The most heinous crimes often target vulnerable members of our society. &nbsp;To protect our innocent, Nebraska is hard at work to expose human trafficking and root it out of the Good Life.

Human trafficking is a despicable crime.&nbsp; It inflicts severe trauma on its victims and shows a sickening disregard for human dignity.&nbsp; It’s important that we recognize that human trafficking exists in Nebraska. &nbsp;It may not be visible in your neighborhood, but it happens across the state and is a scourge in our society.&nbsp;

During my administration, we’ve followed a four-part strategy to combat human trafficking:

We all have a role to play in looking out for signs of human trafficking, especially at casinos, gas stations, hotels, and rest stops along our traffic corridors.&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Transportation has placed posters at all rest areas in Nebraska with the number for the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888). &nbsp;The posters have a QR code that directs to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/identifying-trafficking-0" target="_blank">Attorney General’s website</a>, where short videos provide information to help viewers identify telltale signs of trafficking.&nbsp;

In addition, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has trained more than 1,800 professionals and State teammates to recognize human trafficking and prevent it from happening to the children and families we serve.&nbsp; The Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force within the Attorney General’s Office trained over 6,800 people in 2021 alone, focusing on strategic groups like police recruits, staff at Nebraska’s schools, and county attorneys.

Passing Nebraska-specific laws has been extremely important because federal trafficking laws only apply to cases that cross state borders. &nbsp;Prior to the Nebraska Legislature enacting legislation, criminal activity within the state couldn’t be prosecuted as effectively.&nbsp; Senators across party lines have stepped up to help fix that.

III. Investigating and Prosecuting Crimes

Legislation has empowered law enforcement to investigate trafficking and apprehend criminals.&nbsp; For example, in August law enforcement in Nebraska participated in Operation United Front, a human trafficking investigation spanning 12 states.&nbsp; As part of the operation, Nebraska law enforcement conducted sex trafficking operations in Scottsbluff, Kearney, and South Sioux City. &nbsp;It was an all-hands-on-deck effort that included the Attorney General’s (AG) Office, the Nebraska State Patrol, five local police departments, Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI. &nbsp;The investigation resulted in more than 100 arrests nationwide, including seven in Nebraska.

As these arrests are made, the State prosecutes them to the fullest extent of the law.&nbsp; In 2021, that included 22 prosecutions in state court. &nbsp;In many cases, legal victories are years in the making. &nbsp;After two years of close collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, the AG’s Office helped bring down a major sex trafficking ring in Furnas County in 2021.&nbsp; Just last month, the lead perpetrator was sentenced to a minimum of 176 years behind bars.

Gaining a conviction doesn’t mean “case closed” when it comes to trafficking.&nbsp; Survivors need care, resources, and support after experiencing such profound trauma. &nbsp;That’s why Nebraska supports providers who help survivors move forward.

The State of Nebraska is administering a three-year, $1.5 million federal grant to help children and youth who’ve experienced trafficking. &nbsp;This money helps support child advocacy centers and health providers across Nebraska who offer crucial care to help those survivors heal. &nbsp;I’m grateful for the partnership of these agencies to bless and benefit survivors.

The fight to end human trafficking requires close cooperation — between state and local governments, agencies like the AG’s Office and State Patrol, local law enforcement, community partners, survivor leaders, and the non-profit community.&nbsp;

If you would like to learn more about the State’s work to prevent and prosecute human trafficking, please visit the Attorney General’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking">ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking</a>.&nbsp; For additional information on how you can help to combat human trafficking, check out the resources available through the Department of Homeland Security at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dhs.gov%2Fblue-campaign%2Fidentify-victim&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C2b79032a7cf44ad294b108d9daaedbb0%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637781266826875234%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=FNnKobmIzltAvEZlYvLTtFdj8RndhYrsFAs2NdmzysY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign/identify-victim</a>.&nbsp; If you have questions on any other topic, please email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244. &nbsp;Thank you for stepping up to help with this critical work.

By Gov. Pete RickettsThe most heinous crimes often target vulnerable members of our society. &nbsp;To protect our innocent, Nebraska is hard at work to expose human trafficking and root it out of the Good Life.Human trafficking is a despicable crime.&nbsp; It inflicts severe trauma on its victims and shows a sickening disregard for human dignity.&nbsp; It’s important that we recognize that human trafficking exists in Nebraska. &nbsp;It may not be visible in your neighborhood, but it happens across the state and is a scourge in our society.&nbsp;During my administration, we’ve followed a four-part strategy to combat human trafficking:I. Raising Public AwarenessWe all have a role to play in looking out for signs of human trafficking, especially at casinos, gas stations, hotels, and rest stops along our traffic corridors.&nbsp; The Nebraska Department of Transportation has placed posters at all rest areas in Nebraska with the number for the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888). &nbsp;The posters have a QR code that directs to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/identifying-trafficking-0" target="_blank">Attorney General’s website</a>, where short videos provide information to help viewers identify telltale signs of trafficking.&nbsp;In addition, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has trained more than 1,800 professionals and State teammates to recognize human trafficking and prevent it from happening to the children and families we serve.&nbsp; The Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force within the Attorney General’s Office trained over 6,800 people in 2021 alone, focusing on strategic groups like police recruits, staff at Nebraska’s schools, and county attorneys.II. Passing LegislationPassing Nebraska-specific laws has been extremely important because federal trafficking laws only apply to cases that cross state borders. &nbsp;Prior to the Nebraska Legislature enacting legislation, criminal activity within the state couldn’t be prosecuted as effectively.&nbsp; Senators across party lines have stepped up to help fix that.<ul>
 <li>In 2015, Speaker Jim Scheer championed legislation that allows trafficking victims to seek civil remedy against perpetrators.</li><li>In 2017, Senator Patty Pansing Brooks sponsored legislation to increase penalties for human trafficking-related crimes.</li><li>In 2019, Senator Julie Slama brought forward LB 519, which among other provisions, eliminated the statute of limitations for sex trafficking of a minor.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>III. Investigating and Prosecuting CrimesLegislation has empowered law enforcement to investigate trafficking and apprehend criminals.&nbsp; For example, in August law enforcement in Nebraska participated in Operation United Front, a human trafficking investigation spanning 12 states.&nbsp; As part of the operation, Nebraska law enforcement conducted sex trafficking operations in Scottsbluff, Kearney, and South Sioux City. &nbsp;It was an all-hands-on-deck effort that included the Attorney General’s (AG) Office, the Nebraska State Patrol, five local police departments, Homeland Security Investigations, and the FBI. &nbsp;The investigation resulted in more than 100 arrests nationwide, including seven in Nebraska.As these arrests are made, the State prosecutes them to the fullest extent of the law.&nbsp; In 2021, that included 22 prosecutions in state court. &nbsp;In many cases, legal victories are years in the making. &nbsp;After two years of close collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, the AG’s Office helped bring down a major sex trafficking ring in Furnas County in 2021.&nbsp; Just last month, the lead perpetrator was sentenced to a minimum of 176 years behind bars.IV. Supporting SurvivorsGaining a conviction doesn’t mean “case closed” when it comes to trafficking.&nbsp; Survivors need care, resources, and support after experiencing such profound trauma. &nbsp;That’s why Nebraska supports providers who help survivors move forward.The State of Nebraska is administering a three-year, $1.5 million federal grant to help children and youth who’ve experienced trafficking. &nbsp;This money helps support child advocacy centers and health providers across Nebraska who offer crucial care to help those survivors heal. &nbsp;I’m grateful for the partnership of these agencies to bless and benefit survivors.The fight to end human trafficking requires close cooperation — between state and local governments, agencies like the AG’s Office and State Patrol, local law enforcement, community partners, survivor leaders, and the non-profit community.&nbsp;If you would like to learn more about the State’s work to prevent and prosecute human trafficking, please visit the Attorney General’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking">ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking</a>.&nbsp; For additional information on how you can help to combat human trafficking, check out the resources available through the Department of Homeland Security at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dhs.gov%2Fblue-campaign%2Fidentify-victim&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C2b79032a7cf44ad294b108d9daaedbb0%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637781266826875234%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=FNnKobmIzltAvEZlYvLTtFdj8RndhYrsFAs2NdmzysY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign/identify-victim</a>.&nbsp; If you have questions on any other topic, please email me at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 402-471-2244. &nbsp;Thank you for stepping up to help with this critical work.

Gov. Ricketts: Putting an end to human trafficking in Nebraska

By PPHD This 45-minute, virtual session will focus on 2nd level caregiving, not a basic introduction to self-care. Anyone is welcome to join.

Seger is a Chadron minister, serves as the Hospice Chaplain at Chadron Community Hospital, and is adjunct faculty at Chadron State College with disciplines in death and dying. He has a private counseling practice and is a FEMA trained crisis responder.

By PPHD This 45-minute, virtual session will focus on 2nd level caregiving, not a basic introduction to self-care. Anyone is welcome to join.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642602575923.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>About Dr. Russ SegerSeger is a Chadron minister, serves as the Hospice Chaplain at Chadron Community Hospital, and is adjunct faculty at Chadron State College with disciplines in death and dying. He has a private counseling practice and is a FEMA trained crisis responder.

