Alliance – The Alliance Public Library offers Story time on Tuesdays at 10 am and Thursdays at 1 p.m. in the Children’s Room and includes, music, puppets, birthdays and a craft.

January Story Time for ages 3-6 will feature “Wintry Wonderland” on January 4 and 6, “Rubber Duckies” on January 11 and 13, “Winnie the Pooh and Friends” with special guest Jill Keiser, on January 18 and 20 and “Yummy Tummy Warmers” on January 25 and 27.

Youth Book Club for grades 3-6 will share “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis with a book discussion on Tuesday, January 25 at 4:30 p.m. Books are available for check out at the circulation desk with no fee since this is a book kit from the Nebraska Library Commission.

The Alliance Public Library invites youth in grades 3-12 to participate in “May the Force be with You in 2022” from January 3 through February 28. 

Entry forms can be completed for any Star Wars book or DVD that is checked out from the Alliance Public Library. One Star Wars prize winner will be drawn from all entries on Monday, February 28 at 3 p.m.

For more information, please call Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Librarian at 762-1387.

Alliance – The Alliance Public Library offers Story time on Tuesdays at 10 am and Thursdays at 1 p.m. in the Children’s Room and includes, music, puppets, birthdays and a craft.January Story Time for ages 3-6 will feature “Wintry Wonderland” on January 4 and 6, “Rubber Duckies” on January 11 and 13, “Winnie the Pooh and Friends” with special guest Jill Keiser, on January 18 and 20 and “Yummy Tummy Warmers” on January 25 and 27.Youth Book Club for grades 3-6 will share “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis with a book discussion on Tuesday, January 25 at 4:30 p.m. Books are available for check out at the circulation desk with no fee since this is a book kit from the Nebraska Library Commission.The Alliance Public Library invites youth in grades 3-12 to participate in “May the Force be with You in 2022” from January 3 through February 28. Entry forms can be completed for any Star Wars book or DVD that is checked out from the Alliance Public Library. One Star Wars prize winner will be drawn from all entries on Monday, February 28 at 3 p.m.For more information, please call Cynthia Horn, Children’s and Youth Librarian at 762-1387.

January themes at the Alliance Public Library

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota's minimum wage will go up on Saturday. KELO-TV reports that the minimum wage will rise 50 cents on Jan. 1, from $9.45 an hour to $9.95 an hour. 

A state law passed in 2016 mandates that the minimum wage increase annually to keep pace with the cost of living as measured by the U.S. Department of Labor's Consumer Price Index. 

The increase applies to all South Dakota employers. 

The hourly minimum wage for tipped employees is currently $4.97, half the wage for non-tipped employees.

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota's minimum wage will go up on Saturday. KELO-TV reports that the minimum wage will rise 50 cents on Jan. 1, from $9.45 an hour to $9.95 an hour. A state law passed in 2016 mandates that the minimum wage increase annually to keep pace with the cost of living as measured by the U.S. Department of Labor's Consumer Price Index. The increase applies to all South Dakota employers. The hourly minimum wage for tipped employees is currently $4.97, half the wage for non-tipped employees.

South Dakota minimum wage to jump 50 cents in January

LINCOLN&nbsp;– Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement in observance of New Year’s Day, which is celebrated on January 1, 2022.

“As we enter a new year, Nebraska is in a strong position due to the grit and character of our people.”

“Our state stands out nationally for our pandemic recovery and rapid job growth.&nbsp; Earlier this month,&nbsp;Politico&nbsp;named Nebraska as the top state in the nation for our pandemic response.&nbsp; We currently have the lowest unemployment rate of any state in history at 1.8%.&nbsp; We also had a historic Legislative session in 2021, which will deliver more than $2 billion of tax relief to Nebraskans over the next two years.”&nbsp;

“More important, the family, friends, and neighbors that make up this great state continue to selflessly help one another.&nbsp; There is no better example of this than Nebraska’s health care workers. &nbsp;This past year, doctors and nurses across our state have given excellent care to patients.&nbsp; Their dedication and skill have helped Nebraska power through the pandemic with positive health outcomes relative to other states.&nbsp; Thank you to all of our men and women in health care for your ongoing care to Nebraskans.”

“Susanne, the kids, and I wish every Nebraskan a happy and healthy New Year.”

LINCOLN&nbsp;– Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement in observance of New Year’s Day, which is celebrated on January 1, 2022.“As we enter a new year, Nebraska is in a strong position due to the grit and character of our people.”“Our state stands out nationally for our pandemic recovery and rapid job growth.&nbsp; Earlier this month,&nbsp;Politico&nbsp;named Nebraska as the top state in the nation for our pandemic response.&nbsp; We currently have the lowest unemployment rate of any state in history at 1.8%.&nbsp; We also had a historic Legislative session in 2021, which will deliver more than $2 billion of tax relief to Nebraskans over the next two years.”&nbsp;“More important, the family, friends, and neighbors that make up this great state continue to selflessly help one another.&nbsp; There is no better example of this than Nebraska’s health care workers. &nbsp;This past year, doctors and nurses across our state have given excellent care to patients.&nbsp; Their dedication and skill have helped Nebraska power through the pandemic with positive health outcomes relative to other states.&nbsp; Thank you to all of our men and women in health care for your ongoing care to Nebraskans.”“Susanne, the kids, and I wish every Nebraskan a happy and healthy New Year.”

Gov. Ricketts’ New Year statement

Lincoln —&nbsp;Nebraska looks to be in store for another major winter storm for the New Year, which will impact travelers across much of the state overnight and through tomorrow. 

For the first day of the new year, Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) crews are prepared for the latest round of winter weather.&nbsp; While the forecast could fluctuate, concerns are highest for potential heavy snowfall during the storm coupled with sustained high winds, creating low visibility. This system will work its way through the state beginning overnight and will continue through Saturday, creating slush and snow-covered roadways. Travel during Saturday is not advised.&nbsp; Motorists are encouraged to adjust any travel planned for tomorrow.&nbsp; NDOT crews will be out to clear the highways and monitor changing conditions throughout the storm.&nbsp;

"This winter storm looks to impact much of the state, with potential for significant snowfall coupled with high winds along the I-80 corridor,’ said NDOT Director John Selmer. "Regardless of the time of day or night, our crews at NDOT remain ready to address this winter storm and the different challenges it will bring. Drivers are encouraged to be informed about weather and road conditions before making the decision to travel by checking 511.Nebraska.Gov and Plows.Nebraska.Gov. Remember to slow down, increase following distance, turn off your cruise control and always buckle up."

Nebraska State Troopers will also be working throughout the state, ready to assist motorists and respond to any crashes that may occur. Any motorist who becomes stranded can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555 to speak directly with an NSP dispatcher.

“The broad impact of this storm will be felt in some way across the entire state,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “The type of snow expected, combined with strong winds, will make visibility difficult in many areas. Adjust your travel plans accordingly while the storm moves through and stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.”

Travelers are advised to be alert, be aware, and check the most up to date travel conditions available through 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System.&nbsp; The system is available at all times online at&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/cthomas/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/6ZH3KI14/www.511.nebraska.gov" target="_blank">www.511.nebraska.gov</a>, with Nebraska 511’s smartphone app, or by calling 511.&nbsp; Travelers are also encouraged to utilize NDOT’s Plow Tracker at&nbsp;<a href="https://plows.nebraska.gov/index.html" target="_blank">https://plows.nebraska.gov/index.html</a>&nbsp;where the public will be able to observe road conditions in real time from the cabs of NDOT Snow Plows.&nbsp; Please note that weather conditions are often worse than they appear on camera.&nbsp;

Should travel be absolutely necessary, NDOT and NSP remind motorists to be prepared with warm clothing, water, and food. Be sure to travel on well-established routes and notify someone when you are leaving for your destination.&nbsp; If traveling a distance, a winter weather survival kit is advised with additional basic items.

