The City of Chadron has issued a snow emergency is being declared from 2:00 a.m. on December 27, 2023 until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday December 28, 2023. When a snow emergency is issued, all vehicles, boats, trailers and motorhomes must be moved off the designated emergency snow routes. In the event the weather conditions change, the emergency may be cancelled. Local radio stations will broadcast updates as necessary.

 Main Street from 1 st St. to 5 th St.

 Chadron Ave. from 1 st St. to 3 rd St.

 Morehead St. from 2 nd St. to 3 rd St.

 2 nd St. from Bordeaux St. to Morehead St.

 3 rd St. from King St. west to Mears St.

For more information on the Snow Emergency Routes, visit the City of Chadron’s website at <a href="http://www.chadron-nebraska.com/public-works/streets-department.html">www.chadron-nebraska.com/public-works/streets-department.html</a>

By City of ChadronThe City of Chadron has issued a snow emergency is being declared from 2:00 a.m. on December 27, 2023 until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday December 28, 2023. When a snow emergency is issued, all vehicles, boats, trailers and motorhomes must be moved off the designated emergency snow routes. In the event the weather conditions change, the emergency may be cancelled. Local radio stations will broadcast updates as necessary.The emergency snow routes are: Main Street from 1 st St. to 5 th St. Chadron Ave. from 1 st St. to 3 rd St. Morehead St. from 2 nd St. to 3 rd St. 2 nd St. from Bordeaux St. to Morehead St. 3 rd St. from King St. west to Mears St.For more information on the Snow Emergency Routes, visit the City of Chadron’s website at <a href="http://www.chadron-nebraska.com/public-works/streets-department.html">www.chadron-nebraska.com/public-works/streets-department.html</a>

City of Chadron declares snow emergency 

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WY

Including the cities of Alliance, Hemingford, Angora, Bridgeport, Bayard, and Redington&nbsp;

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 AM MST WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected with near-blizzard&nbsp;  conditions possible. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches&nbsp;  possible. Locally higher amounts are possible over northern Box&nbsp;  Butte County and eastern Morrill County. Winds gusting as high&nbsp;  as 45 MPH.

* WHERE...Morrill and Box Butte Counties including Hemingford and&nbsp;  Alliance.

* WHEN...Until 5 AM MST Wednesday. The worst conditions are&nbsp;  expected through Tuesday morning.

* IMPACTS...Extremely dangerous or impossible travel conditions&nbsp;  due to icy, snow packed roads and significantly reduced&nbsp;  visibilities in falling and blowing snow.

Including the cities of Chadron, Chadron St Park, Harrison, Lusk,
and Redbird&nbsp;

WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 AM MST
WEDNESDAY...



* WHAT...Heavy snow and near-blizzard conditions expected. Total
  snow accumulations of 8 to 16 inches, with the highest amounts
  expected along the Pine Ridge. Wind gusts up to 45 MPH.



* WHERE...In Wyoming, southern Niobrara County including Lusk
  and Van Tassel. In the northern Nebraska Panhandle, northern
  Sioux and Dawes Counties including Harrison, Crawford, and
  Chadron.



* WHEN...Until 5 AM MST Wednesday. The worst conditions are
  expected through Tuesday morning.

* IMPACTS...Extremely dangerous or impossible travel conditions
  due to icy, snow packed roads and significantly reduced
  visibilities in falling and blowing snow.&nbsp;

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, WYIncluding the cities of Alliance, Hemingford, Angora, Bridgeport, Bayard, and Redington&nbsp;...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 AM MST WEDNESDAY...* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected with near-blizzard&nbsp; conditions possible. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches&nbsp; possible. Locally higher amounts are possible over northern Box&nbsp; Butte County and eastern Morrill County. Winds gusting as high&nbsp; as 45 MPH.* WHERE...Morrill and Box Butte Counties including Hemingford and&nbsp; Alliance.* WHEN...Until 5 AM MST Wednesday. The worst conditions are&nbsp; expected through Tuesday morning.* IMPACTS...Extremely dangerous or impossible travel conditions&nbsp; due to icy, snow packed roads and significantly reduced&nbsp; visibilities in falling and blowing snow.Including the cities of Chadron, Chadron St Park, Harrison, Lusk,
and Redbird&nbsp;WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 AM MST
WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and near-blizzard conditions expected. Total
 snow accumulations of 8 to 16 inches, with the highest amounts
 expected along the Pine Ridge. Wind gusts up to 45 MPH.

* WHERE...In Wyoming, southern Niobrara County including Lusk
 and Van Tassel. In the northern Nebraska Panhandle, northern
 Sioux and Dawes Counties including Harrison, Crawford, and
 Chadron.

* WHEN...Until 5 AM MST Wednesday. The worst conditions are
 expected through Tuesday morning.

* IMPACTS...Extremely dangerous or impossible travel conditions
 due to icy, snow packed roads and significantly reduced
 visibilities in falling and blowing snow.&nbsp;PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

UPDATE: Winter Storm Warning continues for Panhandle 

Western Nebraska Blood Center and Chadron Community Hospital will hold a Blood Drive on Dec. 27 at Prairie Pines Lodge from 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

If you or someone you know is interested in donating blood, please call 308-432-0273 to make an appointment.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Western Nebraska Blood Center and Chadron Community Hospital will hold a Blood Drive on Dec. 27 at Prairie Pines Lodge from 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.If you or someone you know is interested in donating blood, please call 308-432-0273 to make an appointment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Blood Drive to be held in Chadron

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol responded to nearly 150 weather-related incidents on Nebraska roadways on Christmas Day.

Troopers responded to 28 crashes and performed 117 motorist assists as much of the state experienced a white Christmas. The vast majority of the incidents did not involve injuries.

One crash, which occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m. Monday, resulted in the closure of eastbound Interstate 80 for approximately three hours while clean-up took place. There were no injuries reported in that crash.

Winter driving conditions exist across the state on Tuesday and a Blizzard Warning remains in effect for areas of north-central and western Nebraska. Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for additional counties. Travelers should check the forecast for their area before attempted to travel.