PPHD to host 'Healthcare Worker Burnout' with Dr. Seger

The University of Nebraska Medical Center has announced its fall 2021 dean’s list for students enrolled in nursing, dentistry, pharmacy and the allied health professions. &nbsp; To qualify for the dean’s list, nursing and the allied health students must be enrolled for 12 or more hours during the semester and have a grade point average of 3.75 or above. To qualify for the pharmacy dean’s list, students must place in the top 20 percent of their class and maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or above. Dental students must be in the top 10 percent of their class for the semester. The following is a list of students, their hometowns and the colleges in which they are enrolled.&nbsp; The names of students who choose not to be listed due to privacy reasons -- protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act -- are not included.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Mandy Amberg, Shelby Brown, Huy Khoi Mai, Ella Majerus&nbsp;

Omaha -- Holly Ingersoll, Delaney Janecek, Lotte Sjulin, Elias Witte&nbsp;

Sioux Falls, SD -- Kirstan Hyser&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hastings -- Dominic Martinez, Brittani Wiseman&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Julia Carsten, Emma Dunbar, Kerstin Leaf, Hoai Nguyen&nbsp;

Bellevue&nbsp;-- Asia Buddhacharya, Katherine Gullett&nbsp;

Gretna -- Skylar Conrad, Brenna Eastridge, Josie Kraus, Samantha Yates&nbsp;

Laurel -- Jasmine Galvin, Ryan Lunz&nbsp;

Lincoln -- Michaela Aulner, Elizabeth Bauer, Kara Birner, Raelynn Burkinshaw, Kaitlyn Cagle, Ethan Cecava, Emily Cernik, Sierra Conway, Megan Danley, Melissa DeJong, Madison DeBolt, Alison Drennon, Collin Dunn, Rinda Elmore, Mia Garrett, Cesen Hailesellassie, Alexia Harre, Olivia Herrera, Ellise Holmes, Lauren Howe,&nbsp;Melina Ilic, MaKenzie Johnson, Mary Kaup, Sarah Kellogg, Lynne Lamonte, Peyton Mickells, Mary Neill, Emma Misegadis, Briahtia Nottlemann, Jessica Papke, Haley Parisi, Margaret Parker, Elizabeth Philippi, Irina Poplavskiy, Jadyn Robley, MacKenzi Root, Ruth Sanders, Mihria Sultani, Madison Svoboda, Catherine Vu&nbsp;

Omaha -- Lillian Bruner, Andrea Burke, Aubrey Busteed, Ali Haith, Lindsey Keller, Carolyn Hudek, Jessie Ripley, Marissa Salazar, Sara Smith, Samantha Wood&nbsp;

York -- Adrienne Gocke, Katherine Erwin, Marissa Harcrow&nbsp;

Norfolk -- Paola Quintero, Kassidy Steffen&nbsp;

The University of Nebraska Medical Center has announced its fall 2021 dean’s list for students enrolled in nursing, dentistry, pharmacy and the allied health professions. &nbsp; To qualify for the dean’s list, nursing and the allied health students must be enrolled for 12 or more hours during the semester and have a grade point average of 3.75 or above. To qualify for the pharmacy dean’s list, students must place in the top 20 percent of their class and maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or above. Dental students must be in the top 10 percent of their class for the semester. The following is a list of students, their hometowns and the colleges in which they are enrolled.&nbsp; The names of students who choose not to be listed due to privacy reasons -- protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act -- are not included.&nbsp;&nbsp;College of Dentistry&nbsp;Dental hygiene&nbsp;Burwell -- Kassi Plock&nbsp;Falls City -- Savannah Kobza&nbsp;Omaha -- Alexa Fenn&nbsp;Ponca -- Shelby Rickett&nbsp;Dentistry&nbsp;Alma -- Nicole Steinhauser&nbsp;Columbus -- Lucas Jarecke&nbsp;Cozad -- Amanda German&nbsp;Grand Island -- Preston Dramse&nbsp;Kearney -- Jordan Ingersoll&nbsp;Lincoln -- Mandy Amberg, Shelby Brown, Huy Khoi Mai, Ella Majerus&nbsp;Ogallala -- Brittan Hoppens&nbsp;Omaha -- Holly Ingersoll, Delaney Janecek, Lotte Sjulin, Elias Witte&nbsp;Papillion -- Benjamin Wachholtz&nbsp;Pleasant Dale -- Nathan Canarsky&nbsp;Tecumseh -- Shelby Rose&nbsp;Hays, KS -- Selam Carlson&nbsp;Topeka, KS -- Makena Sundine&nbsp;Mantorville, MN -- Wade Starkey&nbsp;Aberdeen, SD -- Jonathan Mitzel&nbsp;Rapid City, SD -- Delaney Carlson&nbsp;Sioux Falls, SD -- Kirstan Hyser&nbsp;&nbsp;Watertown, SD -- Brent Schulte&nbsp;Nei Mongol, China -- Bo Chao&nbsp;Shenzhen, China -- Yan Mei&nbsp;&nbsp;College of Nursing&nbsp;Kearney Division&nbsp;Ainsworth -- Marley Murphy&nbsp;Arlington -- Rachel Kraemer&nbsp;Blair -- Carolyn Anderson&nbsp;Bridgeport -- Natalie Ramirez&nbsp;Cairo -- Madison Myers&nbsp;Columbus -- Kayla Hall&nbsp;Elkhorn -- Erin Olson&nbsp;Gibbon -- Hope VanMatre&nbsp;Gothenburg -- Natalie Kennicutt&nbsp;Hastings -- Dominic Martinez, Brittani Wiseman&nbsp;Holdrege -- McKenzie Ironshell&nbsp;Imperial -- Sarah Allen&nbsp;Lincoln -- Julia Carsten, Emma Dunbar, Kerstin Leaf, Hoai Nguyen&nbsp;Mc Cook -- Mollie Tate&nbsp;Norfolk -- McKenzie Bader&nbsp;North Platte -- Morgan Guernsey&nbsp;Omaha -- Valerie Booher&nbsp;Pleasanton -- Corryn Falk&nbsp;Sargent -- Corrine Slagle&nbsp;Lincoln Division&nbsp;Bellevue&nbsp;-- Asia Buddhacharya, Katherine Gullett&nbsp;Bennet -- Wesley Steward&nbsp;Bennington -- Delaney Rush&nbsp;Champion -- Kadyn Milner&nbsp;Crete -- Cynthia Lopez&nbsp;Elkhorn -- Grace Robitaille&nbsp;Elwood -- Manon Martin&nbsp;Friend -- Taylor Menke&nbsp;Gothenburg -- Caleb Rice&nbsp;Grand Island -- Emily Bykerk&nbsp;Gretna -- Skylar Conrad, Brenna Eastridge, Josie Kraus, Samantha Yates&nbsp;Hastings -- Savannah Harper&nbsp;Hay Springs -- Madilyn Hagge&nbsp;La Vista -- Emma Nebel&nbsp;Laurel -- Jasmine Galvin, Ryan Lunz&nbsp;Lincoln -- Michaela Aulner, Elizabeth Bauer, Kara Birner, Raelynn Burkinshaw, Kaitlyn Cagle, Ethan Cecava, Emily Cernik, Sierra Conway, Megan Danley, Melissa DeJong, Madison DeBolt, Alison Drennon, Collin Dunn, Rinda Elmore, Mia Garrett, Cesen Hailesellassie, Alexia Harre, Olivia Herrera, Ellise Holmes, Lauren Howe,&nbsp;Melina Ilic, MaKenzie Johnson, Mary Kaup, Sarah Kellogg, Lynne Lamonte, Peyton Mickells, Mary Neill, Emma Misegadis, Briahtia Nottlemann, Jessica Papke, Haley Parisi, Margaret Parker, Elizabeth Philippi, Irina Poplavskiy, Jadyn Robley, MacKenzi Root, Ruth Sanders, Mihria Sultani, Madison Svoboda, Catherine Vu&nbsp;Minden -- Andrea Jackson&nbsp;Murdock -- Cydney Howell&nbsp;Newman Grove -- Rebecca Stone&nbsp;North Platte -- Karsyn Buttler&nbsp;Omaha -- Lillian Bruner, Andrea Burke, Aubrey Busteed, Ali Haith, Lindsey Keller, Carolyn Hudek, Jessie Ripley, Marissa Salazar, Sara Smith, Samantha Wood&nbsp;Ord -- Abby Hysell&nbsp;Riverdale -- Rowdy Melton&nbsp;Roca -- Jada Johnson&nbsp;Stromsburg -- Jennifer Pallas&nbsp;Tilden -- Amber Miller&nbsp;Waverly -- Megan Lightfoot&nbsp;York -- Adrienne Gocke, Katherine Erwin, Marissa Harcrow&nbsp;Chandler, AZ -- Caroline Kniskern&nbsp;Vallejo, CA -- Kyle Elmore&nbsp;Carmel, IN -- Camille Coulter&nbsp;Louisville, KY -- Elyssa Kay&nbsp;Leawood, KS -- Celia Cox&nbsp;Geneva, IL -- Emma Lane&nbsp;Minnetonka, MN -- Mackenzie Kuphal&nbsp;Mound, MN -- Makenzie Anderson&nbsp;Fargo, ND -- Caira Berg&nbsp;Sioux Falls, SD -- Haden Cotter&nbsp;Hudson, WI -- Emma Newman&nbsp;Northern Division (Norfolk)&nbsp;Ainsworth -- Payton Allen&nbsp;Clarkson -- Kara Kudera&nbsp;Fairbury -- Bladen Ahl&nbsp;Genoa -- Calista Shanle&nbsp;Hartington -- Sydney Steffen&nbsp;Herman -- Kristen Bitter&nbsp;Howells -- Katelyn Steffensmeier&nbsp;Norfolk -- Paola Quintero, Kassidy Steffen&nbsp;Omaha -- Gregory Parkins&nbsp;Papillion -- Natalie Leonard&nbsp;Pierce -- Casey Sutherland&nbsp;Schuyler -- Kylie Goodrich&nbsp;Silver Creek -- Madelyn Rinkol&nbsp;Wauneta -- Natalie Ramirez&nbsp;Omaha Division&nbsp;Ashland -- Jordyn Dvorak, Emily Moor&nbsp;&nbsp;Bellevue -- Emily Eitzen, Alyssa Hansen, Rassel Kabigting, Ellie McManigal, Laila Singleton&nbsp;Benkelman -- Madison Lambley&nbsp;Bennington --&nbsp;Clare Vacek&nbsp;Columbus -- Haile Buggi&nbsp;Elkhorn -- Gabrielle Banaag, Molly Peterson, Anna Swain, Sarah Windlan&nbsp;Fremont -- Carey Kyes, Sadie Nichols&nbsp;Gretna -- Abigail Carnazzo, Emily Hintz, Hannah Schmidt&nbsp;Henderson -- Isabelle Vanderneck&nbsp;Johnson Lake -- McKenna Rieker&nbsp;Kearney -- Merissa Roth, Samantha Trampe&nbsp;La Vista -- Josie Jones, Karen Zheng&nbsp;Lincoln -- Taylor Augustyn, Chloe Hammond, Grace Merritt&nbsp;Omaha -- Kathryn Belfiore, Jenna Bies, Jenna Carrell, Melissa Coe, Miriam Diaz, Allison Foster, Laura Fox, Brooklyn Housh, Anna Kirby, Sarah Koch, Helen LaRochelle, Alexus Lodes, Makenzie Long, Marisol Lugo, Breauna Marcoe, Andria Meyer, Jordyn Marino, Jessica Metcalf, Winsodano Napon, Tori Nelson, Pierce O'Brien, Celeste Reinke, Grace Rynaski, Katelynn Santee, Sara Shaw,&nbsp;Abigail Schiemann, Lauryn Sommerer, Patience Swiney, Alexandra Tran, Weston Walz&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Papillion -- Ashley Bober, Bianca Dean,&nbsp;Tessa Giandinoto, Bernadette Harnisch, Emelia Henely, Lauren James, Julia Middleton&nbsp;Plattsmouth -- Hannah Ewing, Megan Sohl&nbsp;Springfield -- Emily Dahlgren&nbsp;York -- Emma Grenfell&nbsp;Parker, CO -- Tessa Bouley&nbsp;Milton, DE -- Shamiya Morgan&nbsp;Council Bluffs, IA -- Taylor Hunter, Kaitlyn Pearce&nbsp;&nbsp;Flat Rock, MI -- Victoria Wade&nbsp;Hillsboro, OR -- Sara Metzsch&nbsp;North Charleston, SC -- Audrey Ishee&nbsp;Green River, WY -- Cole White&nbsp;West Nebraska Division (Scottsbluff)&nbsp;Alliance -- Brittany Dietrich, James Vermilion&nbsp;Chadron -- Kiya Passero&nbsp;Gering -- Madison Bibb&nbsp;Grant -- Hailey Snyder&nbsp;Hebron -- Ashley Grassia&nbsp;Hyannis -- Sarah Monahan&nbsp;Kimball -- Arica McCloud, Madison Wynne&nbsp;Mitchell -- Danielle Couse&nbsp;Scottsbluff -- Rachel Clemens, Jessica Diaz, Hannah Fisher, Brettni Heldenbrand, Skylar Johnston, Lisbeth Morales&nbsp;Spencer -- Samantha Hipke&nbsp;Longmont, CO -- Courtney Moudt&nbsp;Torrington, WY -- Kaylea Rising&nbsp;College of Pharmacy&nbsp;Blair -- Vance Janssen, Stephen Novak, Morgan Schenck&nbsp;Bridgeport -- Quentin Baxter&nbsp;Cambridge -- Bria Tomlin&nbsp;Columbus -- Morgan Thorson&nbsp;Eagan, MN -- Joshua Vergin&nbsp;Falls City --&nbsp;&nbsp;Aaron Kurpgeweit&nbsp;Fujian, China -- Shushan Wu&nbsp;Gretna -- Kenadie Janulewicz&nbsp;Holdrege -- Jared Hunke&nbsp;McCook -- Megan Edwards, Holli Thomas&nbsp;Nebraska City -- Noah Kasbohm&nbsp;Norfolk -- Hannah Carhart, Caitlin Lemmons&nbsp;Omaha -- Gabriel Codling, Eric Hiatt, Austin Johnson, Jordan Kuck, Lindsey Tjards&nbsp;Ord -- Cora Svoboda&nbsp;St. Edward -- Tara Buettner&nbsp;Scotia -- Noah Jensen&nbsp;Sutton -- Nicholas Hohensee&nbsp;Wahoo -- Theodore Blum&nbsp;West Point -- Sarah Arduser&nbsp;Wichita, KS -- Anna Capps&nbsp;Quincy, IL -- Chad Schulz&nbsp;Saint Peters, MO -- Ashley Carron&nbsp;Canton, SD -- Adam Roskam&nbsp;Yankton, SD -- Taylor Ruter&nbsp;St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada -- Zackery Rodriguez&nbsp;College of Allied Health Professions&nbsp;Cardiovascular Interventional Technology&nbsp;Gering -- Kourtney Schanaman&nbsp;Diagnostic Medical Sonography&nbsp;Alma -- Stephanie Eddy&nbsp;Albany, OR -- Bailey Kachel&nbsp;Eugene, OR -- Lindsey Bates&nbsp;Springfield, OR -- Jaidyn Zong&nbsp;Magnetic Resonance Imaging&nbsp;Lynnwood, WA -- Saba Solomon&nbsp;Medical Laboratory Science&nbsp;Atkinson -- Devon Dohrman&nbsp;Bellevue -- Cassandra Kleinschmidt&nbsp;Kearney -- Blaise Methe&nbsp;Lincoln -- Liam Le, Kawkab Rasho&nbsp;San Jose, CA -- Zhiqiang Yang&nbsp;Peyton, CO -- Amber Kuss&nbsp;Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam -- Tu Nguyen&nbsp;Radiation Therapy&nbsp;Kennewick, WA -- Julie Andersen&nbsp;Windsor, CO -- Randall Bennett&nbsp;Radiography&nbsp;Albion -- Nathan Schriver&nbsp;Broken Bow -- Ellie Wells&nbsp;Clarkson -- Holly Kuhr&nbsp;Columbus -- Mia Janssen&nbsp;Cozad -- Aaliyah Wilkins&nbsp;Creighton -- Brienne Fanta&nbsp;Crete -- Kayla Fitzgerald&nbsp;Elkhorn -- Kate Gusse&nbsp;Elwood -- Lindsay Schutz&nbsp;Falls City -- Ryan Keithley&nbsp;Farwell -- Hannah Koperski&nbsp;Gretna -- Ethan Kratina, Mallory Schrad&nbsp;Hastings -- Sydney Kerr&nbsp;Henderson -- Brooklyn Epp&nbsp;Holdrege -- Caitlin Dahl&nbsp;Holdrege -- Jenna Karn, Katelyn Keffeler&nbsp;Kearney -- Kaylee Camblin, Emilee Masters&nbsp;LaVista -- Tess Hart&nbsp;Nebraska City -- Bree Bauer&nbsp;North Platte -- Isabel Roberg&nbsp;Omaha -- Shireen Fadul, Mai Nguyen, Yanmin Xue, Amy Zavala-Voss&nbsp;Papillion -- Ryan Reil&nbsp;Ralston -- Yukihiro Agnabo&nbsp;Saint Paul -- Alexis Sack&nbsp;South Sioux City -- Christopher Lantz&nbsp;Trenton -- Kyleigh Scott&nbsp;Wahoo -- Maximus Hohn&nbsp;York -- Kimberly Hallisey&nbsp;Cheyenne Wells, CO -- Kendra Noe&nbsp;Missouri Valley, IA -- Sydney Austin&nbsp;Underwood, IA -- Lauren Shapcott&nbsp;Minneapolis, MN -- Jessica Jacobs&nbsp;

