanded facilities, equipment and capacity, and a new role as the base camp for the Nebraska Variety Testing Program.HPAL’s 2,410 acres consist of working laboratories for both crops and livestock research: 710 acres for crops, divided into 17 fields, and the remaining approximately 1,700 acres for grazing land, divided into 12 pastures. Two of the crop fields are equipped with lateral-move sprinkler systems to simulate rain.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610131399206.jpeg" alt="On April 17, 1967, RAD President Ray Cruise and Col. C. Williams drew a symbolic furrow on what had now been named the High Plains Agricultural Laboratory." />
 <figcaption>On April 17, 1967, RAD President Ray Cruise and Col. C. Williams drew a symbolic furrow on what had now been named the High Plains Agricultural Laboratory.</figcaption>
 </figure>A new office-research building was constructed in 2015. Other buildings include a large shop, and several other buildings that remained from HPAL’s previous life as a military ordnance depot.The 50th&nbsp;anniversary normally would have been observed during a summer annual field day. But the COVID pandemic intervened to change things in 2020. Instead of hosting group tours of the plots, HPAL created video tours of the research going on at the plots, and posted a virtual field day on the World Wide Web at&nbsp;<a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/panhandle/virtual-field-tours-2020/" target="_blank">https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/panhandle/virtual-field-tours-2020/</a>Research at HPAL is supervised by Cody Creech, Dryland Cropping Systems Specialist, who is based at the Panhandle Center in Scottsbluff. The Sidney staff includes Farm Manager Jake Hansen, Research Assistant Professor Amanda Easterly, and research technicians Vern Florke, Bill Struckmeyer, Stephan Geu, and David Blanke, along with several graduate students.Other UNL faculty based at the Panhandle Center also conduct research at HPAL in disciplines including soil science, nutrient management, plant breeding, plant pathology, entomology, weed science, economics, forage and range management, and yearling stocker grazing systems.The locally based faculty and staff conduct research in collaboration with Lincoln-based IANR faculty, researchers from other universities, and researchers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS). Strategic direction is provided the HPAL Advisory Committee of local stakeholders, chaired by Keith Rexroth, a Sidney farmer.The office and laboratory building dedicated in 2015 is named for Charles R. Fenster of Gering, in recognition of Fenster's lifetime work as a pioneering UNL cropping systems specialist. Fenster, who retired in 1982 and passed away in 2016, was the first faculty supervisor at HPAL and was instrumental in its establishment.A profile of Fenster is at&nbsp;<a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/panhandle/remembering-charlie-fenster/" target="_blank">https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/panhandle/remembering-charlie-fenster/</a>The 2,800-square-foot building provides offices for permanent staff; work stations for students or visiting scientists; a conference room; and space for processing and analyzing seed and plant material.In 2019 HPAL became the new home of the Nebraska State Variety Testing Program, led by Creech and Easterly, whose goals are to develop the program into a leader regionally and to leverage new research opportunities. The program includes not only winter wheat, but also spring wheat, corn, and grain sorghum. And additional crops will follow in 2021.New equipment and technology acquired in recent years will help carry out the variety trials program. A new plot combine makes harvesting quicker, improves data collection, and provides in-cab sampling. HPAL also has new equipment and technology to allow the use of barcodes to streamline data capture, and equipment to test the protein content of grain in-house. The staff constructed a new research drill for planting wheat in 2020. The new implement allows for precision application of seed and fertilizer and is fitted with Global Positioning System.Although the university formally acquired HPAL in 1970, the groundwork had been laid nearly a decade earlier by a group of area ag and business leaders who saw the need for a research facility that could address the problems specific to the High Plains. Sidney is not only 350 miles west of UNL’s main campus in Lincoln. It is also about 3,500 feet higher in elevation and receives about half the annual average precipitation.The locally based effort that recognized the need and lobbied the University of Nebraska, Nebraska State Legislature, and Department of Defense for support, funding, and the needed land is described in “College of Agriculture of the University of Nebraska Lincoln: The First Century,” a book by Elvin Frolik and Ralston J. Graham published in 1987.