All travelers are also urged to check&nbsp;<a href="http://www.511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">511.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated road conditions before hitting the road. Any motorist who becomes stranded should stay with their vehicle and call for help. The NSP Highway Helpline is *55.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol responded to nearly 150 weather-related incidents on Nebraska roadways on Christmas Day.Troopers responded to 28 crashes and performed 117 motorist assists as much of the state experienced a white Christmas. The vast majority of the incidents did not involve injuries.One crash, which occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m. Monday, resulted in the closure of eastbound Interstate 80 for approximately three hours while clean-up took place. There were no injuries reported in that crash.Winter driving conditions exist across the state on Tuesday and a Blizzard Warning remains in effect for areas of north-central and western Nebraska. Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for additional counties. Travelers should check the forecast for their area before attempted to travel.All travelers are also urged to check&nbsp;<a href="http://www.511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">511.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated road conditions before hitting the road. Any motorist who becomes stranded should stay with their vehicle and call for help. The NSP Highway Helpline is *55.

Winter storm keeps Troopers busy on Christmas Day

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyoming

 Travel conditions will be very difficult to impossible across portions of the area today through Tuesday night. Snow totals may vary significantly across fairly small distances. 

 Expect the most dangerous conditions along the Pine Ridge in Niobrara, Sioux, and Dawes counties, the Cheyenne Ridge in Laramie, Kimball, Banner, and Cheyenne counties, and the I-80 Summit. 

 Lower totals are expected in the lower elevations of the North Platte River Valley, so even if conditions look fine at your location, be sure to check conditions on your planned route as they may be drastically different!

NOTE: This is a snow and wind forecast for locations along common routes, not a forecast or roadway conditions. Be sure to check wyoroad.info for Wyoming or <a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/?fbclid=IwAR21gMIzbD5pYpzbYiiyKeC70oMvf2iap1w10FPawoa_itazG8RYn7RUEco" target="_blank">511.nebraska.gov</a> for Nebraska, or call 511 for the latest road conditions if planning any travel in the next 24 to 48 hours.

By National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyoming Travel conditions will be very difficult to impossible across portions of the area today through Tuesday night. Snow totals may vary significantly across fairly small distances. Expect the most dangerous conditions along the Pine Ridge in Niobrara, Sioux, and Dawes counties, the Cheyenne Ridge in Laramie, Kimball, Banner, and Cheyenne counties, and the I-80 Summit. Lower totals are expected in the lower elevations of the North Platte River Valley, so even if conditions look fine at your location, be sure to check conditions on your planned route as they may be drastically different!NOTE: This is a snow and wind forecast for locations along common routes, not a forecast or roadway conditions. Be sure to check wyoroad.info for Wyoming or <a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/?fbclid=IwAR21gMIzbD5pYpzbYiiyKeC70oMvf2iap1w10FPawoa_itazG8RYn7RUEco" target="_blank">511.nebraska.gov</a> for Nebraska, or call 511 for the latest road conditions if planning any travel in the next 24 to 48 hours.<figure>
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NWS: 'Travel conditions will be very difficult to impossible' 

LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Governor Jim Pillen recognized two law enforcement officers for their life-saving actions following a crash on Thanksgiving evening.

On Thursday, November 23, at approximately 9:45 p.m., the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 80 near mile marker 163. Trooper Alex Coffman was the closest to the scene and responded immediately. Trooper Coffman located the two vehicles on their sides and partially submerged in the water of Fremont Slough. Trooper Coffman found two young boys standing in the freezing water and carried them to his patrol vehicle to get warm.

When he returned to the vehicle, the kids’ mother was yelling that another child was still inside the vehicle. Lincoln County Deputy Tyler Schultz arrived at the scene and assisted Trooper Coffman as they tried to extricate the one-year-old girl from the vehicle. The girl was still buckled into her car seat and was partially submerged in the water.

Trooper Coffman and Deputy Schultz both entered the freezing water to reach the girl. Coffman submerged himself to get inside the vehicle and cut the seat belt away. Deputy Schultz was then able to pull the girl out of the vehicle through a broken window.

Today, Governor Pillen and Nebraska State Patrol Colonel John Bolduc presented the NSP Life Saver Award to Trooper Coffman and the NSP Public Service Award to Deputy Schultz for their heroic actions on Thanksgiving evening. All parties involved in the crash were transported to the hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

“Across our great state, law enforcement officers and first responders commit many acts of heroism, often without fanfare or recognition,” said Gov. Pillen. “Today’s honorees – Trooper Coffman and Deputy Schultz – represent the dedication and selflessness that defines all who serve and protect Nebraskans, each and every day.”&nbsp;

The NSP Life Saver Award is presented to NSP personnel for their actions to preserve life while responding to a life-or-death situation. The NSP Public Service Award is presented to non-NSP personnel, including civilians, for heroic actions.

By Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703606971132.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, NEB.&nbsp; — Governor Jim Pillen recognized two law enforcement officers for their life-saving actions following a crash on Thanksgiving evening.On Thursday, November 23, at approximately 9:45 p.m., the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 80 near mile marker 163. Trooper Alex Coffman was the closest to the scene and responded immediately. Trooper Coffman located the two vehicles on their sides and partially submerged in the water of Fremont Slough. Trooper Coffman found two young boys standing in the freezing water and carried them to his patrol vehicle to get warm.When he returned to the vehicle, the kids’ mother was yelling that another child was still inside the vehicle. Lincoln County Deputy Tyler Schultz arrived at the scene and assisted Trooper Coffman as they tried to extricate the one-year-old girl from the vehicle. The girl was still buckled into her car seat and was partially submerged in the water.Trooper Coffman and Deputy Schultz both entered the freezing water to reach the girl. Coffman submerged himself to get inside the vehicle and cut the seat belt away. Deputy Schultz was then able to pull the girl out of the vehicle through a broken window.Today, Governor Pillen and Nebraska State Patrol Colonel John Bolduc presented the NSP Life Saver Award to Trooper Coffman and the NSP Public Service Award to Deputy Schultz for their heroic actions on Thanksgiving evening. All parties involved in the crash were transported to the hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.“Across our great state, law enforcement officers and first responders commit many acts of heroism, often without fanfare or recognition,” said Gov. Pillen. “Today’s honorees – Trooper Coffman and Deputy Schultz – represent the dedication and selflessness that defines all who serve and protect Nebraskans, each and every day.”&nbsp;The NSP Life Saver Award is presented to NSP personnel for their actions to preserve life while responding to a life-or-death situation. The NSP Public Service Award is presented to non-NSP personnel, including civilians, for heroic actions.