UNMC announces dean's list for fall 2021

OGALLALA — In registering visitors for campsites, Nebraska’s largest reservoir sailed uncharted waters in 2021. The predominant verdict is that it was a highly successful voyage.

Last April, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission implemented changes needed to create a safer, family-friendly environment at the 22-mile-long Lake McConaughy and the smaller reservoir below its dam, Lake Ogallala.

One change was requiring reservations during the peak season for camping at the two state recreation areas. The new system, largely implemented to combat problems of overcrowding, marked a monumental shift from prior years when beachgoers could show up and place a tent or camper into any vacant spot along Lake McConaughy’s expansive, often crowded, sandy shoreline.

The new strategy meant visitors could choose from Game and Parks’ 1,500 designated sites — 500 of which are in nine campgrounds, and another 1,000 spots at 17 beach areas.

The popularity of Lake McConaughy, owned by the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District and managed for recreation by Game and Parks, has long posed a challenge. Many of the lake’s hundreds of thousands of visitors each year come from Colorado’s Front Range, where many see it as the nearest place to enjoy recreational opportunities most often found at coastal settings.

Such a large area attracts a diverse set of users. The excellent fishery attracts anglers. The big, open water attracts a variety of boaters and personal watercraft users.

Campgrounds attract groups of friends and families. Wildlife attracts hunters and other conservationists. Sailboaters, picnickers, wind surfers and scuba divers are also in the mix. The park often was overcrowded and congested, overburdening park infrastructure, and groups of unruly partiers sometimes demanded the most attention.

This year’s changes came about after collaborative discussion by the Game and Parks Commission and a local advisory committee that included business leaders, concession operators, lake residents, park guests, area first-responders, local tourism and economic development officials and the Keith County Chamber of Commerce. The committee is open to anyone who wants to attend.

Officials say the positive outcomes have exceeded even their expectations, resulting in better control, an increased ability to collect fees, improved collection of visitor information, capital improvements, and opportunities for visitation growth.

Perhaps the primary proponents of the changes are the law enforcement and emergency personnel tasked with responding to crime and emergencies at the big lake.

The equipment for the fire and rescue service for the two villages at the north shore of the big lake, Keystone and Lemoyne, reflects how the complexity of calls has evolved during the past four decades. In that period, it has grown from just two fire engines to six, plus two rescue boats, three ATVs and UTVs, and rope rescue and dive rescue equipment.

The 21-member department reported far fewer emergency calls from park visitors last year. Just three of the calls, an all-time low, involved drugs and alcohol. That figure is usually in the double digits.

Ralph Moul, the department’s chief, has long been a proponent of reducing crowd sizes and banning alcohol — done in 2020 — to alleviate the many stresses on limited infrastructure and personnel. He said 2021 was a huge improvement.

“It’s like night and day compared to previous years. Our call volume was cut in half,” he said. “We have a different crowd here now. We have the family people back. I’m very pleased with what has been accomplished, but it needs to continue.”

Craig Stover, Game and Parks’ law enforcement division administrator, certainly was glad to see the number of incidents involving assaults, domestic violence and vandalism down in 2021.

“The fact that there were fewer people, and they were able to spread out, resulted in fewer squabbles among campers,” he said. “One comment we heard a lot from the public was ‘We’re glad to see so many of you officers out here.’ Well, you know what: When you reduce the size of the crowds, people can see you.”

Because crowd control issues were not demanding as much attention, Stover said the officers were able to deal with more enforcement of fish, game and boating laws.

The park reports that its gross revenue is up more than 17 percent from last year — a remarkable figure considering outdoor attractions everywhere experienced unusually high visitation in 2020 from people looking for safe entertainment at the height of pandemic restrictions.

