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OMAHA, NEBRASKA — During Fire Prevention Week (October 6-12), the American Red Cross of Nebraska reminds everyone home fires claim more lives in a typical year than all natural disasters combined. To help protect your household, test your smoke alarms each month and practice your escape plan until everyone can get out in less than two minutes.

“Fire now travels faster through homes, largely due to popular open-concept layouts and synthetic materials,” said Josh Murray, Red Cross of Nebraska spokesperson. “The sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get out. This is critical because fire experts say you may have less than two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late.”

Tips for creating your home fire escape plan and practicing your 2-minute drill:

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUysulehxI60UorhHGlVUwVxjOs2_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAhs8k3ArogGL7ELNFFOMUXKGq-2F1eBFXNTsSkHVS1-2B0fhplCYSnSMDp19W-2BQHfhNOi3euR3qtceU80HqDKKlcXR0Aypq9BfHJ3Hxhq81ukrN8Ie9rLFLXkrTSdGbiVURGb8S52ZevytyLFlFXM3syaEk-3D">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including a home fire escape plan to create and practice with your household. You can also download our free Emergency app (search “American Red Cross” in app stores).

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVE LIVES&nbsp;Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 2,169 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUyTikC899JonVspXy7p8NavX2Ok_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAgsWfwddbqMVSa-2BJ47fdoNdLFlad1w5elM64ljnP6H5Rfde6GuKjjpHD81uKBdbR4O2Ow3f9FVAWwvhewR5fEP0DU4mDHh5I2ppG8R1BYErf4qt5pkwgj8JhClw5xwwL87pztftWfXzaFep7x7cC1k0-3D">redcross.org/homefires</a>.&nbsp;

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdTqaAJlt5LOCznNLmLfPjMA-3Dsyhv_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAkfn-2BoKDWJblsSkHtKmZgcpjKA5ZLymGRdKNYw-2FcuY4awukaSPCltw77bDZtyGkA3vxmkSCqyHpjz-2Fe4bi-2BOTmQGHijvnxPcOZGd4544fgGW2a-2F88CoXPLGzcVjQQOSzP6SFLFHaCRqiGK7Hz-2FWTv-2Fk-3D">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdZCpBS8hc66RWakFg9GcSpVk3u-2BevSeOtR5S8POS15xyulEB_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAokVd3t1yCKYrNRXVyizAecqT8-2Bv3r85N9XDkS2O4Ex-2FwJ4Q-2FyR7g9CGkgRGgiwHag0ud9QD9aue3-2FMOgo0o-2BjMmIN7KBBNskc0I9MdJFcvas2uBzYJy3D4Ti7xyuIwHYtj-2B4UDP9H4tQTaKRSQF2Bc-3D">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or visit us on Twitter at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC4HOZy-2BNe4USGkgkvJemOlEON48AGIWN9WxEfQlydjvyYyP2_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAs-2BEY2JTde7i9my-2FPNlJ8deaipsUMP92r0BNJZkq3SlVE-2BK6MlrPnfAiJGSDBCGL-2BEw-2FhEbDvpmKSfU81aDiaWVg8Z7b7-2Fa7uLn7V-2FVdVTrJl5X2K-2BCD75C6NBQIhkrciWW-2FXVKWNkmLicp9Y8-2Fsjzo-3D">@RedCross</a>.

American Red CrossOMAHA, NEBRASKA — During Fire Prevention Week (October 6-12), the American Red Cross of Nebraska reminds everyone home fires claim more lives in a typical year than all natural disasters combined. To help protect your household, test your smoke alarms each month and practice your escape plan until everyone can get out in less than two minutes.“Fire now travels faster through homes, largely due to popular open-concept layouts and synthetic materials,” said Josh Murray, Red Cross of Nebraska spokesperson. “The sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get out. This is critical because fire experts say you may have less than two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late.”Tips for creating your home fire escape plan and practicing your 2-minute drill:<ul>
 <li>Everyone in your household should know&nbsp;two&nbsp;ways to escape from each room in your home.</li><li>Smoke is dangerous. Get low and go!</li><li>Decide where to meet once you get outside. Select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as a neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone knows to meet.</li><li>Get out and stay out. Never go back inside for people, pets or things.</li><li>If a fire starts, you may have less than&nbsp;two minutes&nbsp;to get to safety. Time your fire drill and find out: what’s your escape time?</li><li>While practicing your escape plan, teach children what a smoke alarm sounds like. Talk about fire safety and what to do in an emergency.</li>
 </ul>Smoke alarm safety:<ul>
 <li>Place smoke alarms on each level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.</li><li>In addition to testing your alarms once a month, change the batteries at least once a year, if your model requires it.</li><li>Also check the manufacturer’s date of your smoke alarms. If they’re 10 years or older, they need to be replaced because the sensor becomes less sensitive over time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.</li>
 </ul>Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUysulehxI60UorhHGlVUwVxjOs2_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAhs8k3ArogGL7ELNFFOMUXKGq-2F1eBFXNTsSkHVS1-2B0fhplCYSnSMDp19W-2BQHfhNOi3euR3qtceU80HqDKKlcXR0Aypq9BfHJ3Hxhq81ukrN8Ie9rLFLXkrTSdGbiVURGb8S52ZevytyLFlFXM3syaEk-3D">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including a home fire escape plan to create and practice with your household. You can also download our free Emergency app (search “American Red Cross” in app stores).HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVE LIVES&nbsp;Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 2,169 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdQDUSRTVVNhCpuFViEAZkUyTikC899JonVspXy7p8NavX2Ok_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAgsWfwddbqMVSa-2BJ47fdoNdLFlad1w5elM64ljnP6H5Rfde6GuKjjpHD81uKBdbR4O2Ow3f9FVAWwvhewR5fEP0DU4mDHh5I2ppG8R1BYErf4qt5pkwgj8JhClw5xwwL87pztftWfXzaFep7x7cC1k0-3D">redcross.org/homefires</a>.&nbsp;About the American Red Cross:The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdTqaAJlt5LOCznNLmLfPjMA-3Dsyhv_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAkfn-2BoKDWJblsSkHtKmZgcpjKA5ZLymGRdKNYw-2FcuY4awukaSPCltw77bDZtyGkA3vxmkSCqyHpjz-2Fe4bi-2BOTmQGHijvnxPcOZGd4544fgGW2a-2F88CoXPLGzcVjQQOSzP6SFLFHaCRqiGK7Hz-2FWTv-2Fk-3D">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.b00YhNV2Nr0-2BaZn7eVNAdZCpBS8hc66RWakFg9GcSpVk3u-2BevSeOtR5S8POS15xyulEB_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAokVd3t1yCKYrNRXVyizAecqT8-2Bv3r85N9XDkS2O4Ex-2FwJ4Q-2FyR7g9CGkgRGgiwHag0ud9QD9aue3-2FMOgo0o-2BjMmIN7KBBNskc0I9MdJFcvas2uBzYJy3D4Ti7xyuIwHYtj-2B4UDP9H4tQTaKRSQF2Bc-3D">CruzRojaAmericana.org</a>, or visit us on Twitter at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC4HOZy-2BNe4USGkgkvJemOlEON48AGIWN9WxEfQlydjvyYyP2_zEOLHw6mHPpUboszb4lxzn-2FWfgiGZZljUWwyilPPfcrXXfmVBzHnavjtNkTOYjqEx5eOh2mcWHIGY492PIfsWsyGWhoO2mGEzQUR6nhbB8CykBOZZWoxvATOmu6Yp5P5pElYYkZ-2BWiKvwf-2FYzXimFcBuzsEJHRMYrT0J-2FrikpPg4zVl5ccXBOchtDbdYoG64eardoaIv8dZvCATfvt6-2FAs-2BEY2JTde7i9my-2FPNlJ8deaipsUMP92r0BNJZkq3SlVE-2BK6MlrPnfAiJGSDBCGL-2BEw-2FhEbDvpmKSfU81aDiaWVg8Z7b7-2Fa7uLn7V-2FVdVTrJl5X2K-2BCD75C6NBQIhkrciWW-2FXVKWNkmLicp9Y8-2Fsjzo-3D">@RedCross</a>.

Fire Prevention Week: Protect your household by practicing home fire escape plan, testing smoke alarms

CHADRON- The Scholastic Contest at Chadron State College is set for Wednesday. This year, 34 schools from Nebraska and surrounding states will participate, with a total of 972 students expected according to Associate Chief Information Officer Joby Collins.

For many years, the competition has consistently drawn a large number of participants, with last year’s event hosting more than 900 students from 32 schools. In the history of the contest, the number of participants has reached as high as 2,642 students.

Arrival and check-in will take place from 7 to 8:15 a.m. at the Student Center. A designated drop-off area will be available in front of the Student Center for check-in. Participants are advised to allow 15 to 20 minutes for check-in and material distribution. Testing will take place from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Guides will be available at the Lindeken Clock Tower 20 minutes prior to each testing time to escort students to their respective testing locations. Escorts will depart 15 minutes before each scheduled test. Additional guides will be stationed at various locations around campus to assist with general questions.

All campus buildings and facilities will be open for tours, providing students with an opportunity to explore the campus. The Student Center will be open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering students a place to relax, enjoy refreshments, and dine.

A study room in the Student Center will be provided for students to prepare for their tests, complete with coloring sheets and other resources.

A variety of entertainment activities will also be available throughout the day. Highlights include an obstacle course, collaboratively hosted by the Social Work Club and the Psychology Club, and line dancing lessons provided by Night of Country Swing. Additionally, the Pre-Vet Club will offer dummy roping for participants.

Awards for the competition include sweatshirts for test winners, medals for the top three placements in each test, and certificates of merit for those finishing in the top 25 percent. &nbsp;All contestants will receive certificates of participation. Additionally, a plaque will be awarded to the top school in each division.

First-place winners among junior and senior high students will receive a Scholastic Achievement Award of $500, which serves as a non-renewable, non-transferable tuition waiver. Students who win a scholarship as juniors are also eligible to win as seniors.