Gov. Pillen recognizes trooper, deputy for heroic actions

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/mccook-recognized-by-national-magazine-for-its-arts-culture-and-food/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Efforts to bolster the arts, recreation and food in McCook have garnered national recognition for the southwest Nebraska community.

Food &amp; Leisure magazine, in its annual&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/americas-best-small-towns-2023-7643148">“best small towns” feature</a>, named McCook runner-up as the best small town for food and culture, right behind Los Olivos, California.

The magazine cited McCook, population 7,356, for its landmark Sehnert’s Bakery, the first James Beard Award-winning eatery in the state, the “striking” 6th Floor Project art gallery atop the town’s tallest building, and its 26-year-old Buffalo Commons Storytelling and Music Festival.

The art gallery is the work of Chad Graff and Joanne Falkenburg, who moved back to Nebraska in 2021 after successful careers in California.

They opened the 6th Floor Project, a contemporary art gallery, on the top level of the century-old Keystone building. In October, they opened another gallery, the ArtBank, in a former Wells Fargo Bank.

The Nebraska Department of Economic Development, in a press release, cited several other developments underway in the community.

Charlie McPherson of the McCook Economic Development Corporation told the DED that the community has focused on “quality of life” projects that help convince people to stay or move to McCook.

“We have a safe community, good school systems and projects underway in education, housing, arts, and music. There’s a lot to be excited about, a lot of momentum,” McPherson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703482575556.jpeg" alt=" The 6th Floor Project art gallery in McCook was cited by a national magazine as part of its recognition of “best small towns” in America. (Courtesy of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development)" />
 <figcaption> The 6th Floor Project art gallery in McCook was cited by a national magazine as part of its recognition of “best small towns” in America. (Courtesy of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/mccook-recognized-by-national-magazine-for-its-arts-culture-and-food/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Efforts to bolster the arts, recreation and food in McCook have garnered national recognition for the southwest Nebraska community.Food &amp; Leisure magazine, in its annual&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.travelandleisure.com/americas-best-small-towns-2023-7643148">“best small towns” feature</a>, named McCook runner-up as the best small town for food and culture, right behind Los Olivos, California.The magazine cited McCook, population 7,356, for its landmark Sehnert’s Bakery, the first James Beard Award-winning eatery in the state, the “striking” 6th Floor Project art gallery atop the town’s tallest building, and its 26-year-old Buffalo Commons Storytelling and Music Festival.<h2>Nebraskans moved back</h2>The art gallery is the work of Chad Graff and Joanne Falkenburg, who moved back to Nebraska in 2021 after successful careers in California.They opened the 6th Floor Project, a contemporary art gallery, on the top level of the century-old Keystone building. In October, they opened another gallery, the ArtBank, in a former Wells Fargo Bank.The Nebraska Department of Economic Development, in a press release, cited several other developments underway in the community.Charlie McPherson of the McCook Economic Development Corporation told the DED that the community has focused on “quality of life” projects that help convince people to stay or move to McCook.“We have a safe community, good school systems and projects underway in education, housing, arts, and music. There’s a lot to be excited about, a lot of momentum,” McPherson said.<h2>Other developments</h2>Among recent developments in McCook:<ul>
 <li>The opening of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mccookfoundation.org/turning-a-dream-into-reality">Norris Alley</a>, an open-air plaza that hosts plays and concerts.</li><li>Completion of a 100-foot-long mural, depicting the community’s history and culture.</li><li>The designation of a “McCook Creative District” by the Nebraska Arts Council.</li><li>Construction of a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mccookfoundation.org/swimming-pool-great-example-of-mccook-on-the-move">brand-new outdoor aquatics facility,&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;replacing a community pool built in 1937.</li><li>A $16 million capital campaign to upgrade the local YMCA.</li><li>Expansion of a local business park by 35 acres and arrival of Performance Plus Liquids, a new business in the park.</li><li>Construction of additional, affordable housing.</li>
 </ul>

McCook recognized by national magazine for its arts, culture and food

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen released his Christmas and New Year’s message:&nbsp;

“We, as Nebraskans, are fortunate to live in a state where we can feel safe and secure. Nebraska is the best place in the world to grow up, get an education, launch a career and raise a family. Our blessings are many here in the Good Life.

We enjoy many freedoms in our country, defended through the sacrifice of others – including our first responders and members of the armed forces, serving far from home. Please keep them and their families in your prayers, as you settle down to your holiday meal.

As I reflect on this Advent season, I am grateful for the gift of grace and the celebration that marks the coming of Jesus Christ. Christmas is a time of rejoicing and spending time with family and friends. Whether you are staying home or venturing far, I hope that you are creating meaningful moments that will last a lifetime.

On behalf of me and Suzanne, and our entire family, I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!”

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen released his Christmas and New Year’s message:&nbsp;“We, as Nebraskans, are fortunate to live in a state where we can feel safe and secure. Nebraska is the best place in the world to grow up, get an education, launch a career and raise a family. Our blessings are many here in the Good Life.We enjoy many freedoms in our country, defended through the sacrifice of others – including our first responders and members of the armed forces, serving far from home. Please keep them and their families in your prayers, as you settle down to your holiday meal.As I reflect on this Advent season, I am grateful for the gift of grace and the celebration that marks the coming of Jesus Christ. Christmas is a time of rejoicing and spending time with family and friends. Whether you are staying home or venturing far, I hope that you are creating meaningful moments that will last a lifetime.On behalf of me and Suzanne, and our entire family, I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!”

Governor Pillen Releases Christmas & New Year’s Message

CHADRON – Students in Dr. Matthew Evertson’s Fall capstone course Outside: Your Self in the World (CAP 469E) read Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. He said the English and Humanities motto Get Outside Yourself served as the inspiration for the name of the course. The capstone is an Essential Studies requirement.