Significant financial indicators are Keith County’s lodging tax and sales tax receipts. From May through September this year, each of the funds experienced a five-year high.

Deb Schilz, mayor of nearby Ogallala, has been supportive of the changes and is looking forward to working with Game and Parks to build on the success and make the parks even more attractive to families.

“I was pleasantly surprised of how few issues there were with the process,” she said. “Most of our lake businesses commented they were on track from 2019 (didn't count 2020 due to COVID) with their sales higher than 2019. Many business owners received comments on how our visitors enjoyed their experience with knowing where they would be camping and being able to have room for their campers, tents and other belongings.”

Because visitors are required to reserve campsites through Game and Parks, the agency now has the best demographical data that it has ever had to understand who visits the two parks. While most of the campers are from the Denver area, the park received overnight visitation from all 50 states and beyond. Having such data is beneficial to Game and Parks, businesses, and others who market nearby attractions.

Even though many campers feared they would not be able to make last-minute plans to stay at the parks, officials say that was not necessarily the case. The parks’ electrical sites were booked weeks in advance, but aside from the season’s three busy holiday weekends, campsites without hook-ups, including beach sites, still were available every Friday.

Those sites usually did fill by the end of the day Friday. The park also experienced an increased number of campers during weekdays. Park staff say spreading its visitation over more days is preferable.

Given the successes, to accommodate more campers, Game and Parks has contracted with eight concessionaires to manage additional campsites around the lake. The goal is to continue growing those offerings at a sustainable pace, supporting economic development and meeting consumer demand.

Part of the successes have included major investments by Game and Parks over the past five years. About $14 million in improvements have been made in campground, boating access and road improvements — all in line with goals set out in the Lake McConaughy master plan launched in 2016.

If Game and Parks sees continued growth and demand at the recreation areas, it will bring continued need for investments in infrastructure, facilities and services to provide the best opportunities. Changing to the reservation-only system means Game and Parks now can better predict its staffing needs and costs, such as trash collection — one of the major service expenses for the parks. Changes to park entry permits by the Nebraska Legislature also mean Game and Parks will see added revenue through higher nonresident park entry permit fees, effective in 2022, helping to offset any new expenses, including to build or maintain infrastructure.

Other successes have created a win for two threatened and endangered species and for the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District, which is tasked with protecting terns and plovers to maintain its operating license. Creating designated beach campsites in 2021 reduced the tern and plover nest site disturbances that have long threatened the species’ survival.

Comments from the public overwhelmingly have been positive, but concerns have been fielded from a small number of businesses that reported decreased revenue in 2021. However, many locals and visitors say the changes were overdue.

Frequent lake visitor Kelly Rohrbouck of North Platte suspects there are many more supporters of the changes than opponents, even if they are not as vocal. Her family of four now spends its summers in a trailer at Lake McConaughy, a purchase they made after five years of camping at Lake Ogallala and crossing the dam to McConaughy for fishing and other day use.

“First and foremost, I feel safer,” she said. “Crowds are still common, but seem to be manageable and less confrontational. Also, the ease of being able to find a spot on the water where I didn’t feel like a jerk setting up my day-use stuff virtually on top of someone — or five different groups huddled around a sliver of land — was amazing.”

Even though the initial reviews are extremely positive, longtime law enforcement and emergency responders have not declared victory because of one year’s results. Having seen problems at the lake ebb and flow like coastal waters over the years, they temper their optimism with cautiousness.

Similar to those who take the helm of sailboats at the big water of Lake McConaughy, officials consider changes in management strategy an exciting — albeit challenging — adventure. Complications may arise, but officials believe they, and their partners, are on the right course.

OGALLALA — In registering visitors for campsites, Nebraska’s largest reservoir sailed uncharted waters in 2021. The predominant verdict is that it was a highly successful voyage.Last April, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission implemented changes needed to create a safer, family-friendly environment at the 22-mile-long Lake McConaughy and the smaller reservoir below its dam, Lake Ogallala.One change was requiring reservations during the peak season for camping at the two state recreation areas. The new system, largely implemented to combat problems of overcrowding, marked a monumental shift from prior years when beachgoers could show up and place a tent or camper into any vacant spot along Lake McConaughy’s expansive, often crowded, sandy shoreline.The new strategy meant visitors could choose from Game and Parks’ 1,500 designated sites — 500 of which are in nine campgrounds, and another 1,000 spots at 17 beach areas.The popularity of Lake McConaughy, owned by the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District and managed for recreation by Game and Parks, has long posed a challenge. Many of the lake’s hundreds of thousands of visitors each year come from Colorado’s Front Range, where many see it as the nearest place to enjoy recreational opportunities most often found at coastal settings.Such a large area attracts a diverse set of users. The excellent fishery attracts anglers. The big, open water attracts a variety of boaters and personal watercraft users.Campgrounds attract groups of friends and families. Wildlife attracts hunters and other conservationists. Sailboaters, picnickers, wind surfers and scuba divers are also in the mix. The park often was overcrowded and congested, overburdening park infrastructure, and groups of unruly partiers sometimes demanded the most attention.This year’s changes came about after collaborative discussion by the Game and Parks Commission and a local advisory committee that included business leaders, concession operators, lake residents, park guests, area first-responders, local tourism and economic development officials and the Keith County Chamber of Commerce. The committee is open to anyone who wants to attend.Officials say the positive outcomes have exceeded even their expectations, resulting in better control, an increased ability to collect fees, improved collection of visitor information, capital improvements, and opportunities for visitation growth.Better controlPerhaps the primary proponents of the changes are the law enforcement and emergency personnel tasked with responding to crime and emergencies at the big lake.The equipment for the fire and rescue service for the two villages at the north shore of the big lake, Keystone and Lemoyne, reflects how the complexity of calls has evolved during the past four decades. In that period, it has grown from just two fire engines to six, plus two rescue boats, three ATVs and UTVs, and rope rescue and dive rescue equipment.The 21-member department reported far fewer emergency calls from park visitors last year. Just three of the calls, an all-time low, involved drugs and alcohol. That figure is usually in the double digits.Ralph Moul, the department’s chief, has long been a proponent of reducing crowd sizes and banning alcohol — done in 2020 — to alleviate the many stresses on limited infrastructure and personnel. He said 2021 was a huge improvement.“It’s like night and day compared to previous years. Our call volume was cut in half,” he said. “We have a different crowd here now. We have the family people back. I’m very pleased with what has been accomplished, but it needs to continue.”Craig Stover, Game and Parks’ law enforcement division administrator, certainly was glad to see the number of incidents involving assaults, domestic violence and vandalism down in 2021.“The fact that there were fewer people, and they were able to spread out, resulted in fewer squabbles among campers,” he said. “One comment we heard a lot from the public was ‘We’re glad to see so many of you officers out here.’ Well, you know what: When you reduce the size of the crowds, people can see you.”Because crowd control issues were not demanding as much attention, Stover said the officers were able to deal with more enforcement of fish, game and boating laws.Fee collection and economic impactThe park reports that its gross revenue is up more than 17 percent from last year — a remarkable figure considering outdoor attractions everywhere experienced unusually high visitation in 2020 from people looking for safe entertainment at the height of pandemic restrictions.Significant financial indicators are Keith County’s lodging tax and sales tax receipts. From May through September this year, each of the funds experienced a five-year high.Deb Schilz, mayor of nearby Ogallala, has been supportive of the changes and is looking forward to working with Game and Parks to build on the success and make the parks even more attractive to families.“I was pleasantly surprised of how few issues there were with the process,” she said. “Most of our lake businesses commented they were on track from 2019 (didn't count 2020 due to COVID) with their sales higher than 2019. Many business owners received comments on how our visitors enjoyed their experience with knowing where they would be camping and being able to have room for their campers, tents and other belongings.”Improved trackingBecause visitors are required to reserve campsites through Game and Parks, the agency now has the best demographical data that it has ever had to understand who visits the two parks. While most of the campers are from the Denver area, the park received overnight visitation from all 50 states and beyond. Having such data is beneficial to Game and Parks, businesses, and others who market nearby attractions.Even though many campers feared they would not be able to make last-minute plans to stay at the parks, officials say that was not necessarily the case. The parks’ electrical sites were booked weeks in advance, but aside from the season’s three busy holiday weekends, campsites without hook-ups, including beach sites, still were available every Friday.Those sites usually did fill by the end of the day Friday. The park also experienced an increased number of campers during weekdays. Park staff say spreading its visitation over more days is preferable.Expanded campingGiven the successes, to accommodate more campers, Game and Parks has contracted with eight concessionaires to manage additional campsites around the lake. The goal is to continue growing those offerings at a sustainable pace, supporting economic development and meeting consumer demand.Future of investmentPart of the successes have included major investments by Game and Parks over the past five years. About $14 million in improvements have been made in campground, boating access and road improvements — all in line with goals set out in the Lake McConaughy master plan launched in 2016.If Game and Parks sees continued growth and demand at the recreation areas, it will bring continued need for investments in infrastructure, facilities and services to provide the best opportunities. Changing to the reservation-only system means Game and Parks now can better predict its staffing needs and costs, such as trash collection — one of the major service expenses for the parks. Changes to park entry permits by the Nebraska Legislature also mean Game and Parks will see added revenue through higher nonresident park entry permit fees, effective in 2022, helping to offset any new expenses, including to build or maintain infrastructure.Other successes have created a win for two threatened and endangered species and for the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District, which is tasked with protecting terns and plovers to maintain its operating license. Creating designated beach campsites in 2021 reduced the tern and plover nest site disturbances that have long threatened the species’ survival.The right courseComments from the public overwhelmingly have been positive, but concerns have been fielded from a small number of businesses that reported decreased revenue in 2021. However, many locals and visitors say the changes were overdue.Frequent lake visitor Kelly Rohrbouck of North Platte suspects there are many more supporters of the changes than opponents, even if they are not as vocal. Her family of four now spends its summers in a trailer at Lake McConaughy, a purchase they made after five years of camping at Lake Ogallala and crossing the dam to McConaughy for fishing and other day use.“First and foremost, I feel safer,” she said. “Crowds are still common, but seem to be manageable and less confrontational. Also, the ease of being able to find a spot on the water where I didn’t feel like a jerk setting up my day-use stuff virtually on top of someone — or five different groups huddled around a sliver of land — was amazing.”Even though the initial reviews are extremely positive, longtime law enforcement and emergency responders have not declared victory because of one year’s results. Having seen problems at the lake ebb and flow like coastal waters over the years, they temper their optimism with cautiousness.Similar to those who take the helm of sailboats at the big water of Lake McConaughy, officials consider changes in management strategy an exciting — albeit challenging — adventure. Complications may arise, but officials believe they, and their partners, are on the right course.