For more information, visit the CSC Scholastic Competition at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/scholastic/" target="_blank">csc.edu/scholastic/</a>

CHADRON- The Scholastic Contest at Chadron State College is set for Wednesday. This year, 34 schools from Nebraska and surrounding states will participate, with a total of 972 students expected according to Associate Chief Information Officer Joby Collins.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728399363033.jpeg" alt="Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Rachelle Rider proctors an Anatomy and Physiology exam during the 60th Scholastic Contest, 2023. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)" />
 <figcaption>Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Rachelle Rider proctors an Anatomy and Physiology exam during the 60th Scholastic Contest, 2023. (Courtesy photo, used with permission)</figcaption>
 </figure>For many years, the competition has consistently drawn a large number of participants, with last year’s event hosting more than 900 students from 32 schools. In the history of the contest, the number of participants has reached as high as 2,642 students.Arrival and check-in will take place from 7 to 8:15 a.m. at the Student Center. A designated drop-off area will be available in front of the Student Center for check-in. Participants are advised to allow 15 to 20 minutes for check-in and material distribution. Testing will take place from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.Guides will be available at the Lindeken Clock Tower 20 minutes prior to each testing time to escort students to their respective testing locations. Escorts will depart 15 minutes before each scheduled test. Additional guides will be stationed at various locations around campus to assist with general questions.All campus buildings and facilities will be open for tours, providing students with an opportunity to explore the campus. The Student Center will be open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering students a place to relax, enjoy refreshments, and dine.A study room in the Student Center will be provided for students to prepare for their tests, complete with coloring sheets and other resources.A variety of entertainment activities will also be available throughout the day. Highlights include an obstacle course, collaboratively hosted by the Social Work Club and the Psychology Club, and line dancing lessons provided by Night of Country Swing. Additionally, the Pre-Vet Club will offer dummy roping for participants.Awards for the competition include sweatshirts for test winners, medals for the top three placements in each test, and certificates of merit for those finishing in the top 25 percent. &nbsp;All contestants will receive certificates of participation. Additionally, a plaque will be awarded to the top school in each division.First-place winners among junior and senior high students will receive a Scholastic Achievement Award of $500, which serves as a non-renewable, non-transferable tuition waiver. Students who win a scholarship as juniors are also eligible to win as seniors.For more information, visit the CSC Scholastic Competition at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.csc.edu/scholastic/" target="_blank">csc.edu/scholastic/</a>-Sydney Brown

CSC hosts 61st annual Scholastic Contest

On September 21, shorly before noon, the body of 22-year-old, Chadron State College student, Trevor Eisenbraun was discovered in rural Dawes County by an officer with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Shortly thereafter, the Dawes County Attorney/Coroner, Dawes County Sheriff's Office and Nebraska State Patrol were contacted to assist in the investigation.&nbsp;

After a review of the scene, the evidence recovered on scene, interviews with witnesses and a review of autopsy results, it has been determined that Mr. Eisenbraun died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.&nbsp;

By Dawes County Attorney's OfficeOn September 21, shorly before noon, the body of 22-year-old, Chadron State College student, Trevor Eisenbraun was discovered in rural Dawes County by an officer with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Shortly thereafter, the Dawes County Attorney/Coroner, Dawes County Sheriff's Office and Nebraska State Patrol were contacted to assist in the investigation.&nbsp;After a review of the scene, the evidence recovered on scene, interviews with witnesses and a review of autopsy results, it has been determined that Mr. Eisenbraun died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.&nbsp;

Dawes Co. attorney/coroner investigate Chadron State student death

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dobDNgOSMGA?si=lCBhPu7U5MDOzuTO" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.

🎤Forward Ever: American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright

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P202400562 08:33 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political sign, no suspects at this time. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400562 08:33 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political sign, no suspects at this time. Open - Under Investigation

P202400563 09:31 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political sign. No suspects at this time. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400563 09:31 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political sign. No suspects at this time. Open - Under Investigation

P202400564 12:13 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political signs. No known suspects. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400564 12:13 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political signs. No known suspects. Open - Under Investigation

P202400566 12:53 DISTURBANCE : Closed - Victim Refused to Cooperate

P202400566 12:53 DISTURBANCE : Closed - Unfounded

P202400566 12:53 DISTURBANCE : Open - Under Investigation

P202400565 14:34 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political signs. No suspect at this time. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400565 14:34 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political signs. No suspect at this time. Open - Under Investigation

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P202400569 10:11 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Dylan Kaiser was taken in for Civil Protective Custody to sober up. Kaiser will then be placed under Emergency Protective Custody. Closed - Resolved

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P202400568 10:11 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Officers dispatched to report of a male slashing a females tires on her car. Male was located and issued a citation for Criminal Mischief. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400570 02:11 THEFT : THEFT Officers responded to 1640 W 3rd (Maverik) in reference to a reported shoplifting. Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400570 02:11 THEFT : THEFT Officers responded to 1640 W 3rd (Maverik) in reference to a reported shoplifting. Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400571 09:17 STOLEN VEHICLE : Vehicle reported stolen, but owner of vehicle remembered leaving it at the BNSF depot Closed - Resolved

P202400572 10:56 MVA : NON INJURY Report of a hit and run accident that occurred between midnight and seven am. No suspects at this time Inactive - Case Suspended

P202400574 21:59 DISTURBANCE : Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400576 02:59 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS reported suspicious activity on the 900 block of W 3rd ST/ suspect located/ charges recommended Closed - Charges Recommended

P202400578 10:14 EMS : MEDICAL Officer dispatched to MVA involving a vehicle and electric scooter. Minor injuries report taken. Closed - Resolved

P202400577 12:04 MVA : NON INJURY Officer dispatched to single vehicle non injury MVA on private property. Report taken, case closed. Closed - Resolved

By Alliance Police Department09/29/24P202400561 01:28 THEFT : THEFT Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400562 08:33 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political sign, no suspects at this time. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400562 08:33 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political sign, no suspects at this time. Open - Under InvestigationP202400563 09:31 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political sign. No suspects at this time. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400563 09:31 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political sign. No suspects at this time. Open - Under InvestigationP202400564 12:13 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political signs. No known suspects. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400564 12:13 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political signs. No known suspects. Open - Under InvestigationP202400566 12:53 DISTURBANCE : Closed - Victim Refused to CooperateP202400566 12:53 DISTURBANCE : Closed - UnfoundedP202400566 12:53 DISTURBANCE : Open - Under InvestigationP202400565 14:34 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political signs. No suspect at this time. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400565 14:34 THEFT : THEFT Theft of political signs. No suspect at this time. Open - Under Investigation09/29/24 Total: 1209/30/24P202400567 08:15 MVA : INJURY 2 vehicle MVA. No patients transported. Closed - ResolvedP202400569 10:11 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Dylan Kaiser was taken in for Civil Protective Custody to sober up. Kaiser will then be placed under Emergency Protective Custody. Closed - ResolvedP202400569 10:11 SUICIDAL : SUICIDAL Dylan Kaiser was taken in for Civil Protective Custody to sober up. Kaiser will then be placed under Emergency Protective Custody. Open - Under InvestigationP202400568 10:11 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF : Officers dispatched to report of a male slashing a females tires on her car. Male was located and issued a citation for Criminal Mischief. Closed - Charges Recommended09/30/24 Total: 410/01/24P202400570 02:11 THEFT : THEFT Officers responded to 1640 W 3rd (Maverik) in reference to a reported shoplifting. Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400570 02:11 THEFT : THEFT Officers responded to 1640 W 3rd (Maverik) in reference to a reported shoplifting. Closed - Charges RecommendedP202400571 09:17 STOLEN VEHICLE : Vehicle reported stolen, but owner of vehicle remembered leaving it at the BNSF depot Closed - Resolved10/01/24 Total: 310/02/24P202400572 10:56 MVA : NON INJURY Report of a hit and run accident that occurred between midnight and seven am. No suspects at this time Inactive - Case SuspendedP202400574 21:59 DISTURBANCE : Closed - Charges Recommended10/02/24 Total: 210/04/24P202400576 02:59 SUSP : SUSPICIOUS reported suspicious activity on the 900 block of W 3rd ST/ suspect located/ charges recommended Closed - Charges Recommended10/04/24 Total: 110/05/24P202400578 10:14 EMS : MEDICAL Officer dispatched to MVA involving a vehicle and electric scooter. Minor injuries report taken. Closed - ResolvedP202400577 12:04 MVA : NON INJURY Officer dispatched to single vehicle non injury MVA on private property. Report taken, case closed. Closed - Resolved10/05/24 Total: 2Total Records: 24

Alliance Police Department: The media report

On Friday October 4 at 3:03 PM Scottsbluff Police were notified of a vehicle versus bicycle crash with injuries at the intersection of 5th Ave and East 26th Street.

 Investigation showed that a silver 2014 Dodge Ram 3500 pickup driven by Juan Gonzales Juarez, age 58 of Scottsbluff, was south bound on 5th Ave crossing E 26th St. At the same time a bicycle ridden by Samantha White Hawk, age 22 of Scottsbluff, was west bound on East 26th St crossing 5th Ave. White Hawk ran into the driver’s side of the pickup.

 White Hawk was transported from the scene by Regional West Ambulance. White Hawk was issued a citation for failure to stop for a stop sign. Scottsbluff Police were assisted by Scottsbluff Fire Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, and Regional West ambulance.

By Scottsbluff Police DepartmentOn Friday October 4 at 3:03 PM Scottsbluff Police were notified of a vehicle versus bicycle crash with injuries at the intersection of 5th Ave and East 26th Street. Investigation showed that a silver 2014 Dodge Ram 3500 pickup driven by Juan Gonzales Juarez, age 58 of Scottsbluff, was south bound on 5th Ave crossing E 26th St. At the same time a bicycle ridden by Samantha White Hawk, age 22 of Scottsbluff, was west bound on East 26th St crossing 5th Ave. White Hawk ran into the driver’s side of the pickup. White Hawk was transported from the scene by Regional West Ambulance. White Hawk was issued a citation for failure to stop for a stop sign. Scottsbluff Police were assisted by Scottsbluff Fire Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, and Regional West ambulance.

Scottsbluff police respond to vehicle vs. bicycle accident 

The Nebraska Game and Parks is implementing a temporary ban on campfires at all Nebraska state park areas and wildlife management areas until further notice.

Camp stoves using liquid or gas fuel are permitted as they reduce the likelihood of ash or hot charcoal being discarded before they are extinguished. These types of stoves also do not produce blowing embers, further reducing wildfire potential.

Campground and WMA visitors should be mindful of changing conditions.

Stay tuned to local emergency managers and fire departments for any potential regional fire ban updates.