Evertson said he chose to have his class read the book because of its current popularity in the world of ecological studies, as well as its focus on Indigenous ways of knowing and traditional ecological knowledge.

The capstone course objectives include gathering a wide variety of disciplines and viewpoints into a wide-ranging exploration based upon the notion of getting outside or forcing students to explore something new, something disruptive to common experiences or perceptions, something that forces them to confront new information, new ideas, and new ways of seeing the world.

“I’ve taught the book before in my Environmental Literature class, and I knew the students would have a strong reaction,” Evertson said. “It is a hopeful and beautifully written book about braiding these various ways of knowing together, and helping non-indigenous people learn more about these cultures that have traditionally close ties to the land and thrived in America well before the resettlement of the continent after colonial contact.”

While teaching regional and American literature, Evertson said he tends to teach Indigenous literature from an outsider or settler perspective. He has been expanding his knowledge of Indigenous people and cultures so he can include it in his teachings. He is also on the Indigenous Recognition and Reconciliation group working on a land acknowledgment statement.

Additionally, Evertson said the book addresses the course’s outside theme. Each chapter requires readers to see the world around them with a new perspective, driven by lessons Kimmerer shares throughout the book, primarily the teachings of plants.

One of Evertson’s students, Isabel Manchego-Pena, agrees the book has made an impact on her.

“It captured me as soon as I read it and I thought it was super interesting,” Manchego-Pena said.

Manchego-Pena feels Kimmerer’s writing expanded her love of nature and helped with her capstone project.

“She’s not only doing a beautiful job at writing, but she’s capturing that essence in her writing and she’s beautifying nature in a way that others can visualize it,” Manchego-Pena said. “I think a lot of people don’t see nature with the beauty and the appreciation that she has, and it’s encouraging. It helps with my capstone project, because we are supposed to get outside and be in nature. Her words have helped me guide my project, where I want to go and what I want to achieve with it.”

During Chadron State College’s Thanksgiving Tribute to Indigenous Peoples Nov. 20, Evertson’s students handed out copies of relevant selections of the book, including a section titled Allegiance to Gratitude, which includes the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address that Manchego-Pena described as easy to digest and understand.

The Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address was developed and published following an English translation in 1993. It acknowledges connections between human beings and other living beings in the world as well as the waters, sun, moon, stars, and unseen spiritual forces.

Manchego-Pena says that picking a favorite chapter was a challenge for her, but she favors a section from the end of the book talking about the wendigo, a mythological creature or evil spirit originating from the folklore of Plains and Great Lakes Native Americans, as well as some First Nations.

“At the end of the book we read about the wendigo, which is a creature that they talk about during the winter times, and it’s like a cannibalistic beast and monster, and it originates in humans,” Manchego-Pena said. “It’s really interesting how the author uses that as a metaphor for selfishness and greed and how it can get the best of us and eat us alive.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703179760601.jpeg" alt="Native American hoop dancer Tara Kingi of Rapid City, S.D., speaks in the Chadron State College Student Center Nov. 20, 2023, during CSC's Thanksgiving Tribute to Indigenous Peoples. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)" />
 <figcaption>Native American hoop dancer Tara Kingi of Rapid City, S.D., speaks in the Chadron State College Student Center Nov. 20, 2023, during CSC's Thanksgiving Tribute to Indigenous Peoples. (Photo by Tena L. Cook/Chadron State College)</figcaption>
 </figure>CHADRON – Students in Dr. Matthew Evertson’s Fall capstone course Outside: Your Self in the World (CAP 469E) read Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. He said the English and Humanities motto Get Outside Yourself served as the inspiration for the name of the course. The capstone is an Essential Studies requirement.Evertson said he chose to have his class read the book because of its current popularity in the world of ecological studies, as well as its focus on Indigenous ways of knowing and traditional ecological knowledge.The capstone course objectives include gathering a wide variety of disciplines and viewpoints into a wide-ranging exploration based upon the notion of getting outside or forcing students to explore something new, something disruptive to common experiences or perceptions, something that forces them to confront new information, new ideas, and new ways of seeing the world.“I’ve taught the book before in my Environmental Literature class, and I knew the students would have a strong reaction,” Evertson said. “It is a hopeful and beautifully written book about braiding these various ways of knowing together, and helping non-indigenous people learn more about these cultures that have traditionally close ties to the land and thrived in America well before the resettlement of the continent after colonial contact.”While teaching regional and American literature, Evertson said he tends to teach Indigenous literature from an outsider or settler perspective. He has been expanding his knowledge of Indigenous people and cultures so he can include it in his teachings. He is also on the Indigenous Recognition and Reconciliation group working on a land acknowledgment statement.Additionally, Evertson said the book addresses the course’s outside theme. Each chapter requires readers to see the world around them with a new perspective, driven by lessons Kimmerer shares throughout the book, primarily the teachings of plants.One of Evertson’s students, Isabel Manchego-Pena, agrees the book has made an impact on her.“It captured me as soon as I read it and I thought it was super interesting,” Manchego-Pena said.Manchego-Pena feels Kimmerer’s writing expanded her love of nature and helped with her capstone project.“She’s not only doing a beautiful job at writing, but she’s capturing that essence in her writing and she’s beautifying nature in a way that others can visualize it,” Manchego-Pena said. “I think a lot of people don’t see nature with the beauty and the appreciation that she has, and it’s encouraging. It helps with my capstone project, because we are supposed to get outside and be in nature. Her words have helped me guide my project, where I want to go and what I want to achieve with it.”During Chadron State College’s Thanksgiving Tribute to Indigenous Peoples Nov. 20, Evertson’s students handed out copies of relevant selections of the book, including a section titled Allegiance to Gratitude, which includes the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address that Manchego-Pena described as easy to digest and understand.The Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address was developed and published following an English translation in 1993. It acknowledges connections between human beings and other living beings in the world as well as the waters, sun, moon, stars, and unseen spiritual forces.Manchego-Pena says that picking a favorite chapter was a challenge for her, but she favors a section from the end of the book talking about the wendigo, a mythological creature or evil spirit originating from the folklore of Plains and Great Lakes Native Americans, as well as some First Nations.“At the end of the book we read about the wendigo, which is a creature that they talk about during the winter times, and it’s like a cannibalistic beast and monster, and it originates in humans,” Manchego-Pena said. “It’s really interesting how the author uses that as a metaphor for selfishness and greed and how it can get the best of us and eat us alive.”