Changes bring happy campers to Lake McConaughy

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson says he’d like like to see more serivces provided for human trafficking victims to help them resume a normal life. 

Peterson says he sees a need for more specially trained foster parents who are willing to accept youths who have been trafficked. 

He said the Nebraska should also increase its focus on “basic life counseling,” such as help finding a job. 

Peterson’s comments came at a press conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts, who proclaimed January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson says he’d like like to see more serivces provided for human trafficking victims to help them resume a normal life. Peterson says he sees a need for more specially trained foster parents who are willing to accept youths who have been trafficked. He said the Nebraska should also increase its focus on “basic life counseling,” such as help finding a job. Peterson’s comments came at a press conference with Gov. Pete Ricketts, who proclaimed January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

Nebraska AG: More services needed for trafficking victims

At its Jan. 10 meeting Chadron City Council approved an agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) for maintenance of Highway 20.&nbsp;

"We succeed in divesting ourselves [City of Chadron] of the responsibility for maintaining and snow plowing US-385 [Highway 20] within the city limits," Chadron City Manager John Sutherland said. "Which was a big accomplishment for us because I'll tell you, we don't have the equipment, the man power, the technology to&nbsp;adequately deal with the repair to that highway. It gets used a lot more and heavier than we have the capacity to deal with."

Sutherland said it's a good move due to safety reasons for city staff and the public.

"Just for safety reasons alone for our workforce, we don't have the staff size that allows us to have adequate flagging," Sutherland said. "It just bothers the heck out of me and the rest of the management staff to see our employees out there on that highway, especially in the early morning hours when it's still dark out facing actual highway traffic. It's a little beyond our skillset. It's a relief to get that responsibility off our plate. We successfully concluded an agreement that gets that out from under us back to the able hands of Nebraska DOT."

By Kalin Krohe, Panhandle PostAt its Jan. 10 meeting Chadron City Council approved an agreement with the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) for maintenance of Highway 20.&nbsp;"We succeed in divesting ourselves [City of Chadron] of the responsibility for maintaining and snow plowing US-385 [Highway 20] within the city limits," Chadron City Manager John Sutherland said. "Which was a big accomplishment for us because I'll tell you, we don't have the equipment, the man power, the technology to&nbsp;adequately deal with the repair to that highway. It gets used a lot more and heavier than we have the capacity to deal with."Sutherland said it's a good move due to safety reasons for city staff and the public."Just for safety reasons alone for our workforce, we don't have the staff size that allows us to have adequate flagging," Sutherland said. "It just bothers the heck out of me and the rest of the management staff to see our employees out there on that highway, especially in the early morning hours when it's still dark out facing actual highway traffic. It's a little beyond our skillset. It's a relief to get that responsibility off our plate. We successfully concluded an agreement that gets that out from under us back to the able hands of Nebraska DOT."

Chadron council approves NDOT agreement for Highway 20 maintenance

On January 8, 2022, at 5:28pm, the McCook Police Department received a call from the McCook Walmart Store reporting an individual calling the store claiming to be at the store armed with a rifle, making bomb threats, and threatening a Walmart employee. Officers from the McCook Police Department, Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office, and Nebraska State Patrol responded to the store.

 Upon arrival, officers worked to secure the store as the subject was in contact with police by telephone where the subject continued to make threats of violence against employees, customers, and police officers.

At the same time police were speaking with this caller, another party was posting threats on a Facebook account also claiming to be in the store armed and preparing to detonate explosive devices that had been placed inside the store.

Officers eventually were able to clear the store and evacuated the remaining customers and employees who had taken shelter in the store.

At 11:31pm, the McCook Police Department received a call from the McDonalds Restaurant in McCook stating the restaurant had also received a call from an individual making threats to this business threatening to detonate an explosive device inside the store.

Through investigation, officers and detectives from the McCook Police Department were able to identify two subjects believed to be responsible for these threats and both are now in custody.  

On January 11, 2022, an arrest warrant was obtained and Joshua Pittman, age 31, of McCook was arrested and charged with felony terroristic threats relating to his role in this incident. Pittman is being held in the Red Willow County Jail on a $250,000 dollar bond.                          

On January 17, 2022, Border Patrol agents took into custody a 27-year-old Weslaco, TX man near the Mexico border based upon information gathered by McCook Police relating to the threats against McCook businesses. 

The McCook Police Department appreciates the publics patience as they worked with local Texas, and federal authorities to identify and locate this subject. The name of this suspect is currently not being released.

Editors Note: These incidents are not related to the officer involved shooting that took place at the McCook Walmart on Jan. 18. Read more <a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/c6583655-0eb6-4749-b0f0-eeaf7a6e6c0f">HERE</a>.

News Release McCook Police&nbsp;On January 8, 2022, at 5:28pm, the McCook Police Department received a call from the McCook Walmart Store reporting an individual calling the store claiming to be at the store armed with a rifle, making bomb threats, and threatening a Walmart employee. Officers from the McCook Police Department, Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office, and Nebraska State Patrol responded to the store. Upon arrival, officers worked to secure the store as the subject was in contact with police by telephone where the subject continued to make threats of violence against employees, customers, and police officers.At the same time police were speaking with this caller, another party was posting threats on a Facebook account also claiming to be in the store armed and preparing to detonate explosive devices that had been placed inside the store.Officers eventually were able to clear the store and evacuated the remaining customers and employees who had taken shelter in the store.At 11:31pm, the McCook Police Department received a call from the McDonalds Restaurant in McCook stating the restaurant had also received a call from an individual making threats to this business threatening to detonate an explosive device inside the store.Through investigation, officers and detectives from the McCook Police Department were able to identify two subjects believed to be responsible for these threats and both are now in custody. On January 11, 2022, an arrest warrant was obtained and Joshua Pittman, age 31, of McCook was arrested and charged with felony terroristic threats relating to his role in this incident. Pittman is being held in the Red Willow County Jail on a $250,000 dollar bond. On January 17, 2022, Border Patrol agents took into custody a 27-year-old Weslaco, TX man near the Mexico border based upon information gathered by McCook Police relating to the threats against McCook businesses. The McCook Police Department appreciates the publics patience as they worked with local Texas, and federal authorities to identify and locate this subject. The name of this suspect is currently not being released.Editors Note: These incidents are not related to the officer involved shooting that took place at the McCook Walmart on Jan. 18. Read more <a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/c6583655-0eb6-4749-b0f0-eeaf7a6e6c0f">HERE</a>.

Police make 2 arrests after threats made against McCook businesses

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska says he has tested positive for COVID-19. Fortenberry says on his congressional website that he had a “moderate case” and will recuperate at home. 

He says he tested positive despite being vaccinated and taking precautions to avoid getting infected. 

Fortenberry represents the 1st Congressional District in eastern Nebraska, including the cities of Lincoln, Columbus, Fremont, Norfolk and part of Sarpy County.

 Fortenberry is running for re-election while facing criminal allegations that he lied to federal authorities who were investigating an illegal contribution to his campaign. 

He has pleaded not guilty. On Sunday, Nebraska state Sen. Mike Flood, of Norfolk, announced that he will challenge Fortenberry in the Republican primary.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska says he has tested positive for COVID-19. Fortenberry says on his congressional website that he had a “moderate case” and will recuperate at home. He says he tested positive despite being vaccinated and taking precautions to avoid getting infected. Fortenberry represents the 1st Congressional District in eastern Nebraska, including the cities of Lincoln, Columbus, Fremont, Norfolk and part of Sarpy County. Fortenberry is running for re-election while facing criminal allegations that he lied to federal authorities who were investigating an illegal contribution to his campaign. He has pleaded not guilty. On Sunday, Nebraska state Sen. Mike Flood, of Norfolk, announced that he will challenge Fortenberry in the Republican primary.

US Rep. Jeff Fortenberry of Nebraska diagnosed with COVID-19

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska hospital officials are concerned about how they will handle the current surge in virus hospitalizations along with all their other patients as COVID-19 cases continue to increase dramatically across the state. 

Nebraska Hospital Association President Jeremy Nordquist says the state is clearly “in one of the darkest times of the pandemic.” 

The total number of hospitalizations hit 643 on Monday, which was down slightly from Friday’s peak of 675 but well above last month’s low of 445 set on Dec. 25. 

Virus hospitalizations across Nebraska are expected to grow significantly over the next couple weeks because the number of virus cases reported last week jumped 85%.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska hospital officials are concerned about how they will handle the current surge in virus hospitalizations along with all their other patients as COVID-19 cases continue to increase dramatically across the state. Nebraska Hospital Association President Jeremy Nordquist says the state is clearly “in one of the darkest times of the pandemic.” The total number of hospitalizations hit 643 on Monday, which was down slightly from Friday’s peak of 675 but well above last month’s low of 445 set on Dec. 25. Virus hospitalizations across Nebraska are expected to grow significantly over the next couple weeks because the number of virus cases reported last week jumped 85%.

Nebraska hospital officials worry about surge in patients

READ THE UPDATED STORY <a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/08954e58-12ca-4199-abd1-ce3cea25f70b">HERE</a>.

McCook, Neb.-Authorities in McCook say a man was shot by an officer during an incident at Walmart on Martin Luther King Day.

Authorities did not release many details of the incident but Red Willow County Attorney Paul Wood confirmed that a subject was shot by a McCook officer at the Walmart location.

Wood said the subject was transported to a Kearney hospital. The officer was injured as well, but their injuries are not considered to be life-threatening.

The condition of the subject shot by the officer is unknown.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637688395425.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott CarlsonREAD THE UPDATED STORY <a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/08954e58-12ca-4199-abd1-ce3cea25f70b">HERE</a>.McCook, Neb.-Authorities in McCook say a man was shot by an officer during an incident at Walmart on Martin Luther King Day.Authorities did not release many details of the incident but Red Willow County Attorney Paul Wood confirmed that a subject was shot by a McCook officer at the Walmart location.Wood said the subject was transported to a Kearney hospital. The officer was injured as well, but their injuries are not considered to be life-threatening.The condition of the subject shot by the officer is unknown.This is a developing story.