With dry conditions in mind, Game and Parks urges people to take the following precautions to avoid the risk of wildfire:

The Nebraska Game and Parks is implementing a temporary ban on campfires at all Nebraska state park areas and wildlife management areas until further notice.Camp stoves using liquid or gas fuel are permitted as they reduce the likelihood of ash or hot charcoal being discarded before they are extinguished. These types of stoves also do not produce blowing embers, further reducing wildfire potential.Campground and WMA visitors should be mindful of changing conditions.Stay tuned to local emergency managers and fire departments for any potential regional fire ban updates.With dry conditions in mind, Game and Parks urges people to take the following precautions to avoid the risk of wildfire:<ul>
 <li>Restrict driving to established roads and trails.</li><li>Avoid parking vehicles in tall vegetation.</li><li>Dispose of cigarettes and other flammable objects appropriately.</li><li>Ensure your vehicle, trailers and other equipment are well-maintained.</li><li>Make sure no chains are dragging from your vehicle.</li><li>In the morning, before driving and while the exhaust/catalytic converter system is cool, inspect it to see no debris is clinging to it.</li><li>Carry a fire extinguisher in the vehicle.</li>
 </ul>

Temporary campfire ban in effect at all Game and Parks areas

Alliance, Neb. - The (1-5) Alliance Bulldogs welcomes in Class B (0-5) Lexington to town for Friday Night Lights with radio coverage of tonight's game. Alliance has four games left with three of those games being played at Bulldog Stadium while Lexington is looking for their first win since the 2021 season.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Join&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Canon_K9_Sports" target="_blank">Canon Rath</a>&nbsp;from Bulldog Stadium this evening with pregame coverage set to begin at 5:30 pm (MT) with kickoff set for 6:00pm (MT). Listen to all the action on KCOW FM 92.5 / AM 1400 or click here to&nbsp;<a href="https://kcowradio.com/" target="_blank">listen online.</a>

Panhandle PostAlliance, Neb. - The (1-5) Alliance Bulldogs welcomes in Class B (0-5) Lexington to town for Friday Night Lights with radio coverage of tonight's game. Alliance has four games left with three of those games being played at Bulldog Stadium while Lexington is looking for their first win since the 2021 season.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Join&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Canon_K9_Sports" target="_blank">Canon Rath</a>&nbsp;from Bulldog Stadium this evening with pregame coverage set to begin at 5:30 pm (MT) with kickoff set for 6:00pm (MT). Listen to all the action on KCOW FM 92.5 / AM 1400 or click here to&nbsp;<a href="https://kcowradio.com/" target="_blank">listen online.</a>

Friday Night Lights: Alliance welcomes Lexington to town (KCOW Radio)

Shortly before 3:00 am on October 4 th , the Alliance Police Department Communications Center received a call for a suspicious person at 927 W 3 rd St at Tom’s Auto. The owner received an alarm and observed his live camera feeds. He reported a white male wearing blue jeans, a white shirt, black leather jacket, gray baseball cap and glasses walking around the building with a flashlight. The suspect appeared to be checking doors and windows to access entry. When the alarm went off, the suspect picked up a crowbar he found somewhere on the property, got into a green Ford Focus and fled the scene. By the time officers arrived, the suspect was gone.

The video and description were shared with APD officers to be on the lookout for this suspect. This morning, at approximately 10:15am, Animal Control Officer Toni Ravert spotted a vehicle on Flack Ave and recognized the driver as fitting the description shared earlier. Officer Ravert radioed to other officers who initiated a traffic stop at Hwy 87 and 25 th St. The suspect Marlon Ray Bray, W/M DOB 1/7/64 was identified as the male in the vehicle. Based on the video and officers’ investigation, Bray was charged with Theft and Trespassing.

Thanks to the keen eye of Officer Ravert, this suspect was apprehended less than eight hours after the incident. We appreciate Officer Ravert, not only for everything she does for our animals, but for her commitment to keeping our community safe.

By Alliance Police Department<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728066973567.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Shortly before 3:00 am on October 4 th , the Alliance Police Department Communications Center received a call for a suspicious person at 927 W 3 rd St at Tom’s Auto. The owner received an alarm and observed his live camera feeds. He reported a white male wearing blue jeans, a white shirt, black leather jacket, gray baseball cap and glasses walking around the building with a flashlight. The suspect appeared to be checking doors and windows to access entry. When the alarm went off, the suspect picked up a crowbar he found somewhere on the property, got into a green Ford Focus and fled the scene. By the time officers arrived, the suspect was gone.The video and description were shared with APD officers to be on the lookout for this suspect. This morning, at approximately 10:15am, Animal Control Officer Toni Ravert spotted a vehicle on Flack Ave and recognized the driver as fitting the description shared earlier. Officer Ravert radioed to other officers who initiated a traffic stop at Hwy 87 and 25 th St. The suspect Marlon Ray Bray, W/M DOB 1/7/64 was identified as the male in the vehicle. Based on the video and officers’ investigation, Bray was charged with Theft and Trespassing.Thanks to the keen eye of Officer Ravert, this suspect was apprehended less than eight hours after the incident. We appreciate Officer Ravert, not only for everything she does for our animals, but for her commitment to keeping our community safe.

Alliance Police Animal Control Officer locates theft suspect

BEVERAGES OF THE DAMNED: A Special Guest Brings A Spooky Drink

Alliance, NE – Thanks to the Ten Free Trees program, an effort of the Nebraska Forest Service and the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, The City of Alliance received 10 free trees for planting in City area parks.

Trees donated through the Re-Tree Nebraska Grant Program were selectively planted on City Property where they will have the best opportunity to thrive. On October 2, City Park Employees planted and staked the donated trees.

Despite providing a wide range of social, economic, and environmental benefits, most Nebraska community forests have been in steady and sometimes dramatic decline. Many challenges contribute, including extreme weather, insects, disease, and lack of diversity. The Emerald Ash borer is the latest major challenge added to the list.

In an effort to stop this decline and increase community forest resilience, the Ten Free Trees program grants up to 10 high quality trees per project for tree-related educational events and community celebrations promoting trees and fall planting.

In addition to simply planting more trees, the program goals include increasing appreciation and awareness of the significant value of community forests in Nebraska.

Ten Free Trees is supported by the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum’s Trees for Nebraska Towns Initiative, funded by the Nebraska Environmental Trust, the USDA Forest Service’s Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act funding received by the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, and the USDA Forest Service Landscape Scale Restoration funding received by the Nebraska Forest Service.

By City of Alliance<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728057842671.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance, NE – Thanks to the Ten Free Trees program, an effort of the Nebraska Forest Service and the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, The City of Alliance received 10 free trees for planting in City area parks.Trees donated through the Re-Tree Nebraska Grant Program were selectively planted on City Property where they will have the best opportunity to thrive. On October 2, City Park Employees planted and staked the donated trees.Despite providing a wide range of social, economic, and environmental benefits, most Nebraska community forests have been in steady and sometimes dramatic decline. Many challenges contribute, including extreme weather, insects, disease, and lack of diversity. The Emerald Ash borer is the latest major challenge added to the list.In an effort to stop this decline and increase community forest resilience, the Ten Free Trees program grants up to 10 high quality trees per project for tree-related educational events and community celebrations promoting trees and fall planting.In addition to simply planting more trees, the program goals include increasing appreciation and awareness of the significant value of community forests in Nebraska.Ten Free Trees is supported by the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum’s Trees for Nebraska Towns Initiative, funded by the Nebraska Environmental Trust, the USDA Forest Service’s Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act funding received by the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, and the USDA Forest Service Landscape Scale Restoration funding received by the Nebraska Forest Service.

City of Alliance partners with Ten Free Tree program 

SCOTTSBLUFF, Nebraska – During a recent visit to Scottsbluff, UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) that will provide eligible students with guaranteed admission to the UNMC College of Nursing – West Nebraska Division.

In two signing ceremonies on Oct. 2, Dr. Davies and UNMC College of Nursing Dean Lepaine Sharp-McHenry, DNP, met with President Greg Dart of Western Nebraska Community College, and Superintendent Dr. Andrew Dick of Scottsbluff Public Schools.

The memoranda, which Dr. Sharp-McHenry also signed, will allow the UNMC College of Nursing to provide information and advisement regarding admission to the college’s BSN program to pre-nursing students at Western Nebraska Community College, as well as students enrolled in the Scottsbluff High School’s Health Sciences Career Academy. Both high school and community college&nbsp;students will receive guaranteed early admission into the BSN&nbsp;program,&nbsp;as&nbsp;long as&nbsp;they meet all&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;prerequisite requirements and complete the&nbsp;UNMC College of Nursing’s&nbsp;admission process.

“Nurses are a key element of the health care team,” Dr. Davies said. “With a nationwide shortage of nurses that is reflected here in Nebraska as well, UNMC is proud to team with both Scottsbluff Public Schools and Western Nebraska Community College to provide a smooth pathway into this essential profession. The agreement will help students from Scottsbluff and the surrounding areas lock in their nursing educational opportunity close to home, thereby providing a base from which to grow rural Nebraska’s nursing workforce.”

"This is an exciting day for our nursing students and the Panhandle,” Dart said. “Through this partnership, we are not only helping our students achieve their dreams, but we are also addressing critical healthcare needs by preparing the next generation of skilled professionals. Together, we are building a pathway that empowers our students and strengthens our health care system."

The college’s agreement with Scottsbluff Public Schools is its first with a Nebraska high school, said Lepaine Sharp-McHenry, DNP, dean of the UNMC College of Nursing.

“As we work to broaden our statewide partnerships, we hope this agreement will serve as the basis for many more collaborations with Nebraska high schools,” she said.

“Scottsbluff Public Schools takes pride in providing incredible opportunities for our students,” Dr. Dick said. “This agreement, the first of its kind, provides a seamless pathway to one of the top nursing programs in the country for students who wish to pursue a career in nursing without having to leave western Nebraska. Scottsbluff High School’s Career Academy program continues to evolve while ensuring we are meeting the demands of our local workforce, adding value to the high school diploma, and providing our students with unparalleled opportunities.”&nbsp;

Dean Sharp-McHenry said: “As 2025 approaches, our state will need more than 5,400 new nurses to fill its needs.&nbsp;In order to address these workforce needs, the UNMC College of Nursing is exploring various ways to partner with our community colleges and high schools to create opportunities for students.