English students at CSC learn from book Braiding Sweetgrass

By MOLLY LANGHORST, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS

CHADRON – Chadron State College student Megan Cawley is the December Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month.

Cawley, a junior from Bayard, Nebraska, said she chose&nbsp;CSC&nbsp;because of the surrounding community. Cawley said Chadron reminds her of Bayard, providing her with the comfort of a small town, but with more opportunities and activities.

Cawley hopes to graduate in December 2024 with a degree in elementary education. She plans to add a minor in special education or obtain a coaching endorsement before she graduates.

After graduation, Cawley plans to work as a substitute teacher, allowing herself time to find a school district that she enjoys. She likes the opportunity this would provide her to learn about different schools and their surrounding communities while seeking long-term employment as a third or fourth-grade teacher. Cawley plans to obtain her substitute teaching license in the coming school year.

She currently works at the after-school program at Chadron’s Intermediate School, an experience she said has helped her learn the age group she enjoys working with the most.

“I’ve always liked working with younger kids,” Cawley said, “but I’ve learned to enjoy this age group specifically because of their level of development. They’re at an age where they still think school is fun, but they have more focus than a kindergartener.”

Cawley values conversations with students in the program and credits them for encouraging her toward a teaching career.

“I’ve been surprised at the intelligent conversations I’ve had with those students. Getting to know them and working with them has helped me push through continuing to pursue my major,” Cawley said. “Getting to bond with those kids is very rewarding and helps me keep my end goal in mind when schoolwork gets tough.”

Cawley also credits Assistant Professor of Education Dr. Eric Rapp for helping her when she’s been doubtful about her education path.

“Dr. Rapp is my adviser and I had a class with him my first semester here. It was a rough time for me and he helped me through a lot of stuff during that time,” Cawley said.

Rapp notes Cawley’s responsibility and growth during her college career.

“Megan is going to be a wonderful teacher,” Rapp said. “She has taken on responsibilities as head-on and is succeeding at every turn. I first met Megan in an advising session in the fall semester of her freshman year. She has stopped by my office every semester since then to double-check that she is on track and to talk about future options in the teaching profession. In these visits, I have seen her gain confidence and grow academically as a pre-service teacher.”

Rapp also mentions his experience with Cawley as a student in one of his courses.

“When I had Megan in the Technology for Educators course, she always did high-quality work and what caught my attention was how skilled she was using different forms of technology,” Rapp said. “I have seen Megan whip around on her iPad showing me some of her class projects and moments later open her laptop and demonstrate an entirely different skill set. I’m confident Megan will be taking some of these technology skills with her into her future classroom where she will create engaging Technology Enhanced Learning opportunities for her students.”

Cawley is a member of the Education Club, which she describes as helpful to its members.

“They provide helpful resources and information, such as an email list with a list of schools currently paying their student teachers,” Cawley said.

When Cawley isn’t at work or focusing on her coursework, she enjoys reading and playing video games, both hobbies she said she learned to enjoy at a young age.

“I feel like I haven’t stopped reading since I learned how,” Cawley said. “When I was in elementary school I always loved being in the library, and video games are kind of the same way for me. My uncle let me play on his XBox once and I was hooked immediately.”

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">https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/</a>.

By MOLLY LANGHORST, CSC COLLEGE RELATIONSCHADRON – Chadron State College student Megan Cawley is the December Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month.Cawley, a junior from Bayard, Nebraska, said she chose&nbsp;CSC&nbsp;because of the surrounding community. Cawley said Chadron reminds her of Bayard, providing her with the comfort of a small town, but with more opportunities and activities.Cawley hopes to graduate in December 2024 with a degree in elementary education. She plans to add a minor in special education or obtain a coaching endorsement before she graduates.After graduation, Cawley plans to work as a substitute teacher, allowing herself time to find a school district that she enjoys. She likes the opportunity this would provide her to learn about different schools and their surrounding communities while seeking long-term employment as a third or fourth-grade teacher. Cawley plans to obtain her substitute teaching license in the coming school year.She currently works at the after-school program at Chadron’s Intermediate School, an experience she said has helped her learn the age group she enjoys working with the most.“I’ve always liked working with younger kids,” Cawley said, “but I’ve learned to enjoy this age group specifically because of their level of development. They’re at an age where they still think school is fun, but they have more focus than a kindergartener.”Cawley values conversations with students in the program and credits them for encouraging her toward a teaching career.“I’ve been surprised at the intelligent conversations I’ve had with those students. Getting to know them and working with them has helped me push through continuing to pursue my major,” Cawley said. “Getting to bond with those kids is very rewarding and helps me keep my end goal in mind when schoolwork gets tough.”Cawley also credits Assistant Professor of Education Dr. Eric Rapp for helping her when she’s been doubtful about her education path.“Dr. Rapp is my adviser and I had a class with him my first semester here. It was a rough time for me and he helped me through a lot of stuff during that time,” Cawley said.Rapp notes Cawley’s responsibility and growth during her college career.“Megan is going to be a wonderful teacher,” Rapp said. “She has taken on responsibilities as head-on and is succeeding at every turn. I first met Megan in an advising session in the fall semester of her freshman year. She has stopped by my office every semester since then to double-check that she is on track and to talk about future options in the teaching profession. In these visits, I have seen her gain confidence and grow academically as a pre-service teacher.”Rapp also mentions his experience with Cawley as a student in one of his courses.“When I had Megan in the Technology for Educators course, she always did high-quality work and what caught my attention was how skilled she was using different forms of technology,” Rapp said. “I have seen Megan whip around on her iPad showing me some of her class projects and moments later open her laptop and demonstrate an entirely different skill set. I’m confident Megan will be taking some of these technology skills with her into her future classroom where she will create engaging Technology Enhanced Learning opportunities for her students.”Cawley is a member of the Education Club, which she describes as helpful to its members.“They provide helpful resources and information, such as an email list with a list of schools currently paying their student teachers,” Cawley said.When Cawley isn’t at work or focusing on her coursework, she enjoys reading and playing video games, both hobbies she said she learned to enjoy at a young age.“I feel like I haven’t stopped reading since I learned how,” Cawley said. “When I was in elementary school I always loved being in the library, and video games are kind of the same way for me. My uncle let me play on his XBox once and I was hooked immediately.”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">https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/</a>.