If you must travel, do not drive faster than conditions allow.&nbsp; Surfaces will be slick under the snow and visibility may be poor.&nbsp; Allow plenty of time to arrive at your destination.

With snowplows out on the roads, travelers are urged to be cautious and courteous to those operating them, making sure to:

Motorists are reminded to make sure everyone in their vehicle wears a seat belt and children are in a car safety seat.&nbsp; Do not use cruise control in wet or snowy weather and keep a full gas tank.

For safe-driving tips and winter weather information, visit NDOT’s website,&nbsp;<a href="http://dot.nebraska.gov/safety/driving/winter/" target="_blank">http://dot.nebraska.gov/safety/driving/winter/</a>

Lincoln —&nbsp;Nebraska looks to be in store for another major winter storm for the New Year, which will impact travelers across much of the state overnight and through tomorrow. For the first day of the new year, Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) crews are prepared for the latest round of winter weather.&nbsp; While the forecast could fluctuate, concerns are highest for potential heavy snowfall during the storm coupled with sustained high winds, creating low visibility. This system will work its way through the state beginning overnight and will continue through Saturday, creating slush and snow-covered roadways. Travel during Saturday is not advised.&nbsp; Motorists are encouraged to adjust any travel planned for tomorrow.&nbsp; NDOT crews will be out to clear the highways and monitor changing conditions throughout the storm.&nbsp;"This winter storm looks to impact much of the state, with potential for significant snowfall coupled with high winds along the I-80 corridor,’ said NDOT Director John Selmer. "Regardless of the time of day or night, our crews at NDOT remain ready to address this winter storm and the different challenges it will bring. Drivers are encouraged to be informed about weather and road conditions before making the decision to travel by checking 511.Nebraska.Gov and Plows.Nebraska.Gov. Remember to slow down, increase following distance, turn off your cruise control and always buckle up."Nebraska State Troopers will also be working throughout the state, ready to assist motorists and respond to any crashes that may occur. Any motorist who becomes stranded can call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55 or 800-525-5555 to speak directly with an NSP dispatcher.“The broad impact of this storm will be felt in some way across the entire state,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “The type of snow expected, combined with strong winds, will make visibility difficult in many areas. Adjust your travel plans accordingly while the storm moves through and stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.”Travelers are advised to be alert, be aware, and check the most up to date travel conditions available through 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System.&nbsp; The system is available at all times online at&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/cthomas/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/6ZH3KI14/www.511.nebraska.gov" target="_blank">www.511.nebraska.gov</a>, with Nebraska 511’s smartphone app, or by calling 511.&nbsp; Travelers are also encouraged to utilize NDOT’s Plow Tracker at&nbsp;<a href="https://plows.nebraska.gov/index.html" target="_blank">https://plows.nebraska.gov/index.html</a>&nbsp;where the public will be able to observe road conditions in real time from the cabs of NDOT Snow Plows.&nbsp; Please note that weather conditions are often worse than they appear on camera.&nbsp;Should travel be absolutely necessary, NDOT and NSP remind motorists to be prepared with warm clothing, water, and food. Be sure to travel on well-established routes and notify someone when you are leaving for your destination.&nbsp; If traveling a distance, a winter weather survival kit is advised with additional basic items.If you must travel, do not drive faster than conditions allow.&nbsp; Surfaces will be slick under the snow and visibility may be poor.&nbsp; Allow plenty of time to arrive at your destination.With snowplows out on the roads, travelers are urged to be cautious and courteous to those operating them, making sure to:<ul>
 <li>Slow down as you approach plows. They travel slowly, usually 25-30 MPH or less.</li><li>Stay well behind plows to give you and them plenty of room.&nbsp; When traveling outside of a business or residential district, it is unlawful to follow a highway maintenance vehicle (snowplow, truck or grader) more closely than 100 feet when it is plowing snow, spreading salt or sand, or displaying a flashing amber or blue light.</li><li>Never pass a plow on the right – snowplows are equipped with “wing plows” which extend beyond the truck itself.</li><li>Know where plows are and actions they may be taking while they plow snow.</li>
 </ul>Motorists are reminded to make sure everyone in their vehicle wears a seat belt and children are in a car safety seat.&nbsp; Do not use cruise control in wet or snowy weather and keep a full gas tank.For safe-driving tips and winter weather information, visit NDOT’s website,&nbsp;<a href="http://dot.nebraska.gov/safety/driving/winter/" target="_blank">http://dot.nebraska.gov/safety/driving/winter/</a>

NDOT, NSP caution drivers as storm impacts state

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota has recorded the highest number of active COVID-19 cases in more than a year. 

The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reports state health officials reported 8,323 active cases on Thursday, the most since Dec. 21, 2020, when the state had 8,373 active cases. That was the last time the state had seen more than 8,000 active cases until Thursday. 

COVID-19 patents occupied 240 hospital beds on Thursday, with 74 in intensive care and 52 on ventilators. 

Another 381 people received a first vaccine dose. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 61 percent of the state's eligible population is now fully vaccinated.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota has recorded the highest number of active COVID-19 cases in more than a year. The Sioux Falls Argus Leader reports state health officials reported 8,323 active cases on Thursday, the most since Dec. 21, 2020, when the state had 8,373 active cases. That was the last time the state had seen more than 8,000 active cases until Thursday. COVID-19 patents occupied 240 hospital beds on Thursday, with 74 in intensive care and 52 on ventilators. Another 381 people received a first vaccine dose. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 61 percent of the state's eligible population is now fully vaccinated.

South Dakota records highest number of active COVID cases in year

Groundbreaking&nbsp;research&nbsp;from the&nbsp;University of Nebraska Medical Center&nbsp;College of Allied Health Professions on “The Impact of Malnutrition on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Diagnosed with COVID-19”&nbsp;is&nbsp;one of five finalists for an&nbsp;award&nbsp;from&nbsp;the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN).&nbsp;

Jana Ponce, PhD, assistant professor of medical nutrition education,&nbsp;said&nbsp;UNMC researchers found&nbsp;that among patients hospitalized&nbsp;with&nbsp;COVID-19,&nbsp;the presence of malnutrition increased the risk of mortality by 2.5 times, and the risk of being mechanically ventilated by 5.7 times.&nbsp;

Dr. Ponce said her team used data from the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C), a nationally representative electronic health record repository that includes data contributed by Nebraska Medicine.&nbsp;

“These results highlight the importance of early recognition of malnutrition risk and effective nutrition interventions in COVID-19 patients,”&nbsp;Dr. Ponce said.&nbsp;

Dr. Ponce will present her team’s abstract at ASPEN’s&nbsp;2022&nbsp;annual conference as a candidate for the Harry M. Vars Research Award.&nbsp;The award honors any early career investigator who has submitted a top-scoring original&nbsp;abstract, and&nbsp;demonstrates excellence via a manuscript and oral presentation at the conference.&nbsp;

Malnutrition&nbsp;can increase complications in hospitalized patients, Dr. Ponce said.&nbsp;Malnutrition happens when the body is deprived of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs to maintain healthy tissues and organ function, according to Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;

But the effect of malnutrition on clinical outcomes in those hospitalized&nbsp;with&nbsp;COVID-19 hadn’t been studied.&nbsp;

That makes&nbsp;UNMC’s research&nbsp;novel.&nbsp;But&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;also&nbsp;meaningful&nbsp;in real-world&nbsp;applications for health care systems and the patients they serve, said Corrine Hanson, PhD, director of UNMC’s&nbsp;division of&nbsp;medical&nbsp;nutrition&nbsp;education.&nbsp;