&nbsp;As Frolik and Graham tell it, the work of the Cheyenne County Rural Area Development (RAD) Committee, largely through its crops committee, was instrumental in getting the Laboratory established. The need for the field laboratory was underscored in 1964, when there was a severe outbreak of black stem rust, wheat streak mosaic, and crown and root rot of wheat in the Panhandle. That year it was announced that the Department of Defense was phasing out the Sioux Army Ordnance Depot. The RAD Committee immediately explored the possibility of utilizing some of the land and facilities for an experiment station.The ordnance depot was established during World War II, in 1942, according to a nearby highway marker erected by the Nebraska State Historical Society. The depot’s mission was the receipt, storage, and issue of all types of ammunition from small arms to 10,000-pound bombs, all types of general supplies from small automobile parts to jeeps, and various strategic and critical materials. The depot was a vast facility, occupying 19,771 acres with 801 ammunition storage igloos, 22 general supply warehouses, 392 support buildings, 225 family living quarters, 51 miles of railroad tracks, and 203 miles of roads. It was deactivated in 1967.Beginning in 1962, representatives of the RAD committee, along with Extension staff and State Sen. George Fleming, made trips to Lincoln to seek support in establishing a field research laboratory from UNL administration (including Frolik, then University of Nebraska Dean of Agriculture).Over the next several years, the Sidney delegation conducted shuttle diplomacy, meeting with UNL administrators, state officials and U.S. Department of Defense brass to provide evidence of the need for an ag lab, arrange to transfer ownership of part of the ordnance depot and convert it to the new use, and provide the funding and other support needed to establish and operate the lab.In 1965 the Legislature approved a bill to establish the experiment station and appropriated $100,000 in funding. In 1966, the University of Nebraska Board of Regents applied to the U.S. Government for a transfer of land, improvements and equipment. After lengthy negotiations, the government issued an interim use permit for the University to initiate operations. On April 7, 1967, the U.S. Government made available to the University of Nebraska 2,410 acres of land along with 14 round igloos, two warehouse buildings, and one headquarters building, as well as farm equipment, industrial equipment, and tools.In 1970 the federal government deeded the land to the university.Under Fenster's guidance a research program was initiated immediately upon the university's obtaining possession of the property. In addition to Fenster, subsequent faculty supervisors have included David Baltensperger, Drew Lyon, and Cody Creech. When the RAD Committee was terminated in 1971, Director John L. Weihing of the Panhandle Station prevailed upon the members to become the advisory group for the HPAL.UNL provides the facilities, faculty, staff and equipment to conduct research at HPAL along with support from commodity groups, industry, and others.During a given year, crop research at HPAL consists of 25 or more trials, with the primary focus on key regional production issues: integrated management of weeds, diseases and pests in winter wheat and sunflower. The fields allow for eight different crop rotations ranging from two to six years, representing the rotations commonly used in region. Long-term tillage plots established in 1969 compare moldboard plow, sub-tillage, and no-tillage fallow systems.HPAL also is a key location for grazing supplementation research. A main focus is integrated crops and livestock systems (especially ways of improving cattle performance with supplements to cool-season grasses, which have less nutrition value late in the summer). Potential strategies include feeding cattle on field peas, planting annual forages in various points in a rotation (replacing dryland crop or fallow, or following a dryland crop). Another livestock research focus is strategic supplementation and marketing strategies for yearlings on grass.Over the years, HPAL has played a major role in developing dryland tillage systems such as eco-fallow, stubble mulch, and flexible fallow. Other notable research to come out of the Sidney facility over the past 50 years includes:<ul>
 <li>Breeding nurseries for winter wheat, millet, sorghum</li><li>Control of Russian wheat aphid, sunflower insect pests, wheat stem sawfly, wheat curl mite</li><li>Crop rotations for control of jointed goatgrass, rye, and downy brome</li><li>Optimum rotations for dryland crops including wheat, proso millet, corn, forages</li><li>Nutritional supplements for cattle on summer range</li><li>Cattle production systems from weaning to slaughter, and use of locally grown feedstuffs for supplementation.</li>
 </ul>

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