Bayard native Cawley named Student of the Month at CSC

KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney announced students who earned a place on the dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester.

Students who are on the dean’s list must have completed 12 credit hours or more of classes with a 3.5 grade-point average or better on a 4.0 scale. Students earn a 4.0 for an “A,” 3.0 for a “B” and 2.0 for a “C.”

Courses taken on a credit/no credit basis – such as internships and student teaching – aren’t included among the necessary 12 credits.

Students who earned a place on the dean’s list are listed by hometown, with students from Nebraska listed first.

Out-of-state and international students are listed by state or country at the end of the listing.

If you would like to check the names on the dean's list, <a href="https://unknews.unk.edu/2023/12/21/university-of-nebraska-at-kearney-celebrates-academic-excellence-fall-2023-deans-list-announced/">click here</a>.

UNK&nbsp;KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney announced students who earned a place on the dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester.Students who are on the dean’s list must have completed 12 credit hours or more of classes with a 3.5 grade-point average or better on a 4.0 scale. Students earn a 4.0 for an “A,” 3.0 for a “B” and 2.0 for a “C.”Courses taken on a credit/no credit basis – such as internships and student teaching – aren’t included among the necessary 12 credits.Students who earned a place on the dean’s list are listed by hometown, with students from Nebraska listed first.Out-of-state and international students are listed by state or country at the end of the listing.If you would like to check the names on the dean's list, <a href="https://unknews.unk.edu/2023/12/21/university-of-nebraska-at-kearney-celebrates-academic-excellence-fall-2023-deans-list-announced/">click here</a>.

University of Nebraska at Kearney celebrates academic excellence: Fall 2023 dean’s list announced

GRANT, NEB. - Perkins County High school is hosting the 2023 Perkins County Booster Club Holiday Basketball Tournament today and tomorrow. We will have radio coverage of tonight's boys and girls' game for Perkins County and Hyannis. Today's games will either be played in the New gym or Pritchett Gym. This year's participants are Perkins County, Wallace, South Loup and Hyannis.

&nbsp;Perkins County (H) vs Hyannis (A)(Boys) - New Gym - 5:00pm MT (Radio coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Wallace (H) vs South Platte (A)(Girls) - Pritchett Gym - 5:00pm MT

Perkins County (H) vs Hyannis (A)(Girls) - New Gym - 6:30pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Wallace (H) vs South Platte (A) (Boys) - Pritchett Gym - 6:30pm MT

Tonight's Perkins County boys and girl's games against Hyannis will be on Flatrock 100.7. Our Kwik Stop Pregame coverage is set to begin at 4:45pm MT with tip off set for 5:00pm MT. The girl's game is set to follow 20 minutes after the boy's game. Join Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7 or online by <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">clicking here.</a>&nbsp;

Boys' 3rd Place Game - New Gym - 2:00pm MT

Girls' 3rd Place Game - New Gym - 3:30pm MT

Girls' 1st Place Game - New Gym - 5:00pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Boys' 1st Place Game - New Gym - 6:30pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Sandhills PostGRANT, NEB. - Perkins County High school is hosting the 2023 Perkins County Booster Club Holiday Basketball Tournament today and tomorrow. We will have radio coverage of tonight's boys and girls' game for Perkins County and Hyannis. Today's games will either be played in the New gym or Pritchett Gym. This year's participants are Perkins County, Wallace, South Loup and Hyannis.Todays Game Schedule:&nbsp;Perkins County (H) vs Hyannis (A)(Boys) - New Gym - 5:00pm MT (Radio coverage, Flatrock 100.7)Wallace (H) vs South Platte (A)(Girls) - Pritchett Gym - 5:00pm MTPerkins County (H) vs Hyannis (A)(Girls) - New Gym - 6:30pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)Wallace (H) vs South Platte (A) (Boys) - Pritchett Gym - 6:30pm MTTonight's Perkins County boys and girl's games against Hyannis will be on Flatrock 100.7. Our Kwik Stop Pregame coverage is set to begin at 4:45pm MT with tip off set for 5:00pm MT. The girl's game is set to follow 20 minutes after the boy's game. Join Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7 or online by <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">clicking here.</a>&nbsp;Fridays Game Schedule:Boys' 3rd Place Game - New Gym - 2:00pm MTGirls' 3rd Place Game - New Gym - 3:30pm MTGirls' 1st Place Game - New Gym - 5:00pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)Boys' 1st Place Game - New Gym - 6:30pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)Girls Teams:Big Springs (4-2)Perkins County (3-3)Wallace (2-4)Hyannis (2-3)Boys Teams:Hyannis (7-0)South Platte (5-1)Perkins County (4-2)Wallace (3-3)

Radio Coverage of the 2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament, PC vs Hyannis tonight

Dec. 21, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;— The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is excited to announce winners of its third annual “Name A Snowplow” contest. This contest strives to bring awareness about winter weather preparedness and safety to Nebraska’s elementary school students. This year, NDOT received over 1,100 submissions from across the state, a new record for the contest.

NDOT’s district teammates visited the winning schools across the state to congratulate the winning students in person. All students were able to see the newly named snowplows and ask NDOT snowfighters questions about plows and snow removal.

“Getting the opportunity to engage with kids – Nebraska’s next generation of drivers – is a chance for us to bring safety directly to the schools. It was also a great learning moment to share information about

all the hard work that goes into keeping our roads safe in winter driving conditions,” stated NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. NDOT uses its fleet of more than 600 snowplows to keep drivers safe in winter weather, which are ready to go, complete with full liquid tanks and more than 200,000 tons of salt to clear Nebraska’s roads. As winter approaches, if you need to travel be sure to track the newly named snowplows and past winners in real time on&nbsp;<a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">511.nebraska.gov</a>. Video and photos from the events are available here:&nbsp;<a href="https://ndot.info/snowplow" target="_blank">ndot.info/snowplow</a>.