“This guaranteed admission agreement is one example that allows students to know up front that they will have a seat in our program.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727987598186.jpeg" alt="WNCCSIGNING: From left, UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, President Greg Dart of Western Nebraska Community College, and UNMC College of Nursing Dean Lepaine Sharp-McHenry, DNP, at the Western Nebraska Community College signing event." />
 <figcaption>WNCCSIGNING: From left, UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, President Greg Dart of Western Nebraska Community College, and UNMC College of Nursing Dean Lepaine Sharp-McHenry, DNP, at the Western Nebraska Community College signing event.</figcaption>
 </figure>UNMCSCOTTSBLUFF, Nebraska – During a recent visit to Scottsbluff, UNMC Interim Chancellor Dele Davies, MD, signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) that will provide eligible students with guaranteed admission to the UNMC College of Nursing – West Nebraska Division.In two signing ceremonies on Oct. 2, Dr. Davies and UNMC College of Nursing Dean Lepaine Sharp-McHenry, DNP, met with President Greg Dart of Western Nebraska Community College, and Superintendent Dr. Andrew Dick of Scottsbluff Public Schools.The memoranda, which Dr. Sharp-McHenry also signed, will allow the UNMC College of Nursing to provide information and advisement regarding admission to the college’s BSN program to pre-nursing students at Western Nebraska Community College, as well as students enrolled in the Scottsbluff High School’s Health Sciences Career Academy. Both high school and community college&nbsp;students will receive guaranteed early admission into the BSN&nbsp;program,&nbsp;as&nbsp;long as&nbsp;they meet all&nbsp;nursing&nbsp;prerequisite requirements and complete the&nbsp;UNMC College of Nursing’s&nbsp;admission process.“Nurses are a key element of the health care team,” Dr. Davies said. “With a nationwide shortage of nurses that is reflected here in Nebraska as well, UNMC is proud to team with both Scottsbluff Public Schools and Western Nebraska Community College to provide a smooth pathway into this essential profession. The agreement will help students from Scottsbluff and the surrounding areas lock in their nursing educational opportunity close to home, thereby providing a base from which to grow rural Nebraska’s nursing workforce.”"This is an exciting day for our nursing students and the Panhandle,” Dart said. “Through this partnership, we are not only helping our students achieve their dreams, but we are also addressing critical healthcare needs by preparing the next generation of skilled professionals. Together, we are building a pathway that empowers our students and strengthens our health care system."The college’s agreement with Scottsbluff Public Schools is its first with a Nebraska high school, said Lepaine Sharp-McHenry, DNP, dean of the UNMC College of Nursing.“As we work to broaden our statewide partnerships, we hope this agreement will serve as the basis for many more collaborations with Nebraska high schools,” she said.“Scottsbluff Public Schools takes pride in providing incredible opportunities for our students,” Dr. Dick said. “This agreement, the first of its kind, provides a seamless pathway to one of the top nursing programs in the country for students who wish to pursue a career in nursing without having to leave western Nebraska. Scottsbluff High School’s Career Academy program continues to evolve while ensuring we are meeting the demands of our local workforce, adding value to the high school diploma, and providing our students with unparalleled opportunities.”&nbsp;Dean Sharp-McHenry said: “As 2025 approaches, our state will need more than 5,400 new nurses to fill its needs.&nbsp;In order to address these workforce needs, the UNMC College of Nursing is exploring various ways to partner with our community colleges and high schools to create opportunities for students.“This guaranteed admission agreement is one example that allows students to know up front that they will have a seat in our program.”

UNMC expands nursing partnerships in western Nebraska

Scottsbluff, Neb. — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested three people following a pursuit in Cheyenne County.

This morning, at approximately 1:05 a.m., a trooper attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a silver 2007 Buick Lucerne at the intersection of Old Post Road and Silverberg Drive in Sidney, Nebraska. The vehicle fled the scene, and the Trooper initiated a pursuit. The vehicle proceeded eastbound on I-80 reaching speeds of 130 miles per hour.

During the pursuit, the vehicle utilized the median to turn around and eventually exited I-80 into Sidney. Another trooper deployed stop sticks, but the vehicle continued fleeing. A trooper then successfully performed a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop in a ditch near the intersection of L17J and Old Post Road.

Troopers smelled smoke and all three occupants of the Buick exited the vehicle and were taken into custody. Shortly after, the vehicle caught fire. During the fire, troopers heard live ammunition popping inside the vehicle. The fire also spread to the field to the east, north of the Walmart area. The Sidney Police Department and Sidney Fire Department responded, and the fire was extinguished.

All occupants were arrested for drug and weapons charges. The driver, John Harmon, 32, of Sterling, Colorado, was arrested for flight to avoid (felony) and possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony. Passenger Kyrie Riggle, 38, of Sterling, Colorado, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance (meth). The second passenger, Dakota Schrecengost, 22, of Sterling, Colorado, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and had a warrant.

By NSPScottsbluff, Neb. — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested three people following a pursuit in Cheyenne County.This morning, at approximately 1:05 a.m., a trooper attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a silver 2007 Buick Lucerne at the intersection of Old Post Road and Silverberg Drive in Sidney, Nebraska. The vehicle fled the scene, and the Trooper initiated a pursuit. The vehicle proceeded eastbound on I-80 reaching speeds of 130 miles per hour.During the pursuit, the vehicle utilized the median to turn around and eventually exited I-80 into Sidney. Another trooper deployed stop sticks, but the vehicle continued fleeing. A trooper then successfully performed a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop in a ditch near the intersection of L17J and Old Post Road.Troopers smelled smoke and all three occupants of the Buick exited the vehicle and were taken into custody. Shortly after, the vehicle caught fire. During the fire, troopers heard live ammunition popping inside the vehicle. The fire also spread to the field to the east, north of the Walmart area. The Sidney Police Department and Sidney Fire Department responded, and the fire was extinguished.All occupants were arrested for drug and weapons charges. The driver, John Harmon, 32, of Sterling, Colorado, was arrested for flight to avoid (felony) and possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony. Passenger Kyrie Riggle, 38, of Sterling, Colorado, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance (meth). The second passenger, Dakota Schrecengost, 22, of Sterling, Colorado, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and had a warrant.

3 arrested after pursuit in Cheyenne County

&nbsp; At approximately 1 a.m. this morning, the Sidney Police Department received an agency assist request from the Nebraska State Patrol. 

The State Patrol was involved in a single vehicle pursuit and was requesting the use of a tire deflation device by the Sidney Police Department. 

As the vehicle entered city limits the vehicle lost control and crashed into a field prior to the use of the tire deflation device. The vehicle crash causing a sizable grass fire. 

The Nebraska State Patrol and the Sidney Police Department quickly took three individuals into custody and requested assistance from the Sidney Fire Department to control the fire. 

The Nebraska State Patrol is currently leading the investigation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Sidney Police Department&nbsp; At approximately 1 a.m. this morning, the Sidney Police Department received an agency assist request from the Nebraska State Patrol. The State Patrol was involved in a single vehicle pursuit and was requesting the use of a tire deflation device by the Sidney Police Department. As the vehicle entered city limits the vehicle lost control and crashed into a field prior to the use of the tire deflation device. The vehicle crash causing a sizable grass fire. The Nebraska State Patrol and the Sidney Police Department quickly took three individuals into custody and requested assistance from the Sidney Fire Department to control the fire. The Nebraska State Patrol is currently leading the investigation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidney police help NSP in vehicle pursuit 

Scottsbluff – United Way of Western Nebraska is a proud recipient of a Union Pacific Railroad Community Ties Giving Program grant, which will impact local families through fostering a healthy community and supporting residents in our area with basic needs, including providing hunger relief, homelessness prevention and safe shelter through nonprofit partnerships. United Way programs directly support families and local nonprofit agencies to help both families and individuals experiencing poverty meet basic needs. From ensuring families have basic food to hygiene items to safe shelters, United Way is providing much needed support to the community. Through partnerships to address basic needs, United Way and our partners provide the track to improve health and well-being for all to foster a health community.

United Way Executive Director Karen Benzel highlighted the importance of the grant for United Way. Benzel noted, “We are grateful for Union Pacific Railroad’s support in our local community. The grant funds we received will impact local families and community members through supporting the community impact work of United Way and our mission to provide aid to local non-profits.”

Union Pacific’s Community Ties Giving Program provides small- and medium-sized grants that align with the railroad’s priority cause areas in safety, workforce development, community vitality and environmental sustainability.

“Local grants have the power to create meaningful change within the communities our tracks touch,” said Beth Whited, Union Pacific President and Union Pacific Foundation President. “We are proud to partner with nonprofit organizations who are making an impact on the future – creating safer places for children and families; bringing economic prosperity to communities; building vibrant, inclusive areas for people to thrive; and instilling sustainable practices.”

Funds raised are used to support United Way community impact initiatives and local non-profits partner agencies in the eleven Western Nebraska Panhandle counties plus Goshen and Platte Counties in Wyoming that are actively focused on healthy community, youth opportunity, community resiliency or financial security. United Way tracks the dollars raised in each county to ensure that donor dollars remain local and impactful in the communities where they are given. United Way funding is open to non- profits that focus on financial stability, education and better health in United Way of Western Nebraska’s service area. Local non-profit agencies like Northfield Haven, East Point Horspice, Buck Therapeutic Riding Academy, Camp Scott, The Doves Program, Community Table and the Scottsbluff/Gering Soup Kitchen rely on United Way for support. Current community impact initiatives include Fighting Hunger in Our Communities, Stuff the Bus, and Imagination Library. To learn more about United Way and their work in the local community visit www.uwwn.org .

