When staring at a blank ballot, most of us have probably wondered at one time or another what exactly is involved in the elected post we’re about to vote on. You may be asking yourself now what the Clerk of the District Court post entails.

The prayers and concern of the entire area go out to the family of Elwood Fire Chief, Darren Krull, and all those affected by the horrible Road 739 Fire. And, a huge thank you to all the fire departments and other volunteers who have helped bring this horrible fire under control. Firefighters and equipment from our local departments, Beaver Valley, Indianola and Bartley were among the many on scene. As of this writing, the fire is somewhat under control but still not out. More prayers for the winds to cease and for much needed moisture.

Nebraska Extension and Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Public Health, have announced plans for the annual “tractor safety” training courses scheduled at 6 sites across Nebraska in late May and early June. Students will complete the first day of the course either by attending a hand-on event at one of two locations or online through the eXtension Foundation Campus website. The hands-on events will take place May 24 in North Platte, and May 26 in Grand Island. After successfully completing the hand-on event or the online course, and testing, the required driving test will be offered at six locations across Nebraska May 25 through June 10, 2022. Teens 14 or 15 years of age who work on farms, or others who are interested in learning about safe farming practices, are encouraged to register for the certification course. Students under age 14 are not eligible for certification but the hands-on events are open to everyone in the community. Children under 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

FURNAS, GOSPER COUNTY - With critical fire weather warnings issued throughout the end of last week, conditions were ideal for a wildfire to start and spread quickly last Thursday afternoon. In a rural field near the Frontier and Gosper county line, a dead tree fell in the near-60 miles per hour wind gusts, striking power lines, which created sparks and started a fire in the field.

In the District 2 Furnas County Commissioner’s race, incumbent Dennis Tegtman from Stamford is being challenged by Billy Frye from Beaver City in the May 10 primary. Since both candidates are Republicans, only one will advance to the general election ballot in November.

While responding to the Road 739 Fire Thursday, a two-vehicle accident occurred on Highway 283, claiming the life of Elwood Volunteer Fire Department Chief Darren Krull and injuring Phelps County Emergency Manager Justin Norris. Both vehicles involved were assisting in the fire response.

100 Years Ago April 13, 1922 Another blizzard struck Oxford preceded by a cold rain. Farm telephone lines and long distance service lines were out-of-order.

25 Years Ago April 3, 1997 Judge Cloyd Clark emphasized freedom as he spoke to 117 seniors from Furnas County high schools during County Government Day on Wednesday in Beaver City. Orel and Sue Olinger of Beaver City received word that his niece, Jacqueline Leonard, 72, was one of the 39 members of the cult known as Heaven’s Gate who had taken their lives in a mass suicide this week at Rancho Sante Fe, CA.

10 years ago The newly appointed Clerk of the District Court is Victoria Barnett and was elected by the Furnas County Commissioners to take the place for Judy Beins. At the Village of Holbrook Board meeting they received a refund check in the amount of $1104,70 from the EMC insurance.

10 years ago Macke’s Sports Bar is about to become Amateur’s Bar ‘N Grill, and consolidate the bar and Big Mama’s/Big Papa’s. A sale has been finalized from Tim and Lori Macke to new owners, Randy and Kathy Heitmann of Cambridge.