Here are the schools with winning snowplow names and the districts to which they will be assigned:

Dec. 21, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;— The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is excited to announce winners of its third annual “Name A Snowplow” contest. This contest strives to bring awareness about winter weather preparedness and safety to Nebraska’s elementary school students. This year, NDOT received over 1,100 submissions from across the state, a new record for the contest.NDOT’s district teammates visited the winning schools across the state to congratulate the winning students in person. All students were able to see the newly named snowplows and ask NDOT snowfighters questions about plows and snow removal.“Getting the opportunity to engage with kids – Nebraska’s next generation of drivers – is a chance for us to bring safety directly to the schools. It was also a great learning moment to share information aboutall the hard work that goes into keeping our roads safe in winter driving conditions,” stated NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. NDOT uses its fleet of more than 600 snowplows to keep drivers safe in winter weather, which are ready to go, complete with full liquid tanks and more than 200,000 tons of salt to clear Nebraska’s roads. As winter approaches, if you need to travel be sure to track the newly named snowplows and past winners in real time on&nbsp;<a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">511.nebraska.gov</a>. Video and photos from the events are available here:&nbsp;<a href="https://ndot.info/snowplow" target="_blank">ndot.info/snowplow</a>.Here are the schools with winning snowplow names and the districts to which they will be assigned:Snowplow NameDistrictSchoolThunder Plow1Johnson County Central SchoolA Little Pushy1South Elementary School (Falls City)Frostisaurus Rex2Blumfield Elementary (Omaha)Scoopy Doo2Blumfield Elementary (Omaha)Scoop There It Is!3Battle Creek ElementarySnow Warrior3Richland ElementaryThe Banana Scooper4Northeast ElementaryFast and the Flurryous4Ravenna ElementarySnow Slayer5Crawford Public SchoolsPrincess Plow5Gordon-Rushville ElementaryBaby Snoda6Hershey Public SchoolChips &amp; Salt-sa6Thedford ElementaryAbominable Snow Monster7Hitchcock County Elementary‘Snow’ More Math7Maywood Public SchoolsSlush Sleigher8Keya Paha County SchoolMeowcicles8Valentine Elementary School

NDOT Reveals Winners of Third Annual “Name A Snowplow” Contest

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

The 2023 Lakota Nation Invitational Business Competition was held recently, and three Alliance High School student excelled at the competition.

There were three students who placed at the competitive event, and they are as follows:

Tasena Brunette, 3rd place in the Junior Division

Payton Littlehoop, 2nd place in the Sophomore Division

Tre Red Bear, 3rd place in the Sophomore Division

This was the first time that Alliance participated in prestigious tournament, one that started 46 years ago.

Editor's Note: Information from this story is courtesy of Edison Red Nest

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe 2023 Lakota Nation Invitational Business Competition was held recently, and three Alliance High School student excelled at the competition.There were three students who placed at the competitive event, and they are as follows:Tasena Brunette, 3rd place in the Junior DivisionPayton Littlehoop, 2nd place in the Sophomore DivisionTre Red Bear, 3rd place in the Sophomore DivisionThis was the first time that Alliance participated in prestigious tournament, one that started 46 years ago.Editor's Note: Information from this story is courtesy of Edison Red Nest

Alliance students excel in recent Lakota Nation business competition

Alliance girls' and boys' basketball hits the road tonight (Thursday) to Burns Wyoming to take on Broncs with coverage on KCOW.

The girls game features two teams with similar records, as Alliance comes in with a 3-4 record after a competitive loss to 8-1 Bayard on Tuesday. Burns won their first four games of the season before dropping their last three games to fall to 4-3.

In the boy's game, Alliance is coming off of their most complete game of the season in their 77-38 win over Bayard and are looking to carry that into the game against Burns. Alliance is 2-5 on the season while Burns is 1-6.

Coverage is set to begin between 5:30 and 5:45 on KCOW 92.5 and 1400, and also online at panhandlepost.com or kcowradio.com.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostAlliance girls' and boys' basketball hits the road tonight (Thursday) to Burns Wyoming to take on Broncs with coverage on KCOW.The girls game features two teams with similar records, as Alliance comes in with a 3-4 record after a competitive loss to 8-1 Bayard on Tuesday. Burns won their first four games of the season before dropping their last three games to fall to 4-3.In the boy's game, Alliance is coming off of their most complete game of the season in their 77-38 win over Bayard and are looking to carry that into the game against Burns. Alliance is 2-5 on the season while Burns is 1-6.Coverage is set to begin between 5:30 and 5:45 on KCOW 92.5 and 1400, and also online at panhandlepost.com or kcowradio.com.

Alliance travels to Burns WY for basketball doubleheader

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/12/21/proponents-of-providing-medigap-coverage-for-those-under-65-with-disabilities-will-try-again/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN— Seven years ago, Shawna Thompson, a registered nurse, was a passenger in an ambulance that veered off an Interstate highway when the driver fell asleep.

&nbsp;Thompson, who lives in North Platte, suffered a traumatic brain injury in the crash.

&nbsp;Since then, the 58-year-old has gone from taking four pills a day to 20 to deal with her foggy brain and inability, at times, to verbalize what she wants to say.

“I still cannot add two and two together without using my fingers,” Thompson said. “I look completely normal. But when I walk, I get really nervous. I have a real problem talking.”

But what has happened since infuriates Thompson.

Because she is younger than 65, she cannot obtain the “supplemental” insurance offered to Medicare patients, so-called medigap insurance that is commonly purchased by those of retirement age or older.

Because a workers compensation settlement fell far short of paying her expenses for doctors’ visits in Denver and the deluge of pills she must take, and because she cannot buy medigap coverage, Thompson and her husband are on the hook for $13,000 in additional medical expenses each year.

It’s forced her husband, Dennis, the fire chief in North Platte, to put off his retirement in order the pay the bills.

It’s also prompted Thompson to join another North Platte couple in asking the Nebraska Legislature to change state law, to allow those under 65 who have disabilities to buy medigap policies to cover expenses not covered by regular Medicare.

All but 14 states currently allow some form of medigap coverage to be purchased by those under 65 on disability.