By United Way of Western Nebraska<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727967831816.jpeg" alt="Pictured is Karen Benzel, UWWN Executive Director, and Jessie Lopez, UWWN Campaign &amp; Community Impact Coordinator." />
 <figcaption>Pictured is Karen Benzel, UWWN Executive Director, and Jessie Lopez, UWWN Campaign &amp; Community Impact Coordinator.</figcaption>
 </figure>Scottsbluff – United Way of Western Nebraska is a proud recipient of a Union Pacific Railroad Community Ties Giving Program grant, which will impact local families through fostering a healthy community and supporting residents in our area with basic needs, including providing hunger relief, homelessness prevention and safe shelter through nonprofit partnerships. United Way programs directly support families and local nonprofit agencies to help both families and individuals experiencing poverty meet basic needs. From ensuring families have basic food to hygiene items to safe shelters, United Way is providing much needed support to the community. Through partnerships to address basic needs, United Way and our partners provide the track to improve health and well-being for all to foster a health community.United Way Executive Director Karen Benzel highlighted the importance of the grant for United Way. Benzel noted, “We are grateful for Union Pacific Railroad’s support in our local community. The grant funds we received will impact local families and community members through supporting the community impact work of United Way and our mission to provide aid to local non-profits.”Union Pacific’s Community Ties Giving Program provides small- and medium-sized grants that align with the railroad’s priority cause areas in safety, workforce development, community vitality and environmental sustainability.“Local grants have the power to create meaningful change within the communities our tracks touch,” said Beth Whited, Union Pacific President and Union Pacific Foundation President. “We are proud to partner with nonprofit organizations who are making an impact on the future – creating safer places for children and families; bringing economic prosperity to communities; building vibrant, inclusive areas for people to thrive; and instilling sustainable practices.”Funds raised are used to support United Way community impact initiatives and local non-profits partner agencies in the eleven Western Nebraska Panhandle counties plus Goshen and Platte Counties in Wyoming that are actively focused on healthy community, youth opportunity, community resiliency or financial security. United Way tracks the dollars raised in each county to ensure that donor dollars remain local and impactful in the communities where they are given. United Way funding is open to non- profits that focus on financial stability, education and better health in United Way of Western Nebraska’s service area. Local non-profit agencies like Northfield Haven, East Point Horspice, Buck Therapeutic Riding Academy, Camp Scott, The Doves Program, Community Table and the Scottsbluff/Gering Soup Kitchen rely on United Way for support. Current community impact initiatives include Fighting Hunger in Our Communities, Stuff the Bus, and Imagination Library. To learn more about United Way and their work in the local community visit www.uwwn.org .

United Way of Western Nebraska on track for success with Union Pacific grant

GERING,&nbsp;Neb.&nbsp;– The biannual safety inspections of the three tunnels along the Scotts Bluff Summit Road are scheduled to take place on October 8th and October 9th (if necessary) from 08:00AM to 12:00PM.&nbsp;

 During this time, Summit Road will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic.&nbsp; This will be necessary to provide a safe work environment for our inspectors and to keep our visitors safe in these work zones.These inspections are crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of many visitors, as well as preserving these crucial pieces of our infrastructure at the Monument.&nbsp; 

We appreciate your understanding and patience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Scotts Bluff National MonumentGERING,&nbsp;Neb.&nbsp;– The biannual safety inspections of the three tunnels along the Scotts Bluff Summit Road are scheduled to take place on October 8th and October 9th (if necessary) from 08:00AM to 12:00PM.&nbsp; During this time, Summit Road will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic.&nbsp; This will be necessary to provide a safe work environment for our inspectors and to keep our visitors safe in these work zones.These inspections are crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of many visitors, as well as preserving these crucial pieces of our infrastructure at the Monument.&nbsp; We appreciate your understanding and patience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Temporary closure of Scotts Bluff Summit Road 

HEMINGFORD, NE&nbsp;‒ Federal investigators found life-threatening hazards at a Nebraska grain cooperative, where workers faced risks of fire and explosions due to the company allowing a buildup of combustible dust and failing to maintain effective dust collection systems, leading to more than $500,000 in proposed penalties.

Investigators with the U.S. Department of Labor’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.osha.gov/">Occupational Safety and Health Administration</a>&nbsp;responded to a complaint of unsafe working conditions at Legacy Cooperative’s Hemingford grain elevator and opened its inspection in March 2024, under the agency’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/enforcement/directives/CPL-02-13-001I.pdf">regional emphasis program for grain-handling facilities in Nebraska</a>.

Specifically, OSHA found the company permitted more than one-eighth inch of grain dust to accumulate in priority housekeeping areas, such as in the bottom belt tunnel and around the elevator legs. The agency also found duct tape wrapped around the dust collection system, located in the bottom belt tunnel, in a makeshift attempt to repair the dust collection system. This reduced the system’s efficiency and increased its vulnerability to failure. If left unchecked, grain dust can ignite in seconds and cause deadly fires and explosions.

“Grain dust fires and explosions are a well-known industry hazard, which makes Legacy Grain Cooperative’s&nbsp;failure to control dust where a belt’s friction could easily cause ignition inexcusable,” said OSHA Area Director Matthew Thurlby in Omaha, Nebraska. “Employers must develop company-wide safety procedures to mitigate known grain handling dangers and ensure workers are trained to recognize hazards.”

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/OPA/newsreleases/2024/10/OSHA20242405%20Legacy%20Cooperative.pdf">OSHA cited&nbsp;Legacy Cooperative&nbsp;for two willful and 22 serious safety and health violations and proposed&nbsp;penalties totaling $536,965&nbsp;for the following safety failures:</a>

Through its alliance program, OSHA has partnered with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://grainsafety.org/">Grain Handling Safety Coalition,</a>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.geaps.com/">Grain Elevator and Processing Society</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ngfa.org/">National Grain and Feed Association</a>&nbsp;to address hazards, reduce risks and improve safety and health management systems to help prevent life-altering injuries and fatalities&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov/grain-handling">identify the critical steps for handling grain safely</a>.

Established by the merger of Farmer’s Cooperative and Panhandle Cooperative in 2024, the Legacy Cooperative is based in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Its Hemingford elevator was operated by Farmer’s Cooperative previously.

The company has&nbsp;15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oshrc.gov/index.html">Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission</a>.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov./">Learn more about OSHA</a>&nbsp;and industry-recognized&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov/agricultural-operations/hazards">safety rules for agricultural operations</a>.

U.S. Department of LaborHEMINGFORD, NE&nbsp;‒ Federal investigators found life-threatening hazards at a Nebraska grain cooperative, where workers faced risks of fire and explosions due to the company allowing a buildup of combustible dust and failing to maintain effective dust collection systems, leading to more than $500,000 in proposed penalties.Investigators with the U.S. Department of Labor’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.osha.gov/">Occupational Safety and Health Administration</a>&nbsp;responded to a complaint of unsafe working conditions at Legacy Cooperative’s Hemingford grain elevator and opened its inspection in March 2024, under the agency’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/enforcement/directives/CPL-02-13-001I.pdf">regional emphasis program for grain-handling facilities in Nebraska</a>.Specifically, OSHA found the company permitted more than one-eighth inch of grain dust to accumulate in priority housekeeping areas, such as in the bottom belt tunnel and around the elevator legs. The agency also found duct tape wrapped around the dust collection system, located in the bottom belt tunnel, in a makeshift attempt to repair the dust collection system. This reduced the system’s efficiency and increased its vulnerability to failure. If left unchecked, grain dust can ignite in seconds and cause deadly fires and explosions.“Grain dust fires and explosions are a well-known industry hazard, which makes Legacy Grain Cooperative’s&nbsp;failure to control dust where a belt’s friction could easily cause ignition inexcusable,” said OSHA Area Director Matthew Thurlby in Omaha, Nebraska. “Employers must develop company-wide safety procedures to mitigate known grain handling dangers and ensure workers are trained to recognize hazards.”<a target="_blank" href="https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/OPA/newsreleases/2024/10/OSHA20242405%20Legacy%20Cooperative.pdf">OSHA cited&nbsp;Legacy Cooperative&nbsp;for two willful and 22 serious safety and health violations and proposed&nbsp;penalties totaling $536,965&nbsp;for the following safety failures:</a><ul>
 <li>Not conducting regular inspections on equipment.</li><li>Failing to certify completion of preventive maintenance.</li><li>Not complying with permit-confirmed space requirements, including developing procedures for entry operations that included hazard evaluations, atmospheric testing, rescue procedures, monitoring and training.</li><li>Exposing workers to fall hazards from unguarded stairway holes and a lack of handrails.</li><li>Failing to close electrical openings and improper use of flexible cords.</li><li>Not providing forklift training as required.</li><li>Failing to label&nbsp;containers of hazardous chemicals properly.</li>
 </ul>Through its alliance program, OSHA has partnered with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://grainsafety.org/">Grain Handling Safety Coalition,</a>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.geaps.com/">Grain Elevator and Processing Society</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ngfa.org/">National Grain and Feed Association</a>&nbsp;to address hazards, reduce risks and improve safety and health management systems to help prevent life-altering injuries and fatalities&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov/grain-handling">identify the critical steps for handling grain safely</a>.Established by the merger of Farmer’s Cooperative and Panhandle Cooperative in 2024, the Legacy Cooperative is based in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Its Hemingford elevator was operated by Farmer’s Cooperative previously.The company has&nbsp;15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oshrc.gov/index.html">Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission</a>.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov./">Learn more about OSHA</a>&nbsp;and industry-recognized&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov/agricultural-operations/hazards">safety rules for agricultural operations</a>.

Department of Labor investigators find Nebraska grain cooperative exposed workers to combustible dust, multiple hazards at Hemingford elevator

Nebraska Department of Transportation

Oct. 2, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) reminds the public that is it unlawful to place any signs, including political campaign signs, within state highway and interstate right-of-way (ROW). The ROW consists of intersections, medians, entrance and exit ramps, sidewalks, ditches and lands that make up the area bordering each roadway.

NDOT maintenance crews will remove signs that are improperly placed within the state highway right of-way. These signs will be stored for a brief time and sign owners can coordinate with local district offices to reclaim removed signs.

Additional regulations governing political campaign sign placement and size may be set by each county and/or municipality. The public is advised to reference local regulations for questions regarding a specific location and to keep in mind that violation of local sign ordinances may result in a fine.

Those needing further information concerning the boundaries of state right-of-way corridors or seeking sign permit information should contact their local district permit officer listed below. Inquiries may alsobe made to NDOT’s Right-of-Way Division office at (402) 479-4463.