Dr. Hanson said the work of Dr. Ponce and her team&nbsp;demonstrates&nbsp;“the commitment of UNMC to creating a healthy future for all individuals.”&nbsp;

Said&nbsp;Dr. Hanson,&nbsp;“Combined with the Nebraska Medicine malnutrition initiatives led by Megan Timmerman, the value of our joint mission statement and our dedication to extraordinary care is clear.”&nbsp;

Timmerman, assistant professor of medical nutrition education&nbsp;and manager of nutrition care at Nebraska Medicine,&nbsp;said&nbsp;UNMC research has improved and influenced clinical care at Nebraska Medicine, and vice versa.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;four-year effort,&nbsp;along&nbsp;with&nbsp;Margaret&nbsp;Rajnic&nbsp;from the&nbsp;clinical&nbsp;quality&nbsp;and&nbsp;patient&nbsp;safety&nbsp;team,&nbsp;has&nbsp;strengthened&nbsp;the early identification of patients with malnutrition at Nebraska Medicine, Timmerman said.&nbsp;

“As a result, malnutrition&nbsp;diagnosis&nbsp;rates have increased by 12.9% and an additional critical care nutrition therapist has been added to the team, providing increased and consistent coverage for COVID-19 patients,” Timmerman said.&nbsp;

As a result of Ponce’s research,&nbsp;Nebraska Medicine&nbsp;nutrition care, in collaboration with UNMC medical nutrition, has established best practice guidelines for staff who work with COVID-19 patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jana Ponce, PhD, Corrine Hanson, PhD, Megan Timmerman, Mariah Jackson, College of Allied Health Professions, Division of Medical Nutrition Education. Drs. Ponce and Timmerman: Nebraska Medicine, Department of Pharmaceutical and Nutrition Care.&nbsp;

Jerrod Anzalone, biomedical informatics graduate program, data access/program coordinator, Great Plains&nbsp;IDeA-CTR.&nbsp;

Kristina Bailey, MD, associate professor of pulmonary, critical care and sleep, College of Medicine, Veterans Administration Nebraska-Iowa Health Systems.&nbsp;

Harlan Sayles, College of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics.&nbsp;

By UNMCGroundbreaking&nbsp;research&nbsp;from the&nbsp;University of Nebraska Medical Center&nbsp;College of Allied Health Professions on “The Impact of Malnutrition on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Diagnosed with COVID-19”&nbsp;is&nbsp;one of five finalists for an&nbsp;award&nbsp;from&nbsp;the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN).&nbsp;Jana Ponce, PhD, assistant professor of medical nutrition education,&nbsp;said&nbsp;UNMC researchers found&nbsp;that among patients hospitalized&nbsp;with&nbsp;COVID-19,&nbsp;the presence of malnutrition increased the risk of mortality by 2.5 times, and the risk of being mechanically ventilated by 5.7 times.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640883511496.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Ponce said her team used data from the National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C), a nationally representative electronic health record repository that includes data contributed by Nebraska Medicine.&nbsp;“These results highlight the importance of early recognition of malnutrition risk and effective nutrition interventions in COVID-19 patients,”&nbsp;Dr. Ponce said.&nbsp;Dr. Ponce will present her team’s abstract at ASPEN’s&nbsp;2022&nbsp;annual conference as a candidate for the Harry M. Vars Research Award.&nbsp;The award honors any early career investigator who has submitted a top-scoring original&nbsp;abstract, and&nbsp;demonstrates excellence via a manuscript and oral presentation at the conference.&nbsp;Malnutrition&nbsp;can increase complications in hospitalized patients, Dr. Ponce said.&nbsp;Malnutrition happens when the body is deprived of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs to maintain healthy tissues and organ function, according to Johns Hopkins University.&nbsp;But the effect of malnutrition on clinical outcomes in those hospitalized&nbsp;with&nbsp;COVID-19 hadn’t been studied.&nbsp;That makes&nbsp;UNMC’s research&nbsp;novel.&nbsp;But&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;also&nbsp;meaningful&nbsp;in real-world&nbsp;applications for health care systems and the patients they serve, said Corrine Hanson, PhD, director of UNMC’s&nbsp;division of&nbsp;medical&nbsp;nutrition&nbsp;education.&nbsp;Dr. Hanson said the work of Dr. Ponce and her team&nbsp;demonstrates&nbsp;“the commitment of UNMC to creating a healthy future for all individuals.”&nbsp;Said&nbsp;Dr. Hanson,&nbsp;“Combined with the Nebraska Medicine malnutrition initiatives led by Megan Timmerman, the value of our joint mission statement and our dedication to extraordinary care is clear.”&nbsp;Timmerman, assistant professor of medical nutrition education&nbsp;and manager of nutrition care at Nebraska Medicine,&nbsp;said&nbsp;UNMC research has improved and influenced clinical care at Nebraska Medicine, and vice versa.&nbsp;A&nbsp;four-year effort,&nbsp;along&nbsp;with&nbsp;Margaret&nbsp;Rajnic&nbsp;from the&nbsp;clinical&nbsp;quality&nbsp;and&nbsp;patient&nbsp;safety&nbsp;team,&nbsp;has&nbsp;strengthened&nbsp;the early identification of patients with malnutrition at Nebraska Medicine, Timmerman said.&nbsp;“As a result, malnutrition&nbsp;diagnosis&nbsp;rates have increased by 12.9% and an additional critical care nutrition therapist has been added to the team, providing increased and consistent coverage for COVID-19 patients,” Timmerman said.&nbsp;As a result of Ponce’s research,&nbsp;Nebraska Medicine&nbsp;nutrition care, in collaboration with UNMC medical nutrition, has established best practice guidelines for staff who work with COVID-19 patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;Collaborators&nbsp;included:&nbsp;Jana Ponce, PhD, Corrine Hanson, PhD, Megan Timmerman, Mariah Jackson, College of Allied Health Professions, Division of Medical Nutrition Education. Drs. Ponce and Timmerman: Nebraska Medicine, Department of Pharmaceutical and Nutrition Care.&nbsp;Jerrod Anzalone, biomedical informatics graduate program, data access/program coordinator, Great Plains&nbsp;IDeA-CTR.&nbsp;Kristina Bailey, MD, associate professor of pulmonary, critical care and sleep, College of Medicine, Veterans Administration Nebraska-Iowa Health Systems.&nbsp;Harlan Sayles, College of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics.&nbsp;

Malnutrition increases risk of mortality from COVID-19 

MITCHELL, Neb. (AP) — A 73-year-old woman has died after a one-vehicle accident in the Nebraska Panhandle region. 

The Nebraska State Patrol says Lois Hanley of Crawford was pronounced dead at the scene following the rollover accident Wednesday evening.

 The Omaha World-Herald reports that her husband, Martin Hanley, was taken to a hospital in Scottsbluff. 

The crash happened on Nebraska Highway 29 near Mitchell.

 Investigators say a Ford F-250 pickup driven by Martin Hanley wrecked after a tire blew out. 

The truck, which was carrying an empty flatbed trailer, left the roadway and rolled into a ditch.

MITCHELL, Neb. (AP) — A 73-year-old woman has died after a one-vehicle accident in the Nebraska Panhandle region. The Nebraska State Patrol says Lois Hanley of Crawford was pronounced dead at the scene following the rollover accident Wednesday evening. The Omaha World-Herald reports that her husband, Martin Hanley, was taken to a hospital in Scottsbluff. The crash happened on Nebraska Highway 29 near Mitchell. Investigators say a Ford F-250 pickup driven by Martin Hanley wrecked after a tire blew out. The truck, which was carrying an empty flatbed trailer, left the roadway and rolled into a ditch.