Subject shot by McCook officer during incident at Walmart

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska gubernatorial candidate Jim Pillen has scored a big endorsement from Gov. Pete Ricketts, a fellow Republican who backed the University of Nebraska regent to be his successor.

 Ricketts picked Pillen on Tuesday out of a crowded GOP field ahead of the party’s primary election on May 10. Ricketts says he backed Pillen because of his conservative credentials and longstanding ties to Nebraska and agriculture. 

Pillen is a family farm owner and veterinarian who grew up in Nebraska, played football for the Huskers and now serves on the university’s governing board. 

The endorsement comes less that three months after one of Pillen’s competitors, Falls City agriculture businessman Charles Herbster, won support from former President Donald Trump.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska gubernatorial candidate Jim Pillen has scored a big endorsement from Gov. Pete Ricketts, a fellow Republican who backed the University of Nebraska regent to be his successor. Ricketts picked Pillen on Tuesday out of a crowded GOP field ahead of the party’s primary election on May 10. Ricketts says he backed Pillen because of his conservative credentials and longstanding ties to Nebraska and agriculture. Pillen is a family farm owner and veterinarian who grew up in Nebraska, played football for the Huskers and now serves on the university’s governing board. The endorsement comes less that three months after one of Pillen’s competitors, Falls City agriculture businessman Charles Herbster, won support from former President Donald Trump.

Ricketts endorses fellow Republican Jim Pillen for governor

Hot Springs, SD - With the current surge in COVID testing, FRHS has made it convenient for their community to drive up and be tested in your car. Testing times are Monday through Friday: 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. each weekday. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please DO NOT go to the Emergency Department unless you are experiencing a medical emergency.

Fall River Health Services (FRHS) continues to perform Covid-19 Booster Vaccinations for Moderna on Wednesdays from 9-12 p.m. and Pfizer each Monday from 4-5 p.m. at the Fall River Health Services campus.

For all COVID-19 Vaccinations, Booster Shots and Testing, appointments are required, please call to schedule an appointment by calling, 605-745-8928. Please remember to wear your mask and wear appropriate short sleeve clothing.

For more information, please visit <a href="https://doh.sd.gov/covid/">https://doh.sd.gov/covid/</a> or <a href="http://www.frhss.org/covid">www.frhss.org/covid</a>.

Hot Springs, SD - With the current surge in COVID testing, FRHS has made it convenient for their community to drive up and be tested in your car. Testing times are Monday through Friday: 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. each weekday. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please DO NOT go to the Emergency Department unless you are experiencing a medical emergency.Fall River Health Services (FRHS) continues to perform Covid-19 Booster Vaccinations for Moderna on Wednesdays from 9-12 p.m. and Pfizer each Monday from 4-5 p.m. at the Fall River Health Services campus.For all COVID-19 Vaccinations, Booster Shots and Testing, appointments are required, please call to schedule an appointment by calling, 605-745-8928. Please remember to wear your mask and wear appropriate short sleeve clothing.For more information, please visit <a href="https://doh.sd.gov/covid/">https://doh.sd.gov/covid/</a> or <a href="http://www.frhss.org/covid">www.frhss.org/covid</a>.

Fall River Health Services provides convenient virus testing times

Today, Attorney General Doug Peterson joined Governor Pete Ricketts and Colonel John Bolduc from the Nebraska State Patrol in recognizing National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.&nbsp;

Attorney General Peterson reviewed the collaborative work done by many agencies in bringing about some ground-breaking investigations and prosecutions this past year. His office released the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force Update that outlines prosecutions and training numbers for 2021.

“We stand ready on behalf of Nebraskans to investigate and prosecute any human trafficking case anywhere in the state. For five years, we have been organizing regionally to make certain we are ready to investigate and stop any trafficking we uncover. The teams are also prepared to make sure each victim involved has access to all the available lifelines,”&nbsp;stated Attorney General Peterson.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation continues to manage human trafficking hotline posters in every rest area&nbsp;on I-80. The current posters have both the National Human Trafficking Hotline and a QR code that immediately takes a person to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/identifying-trafficking-0" target="_blank">Attorney General’s website</a>, to learn the different signs of trafficking. The poster, printed in both English and Spanish, provides the National Human Trafficking Hotline number: 1-888-373- 7888, which is available to receive calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The hotline funnels calls to the in-state network established by the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force (NHTTF). Help is available in English, Spanish, and more than 200 additional languages through an on-call interpreter.

Agencies and organizations representing 12 groups attended the event and proclamation signing.

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

Today, Attorney General Doug Peterson joined Governor Pete Ricketts and Colonel John Bolduc from the Nebraska State Patrol in recognizing National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.&nbsp;Attorney General Peterson reviewed the collaborative work done by many agencies in bringing about some ground-breaking investigations and prosecutions this past year. His office released the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force Update that outlines prosecutions and training numbers for 2021.“We stand ready on behalf of Nebraskans to investigate and prosecute any human trafficking case anywhere in the state. For five years, we have been organizing regionally to make certain we are ready to investigate and stop any trafficking we uncover. The teams are also prepared to make sure each victim involved has access to all the available lifelines,”&nbsp;stated Attorney General Peterson.The Nebraska Department of Transportation continues to manage human trafficking hotline posters in every rest area&nbsp;on I-80. The current posters have both the National Human Trafficking Hotline and a QR code that immediately takes a person to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/identifying-trafficking-0" target="_blank">Attorney General’s website</a>, to learn the different signs of trafficking. The poster, printed in both English and Spanish, provides the National Human Trafficking Hotline number: 1-888-373- 7888, which is available to receive calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The hotline funnels calls to the in-state network established by the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force (NHTTF). Help is available in English, Spanish, and more than 200 additional languages through an on-call interpreter.Agencies and organizations representing 12 groups attended the event and proclamation signing.To learn more about NHTTF and human trafficking in Nebraska, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking" target="_blank">https://ago.nebraska.gov/combating-human-trafficking</a>

AG Peterson, Gov. Ricketts recognize National Human Trafficking Awareness Month

By MOLLY LANGHORST, CSC College Relations

CHADRON - Chadron State College student Cooper Reichman is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for December. Reichman, a junior from Chappell, Nebraska, said he chose Chadron State College because of its Rangeland program, one of the largest academic programs of its kind. He also works for the U.S. Forest Service in Chadron. Reichman said he enjoys being part of a small school and community because he gets to know a lot of people.

The summer after Reichman’s sophomore year of high school, he attended a Rotary-based summer camp where a service project immediately interested him in the U.S. Forest Service and helped him make connections to get his foot in the door with the organization. He said he liked working for the U.S. Forest Service in Halsey, Nebraska, because of his love of the outdoors and desire to help the public.

During the past few summers at Halsey, Reichman has been a recreation technician, responsible for taking calls and answering questions about the campgrounds, hunting, and other topics, as well as maintaining campgrounds and trails.

In addition to his major in Wildlife Management, Reichman has a minor in Community and Adventure Recreation. He has applied for summer internship jobs with the U.S. Forest Service working in recreation, wildlife, or timber management in Idaho, Minnesota, Oregon, and Wyoming. He enrolled in his current major as a step toward reaching his long-term goal to work with the U.S. Forest Service full-time.

“I really enjoy interacting with people and in recreation I would get the best opportunity to help people have a better experience with wildlife and being outdoors,” Reichman said. “My favorite thing about the Forest Service is that it’s not like the state park, in that it’s more accessible to people. I believe strongly that the outdoors should be for everybody and sometimes when national parks and other places are closed off to the public I feel that it takes away from that idea.”

He is the president of the Rotaract Club, a member of the Wildlife Club, and a Student Senate representative for the School of Professional Studies and Applied Sciences.

The Rotaract Club is important to Reichman because it is service-based. The group’s goal is to complete service projects on campus and in the community. The club hosted a women’s history event, which Reichman said was a great way to educate a large number of people. The club also hosted a pancreatic cancer awareness walk. He said the club members are looking forward to completing more service projects this spring.

Reichman’s favorite class was Mammalogy with Dr. Teresa Frink because he likes animals, although he also appreciated Environmental Ethics taught by Dr. Allison Fritz, an Assistant Professor in Justice Studies, Social Sciences and English. He took Fritz’s class while also enrolled in a class on raising livestock, so he was able to see multiple perspectives about raising animals.

Frink, a Professor of Agriculture and Rangeland Management, is impressed with Reichman’s kindness, enthusiasm, and leadership.

“Cooper has always been a pleasant student to have in the classroom. He is kind to his peers and very respectful to faculty and staff. He always has a smile on his face, and I can certainly count on him to laugh at corny jokes. I have always been impressed with his engagement on campus and appreciate the leadership roles he has volunteered to accept at CSC,” Frink said.

Jennifer Schaer, director of TRiO, also admires Reichman’s leadership skills.

“Cooper is a great student and a great leader. He is an RA and is involved with many different groups on campus. Cooper utilizes Project Strive resources and attends many events. It has been an honor to watch Cooper grow as a student,” Schaer said.

Outside of school and campus activities, Reichman said he enjoys running. Alejandro Garcia, his cross country and track coach in high school, attended CSC and contributed to Reichman’s running career. He ran cross country at CSC for a time, but has left it and now participates in band. He also enjoys hiking, backpacking, and learning to play the guitar.

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/projectstrive</a>.