District 1, Lincoln, (402) 471-0850 District 5, Gering, (308) 436-6587

District 2, Omaha, (402) 595-2534 District 6, North Platte, (308) 535-8031

District 3, Norfolk, (402) 370-3470 District 7, McCook, (308) 345-8490

District 4, Grand Island, (308) 385-6265 District 8, Ainsworth, (402) 387-2471


Nebraska Department of TransportationOct. 2, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) reminds the public that is it unlawful to place any signs, including political campaign signs, within state highway and interstate right-of-way (ROW). The ROW consists of intersections, medians, entrance and exit ramps, sidewalks, ditches and lands that make up the area bordering each roadway.NDOT maintenance crews will remove signs that are improperly placed within the state highway right of-way. These signs will be stored for a brief time and sign owners can coordinate with local district offices to reclaim removed signs.Additional regulations governing political campaign sign placement and size may be set by each county and/or municipality. The public is advised to reference local regulations for questions regarding a specific location and to keep in mind that violation of local sign ordinances may result in a fine.Those needing further information concerning the boundaries of state right-of-way corridors or seeking sign permit information should contact their local district permit officer listed below. Inquiries may alsobe made to NDOT’s Right-of-Way Division office at (402) 479-4463.District 1, Lincoln, (402) 471-0850 District 5, Gering, (308) 436-6587District 2, Omaha, (402) 595-2534 District 6, North Platte, (308) 535-8031District 3, Norfolk, (402) 370-3470 District 7, McCook, (308) 345-8490District 4, Grand Island, (308) 385-6265 District 8, Ainsworth, (402) 387-2471

NDOT Reminds Residents to Keep Campaign Signs Off State Right-of-Way



LINCOLN, Neb. – (October 2, 2024) -&nbsp;Visit Nebraska is excited to announce the stops for the third edition of the Nebraska Holiday Passport. This holiday-themed, miniature-sized version of the popular summer Passport will again showcase some of the best shopping, dining, activities and holiday-ing in the state.

"We are thrilled to celebrate the upcoming holiday season with this special Passport," said Madison Johnson, Passport program coordinator. "Travelers will find so much festive fun at each of this year's destinations, and they're sure to bring home plenty of gifts and treasures from their adventures."

The 2024 Passport will again showcase 20 attractions from across the state, each with a holiday emphasis. Passporters will have from November 15, 2024 through January 7, 2025 to visit the attractions and collect their stamps.

Passports will be available at participating stops beginning in November or can be pre-ordered at&nbsp;<a href="https://visitnebraska.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=30cc1cad235a879fac111c22b&amp;id=df553fbdcd&amp;e=65d6a9d786" target="_blank">NebraskaPassport.com/holiday</a>. Various holiday events are scheduled at several of the stops as well, and a calendar of events will be available on the website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727883246589.jpeg" alt="2024 Nebraska Passport (Courtesy of Visit Nebraska)" />
 <figcaption>2024 Nebraska Passport (Courtesy of Visit Nebraska)</figcaption>
 </figure>Visit Nebraska

LINCOLN, Neb. – (October 2, 2024) -&nbsp;Visit Nebraska is excited to announce the stops for the third edition of the Nebraska Holiday Passport. This holiday-themed, miniature-sized version of the popular summer Passport will again showcase some of the best shopping, dining, activities and holiday-ing in the state."We are thrilled to celebrate the upcoming holiday season with this special Passport," said Madison Johnson, Passport program coordinator. "Travelers will find so much festive fun at each of this year's destinations, and they're sure to bring home plenty of gifts and treasures from their adventures."The 2024 Passport will again showcase 20 attractions from across the state, each with a holiday emphasis. Passporters will have from November 15, 2024 through January 7, 2025 to visit the attractions and collect their stamps.Passports will be available at participating stops beginning in November or can be pre-ordered at&nbsp;<a href="https://visitnebraska.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=30cc1cad235a879fac111c22b&amp;id=df553fbdcd&amp;e=65d6a9d786" target="_blank">NebraskaPassport.com/holiday</a>. Various holiday events are scheduled at several of the stops as well, and a calendar of events will be available on the website.Selected sites (by town)<ul>
 <li>The Gift Niche&nbsp;- Ashland</li><li>Plainsman Museum&nbsp;- Aurora</li><li>Beatrice Bakery - Grandma's Bake Shoppe&nbsp;- Beatrice</li><li>Clean Slate Soap&nbsp;- Beatrice</li><li>Festival of Trees&nbsp;- Chadron</li><li>Wise Olde Owl &amp; Purple Dragon Paper Co.&nbsp;- Fremont</li><li>Gering Merchant's Santa Village&nbsp;- Gering</li><li>Floral Designs&nbsp;- Hartington</li><li>The Indigo Bungalow&nbsp;- Kearney</li><li>The Chocolate Season&nbsp;- Lincoln</li><li>The Taylor-Wessel-Bickel-Nelson House&nbsp;- Nebraska City</li><li>Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park&nbsp;- North Platte</li><li>Brite Ideas Decorating&nbsp;- Omaha</li><li>The RiverFront&nbsp;- Omaha</li><li>Omaha Community Playhouse&nbsp;- Omaha</li><li>Scratchtown Brewing Company&nbsp;- Ord</li><li>Elkhorn River Coffee Company&nbsp;- Scribner</li><li>Sidney Floral and Gift Shop&nbsp;- Sidney</li><li>Shops at the Victor Anderson Building&nbsp;- Stromsburg</li><li>Village of Verdigre's Vesele Vanoce&nbsp;- Verdigre</li>
 </ul>

2024 Nebraska Holiday Passport Stops Announced

Yesterday, the Alliance Police Department signed an agreement partnering with the Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority to identify resources for those struggling with behavioral health and substance abuse issues. This agreement enables the Alliance and Box Butte County community to collaborate with the SAMHSA’s GAINS Center for Behavioral Health and Justice Transformation, operated by Policy Research Associates Inc. The purpose of the program is to reduce barriers between behavioral health and criminal justice systems. Goals include community-wide strategic plans for addressing substance abuse, and better identifying and responding to the needs of adults with substance abuse disorders who are involved or at risk for involvement in the criminal justice system. Desired outcomes include screening and assessment, diverting individuals out of the criminal justice system and into appropriate community-based treatment programs, access to medications for Opioid Use Disorder, and maintaining continuity of care through transitions in and out of custody.

As the state of Nebraska prepares to release grant money specifically earmarked for mental health and substance abuse, this partnership will allow our community to prioritize needs and identify a path forward that provides for those needs surrounding substance abuse. This project will involve collaboration between criminal justice and health agencies, 911 dispatch centers, crisis services, law enforcement and other first responders, hospitals, jails, courts and other treatment and problem-solving organizations.

We all know someone who has been touched by addiction. Tragically, over 130 people die from overdoses in this country every day. The Opioid epidemic is destroying lives, hurting families and plaguing cities like Alliance all over the country. For those who need and want help, the Alliance Police Department is committed to this partnership to provide treatment opportunities that have long been scarce in our area. Although criminals who victimize our community will still go to jail, once there they will have an opportunity to seek and receive help once their charges have been adjudicated. In the case of first-time offenders and minor infractions, those willing to seek help can be diverted to restorative, substance abuse based programs. This is only a first step, but an important step that can help to save lives and strengthen our community.

By Alliance Police DepartmentYesterday, the Alliance Police Department signed an agreement partnering with the Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority to identify resources for those struggling with behavioral health and substance abuse issues. This agreement enables the Alliance and Box Butte County community to collaborate with the SAMHSA’s GAINS Center for Behavioral Health and Justice Transformation, operated by Policy Research Associates Inc. The purpose of the program is to reduce barriers between behavioral health and criminal justice systems. Goals include community-wide strategic plans for addressing substance abuse, and better identifying and responding to the needs of adults with substance abuse disorders who are involved or at risk for involvement in the criminal justice system. Desired outcomes include screening and assessment, diverting individuals out of the criminal justice system and into appropriate community-based treatment programs, access to medications for Opioid Use Disorder, and maintaining continuity of care through transitions in and out of custody.As the state of Nebraska prepares to release grant money specifically earmarked for mental health and substance abuse, this partnership will allow our community to prioritize needs and identify a path forward that provides for those needs surrounding substance abuse. This project will involve collaboration between criminal justice and health agencies, 911 dispatch centers, crisis services, law enforcement and other first responders, hospitals, jails, courts and other treatment and problem-solving organizations.We all know someone who has been touched by addiction. Tragically, over 130 people die from overdoses in this country every day. The Opioid epidemic is destroying lives, hurting families and plaguing cities like Alliance all over the country. For those who need and want help, the Alliance Police Department is committed to this partnership to provide treatment opportunities that have long been scarce in our area. Although criminals who victimize our community will still go to jail, once there they will have an opportunity to seek and receive help once their charges have been adjudicated. In the case of first-time offenders and minor infractions, those willing to seek help can be diverted to restorative, substance abuse based programs. This is only a first step, but an important step that can help to save lives and strengthen our community.

Alliance police partner with Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority 

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/annual-search-for-favorite-nebraska-made-product-narrows-to-four-and-choices-are-far-ranging/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — The 2024 competition for “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska” is now down to four products that are about as far-ranging as it gets.

Thousands of votes in round two of the bracket-style contest led to these&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nemanufacturingalliance.com/top-4-voting-2024.html" target="_blank">semifinalists</a>&nbsp;and their Nebraska manufacturers:

Public voting for the next round of the competition&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nemanufacturingalliance.com/top-4-voting-2024.html" target="_blank">is now open</a>&nbsp;and will go through Sunday, Oct. 6.

All Nebraskans are invited to vote. Each voter is permitted one vote per matchup, per round.

In its&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/the-search-is-on-for-this-years-coolest-product-created-on-cornhusker-turf/">third year,</a>&nbsp;the contest has become a fun and increasingly popular way to draw attention to the state’s manufacturing industry and to provide companies a platform to show off their wares, Mike Johnson, chief operating officer for the chamber, has said.