Crawford woman dies in Panhandle accident

By National Weather Service in North Platte

An arctic air mass will move south across Nebraska Friday marking a fast transition to much colder air for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

 Wind chill values as cold as 29 below zero are likely across portions of the north central Saturday morning as overnight low temperatures drop to subzero readings by daybreak.

 As the front sweeps across the area New Year's Eve night into New Year's Day.

 The exact track of the system is still uncertain, however accumulating snowfall is possible with the greatest threat for snow accumulations along and south of I-80.

By National Weather Service in North PlatteAn arctic air mass will move south across Nebraska Friday marking a fast transition to much colder air for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Wind chill values as cold as 29 below zero are likely across portions of the north central Saturday morning as overnight low temperatures drop to subzero readings by daybreak.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640880376139.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> As the front sweeps across the area New Year's Eve night into New Year's Day. The exact track of the system is still uncertain, however accumulating snowfall is possible with the greatest threat for snow accumulations along and south of I-80.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640880421720.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Winter storm to bring dangerous cold temps, snow to Nebraska

NORTH PLATTE&nbsp; — One person is in custody following a pursuit in southwest Nebraska Wednesday afternoon.

At approximately 4:20 pm, the Nebraska State Patrol was alerted that the McCook Police Department was in pursuit of a stolen Ford dually truck northbound on Highway 83. Troopers responded to the area to assist in the pursuit. The vehicle was reportedly traveling in excess of 100 miles per hour and driving towards oncoming traffic at times.

The vehicle eventually left the roadway, drove through a pasture, and returned to Highway 83 traveling southbound. Troopers continued the pursuit. As the vehicle slowed down between Maywood and McCook, a trooper was able to successfully perform a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop. The driver refused to exit the vehicle for approximately 20 minutes.

Troopers were preparing to approach the vehicle when they noticed that the driver had started a fire in the cab of the truck. The driver then exited the truck on his own and was immediately taken into custody. Troopers observed the driver to be suffering from a medical issue and provided medical assistance, including administering Narcan on the scene.

The driver, Keaneu Depe, 23, of Colby, Kansas, was transported by Frontier Rural Fire and Rescue to the hospital in McCook for medical clearance and then lodged in Red Willow County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, theft by receiving stolen property, obstructing a peace officer, 3rd&nbsp;degree arson, and traffic violations. Additional charges are pending.

The Frontier and Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office also assisted.

NORTH PLATTE&nbsp; — One person is in custody following a pursuit in southwest Nebraska Wednesday afternoon.At approximately 4:20 pm, the Nebraska State Patrol was alerted that the McCook Police Department was in pursuit of a stolen Ford dually truck northbound on Highway 83. Troopers responded to the area to assist in the pursuit. The vehicle was reportedly traveling in excess of 100 miles per hour and driving towards oncoming traffic at times.The vehicle eventually left the roadway, drove through a pasture, and returned to Highway 83 traveling southbound. Troopers continued the pursuit. As the vehicle slowed down between Maywood and McCook, a trooper was able to successfully perform a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop. The driver refused to exit the vehicle for approximately 20 minutes.Troopers were preparing to approach the vehicle when they noticed that the driver had started a fire in the cab of the truck. The driver then exited the truck on his own and was immediately taken into custody. Troopers observed the driver to be suffering from a medical issue and provided medical assistance, including administering Narcan on the scene.The driver, Keaneu Depe, 23, of Colby, Kansas, was transported by Frontier Rural Fire and Rescue to the hospital in McCook for medical clearance and then lodged in Red Willow County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, theft by receiving stolen property, obstructing a peace officer, 3rd&nbsp;degree arson, and traffic violations. Additional charges are pending.The Frontier and Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office also assisted.

1 in custody following pursuit with stolen vehicle

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley has signed a disaster declaration to make state emergency money available to pay for damage caused by the severe wind storms earlier this month. 

The governor’s office says the state declaration is required before Nebraska can request a federal disaster declaration for public assistance.

 Foley signed the declaration at the direction of Gov. Pete Ricketts, who is out of the state.

 The Dec. 15 storm knocked down power lines and trees around the state.

 State officials say they’re still conducting damage assessments. 

Nebraska Emergency Management Assistant Director Erv Portis says the state will likely qualify for the federal government’s public assistance program but not its individual assistance program, based on the confirmed damage.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley has signed a disaster declaration to make state emergency money available to pay for damage caused by the severe wind storms earlier this month. The governor’s office says the state declaration is required before Nebraska can request a federal disaster declaration for public assistance. Foley signed the declaration at the direction of Gov. Pete Ricketts, who is out of the state. The Dec. 15 storm knocked down power lines and trees around the state. State officials say they’re still conducting damage assessments. Nebraska Emergency Management Assistant Director Erv Portis says the state will likely qualify for the federal government’s public assistance program but not its individual assistance program, based on the confirmed damage.

Nebraska OKs disaster declaration for December wind storm

Two COVID cases of the Omicron variant have been identified in the Panhandle. This variant may spread more easily than other variants, including Delta.

Only one of the current monoclonal antibody treatments is effective against this variant and will initially be in limited supply due to high demand throughout the nation. Panhandle residents are urged to take all necessary precautions for the safety of themselves and their loved ones.

“COVID vaccination decreases the risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death from COVID. We strongly encourage COVID vaccination for everyone 5 and older and boosters for everyone 16 and older. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and reduce the impact of COVID on our communities,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.

If You Test Positive for COVID (Isolate)

Everyone, regardless of vaccination status.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home for 5 days.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have no symptoms or your symptoms are resolving after 5 days, you can leave your house.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Continue to wear a mask around others for 5 additional days.

If you have a fever, continue to stay home until your fever resolves.

If You Were Exposed to Someone with COVID (Quarantine)

If you are:&nbsp;&nbsp;UP TO DATE Have been boosted OR Completed the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine within the last 6 months OR Completed the primary series of J&amp;J vaccine within the last 2 months

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wear a mask around others for 10 days.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Test on day 5, if possible.

If you develop symptoms get a test and stay home.

If you are:&nbsp;&nbsp;NOT&nbsp;UP TO DATE

Completed the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine over 6&nbsp;months ago and are not boosted OR Completed the primary series of J&amp;J over 2 months ago and are not boosted OR Are unvaccinated

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home for 5 days. After that continue to wear a mask around others for 5 additional days.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you can’t quarantine you must wear a mask for 10 days.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Test on day 5 if possible.

Continue to follow employer policies; these recommendations do not supersede their policies.

Data from South Africa and the United Kingdom demonstrate that vaccine effectiveness against infection for two doses of an mRNA vaccine is approximately 35%. A COVID vaccine booster dose restores vaccine effectiveness against infection to 75%.

Vaccine access is available across the Panhandle, find a location near you&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2p85sy3a" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2p85sy3a</a>. Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html" target="_blank">http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html</a>.

The Panhandle COVID dashboard is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. The state COVID dashboard is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/ufj9fcuf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/ufj9fcuf</a>. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>.