By MOLLY LANGHORST, CSC College RelationsCHADRON - Chadron State College student Cooper Reichman is the Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for December. Reichman, a junior from Chappell, Nebraska, said he chose Chadron State College because of its Rangeland program, one of the largest academic programs of its kind. He also works for the U.S. Forest Service in Chadron. Reichman said he enjoys being part of a small school and community because he gets to know a lot of people.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642449349314.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The summer after Reichman’s sophomore year of high school, he attended a Rotary-based summer camp where a service project immediately interested him in the U.S. Forest Service and helped him make connections to get his foot in the door with the organization. He said he liked working for the U.S. Forest Service in Halsey, Nebraska, because of his love of the outdoors and desire to help the public.During the past few summers at Halsey, Reichman has been a recreation technician, responsible for taking calls and answering questions about the campgrounds, hunting, and other topics, as well as maintaining campgrounds and trails.In addition to his major in Wildlife Management, Reichman has a minor in Community and Adventure Recreation. He has applied for summer internship jobs with the U.S. Forest Service working in recreation, wildlife, or timber management in Idaho, Minnesota, Oregon, and Wyoming. He enrolled in his current major as a step toward reaching his long-term goal to work with the U.S. Forest Service full-time.“I really enjoy interacting with people and in recreation I would get the best opportunity to help people have a better experience with wildlife and being outdoors,” Reichman said. “My favorite thing about the Forest Service is that it’s not like the state park, in that it’s more accessible to people. I believe strongly that the outdoors should be for everybody and sometimes when national parks and other places are closed off to the public I feel that it takes away from that idea.”He is the president of the Rotaract Club, a member of the Wildlife Club, and a Student Senate representative for the School of Professional Studies and Applied Sciences.The Rotaract Club is important to Reichman because it is service-based. The group’s goal is to complete service projects on campus and in the community. The club hosted a women’s history event, which Reichman said was a great way to educate a large number of people. The club also hosted a pancreatic cancer awareness walk. He said the club members are looking forward to completing more service projects this spring.Reichman’s favorite class was Mammalogy with Dr. Teresa Frink because he likes animals, although he also appreciated Environmental Ethics taught by Dr. Allison Fritz, an Assistant Professor in Justice Studies, Social Sciences and English. He took Fritz’s class while also enrolled in a class on raising livestock, so he was able to see multiple perspectives about raising animals.Frink, a Professor of Agriculture and Rangeland Management, is impressed with Reichman’s kindness, enthusiasm, and leadership.“Cooper has always been a pleasant student to have in the classroom. He is kind to his peers and very respectful to faculty and staff. He always has a smile on his face, and I can certainly count on him to laugh at corny jokes. I have always been impressed with his engagement on campus and appreciate the leadership roles he has volunteered to accept at CSC,” Frink said.Jennifer Schaer, director of TRiO, also admires Reichman’s leadership skills.“Cooper is a great student and a great leader. He is an RA and is involved with many different groups on campus. Cooper utilizes Project Strive resources and attends many events. It has been an honor to watch Cooper grow as a student,” Schaer said.Outside of school and campus activities, Reichman said he enjoys running. Alejandro Garcia, his cross country and track coach in high school, attended CSC and contributed to Reichman’s running career. He ran cross country at CSC for a time, but has left it and now participates in band. He also enjoys hiking, backpacking, and learning to play the guitar.Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.csc.edu/projectstrive" target="_blank">www.csc.edu/projectstrive</a>.

Reichman named Project Strive/TRiO Dec. CSC Student of the Month

By Chandra Krug, 7th Street Dance Studio Administrator

When Lori Davis purchased the 7th Street Dance Studio in 2018, one of the things she wanted to really do was to donate all proceeds for the Christmas recitals to other organizations. December 20, 2021 was no exception and she was able to donate $3,000 to CAPstone in Alliance.

On Wednesday, January 12, Monica Shambaugh, Executive Director, and Isabella Irish, Family Advocate came to the dance studio to be presented with the check. They gave the dancers some information about CAPstone and how it came about.

The CAPstone Child Advocacy Center was started in Scottsbluff in December 2000. They cover the 11 counties in the Panhandle and assist law enforcement &amp; child protective services with their cases.

At the center, they have specifically trained Forensic Interviewers who interview young people between the ages of 3 and 18. These young people may have alleged serious physical abuse or neglect, sexual abuse, they may have been witness to a violent crime, been recovered in a kidnapping or been in a drug endangered environment.

In 2008, CAPstone opened their first satellite office in Chadron and in 2009 &amp; 2010 they opened offices in Sidney and Alliance. Their office space in Alliance is donated to CAPstone by Box Butte General Hospital.

In 2020, CAPstone completed 540 interviews, in 2020, 474 interviews, and in 2021, 520 interviews. In Alliance during this time frame, they averaged 85 interviews a year.

The money raised by 7th Street Dance Studio will be used for the Alliance office upkeep to include purchasing journals, blankets, stuffed animals and other supplies for the young people they see at their center.

I want to thank my dance families for the support of this Christmas recital. It’s hard to get the kids from one Christmas activity to another in December, so I definitely understand the struggle. However, I love to give my students the opportunity to have two big public performances every year. Thanks to Covid, I haven’t been able to do that, but we have had at least one every year since I have owned the dance studio.

 This is my 3rd Christmas recital and without a doubt, it just gets better every year! I love to teach these kids the art of dancing and performing, but I’m truly proud to be able to teach them that each and every one of them, no matter how big or small, can make a difference. Because we rise by lifting others, I want to create a place where dancers can not only train physically, but also train mentally and emotionally grow as a whole person and not just dance. I want to have a place where they aren’t just dancing for perfection. I want to focus on how dance can make them happy and healthy. It’s about empowering them to use their inner gifts to bring hope and healing to their friends, family, and the community.

By Chandra Krug, 7th Street Dance Studio AdministratorWhen Lori Davis purchased the 7th Street Dance Studio in 2018, one of the things she wanted to really do was to donate all proceeds for the Christmas recitals to other organizations. December 20, 2021 was no exception and she was able to donate $3,000 to CAPstone in Alliance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642436453201.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday, January 12, Monica Shambaugh, Executive Director, and Isabella Irish, Family Advocate came to the dance studio to be presented with the check. They gave the dancers some information about CAPstone and how it came about.The CAPstone Child Advocacy Center was started in Scottsbluff in December 2000. They cover the 11 counties in the Panhandle and assist law enforcement &amp; child protective services with their cases.At the center, they have specifically trained Forensic Interviewers who interview young people between the ages of 3 and 18. These young people may have alleged serious physical abuse or neglect, sexual abuse, they may have been witness to a violent crime, been recovered in a kidnapping or been in a drug endangered environment.In 2008, CAPstone opened their first satellite office in Chadron and in 2009 &amp; 2010 they opened offices in Sidney and Alliance. Their office space in Alliance is donated to CAPstone by Box Butte General Hospital.In 2020, CAPstone completed 540 interviews, in 2020, 474 interviews, and in 2021, 520 interviews. In Alliance during this time frame, they averaged 85 interviews a year.The money raised by 7th Street Dance Studio will be used for the Alliance office upkeep to include purchasing journals, blankets, stuffed animals and other supplies for the young people they see at their center.A note from Lori:I want to thank my dance families for the support of this Christmas recital. It’s hard to get the kids from one Christmas activity to another in December, so I definitely understand the struggle. However, I love to give my students the opportunity to have two big public performances every year. Thanks to Covid, I haven’t been able to do that, but we have had at least one every year since I have owned the dance studio. This is my 3rd Christmas recital and without a doubt, it just gets better every year! I love to teach these kids the art of dancing and performing, but I’m truly proud to be able to teach them that each and every one of them, no matter how big or small, can make a difference. Because we rise by lifting others, I want to create a place where dancers can not only train physically, but also train mentally and emotionally grow as a whole person and not just dance. I want to have a place where they aren’t just dancing for perfection. I want to focus on how dance can make them happy and healthy. It’s about empowering them to use their inner gifts to bring hope and healing to their friends, family, and the community.

7th Street Dance Studio donate to CAPstone

SCOTTSBLUFF -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College invites all high school juniors, seniors, and their families to attend Discover WNCC, Wednesday, February 16, on the Scottsbluff Campus. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. with the event beginning at 9 a.m.

Discover WNCC gives prospective students the chance to experience a day in the life of a WNCC student. High school students and their families will be able to tour the Scottsbluff Campus, meet faculty members, staff, and students, and learn more about WNCC's programs of study.

"Even if you’ve been to WNCC before,&nbsp;Discover&nbsp;is a great way to see the college in a new light," WNCC Admissions Director Susan Stephenson said. "Come explore the different areas you can study to build your career, and interact with instructors, advisors, and other advocates who will support your success. Take the first step and find where you belong. If you are not sure whether college is for you or how to begin mapping your future path, this fun and interactive event is for you."

The WNCC Admissions staff and student ambassadors will be on hand to answer questions about student life, activities, and residence hall options. Financial aid representatives will also be available to discuss financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

To register for Discover WNCC visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kaAv49nn-FtBXwRIA3iK4rxSM--e7JgBEQpUixfPBKYNkUre9hsJn4MAjKBUJ3pkAVBCbgmWmO3qdF_QKnJtLV_qmGUADISST4kqEZixYTptPVE9jDP9aVzlkSiDztdM6CpOwb82wzD8VXJr5rLAHg==&amp;c=6JGNLC2zWytpAO0tQeePzjzLz39yZlRrwAgiqFaDEuLlTHr76U2I9w==&amp;ch=3sDupgCZ08mX1mtELNOoOTlegeD4JMrtkeXqGRLhm6mrLsBJyDVtFA==" target="_blank">go.wncc.edu/discover.</a>&nbsp;For more information, contact Admissions at&nbsp;admissions@wncc.edu&nbsp;or 308-635-6010.

About Western Nebraska Community College

For more than 90 years, Western Nebraska Community College has been educating residents of Nebraska's Panhandle. With campus locations in Alliance, Scottsbluff, and Sidney, WNCC offers educational, training, and growth opportunities for students, partners, and community members throughout its 12-½ county service area.