Hosted by the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance and the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the winner is to be announced Oct. 29 at the chamber’s Manufacturing Summit in La Vista. The top 16 that kicked off the tourney have been invited to display their products at the summit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727883680111.jpeg" alt="The search for the favorite product manufactured in Nebraska is now down to four. (Courtesy of Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry)" />
 <figcaption>The search for the favorite product manufactured in Nebraska is now down to four. (Courtesy of Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/annual-search-for-favorite-nebraska-made-product-narrows-to-four-and-choices-are-far-ranging/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — The 2024 competition for “Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska” is now down to four products that are about as far-ranging as it gets.Thousands of votes in round two of the bracket-style contest led to these&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nemanufacturingalliance.com/top-4-voting-2024.html" target="_blank">semifinalists</a>&nbsp;and their Nebraska manufacturers:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://ala.engineering/" target="_blank">Autonomous Feed Truck,</a>&nbsp;ALA Engineering, Scottsbluff. The creator says the prototype is a standard feed truck with some tweaks, and sensor systems on board, engineering the integration of human oversight alongside autonomous technology.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="http://scratchtown.beer/" target="_blank">Barrel Aged Lord of Ord</a>, Scratchtown Brewing Company, Ord. The company calls this beer a seasonal offering brewed each winter, with this particular barrel aged version using bourbon barrels sourced from Midwest Barrel Company.</li><li><a href="https://www.outlookne.org/" target="_blank">Toilet Paper</a>, Outlook Nebraska, Omaha. The company says it is the largest employer of the blind and visually impaired in Nebraska and seven-state region, and has machinery that allows employees to produce 25 miles of paper product per minute.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.valleyirrigation.com/" target="_blank">Valley Center Pivot</a>, Valley Irrigation – A Valmont Company, Valley. Creators say their irrigation machines, used in more than 90 countries, help growers increase food production while conserving natural resources.</li>
 </ul>Public voting for the next round of the competition&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nemanufacturingalliance.com/top-4-voting-2024.html" target="_blank">is now open</a>&nbsp;and will go through Sunday, Oct. 6.All Nebraskans are invited to vote. Each voter is permitted one vote per matchup, per round.In its&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/the-search-is-on-for-this-years-coolest-product-created-on-cornhusker-turf/">third year,</a>&nbsp;the contest has become a fun and increasingly popular way to draw attention to the state’s manufacturing industry and to provide companies a platform to show off their wares, Mike Johnson, chief operating officer for the chamber, has said.Hosted by the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance and the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the winner is to be announced Oct. 29 at the chamber’s Manufacturing Summit in La Vista. The top 16 that kicked off the tourney have been invited to display their products at the summit.

Annual search for favorite Nebraska-made product narrows to four, and choices are far-ranging

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating Opportunity

One of the biggest problems working parents have is getting their kids to school. How do families work this out without changing employers, taking dock time from their jobs, or relying on friends or relatives to handle transportation issues? There are a few things in place for Alliance Public Schools: City of Alliance Public Transit, the cross-town school bus, school permits, and student transportation payments for rural students. Hemingford Schools bus students.

The City of Alliance runs Public Transit, which provides rides to anyone in the community, including school children, Monday through Friday, 6:30-4:30. Two drivers pick up students who have called for a ride from their homes in the morning, and take them home after school. Pick-ups start at 7:00 am and students are dropped off at Grandview, Middle School, and High School by 7:30 am. Emerson students then ride the cross-town school bus that runs between Emerson and Grandview.

Alliance Public Transit has subscription rides set for the students who use transportation services for school. Parents fill out a form stating they know the policies and allow their child to ride. The cost? $1 per day that they ride ($0.50 a ride). Since Alliance Public Transit is covered under federal Title 6, they cannot discriminate nor require payments if a household is unable to pay. In the letter given to parents, it does say that if they need financial assistance, they just need to contact either the Public Transit Director or dispatcher.

Alliance Public Transit is at capacity for early morning transportation that gets students to school by 7:30 for breakfast. They will still pick up other students before school, and those students will be at their buildings before classes begin at 8:00.

Most schools, including Hemingford, provide school bus transportation for rural students. There is no fee for students who use the bus to get to school. Students from the Alliance area who have decided to attend Hemingford schools are picked up in Berea. Hemingford does not run late buses for students involved in extracurricular activities.

Alliance Public Schools made the decision decades ago that providing bussing for rural students was not feasible because students were spread out over such a large region. Instead, they pay mileage to rural families. To qualify, a family must live more than three miles from the Alliance city limits. They&nbsp;can&nbsp;claim mileage from that point three miles from city limits to their home. For example, if they live ten miles from Alliance, they can be paid for seven miles. The reimbursement rate is $1.9095 per mile; this recognizes the round-trip cost. The school will pay reimbursement for one vehicle per day regardless of the number of children or the number of trips the family must make.

Parents must request the Student Transportation form from the School Administration Building. After submitting the form, the district will verify distance and student attendance and compensate the family. Forms must be requested every year.

Rural students may obtain a School Permit, and high school students involved in extracurricular activities are encouraged to get this special license. There are rules according to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles. For small towns like Hemingford, there is no requirement regarding distance; in larger towns like Alliance, a student must live at least 1.5 miles from school.

The minimum age is 14 years and 2 months for a School Permit. Prior to getting the permit, a student must have a School Learner's Permit (available after their 14th birthday) or Learner's Permit. They must complete a DMV-approved driver safety course, or submit a 50-hour certification form that documents time driving, practiced with an adult driver.

Students with a School Permit may drive unsupervised to and from school over the most direct route from their home, and may transport other family members to their schools. They may also drive to school-related and extracurricular activities. They do not have the legal right to drive anywhere else unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old.

School attendance is so important for ensuring a better future for our young people. Our schools and communities are working hard to make it easier for families to get their children to their classes every day.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Community Task Force: Creating OpportunityOne of the biggest problems working parents have is getting their kids to school. How do families work this out without changing employers, taking dock time from their jobs, or relying on friends or relatives to handle transportation issues? There are a few things in place for Alliance Public Schools: City of Alliance Public Transit, the cross-town school bus, school permits, and student transportation payments for rural students. Hemingford Schools bus students.The City of Alliance runs Public Transit, which provides rides to anyone in the community, including school children, Monday through Friday, 6:30-4:30. Two drivers pick up students who have called for a ride from their homes in the morning, and take them home after school. Pick-ups start at 7:00 am and students are dropped off at Grandview, Middle School, and High School by 7:30 am. Emerson students then ride the cross-town school bus that runs between Emerson and Grandview.Alliance Public Transit has subscription rides set for the students who use transportation services for school. Parents fill out a form stating they know the policies and allow their child to ride. The cost? $1 per day that they ride ($0.50 a ride). Since Alliance Public Transit is covered under federal Title 6, they cannot discriminate nor require payments if a household is unable to pay. In the letter given to parents, it does say that if they need financial assistance, they just need to contact either the Public Transit Director or dispatcher.Alliance Public Transit is at capacity for early morning transportation that gets students to school by 7:30 for breakfast. They will still pick up other students before school, and those students will be at their buildings before classes begin at 8:00.Most schools, including Hemingford, provide school bus transportation for rural students. There is no fee for students who use the bus to get to school. Students from the Alliance area who have decided to attend Hemingford schools are picked up in Berea. Hemingford does not run late buses for students involved in extracurricular activities.Alliance Public Schools made the decision decades ago that providing bussing for rural students was not feasible because students were spread out over such a large region. Instead, they pay mileage to rural families. To qualify, a family must live more than three miles from the Alliance city limits. They&nbsp;can&nbsp;claim mileage from that point three miles from city limits to their home. For example, if they live ten miles from Alliance, they can be paid for seven miles. The reimbursement rate is $1.9095 per mile; this recognizes the round-trip cost. The school will pay reimbursement for one vehicle per day regardless of the number of children or the number of trips the family must make.Parents must request the Student Transportation form from the School Administration Building. After submitting the form, the district will verify distance and student attendance and compensate the family. Forms must be requested every year.Rural students may obtain a School Permit, and high school students involved in extracurricular activities are encouraged to get this special license. There are rules according to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles. For small towns like Hemingford, there is no requirement regarding distance; in larger towns like Alliance, a student must live at least 1.5 miles from school.The minimum age is 14 years and 2 months for a School Permit. Prior to getting the permit, a student must have a School Learner's Permit (available after their 14th birthday) or Learner's Permit. They must complete a DMV-approved driver safety course, or submit a 50-hour certification form that documents time driving, practiced with an adult driver.Students with a School Permit may drive unsupervised to and from school over the most direct route from their home, and may transport other family members to their schools. They may also drive to school-related and extracurricular activities. They do not have the legal right to drive anywhere else unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old.School attendance is so important for ensuring a better future for our young people. Our schools and communities are working hard to make it easier for families to get their children to their classes every day.

Getting Ahead: School transportation 

SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College's Homecoming is scheduled for October 18 through October 26, with events planned on all three campuses. All events are open to the public.&nbsp;

"We are excited to host a variety of fun events on all three campuses," WNCC Alumni &amp; Stewardship Director Mary Sheffield said. "Homecoming 2024 has something for just about everyone. We hope the community will join us."

WNCC Performing Arts will kick off homecoming with the first performance of the 2024 season "Be More Chill." The musical will play at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with a 2:00 p.m. matinee on Sunday in the Judy Chaloupka Theater.&nbsp;Tickets are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lptbe4fab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JepvEf0u1ahInw3-GCwtX7Sd-aKfk6pOBid-J1_ZFAFdGV-Q3Wvwv8GuyxSm4RQoOdsSD2nCsx44dyCOMPI701zH-aK5v3f0iViwBwguwvHkmb22CqJXx1ePGf1pLA4oTDPcBQi2f65SfqtcSFHxIEBa-szZ1LhvfJZdUvwLafdRvYeA1STCZQ==&amp;c=eYuO7gjthKKRV-4WoFP93NMT7j1TwkpyQtoQfjflxrfqYBQZk9zfNg==&amp;ch=vgnCcgqVkUUzc_V1dAAoccyWLXdMUPaZxRWdx2XRQZ2Gj_fYvG8IVQ==" target="_blank">go.wncc.edu/pva.</a>

The&nbsp;Voc-Air Flying Club will host the annual Fly-In and Breakfast on October 19 at the Aviation Maintenance Facility in Sidney. Breakfast will be served from 7 – 11 a.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children.&nbsp;Pilots in command eat free.

The Cougar volleyball team will face Eastern Wyoming College at 5:30 p.m., Oct. 22 at 6:00 p.m. in Torrington. The WNCC Alumni committee will host a Watch Party at Backaracks in Scottsbluff, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The following day, the Alliance Senior Center will host Community Bingo on Oct. 25 from 12:30 – 2 p.m.