By PPHDTwo COVID cases of the Omicron variant have been identified in the Panhandle. This variant may spread more easily than other variants, including Delta.Only one of the current monoclonal antibody treatments is effective against this variant and will initially be in limited supply due to high demand throughout the nation. Panhandle residents are urged to take all necessary precautions for the safety of themselves and their loved ones.“COVID vaccination decreases the risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death from COVID. We strongly encourage COVID vaccination for everyone 5 and older and boosters for everyone 16 and older. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and reduce the impact of COVID on our communities,” said Kim Engel, Panhandle Public Health District Director.If You Test Positive for COVID (Isolate)Everyone, regardless of vaccination status.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home for 5 days.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have no symptoms or your symptoms are resolving after 5 days, you can leave your house.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Continue to wear a mask around others for 5 additional days.If you have a fever, continue to stay home until your fever resolves.If You Were Exposed to Someone with COVID (Quarantine)If you are:&nbsp;&nbsp;UP TO DATE Have been boosted OR Completed the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine within the last 6 months OR Completed the primary series of J&amp;J vaccine within the last 2 months·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wear a mask around others for 10 days.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Test on day 5, if possible.If you develop symptoms get a test and stay home.If you are:&nbsp;&nbsp;NOT&nbsp;UP TO DATECompleted the primary series of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine over 6&nbsp;months ago and are not boosted OR Completed the primary series of J&amp;J over 2 months ago and are not boosted OR Are unvaccinated·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay home for 5 days. After that continue to wear a mask around others for 5 additional days.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you can’t quarantine you must wear a mask for 10 days.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Test on day 5 if possible.If you develop symptoms get a test and stay home.Continue to follow employer policies; these recommendations do not supersede their policies.Data from South Africa and the United Kingdom demonstrate that vaccine effectiveness against infection for two doses of an mRNA vaccine is approximately 35%. A COVID vaccine booster dose restores vaccine effectiveness against infection to 75%.Vaccine access is available across the Panhandle, find a location near you&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/2p85sy3a" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/2p85sy3a</a>. Current COVID testing access can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html" target="_blank">http://pphd.org/COVID-19.html</a>.The Panhandle COVID dashboard is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pphd.org/" target="_blank">www.pphd.org</a>. The state COVID dashboard is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://tinyurl.com/ufj9fcuf" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/ufj9fcuf</a>. For the most up to date information from the CDC, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html</a>.

PPHD: 2 cases of the Omicron variant identified in Panhandle

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The American Civil Liberties Union is urging the Nebraska School Activities Association to revise its bylaws and discipline a referee whom it said failed to accommodate the communication needs of a deaf high school wrestler, potentially costing him a state championship.

 The ACLU says it and the National Association of the Deaf issued a demand letter to the activities association. 

Gering High School senior Paul Ruff was competing in the Nebraska State Wrestling Championship. Ruff uses a cochlear implant but takes it out while wrestling. 

His advocates say he missed warnings during the championship match because the referee wouldn’t lower his mask, which meant Ruff couldn’t read his lips.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — The American Civil Liberties Union is urging the Nebraska School Activities Association to revise its bylaws and discipline a referee whom it said failed to accommodate the communication needs of a deaf high school wrestler, potentially costing him a state championship. The ACLU says it and the National Association of the Deaf issued a demand letter to the activities association. Gering High School senior Paul Ruff was competing in the Nebraska State Wrestling Championship. Ruff uses a cochlear implant but takes it out while wrestling. His advocates say he missed warnings during the championship match because the referee wouldn’t lower his mask, which meant Ruff couldn’t read his lips. He narrowly lost the match.

ACLU: Ref failed to accommodate deaf Gering wrestler in title match

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska congressman and military officials say the cost of rebuilding Offutt Air Force Base is going to be far higher than engineers first thought. 

Republican Rep. Don Bacon told the Omaha World-Herald that he’s been told by Offutt officials to expect the original estimate of nearly $800 million to rise to around $1.1 billion. Officials at Offutt’s 55th Wing agreed that costs would be higher, but declined to specify an amount. 

Lt. Col Chris Conover says initial estimates were done quickly and with incomplete information about what the reconstruction would need to include. 

He also blamed the COVID-19 pandemic for pushing up the costs. 

The flood inundated the base in March 2019.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska congressman and military officials say the cost of rebuilding Offutt Air Force Base is going to be far higher than engineers first thought. Republican Rep. Don Bacon told the Omaha World-Herald that he’s been told by Offutt officials to expect the original estimate of nearly $800 million to rise to around $1.1 billion. Officials at Offutt’s 55th Wing agreed that costs would be higher, but declined to specify an amount. Lt. Col Chris Conover says initial estimates were done quickly and with incomplete information about what the reconstruction would need to include. He also blamed the COVID-19 pandemic for pushing up the costs. The flood inundated the base in March 2019.

Cost of rebuilding Offutt will be higher than first thought

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task Force

For the last few weeks we have been looking at student loan debt. Student loan debt is the second highest consumer debt category, after mortgages. The Federal Reserve estimates that Americans owe $1.73 trillion in student loans. 43.2 million student borrowers are in debt by an average of $39,351 each.

There are several programs through the Department of Education that allow federal student loans to be forgiven, cancelled, or discharged. These terms mean you are no longer required to repay some or all of your federal student loan.

Unless you apply for and are approved for one of the following programs, it is important to remember that you are responsible for repaying your student loans, and for making those payments on time. It doesn’t matter whether you completed your education, found a job related to your program of study, or were happy with the education you paid for with your loan.

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, you may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. PSLF forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans (loans from the federal government) after you have made 120 on-time monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer.

If you teach full-time for five complete and consecutive academic years in a low-income elementary school, secondary school, or educational service unit, you may be eligible for forgiveness of up to $17,500 on your Direct Loan. You cannot receive a benefit for the same qualifying payments or period of service for Teacher Loan Forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

If your school closed while you were enrolled or soon after you withdrew, you may be eligible for discharge of your federal student loan. The federal government has also determined that some colleges defrauded students, so their loans are cancelled. (ITT Technical Institute and Corinthian Colleges are two examples of schools whose loan debts were cancelled.)

You may be eligible to have all or a portion of your Perkins Loan canceled based on your employment or volunteer service. The federal Perkins loan was an option for undergraduate and graduate students who showed exceptional financial need. But as of Sept, 2017, new Perkins loans are no longer available. They featured a fixed 5% interest rate and, at nine months, a longer grace period than other student loans.

Total and Permanent Disability Discharge or Discharge Due to Death:

If you’re totally and permanently disabled, you may qualify for a discharge of your federal student loans. The same is true for student borrowers who have died.

Federal student loans are rarely discharged if a person declared bankruptcy, but it does happen in some cases. If you are declaring bankruptcy, ask you lawyer about this.

You may be eligible for discharge of your federal student loans if you took out the loans to attend a school and the school did something or failed to do something related to your loan or to the educational services that the loan was intended to pay for. This means the post-secondary school breached their contract.

· Your eligibility to receive the loan was falsely certified by the school.

· Your eligibility to receive the loan was falsely certified through identity theft.

· The student withdrew from school, but the school didn’t pay a refund of your loan money that it was required to pay under applicable regulations.

Parents may have taken out PLUS loans to help fund a child’s college costs. As with loans made to students, a PLUS loan can be discharged if the parent dies, becomes totally and permanently disabled, or if the loan is discharged in bankruptcy. The parent PLUS loan may also be discharged if the child for whom you borrowed dies.

Talk to your loan servicer to see whether you can apply for any of the loan forgiveness programs discussed in this article. And pay attention to whether Congress will be offering additional programs to deal with the problem of student loan debt.