SCOTTSBLUFF -&nbsp;Western Nebraska Community College invites all high school juniors, seniors, and their families to attend Discover WNCC, Wednesday, February 16, on the Scottsbluff Campus. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. with the event beginning at 9 a.m.Discover WNCC gives prospective students the chance to experience a day in the life of a WNCC student. High school students and their families will be able to tour the Scottsbluff Campus, meet faculty members, staff, and students, and learn more about WNCC's programs of study."Even if you’ve been to WNCC before,&nbsp;Discover&nbsp;is a great way to see the college in a new light," WNCC Admissions Director Susan Stephenson said. "Come explore the different areas you can study to build your career, and interact with instructors, advisors, and other advocates who will support your success. Take the first step and find where you belong. If you are not sure whether college is for you or how to begin mapping your future path, this fun and interactive event is for you."The WNCC Admissions staff and student ambassadors will be on hand to answer questions about student life, activities, and residence hall options. Financial aid representatives will also be available to discuss financial aid and scholarship opportunities.To register for Discover WNCC visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kaAv49nn-FtBXwRIA3iK4rxSM--e7JgBEQpUixfPBKYNkUre9hsJn4MAjKBUJ3pkAVBCbgmWmO3qdF_QKnJtLV_qmGUADISST4kqEZixYTptPVE9jDP9aVzlkSiDztdM6CpOwb82wzD8VXJr5rLAHg==&amp;c=6JGNLC2zWytpAO0tQeePzjzLz39yZlRrwAgiqFaDEuLlTHr76U2I9w==&amp;ch=3sDupgCZ08mX1mtELNOoOTlegeD4JMrtkeXqGRLhm6mrLsBJyDVtFA==" target="_blank">go.wncc.edu/discover.</a>&nbsp;For more information, contact Admissions at&nbsp;admissions@wncc.edu&nbsp;or 308-635-6010.About Western Nebraska Community CollegeFor more than 90 years, Western Nebraska Community College has been educating residents of Nebraska's Panhandle. With campus locations in Alliance, Scottsbluff, and Sidney, WNCC offers educational, training, and growth opportunities for students, partners, and community members throughout its 12-½ county service area.

Discover WNCC open for high school juniors, seniors

By Kerri Rempp, Sioux County Schools PIO

The Sioux County School Board, after listening again to concerns presented in December, took action Jan. 11 to move forward with the next phases of constructing a new elementary school.

The Harrison Elementary School is not ADA compliant, and the district has studied possible solutions to the issue for the last several months. The district discussed its options at public meetings in December and presented a proposal to construct a new elementary west of the high school.

The board unanimously approved a parameters resolution with DA Davidson to secure financing for the project, which is estimated to require a 14-cent increase in the district’s levy for seven years. The board also approved Baker and Associates as the owner and engineer for professional services for the project in order to obtain final design plans.

Comments at two meetings in December and this month’s board meeting indicate support for the construction of a new school, though there are patrons who have expressed concern over the inclusion of a gym that can be used as an elementary cafeteria, P.E. and recess space and double as a practice gym for high school.

Jory Geiser was selected as a spokesman for the group against the current proposal, urging the board to seek a second architectural estimate for the entire project. He also added that the group believes the high school gym can be used for all the district’s needs.

Board member Joleen Falkenburg noted that the gym is used for activities other an P.E. classes, including band concerts, recess, geography day and more.

“We use it a lot,” said teacher’s aide Echo Juhnke of the current elementary gym, adding that different grade levels often have P.E. and recess at the same time, which would cause conflict in the event of bad weather.

Board chairman Shon Whetham said the project as proposed would require property owners with $1 million in property valuation to pay an additional $1,400 in taxes per year for seven years. Of that amount, $1,068 in taxes goes to construct only the grade school. Whetham said if the district constructed a commons room roughly equal in size to one-half of a gym to accommodate elementary needs only, that would add $248 in taxes per $1 million in valuation, with the final $82 paying to extend the gym to a full-sized facility.

Though conceptual drawings have been presented and an estimate provided for that concept, changes to the project are possible, Falkenburg said.

“We really are at the starting phase,” she said. The district will await final designs from the architect and then put the project out to bid with the goal of breaking ground this spring. If bids come in higher than expected, the board will have to re-evaluate its plans, Whetham said. The contractor selected for the project must honor its bid unless the board approves changes during construction.

The board also rejected Geiser’s idea of hiring a second architect, saying that Baker and Associates comes highly recommended having worked on projects at Fort Robinson, Hyannis, Crawford, Scottsbluff and Chadron.

“The meetings we’ve had with them are very professional,” said board member Dave Howell. Falkenburg added that the project, at an estimated $4.65 million, is relatively small scale.

“This isn’t a $100 million building. The plans are pretty basic,” she said.

Geiser also suggested the district hire a consulting firm to oversee the project to ensure that the school is getting what is legally required at a fair price.

Whetham agreed that the process is lengthy and complex, but with engineering and architects on board from Baker and Associates and Perry Law Firm reviewing the district’s legal obligations on the project, the school will be covered.

“With what Jory is asking, we already have this, in my opinion,” Whetham said.

Another member of the audience questioned the need for the facility if the state is able to come in and close the school if enrollment drops too low.

“Sioux County is unique. Because we are the only school in the county, they cannot come in and close us,” said Superintendent Dr. Brett Gies.

Parent Katie Krein voiced support for the project, noting that her high school students are often getting home at 8 p.m. in poor winter weather conditions when they have late practices. A second gym would allow them to be home and safe much earlier.

“A lot of the people saying cut (the gym) don’t even have kids in the system,” Krein said.

Scott Schaefer also told the board he favors the project as currently proposed.

“The design in my mind looks spot on,” he said.

By Kerri Rempp, Sioux County Schools PIOThe Sioux County School Board, after listening again to concerns presented in December, took action Jan. 11 to move forward with the next phases of constructing a new elementary school.The Harrison Elementary School is not ADA compliant, and the district has studied possible solutions to the issue for the last several months. The district discussed its options at public meetings in December and presented a proposal to construct a new elementary west of the high school.The board unanimously approved a parameters resolution with DA Davidson to secure financing for the project, which is estimated to require a 14-cent increase in the district’s levy for seven years. The board also approved Baker and Associates as the owner and engineer for professional services for the project in order to obtain final design plans.Comments at two meetings in December and this month’s board meeting indicate support for the construction of a new school, though there are patrons who have expressed concern over the inclusion of a gym that can be used as an elementary cafeteria, P.E. and recess space and double as a practice gym for high school.Jory Geiser was selected as a spokesman for the group against the current proposal, urging the board to seek a second architectural estimate for the entire project. He also added that the group believes the high school gym can be used for all the district’s needs.Board member Joleen Falkenburg noted that the gym is used for activities other an P.E. classes, including band concerts, recess, geography day and more.“We use it a lot,” said teacher’s aide Echo Juhnke of the current elementary gym, adding that different grade levels often have P.E. and recess at the same time, which would cause conflict in the event of bad weather.Board chairman Shon Whetham said the project as proposed would require property owners with $1 million in property valuation to pay an additional $1,400 in taxes per year for seven years. Of that amount, $1,068 in taxes goes to construct only the grade school. Whetham said if the district constructed a commons room roughly equal in size to one-half of a gym to accommodate elementary needs only, that would add $248 in taxes per $1 million in valuation, with the final $82 paying to extend the gym to a full-sized facility.Though conceptual drawings have been presented and an estimate provided for that concept, changes to the project are possible, Falkenburg said.“We really are at the starting phase,” she said. The district will await final designs from the architect and then put the project out to bid with the goal of breaking ground this spring. If bids come in higher than expected, the board will have to re-evaluate its plans, Whetham said. The contractor selected for the project must honor its bid unless the board approves changes during construction.The board also rejected Geiser’s idea of hiring a second architect, saying that Baker and Associates comes highly recommended having worked on projects at Fort Robinson, Hyannis, Crawford, Scottsbluff and Chadron.“The meetings we’ve had with them are very professional,” said board member Dave Howell. Falkenburg added that the project, at an estimated $4.65 million, is relatively small scale.“This isn’t a $100 million building. The plans are pretty basic,” she said.Geiser also suggested the district hire a consulting firm to oversee the project to ensure that the school is getting what is legally required at a fair price.Whetham agreed that the process is lengthy and complex, but with engineering and architects on board from Baker and Associates and Perry Law Firm reviewing the district’s legal obligations on the project, the school will be covered.“With what Jory is asking, we already have this, in my opinion,” Whetham said.Another member of the audience questioned the need for the facility if the state is able to come in and close the school if enrollment drops too low.“Sioux County is unique. Because we are the only school in the county, they cannot come in and close us,” said Superintendent Dr. Brett Gies.Parent Katie Krein voiced support for the project, noting that her high school students are often getting home at 8 p.m. in poor winter weather conditions when they have late practices. A second gym would allow them to be home and safe much earlier.“A lot of the people saying cut (the gym) don’t even have kids in the system,” Krein said.Scott Schaefer also told the board he favors the project as currently proposed.“The design in my mind looks spot on,” he said.

District awaits final designs on Harrison school building project

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day which is celebrated on January 17, 2022.

“Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. confronted racial injustice with a message of love and a commitment to non-violence.&nbsp; His courageous leadership helped bring about much-needed civil rights reforms.&nbsp; His impassioned speeches and sermons stirred Americans to renew their commitment to our nation’s founding ideal ‘that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.’”

“As we celebrate Dr. King’s legacy, let’s aspire to the life of service he modeled, remembering that ‘Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.’”

The Governor has signed a proclamation declaring Monday, January 17, 2022 as “Martin Luther King, Jr. Day” in Nebraska.&nbsp;

The proclamation is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fs80f1souos4g98y%2F2022%2520Martin%2520Luther%2520King%252C%2520Jr..%2520Day.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C454da4242c524d3a329208d9d7a6c974%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637777933659618829%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=0fscj2cV267wXssvAFdXrPNmd%2F1SxYd3k6VmbWXlVtQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

LINCOLN –&nbsp;Governor Pete Ricketts issued the following statement in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day which is celebrated on January 17, 2022.“Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. confronted racial injustice with a message of love and a commitment to non-violence.&nbsp; His courageous leadership helped bring about much-needed civil rights reforms.&nbsp; His impassioned speeches and sermons stirred Americans to renew their commitment to our nation’s founding ideal ‘that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.’”“As we celebrate Dr. King’s legacy, let’s aspire to the life of service he modeled, remembering that ‘Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.’”The Governor has signed a proclamation declaring Monday, January 17, 2022 as “Martin Luther King, Jr. Day” in Nebraska.&nbsp; The proclamation is available by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dropbox.com%2Fs%2Fs80f1souos4g98y%2F2022%2520Martin%2520Luther%2520King%252C%2520Jr..%2520Day.pdf%3Fdl%3D0&amp;data=04%7C01%7CGOV-GENERALMEDIA%40LISTSERV.NEBRASKA.GOV%7C454da4242c524d3a329208d9d7a6c974%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637777933659618829%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=0fscj2cV267wXssvAFdXrPNmd%2F1SxYd3k6VmbWXlVtQ%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.

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