The 11th Annual Alumni &amp; Friends Banquet is set for Oct. 25 at 5 p.m. at the Scotts Bluff Country Club.&nbsp;The awards banquet will recognize Outstanding Alumnus, Outstanding Young Alumnus, Lifetime Achievement, Cara Perkins Meritorious Service, Friend of the College, and Family Pride award winners. To RSVP for the banquet, contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@wncc.edu" target="_blank">alumni@wncc.edu</a>, call 308-630-6571, or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lptbe4fab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JepvEf0u1ahInw3-GCwtX7Sd-aKfk6pOBid-J1_ZFAFdGV-Q3Wvwv56zRVbhPp4PygorCAjWeRoeW6T683YZrhPK4WYnM20ACZaAyAzPlfzwVCS4vRQERMrxV6UZ76EeLdrZ7kwf5jwgkgwwyIgPm27sFKVft2uZ8_mLvINuyIU=&amp;c=eYuO7gjthKKRV-4WoFP93NMT7j1TwkpyQtoQfjflxrfqYBQZk9zfNg==&amp;ch=vgnCcgqVkUUzc_V1dAAoccyWLXdMUPaZxRWdx2XRQZ2Gj_fYvG8IVQ==" target="_blank">go.wncc.edu/alumni</a>.

To round out Homecoming Week, the WNCC Instrumental Music program will host the annual Fall Ball on Saturday, Oct. 26. To purchase tickets, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lptbe4fab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JepvEf0u1ahInw3-GCwtX7Sd-aKfk6pOBid-J1_ZFAFdGV-Q3Wvwv8GuyxSm4RQoOdsSD2nCsx44dyCOMPI701zH-aK5v3f0iViwBwguwvHkmb22CqJXx1ePGf1pLA4oTDPcBQi2f65SfqtcSFHxIEBa-szZ1LhvfJZdUvwLafdRvYeA1STCZQ==&amp;c=eYuO7gjthKKRV-4WoFP93NMT7j1TwkpyQtoQfjflxrfqYBQZk9zfNg==&amp;ch=vgnCcgqVkUUzc_V1dAAoccyWLXdMUPaZxRWdx2XRQZ2Gj_fYvG8IVQ==" target="_blank">go.wncc.edu/pva.</a>

For the full Homecoming 2024 schedule, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lptbe4fab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JepvEf0u1ahInw3-GCwtX7Sd-aKfk6pOBid-J1_ZFAFdGV-Q3Wvwv-xQyk-KOvxDUqa5mTHuuBFqehfSPqpx1Yt8XQq4qcRaMi1VQ7TGEW-K-AzaUcNxaKzjln8YySIB4r5A9YIXTAf_7ylcehVdAy1pSURsGpGR&amp;c=eYuO7gjthKKRV-4WoFP93NMT7j1TwkpyQtoQfjflxrfqYBQZk9zfNg==&amp;ch=vgnCcgqVkUUzc_V1dAAoccyWLXdMUPaZxRWdx2XRQZ2Gj_fYvG8IVQ==" target="_blank">wncc.edu/homecoming</a>.

By WNCCSCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College's Homecoming is scheduled for October 18 through October 26, with events planned on all three campuses. All events are open to the public.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727874192513.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"We are excited to host a variety of fun events on all three campuses," WNCC Alumni &amp; Stewardship Director Mary Sheffield said. "Homecoming 2024 has something for just about everyone. We hope the community will join us."WNCC Performing Arts will kick off homecoming with the first performance of the 2024 season "Be More Chill." The musical will play at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with a 2:00 p.m. matinee on Sunday in the Judy Chaloupka Theater.&nbsp;Tickets are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lptbe4fab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JepvEf0u1ahInw3-GCwtX7Sd-aKfk6pOBid-J1_ZFAFdGV-Q3Wvwv8GuyxSm4RQoOdsSD2nCsx44dyCOMPI701zH-aK5v3f0iViwBwguwvHkmb22CqJXx1ePGf1pLA4oTDPcBQi2f65SfqtcSFHxIEBa-szZ1LhvfJZdUvwLafdRvYeA1STCZQ==&amp;c=eYuO7gjthKKRV-4WoFP93NMT7j1TwkpyQtoQfjflxrfqYBQZk9zfNg==&amp;ch=vgnCcgqVkUUzc_V1dAAoccyWLXdMUPaZxRWdx2XRQZ2Gj_fYvG8IVQ==" target="_blank">go.wncc.edu/pva.</a>The&nbsp;Voc-Air Flying Club will host the annual Fly-In and Breakfast on October 19 at the Aviation Maintenance Facility in Sidney. Breakfast will be served from 7 – 11 a.m. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children.&nbsp;Pilots in command eat free.The Cougar volleyball team will face Eastern Wyoming College at 5:30 p.m., Oct. 22 at 6:00 p.m. in Torrington. The WNCC Alumni committee will host a Watch Party at Backaracks in Scottsbluff, beginning at 5:30 p.m.The following day, the Alliance Senior Center will host Community Bingo on Oct. 25 from 12:30 – 2 p.m.The 11th Annual Alumni &amp; Friends Banquet is set for Oct. 25 at 5 p.m. at the Scotts Bluff Country Club.&nbsp;The awards banquet will recognize Outstanding Alumnus, Outstanding Young Alumnus, Lifetime Achievement, Cara Perkins Meritorious Service, Friend of the College, and Family Pride award winners. To RSVP for the banquet, contact&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@wncc.edu" target="_blank">alumni@wncc.edu</a>, call 308-630-6571, or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lptbe4fab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JepvEf0u1ahInw3-GCwtX7Sd-aKfk6pOBid-J1_ZFAFdGV-Q3Wvwv56zRVbhPp4PygorCAjWeRoeW6T683YZrhPK4WYnM20ACZaAyAzPlfzwVCS4vRQERMrxV6UZ76EeLdrZ7kwf5jwgkgwwyIgPm27sFKVft2uZ8_mLvINuyIU=&amp;c=eYuO7gjthKKRV-4WoFP93NMT7j1TwkpyQtoQfjflxrfqYBQZk9zfNg==&amp;ch=vgnCcgqVkUUzc_V1dAAoccyWLXdMUPaZxRWdx2XRQZ2Gj_fYvG8IVQ==" target="_blank">go.wncc.edu/alumni</a>.To round out Homecoming Week, the WNCC Instrumental Music program will host the annual Fall Ball on Saturday, Oct. 26. To purchase tickets, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lptbe4fab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JepvEf0u1ahInw3-GCwtX7Sd-aKfk6pOBid-J1_ZFAFdGV-Q3Wvwv8GuyxSm4RQoOdsSD2nCsx44dyCOMPI701zH-aK5v3f0iViwBwguwvHkmb22CqJXx1ePGf1pLA4oTDPcBQi2f65SfqtcSFHxIEBa-szZ1LhvfJZdUvwLafdRvYeA1STCZQ==&amp;c=eYuO7gjthKKRV-4WoFP93NMT7j1TwkpyQtoQfjflxrfqYBQZk9zfNg==&amp;ch=vgnCcgqVkUUzc_V1dAAoccyWLXdMUPaZxRWdx2XRQZ2Gj_fYvG8IVQ==" target="_blank">go.wncc.edu/pva.</a>For the full Homecoming 2024 schedule, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lptbe4fab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001JepvEf0u1ahInw3-GCwtX7Sd-aKfk6pOBid-J1_ZFAFdGV-Q3Wvwv-xQyk-KOvxDUqa5mTHuuBFqehfSPqpx1Yt8XQq4qcRaMi1VQ7TGEW-K-AzaUcNxaKzjln8YySIB4r5A9YIXTAf_7ylcehVdAy1pSURsGpGR&amp;c=eYuO7gjthKKRV-4WoFP93NMT7j1TwkpyQtoQfjflxrfqYBQZk9zfNg==&amp;ch=vgnCcgqVkUUzc_V1dAAoccyWLXdMUPaZxRWdx2XRQZ2Gj_fYvG8IVQ==" target="_blank">wncc.edu/homecoming</a>.

WNCC Homecoming 2024 set for Oct. 18 - 26

Columbus, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to remind equipment operators to keep a focus on safety around power lines as they head out to the fields for harvest.

When large equipment gets too close to a power line, electricity can arc to the equipment, leaving the equipment damaged with the potential to cause serious or fatal injuries to the operator.

“Taking the extra time to check your surroundings can help ensure someone doesn’t accidentally get their equipment too close to a line while they are working,” said NPPD Vice President of Energy Delivery Scott Walz. “Harvest becomes a busy time of year, especially for farmers, and we want to encourage people to keep a focus on safety as they head back out to the field.”

If a piece of equipment is in contact with a power line, call 911 or your local power provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and de-energize the line. When a power line is touching a vehicle, it can electrify both the vehicle and the ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, then do so by jumping away from the vehicle, landing on two feet, and shuffling as far away from the area as possible.

NPPD encourages farmers to review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin harvest operations. Find more information on farm safety at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety" target="_blank">NPPD.com</a>.

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each day, review all farm activities and work practices that will take place around power lines and remind all workers to take precautions.

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Know the location of power lines, and when setting up the farm equipment, be at least 20 feet away from them. Contact your local public power provider if you feel this distance cannot be achieved.

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Use caution when raising augers or the bed of a grain truck or wagon. It can be difficult to estimate distance, and sometimes a power line is closer than it looks. For large equipment, use a spotter to ensure the equipment stays a safe distance from the line.

Columbus, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to remind equipment operators to keep a focus on safety around power lines as they head out to the fields for harvest.When large equipment gets too close to a power line, electricity can arc to the equipment, leaving the equipment damaged with the potential to cause serious or fatal injuries to the operator.“Taking the extra time to check your surroundings can help ensure someone doesn’t accidentally get their equipment too close to a line while they are working,” said NPPD Vice President of Energy Delivery Scott Walz. “Harvest becomes a busy time of year, especially for farmers, and we want to encourage people to keep a focus on safety as they head back out to the field.”If a piece of equipment is in contact with a power line, call 911 or your local power provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and de-energize the line. When a power line is touching a vehicle, it can electrify both the vehicle and the ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, then do so by jumping away from the vehicle, landing on two feet, and shuffling as far away from the area as possible.NPPD encourages farmers to review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin harvest operations. Find more information on farm safety at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nppd.com/outages-safety/electrical-safety" target="_blank">NPPD.com</a>.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each day, review all farm activities and work practices that will take place around power lines and remind all workers to take precautions.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Know the location of power lines, and when setting up the farm equipment, be at least 20 feet away from them. Contact your local public power provider if you feel this distance cannot be achieved.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Use caution when raising augers or the bed of a grain truck or wagon. It can be difficult to estimate distance, and sometimes a power line is closer than it looks. For large equipment, use a spotter to ensure the equipment stays a safe distance from the line.