By Patricia Jones, Alliance Poverty Task ForceFor the last few weeks we have been looking at student loan debt. Student loan debt is the second highest consumer debt category, after mortgages. The Federal Reserve estimates that Americans owe $1.73 trillion in student loans. 43.2 million student borrowers are in debt by an average of $39,351 each.There are several programs through the Department of Education that allow federal student loans to be forgiven, cancelled, or discharged. These terms mean you are no longer required to repay some or all of your federal student loan.Unless you apply for and are approved for one of the following programs, it is important to remember that you are responsible for repaying your student loans, and for making those payments on time. It doesn’t matter whether you completed your education, found a job related to your program of study, or were happy with the education you paid for with your loan.Public Service Loan Forgiveness:If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, you may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. PSLF forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans (loans from the federal government) after you have made 120 on-time monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer.Teacher Loan Forgiveness:If you teach full-time for five complete and consecutive academic years in a low-income elementary school, secondary school, or educational service unit, you may be eligible for forgiveness of up to $17,500 on your Direct Loan. You cannot receive a benefit for the same qualifying payments or period of service for Teacher Loan Forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.Closed School Discharge:If your school closed while you were enrolled or soon after you withdrew, you may be eligible for discharge of your federal student loan. The federal government has also determined that some colleges defrauded students, so their loans are cancelled. (ITT Technical Institute and Corinthian Colleges are two examples of schools whose loan debts were cancelled.)Perkins Loan Cancellation and Discharge:You may be eligible to have all or a portion of your Perkins Loan canceled based on your employment or volunteer service. The federal Perkins loan was an option for undergraduate and graduate students who showed exceptional financial need. But as of Sept, 2017, new Perkins loans are no longer available. They featured a fixed 5% interest rate and, at nine months, a longer grace period than other student loans.Total and Permanent Disability Discharge or Discharge Due to Death:If you’re totally and permanently disabled, you may qualify for a discharge of your federal student loans. The same is true for student borrowers who have died.Discharge in Bankruptcy:Federal student loans are rarely discharged if a person declared bankruptcy, but it does happen in some cases. If you are declaring bankruptcy, ask you lawyer about this.False Certification Discharge:You may be eligible for discharge of your federal student loans if you took out the loans to attend a school and the school did something or failed to do something related to your loan or to the educational services that the loan was intended to pay for. This means the post-secondary school breached their contract.· Your eligibility to receive the loan was falsely certified by the school.· Your eligibility to receive the loan was falsely certified through identity theft.· The student withdrew from school, but the school didn’t pay a refund of your loan money that it was required to pay under applicable regulations.Eligibility for Parent Borrowers:Parents may have taken out PLUS loans to help fund a child’s college costs. As with loans made to students, a PLUS loan can be discharged if the parent dies, becomes totally and permanently disabled, or if the loan is discharged in bankruptcy. The parent PLUS loan may also be discharged if the child for whom you borrowed dies.Talk to your loan servicer to see whether you can apply for any of the loan forgiveness programs discussed in this article. And pay attention to whether Congress will be offering additional programs to deal with the problem of student loan debt.

Poverty In Our Area: Student loan debt forgiveness

Over the past three years, the Nebraska National Guard has helped Nebraskans through floods, fires, and a global pandemic.&nbsp; Through it all, the Guard has proved time and again how vital they are to the citizens of our state in times of need.&nbsp; As Commander-in-Chief of the Nebraska National Guard, I could not be more proud of these men and women.

While generations of Nebraskans have served in the Guard, its mission changed significantly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.&nbsp; Twenty-five years ago, individuals joining the Nebraska National Guard didn’t expect to be deployed.&nbsp; Airmen and Soldiers usually weren’t called on to support overseas missions. Now, they receive a much higher level of training and preparedness than in years past.&nbsp; Today’s young women and men who join the National Guard not only&nbsp;know&nbsp;they will be deployed—they&nbsp;want&nbsp;to be deployed.&nbsp; They’re eager to take the fight to the enemy.&nbsp; They’re looking for opportunities to serve their fellow citizens.&nbsp; They’re trained to do so.

The Guard has shown its versatility and value during the disasters of the past few years.&nbsp; It stepped up in heroic ways when Nebraska endured the 2019 floods—the most widespread natural disaster in our state’s history.&nbsp; Members of the Guard dropped sandbags to protect homes and businesses from rising floodwaters.&nbsp; They delivered hay so that ranchers could feed their livestock.&nbsp;

The Guard also conducted daring rescue missions to save Nebraskans.&nbsp; Helicopter pilots told me the rainy and windy conditions of the flood were every bit as hazardous as flying in combat.&nbsp; During the floods, the National Guard saved 112 Nebraskans—66 by helicopter hoist—and 13 pets.&nbsp; A Nebraska National Guard crew won the DUSTOFF Award for performing the 2019 Rescue of the Year after pulling seven first responders out of the cold, surging waters of the Elkhorn River.

After the floods of 2019, the Nebraska National Guard again swung into action in 2020 to help their neighbors through the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; Members of the Guard volunteered to conduct coronavirus testing at Test Nebraska sites in multiple cities, seven days per week.&nbsp; They served as medics, oversaw decontamination procedures, and managed traffic flows at drive-thru sites.&nbsp;

The Guard distributed PPE to first responders and healthcare workers across Nebraska.&nbsp; In total, the State delivered 18.6 million masks, 39 million sets of gloves, 5 million surgical gowns, and over 50,000 gallons of hand sanitizer.&nbsp; The Guard’s logistical support helped Nebraska become the first state in the country to accumulate a 120-day supply of critical PPE.&nbsp;

The Guard also played a key role in supporting coronavirus vaccination.&nbsp; Members of the Guard directly administered nearly 70,000 vaccine doses to the public.&nbsp; Their work greatly boosted capabilities of our local health departments.

Additionally, Airmen and Soldiers supported the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FFoodBankofLincoln%3F__cft__%255b0%255d%3DAZWBuhpR7ESMSSxLIeM09rrWISifR9Cdr6ZyOYt2ZBKWeJB5uppZ14dO9SoFqLeBfVuvcrXayupiqEpAOmq77tjg1je_ko4O731yx1VH8-j69JECFXFlAUyrPzoB6SA3roJlgwRhy7UqUAGKMjEUtk9y%26__tn__%3D-%255dK-R&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C93d0ba6b973648a6f8a508d9ca471db3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637763229046240584%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=0R%2FhPehONpor8uxv4gtLZF%2Fd3dj6KpUX9lE9VXW9lgg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Food Bank of Lincoln</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FFoodBankHeartland%2F%3F__cft__%255b0%255d%3DAZWBuhpR7ESMSSxLIeM09rrWISifR9Cdr6ZyOYt2ZBKWeJB5uppZ14dO9SoFqLeBfVuvcrXayupiqEpAOmq77tjg1je_ko4O731yx1VH8-j69JECFXFlAUyrPzoB6SA3roJlgwRhy7UqUAGKMjEUtk9y%26__tn__%3DkK-R&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C93d0ba6b973648a6f8a508d9ca471db3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637763229046250538%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=bxH4xghzsxr3MybElHZbjkc7PvEUyB6zhnuO%2Fqi3hrw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Food Bank for the Heartland</a>&nbsp;to distribute food to pantries throughout the state.&nbsp; Over two months in the spring of 2020, Guard members helped package and deliver over 400,000 pounds of produce and packaged food.&nbsp; This work helped families around the state put food on the table during the peak disruption period of the pandemic.

The Guard plays a leading role in the State’s firefighting efforts as well.&nbsp; In November, I called on the National Guard to help contain the Buffalo Creek wildfire in Banner and Scotts Bluff counties.&nbsp; The Guard flew two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters to the blaze and dropped more than 100,000 gallons of water on the hottest spots of the fire.&nbsp; Their aerial firefighting capabilities played a big role in our success putting a stop to the fire before it harmed anyone.&nbsp; This wasn’t the only wildfire the Guard helped fight in 2021 either.&nbsp; Helicopter crews provided aerial assistance to combat wildfires in Holt County in June, the Hackberry wildfire near Harrison in August, and September fires south of Crawford and west of Scottsbluff.

The fantastic job done by the Guard in Nebraska is only part of its work.&nbsp; The Nebraska National Guard also deploys around the world to serve our country on missions vital to national security.&nbsp; This spring, the 179th Cyber Protection Team returned to Nebraska after over a year of guarding the U.S. from virtual threats while stationed in Fort Meade, Maryland.&nbsp; About 200 Soldiers based in Columbus and Grand Island are helping to manage the humanitarian crisis on the U.S.-Mexico border.&nbsp; We also have soldiers of the 67th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade serving in Africa, as well as the 1057th Military Police Company and 734th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion serving in Kuwait and Qatar. Members of the 192nd Military Police Detachment returned to Nebraska just in time for Christmas after a 10-month deployment to Jordan. We’re grateful to have them home for the holidays, and we pray for the safe return of all the women and men still on mission out of state.

The Nebraska National Guard is carrying on the tradition of service, sacrifice, and honor that have made this the greatest country in the history of the world.&nbsp; Major General Daryl Bohac, Adjutant General of the Nebraska National Guard, is doing great work to prepare his Soldiers and Airmen for whatever comes their way in 2022.&nbsp; On behalf of all Nebraskans, thank you to members of the Guard for your dedicated service to our state.

The Nebraska National Guard Museum in Seward tells the stories of brave Soldiers and Airmen who’ve served Nebraska since before the Civil War.&nbsp; I encourage you to make a visit.&nbsp; For museum hours and information go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnengm.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C93d0ba6b973648a6f8a508d9ca471db3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637763229046250538%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=MbVM4S%2FOCTewdhpZVVxWkRjpEbYIhDvQCodd3dRixAA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nengm.org</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;If you have any questions about the Nebraska National Guard—or any other matter—please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;<a href="tel:402-471-2244">402-471-2244</a>.

By Gov. Pete RickettsOver the past three years, the Nebraska National Guard has helped Nebraskans through floods, fires, and a global pandemic.&nbsp; Through it all, the Guard has proved time and again how vital they are to the citizens of our state in times of need.&nbsp; As Commander-in-Chief of the Nebraska National Guard, I could not be more proud of these men and women.While generations of Nebraskans have served in the Guard, its mission changed significantly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.&nbsp; Twenty-five years ago, individuals joining the Nebraska National Guard didn’t expect to be deployed.&nbsp; Airmen and Soldiers usually weren’t called on to support overseas missions. Now, they receive a much higher level of training and preparedness than in years past.&nbsp; Today’s young women and men who join the National Guard not only&nbsp;know&nbsp;they will be deployed—they&nbsp;want&nbsp;to be deployed.&nbsp; They’re eager to take the fight to the enemy.&nbsp; They’re looking for opportunities to serve their fellow citizens.&nbsp; They’re trained to do so.The Guard has shown its versatility and value during the disasters of the past few years.&nbsp; It stepped up in heroic ways when Nebraska endured the 2019 floods—the most widespread natural disaster in our state’s history.&nbsp; Members of the Guard dropped sandbags to protect homes and businesses from rising floodwaters.&nbsp; They delivered hay so that ranchers could feed their livestock.&nbsp;The Guard also conducted daring rescue missions to save Nebraskans.&nbsp; Helicopter pilots told me the rainy and windy conditions of the flood were every bit as hazardous as flying in combat.&nbsp; During the floods, the National Guard saved 112 Nebraskans—66 by helicopter hoist—and 13 pets.&nbsp; A Nebraska National Guard crew won the DUSTOFF Award for performing the 2019 Rescue of the Year after pulling seven first responders out of the cold, surging waters of the Elkhorn River.After the floods of 2019, the Nebraska National Guard again swung into action in 2020 to help their neighbors through the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp; Members of the Guard volunteered to conduct coronavirus testing at Test Nebraska sites in multiple cities, seven days per week.&nbsp; They served as medics, oversaw decontamination procedures, and managed traffic flows at drive-thru sites.&nbsp;The Guard distributed PPE to first responders and healthcare workers across Nebraska.&nbsp; In total, the State delivered 18.6 million masks, 39 million sets of gloves, 5 million surgical gowns, and over 50,000 gallons of hand sanitizer.&nbsp; The Guard’s logistical support helped Nebraska become the first state in the country to accumulate a 120-day supply of critical PPE.&nbsp;The Guard also played a key role in supporting coronavirus vaccination.&nbsp; Members of the Guard directly administered nearly 70,000 vaccine doses to the public.&nbsp; Their work greatly boosted capabilities of our local health departments.Additionally, Airmen and Soldiers supported the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FFoodBankofLincoln%3F__cft__%255b0%255d%3DAZWBuhpR7ESMSSxLIeM09rrWISifR9Cdr6ZyOYt2ZBKWeJB5uppZ14dO9SoFqLeBfVuvcrXayupiqEpAOmq77tjg1je_ko4O731yx1VH8-j69JECFXFlAUyrPzoB6SA3roJlgwRhy7UqUAGKMjEUtk9y%26__tn__%3D-%255dK-R&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C93d0ba6b973648a6f8a508d9ca471db3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637763229046240584%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=0R%2FhPehONpor8uxv4gtLZF%2Fd3dj6KpUX9lE9VXW9lgg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Food Bank of Lincoln</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FFoodBankHeartland%2F%3F__cft__%255b0%255d%3DAZWBuhpR7ESMSSxLIeM09rrWISifR9Cdr6ZyOYt2ZBKWeJB5uppZ14dO9SoFqLeBfVuvcrXayupiqEpAOmq77tjg1je_ko4O731yx1VH8-j69JECFXFlAUyrPzoB6SA3roJlgwRhy7UqUAGKMjEUtk9y%26__tn__%3DkK-R&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C93d0ba6b973648a6f8a508d9ca471db3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637763229046250538%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=bxH4xghzsxr3MybElHZbjkc7PvEUyB6zhnuO%2Fqi3hrw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Food Bank for the Heartland</a>&nbsp;to distribute food to pantries throughout the state.&nbsp; Over two months in the spring of 2020, Guard members helped package and deliver over 400,000 pounds of produce and packaged food.&nbsp; This work helped families around the state put food on the table during the peak disruption period of the pandemic.The Guard plays a leading role in the State’s firefighting efforts as well.&nbsp; In November, I called on the National Guard to help contain the Buffalo Creek wildfire in Banner and Scotts Bluff counties.&nbsp; The Guard flew two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters to the blaze and dropped more than 100,000 gallons of water on the hottest spots of the fire.&nbsp; Their aerial firefighting capabilities played a big role in our success putting a stop to the fire before it harmed anyone.&nbsp; This wasn’t the only wildfire the Guard helped fight in 2021 either.&nbsp; Helicopter crews provided aerial assistance to combat wildfires in Holt County in June, the Hackberry wildfire near Harrison in August, and September fires south of Crawford and west of Scottsbluff.The fantastic job done by the Guard in Nebraska is only part of its work.&nbsp; The Nebraska National Guard also deploys around the world to serve our country on missions vital to national security.&nbsp; This spring, the 179th Cyber Protection Team returned to Nebraska after over a year of guarding the U.S. from virtual threats while stationed in Fort Meade, Maryland.&nbsp; About 200 Soldiers based in Columbus and Grand Island are helping to manage the humanitarian crisis on the U.S.-Mexico border.&nbsp; We also have soldiers of the 67th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade serving in Africa, as well as the 1057th Military Police Company and 734th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion serving in Kuwait and Qatar. Members of the 192nd Military Police Detachment returned to Nebraska just in time for Christmas after a 10-month deployment to Jordan. We’re grateful to have them home for the holidays, and we pray for the safe return of all the women and men still on mission out of state.The Nebraska National Guard is carrying on the tradition of service, sacrifice, and honor that have made this the greatest country in the history of the world.&nbsp; Major General Daryl Bohac, Adjutant General of the Nebraska National Guard, is doing great work to prepare his Soldiers and Airmen for whatever comes their way in 2022.&nbsp; On behalf of all Nebraskans, thank you to members of the Guard for your dedicated service to our state.The Nebraska National Guard Museum in Seward tells the stories of brave Soldiers and Airmen who’ve served Nebraska since before the Civil War.&nbsp; I encourage you to make a visit.&nbsp; For museum hours and information go to&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnengm.org%2F&amp;data=04%7C01%7Ccio.webmstr%40nebraska.gov%7C93d0ba6b973648a6f8a508d9ca471db3%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637763229046250538%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=MbVM4S%2FOCTewdhpZVVxWkRjpEbYIhDvQCodd3dRixAA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">nengm.org</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;If you have any questions about the Nebraska National Guard—or any other matter—please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov">pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;<a href="tel:402-471-2244">402-471-2244</a>.

Gov. Ricketts: Nebraska’s citizen-soldiers

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska is reporting a rise in new virus cases again after a brief dip, although the latest numbers remain lower than earlier this month. 

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows Nebraska reported 5,826 cases of COVID-19 last week, up from 5,488 the previous week. 

But the numbers are lower than the 7,052 cases reported the week before that.

 Nebraska health officials say 470 people were hospitalized with the virus on Monday, down from a recent peak of 637 on Dec. 13, but hospital capacity remains strained across the state.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska is reporting a rise in new virus cases again after a brief dip, although the latest numbers remain lower than earlier this month. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows Nebraska reported 5,826 cases of COVID-19 last week, up from 5,488 the previous week. But the numbers are lower than the 7,052 cases reported the week before that. Nebraska health officials say 470 people were hospitalized with the virus on Monday, down from a recent peak of 637 on Dec. 13, but hospital capacity remains strained across the state.

Nebraska virus cases on the rise again after brief dip

LINCOLN — As Nebraska prepares to ring in the new year, troopers remain on patrol across the state monitoring for impaired driving.

In the first ten days of the ­Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which runs from December 17 through January 1, troopers have removed from the road 37 impaired drivers. The campaign includes troopers and dispatchers from the Nebraska State Patrol, as well as officers and deputies from many other agencies across the state.

“Holiday celebrations are always a fun way to close out the year,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “So, if you’re attending a New Year’s party or other event this week, make a plan ahead of time to have a sober ride home.”

The Nebraska State Patrol reminds drivers that there are many ways to get a safe ride home from a sober driver: designate a driver, take a rideshare, call a cab, or utilize a community safe ride program offered by local businesses, such as AAA Nebraska’s “Tow to Go” program by calling 855-2-Tow-2-Go. That program runs through January 3.

“As we all look ahead to 2022, let’s close out 2021 in a safe manner on the roads,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Always have a sober driver, watch your speed, avoid distractions, and always wear a seat belt.”

NSP’s portion of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over initiative is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $26,500 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

LINCOLN — As Nebraska prepares to ring in the new year, troopers remain on patrol across the state monitoring for impaired driving.In the first ten days of the ­Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which runs from December 17 through January 1, troopers have removed from the road 37 impaired drivers. The campaign includes troopers and dispatchers from the Nebraska State Patrol, as well as officers and deputies from many other agencies across the state.“Holiday celebrations are always a fun way to close out the year,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “So, if you’re attending a New Year’s party or other event this week, make a plan ahead of time to have a sober ride home.”The Nebraska State Patrol reminds drivers that there are many ways to get a safe ride home from a sober driver: designate a driver, take a rideshare, call a cab, or utilize a community safe ride program offered by local businesses, such as AAA Nebraska’s “Tow to Go” program by calling 855-2-Tow-2-Go. That program runs through January 3.“As we all look ahead to 2022, let’s close out 2021 in a safe manner on the roads,” said Colonel Bolduc. “Always have a sober driver, watch your speed, avoid distractions, and always wear a seat belt.”NSP’s portion of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over initiative is made possible thanks in part to a grant for $26,500 from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Troopers continue holiday impaired driving enforcement campaign

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a representative of his office at an upcoming Mobile Offices in Harrison, Alliance, Rushville, and Chadron. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

At mobile offices, Third District residents can meet directly with one of Smith’s staff members about federal issues and take advantage of the services available through his office.

Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will provide his mobile office and a staff member at the following times and locations:

Monday, January 3rd&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sioux County Courthouse 325 Main Street, Harrison 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. MT

Wednesday, January 5th&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Box Butte County Courthouse 515 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. MT

Tuesday, January 18th&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sheridan County Courthouse&nbsp; 303 East 2nd&nbsp;Street, Rushville 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. MT

Tuesday, January 25th&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Dawes County Courthouse 451 Main Street, Chadron 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. MT

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Constituents of Third District Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) are invited to meet with a representative of his office at an upcoming Mobile Offices in Harrison, Alliance, Rushville, and Chadron. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At mobile offices, Third District residents can meet directly with one of Smith’s staff members about federal issues and take advantage of the services available through his office.Smith, who has offices in Grand Island and Scottsbluff, will provide his mobile office and a staff member at the following times and locations:Monday, January 3rd&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sioux County Courthouse 325 Main Street, Harrison 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. MTWednesday, January 5th&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Box Butte County Courthouse 515 Box Butte Avenue, Alliance 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. MTTuesday, January 18th&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Sheridan County Courthouse&nbsp; 303 East 2nd&nbsp;Street, Rushville 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. MTTuesday, January 25th&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Dawes County Courthouse 451 Main Street, Chadron 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. MT

Smith announces staff mobile offices in Panhandle 

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is pushing new rules for medicine-induced abortions that would be among the most restrictive in the country. 

But a legislative committee has withheld its approval until it can get more information on the proposal. 

The state Department of Health’s proposed rule would add further requirements for women to get abortion pills, including requiring them to see a doctor three separate times and be within their first nine weeks of pregnancy. 

The rules proposal has been decried by abortion-rights advocates. 

The Republican governor has argued that restrictions on abortion pills are necessary for the safety of women.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is pushing new rules for medicine-induced abortions that would be among the most restrictive in the country. But a legislative committee has withheld its approval until it can get more information on the proposal. The state Department of Health’s proposed rule would add further requirements for women to get abortion pills, including requiring them to see a doctor three separate times and be within their first nine weeks of pregnancy. The rules proposal has been decried by abortion-rights advocates. The Republican governor has argued that restrictions on abortion pills are necessary for the safety of women.

Noem's check on abortion meds stuck in legislative committee

MINDEN, Neb. (AP) — A former school board member who was removed from office after she refused to wear a mask to meetings in central Nebraska has filed a lawsuit seeking to be reinstated.

 The Kearney Hub reports that Katie Sinsel filed her lawsuit last month against the Minden school district’s superintendent and the board members who voted to remove her from the board. 

She argues she shouldn’t have been prevented from participating in board meetings and the board lacked the authority to remove her.

 District officials didn’t immediately reply Monday to a message about the lawsuit, and they haven’t yet responded to the lawsuit in court.

MINDEN, Neb. (AP) — A former school board member who was removed from office after she refused to wear a mask to meetings in central Nebraska has filed a lawsuit seeking to be reinstated. The Kearney Hub reports that Katie Sinsel filed her lawsuit last month against the Minden school district’s superintendent and the board members who voted to remove her from the board. She argues she shouldn’t have been prevented from participating in board meetings and the board lacked the authority to remove her. District officials didn’t immediately reply Monday to a message about the lawsuit, and they haven’t yet responded to the lawsuit in court.