&nbsp;“If we could get medigap coverage to cover my meds, we wouldn’t have had pay $13,000,” she said.

Thompson said sarcastically that when she inquired with insurance agents about purchasing supplemental insurance to cover drug costs, “they just laughed at me.”

“You’re under 65. You’re on your own to pay for that,” she said she was told.

This is the second time there’s been an attempt to require insurance companies in Nebraska to provide medigap insurance to those under 65.

In 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/28/couple-urges-closing-gap-in-medicare-coverage-for-the-disabled/">a bill introduced at the urging of another North Platte couple,</a>&nbsp;Steve and Jean Kay, failed to advance due to opposition by the insurance industry, which argues that adding such high-cost disabled people to the insurance rolls would increase costs for others.

“When you put more unhealthy or costly people into the Medicare population, the premiums have to go up,” said Robert Bell, executive director of the Nebraska Insurance Federation.

That, he said, adds to the cost of Medicare supplements, which are passed on as higher rates for seniors.&nbsp;

“We don’t feel they should have to subsidize the costs of the under 65 population,” Bell said.

He cited one disability as particularly expensive:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/05/10/new-bill-offers-hope-for-nebraskans-with-kidney-disease-struggling-to-afford-coverage/">end-stage renal disease, or ESRD</a>, when a person has permanent kidney failure, requiring regular dialysis or a kidney transplant.

The costs for such patients is six times higher than other seniors, Bell said, citing a study by the MedPAC, a nonpartisan independent advisor to the government on the Medicare program.

Medigap plans allowed in other states for those under 65 vary widely, he said. Some exclude medigap coverage for ESRD, because it is so costly, while others allow coverage but at higher rates that are capped, providing some savings.

State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte, who introduced a bill to allow medigap policies for people under 65, said he continues to meet with the insurance lobby to see if some middle ground can be found on his legislation.

“It’s a delicate balance,” Jacobson said.

The senator said he wants to get something passed during the 2024 session, “if we can get over that hurdle (of cost).”

Steve Kay, who had to take a job in North Dakota to provide health affordable care coverage for his wife, Jean, who has multiple sclerosis, has looked into how many people such a medigap bill might help.

Using Medicare enrollment figures for those under 65 and discounting those low-income persons who get Medicaid coverage, Kay projected that a medigap law would help 17,377 Nebraskans obtain insurance coverage, less that 5% of that population. Only 496 Nebraskans with ESRD are among that group.

Kay, a retired lawyer, said the medigap problem has gone away for his family because his wife has reached age 65 and can purchase supplemental insurance. But, he said, it’s time to “close the gap” for others.

&nbsp;“It’s bad enough to face the disability, but to also have the financial stress, it can be too much,” Steve Kay said.

For now, the insurance industry in Nebraska, Bell said, recommends that disabled persons under 65 who need insurance should look into a Medicare “Advantage” plan, a type of managed care offered through private insurance.

But Kay and Thompson said that in central Nebraska and rural areas, it’s hard to find providers who handle Advantage cases.

&nbsp;Thompson said she would never have had to go onto Social Security disability or be on Medicare “or worry about the gap” if medicap plans were permitted for those under 65 in Nebraska.

&nbsp;“I’m lucky my spouse still works,” she said. “Our plan was he would retire at 60 and we would travel. But he will have to work another 10 years.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703170964899.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/12/21/proponents-of-providing-medigap-coverage-for-those-under-65-with-disabilities-will-try-again/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN— Seven years ago, Shawna Thompson, a registered nurse, was a passenger in an ambulance that veered off an Interstate highway when the driver fell asleep.&nbsp;Thompson, who lives in North Platte, suffered a traumatic brain injury in the crash.&nbsp;Since then, the 58-year-old has gone from taking four pills a day to 20 to deal with her foggy brain and inability, at times, to verbalize what she wants to say.<h2>Can’t add without using fingers</h2>“I still cannot add two and two together without using my fingers,” Thompson said. “I look completely normal. But when I walk, I get really nervous. I have a real problem talking.”But what has happened since infuriates Thompson.Because she is younger than 65, she cannot obtain the “supplemental” insurance offered to Medicare patients, so-called medigap insurance that is commonly purchased by those of retirement age or older.Because a workers compensation settlement fell far short of paying her expenses for doctors’ visits in Denver and the deluge of pills she must take, and because she cannot buy medigap coverage, Thompson and her husband are on the hook for $13,000 in additional medical expenses each year.It’s forced her husband, Dennis, the fire chief in North Platte, to put off his retirement in order the pay the bills.<h2>All but 14 states allow medigap coverage</h2>It’s also prompted Thompson to join another North Platte couple in asking the Nebraska Legislature to change state law, to allow those under 65 who have disabilities to buy medigap policies to cover expenses not covered by regular Medicare.All but 14 states currently allow some form of medigap coverage to be purchased by those under 65 on disability.&nbsp;“If we could get medigap coverage to cover my meds, we wouldn’t have had pay $13,000,” she said.Thompson said sarcastically that when she inquired with insurance agents about purchasing supplemental insurance to cover drug costs, “they just laughed at me.”<h2>‘You’re on your own’</h2>“You’re under 65. You’re on your own to pay for that,” she said she was told.This is the second time there’s been an attempt to require insurance companies in Nebraska to provide medigap insurance to those under 65.In 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/02/28/couple-urges-closing-gap-in-medicare-coverage-for-the-disabled/">a bill introduced at the urging of another North Platte couple,</a>&nbsp;Steve and Jean Kay, failed to advance due to opposition by the insurance industry, which argues that adding such high-cost disabled people to the insurance rolls would increase costs for others.“When you put more unhealthy or costly people into the Medicare population, the premiums have to go up,” said Robert Bell, executive director of the Nebraska Insurance Federation.That, he said, adds to the cost of Medicare supplements, which are passed on as higher rates for seniors.&nbsp;“We don’t feel they should have to subsidize the costs of the under 65 population,” Bell said.<h2>Costs would be shifted to others</h2>He cited one disability as particularly expensive:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/05/10/new-bill-offers-hope-for-nebraskans-with-kidney-disease-struggling-to-afford-coverage/">end-stage renal disease, or ESRD</a>, when a person has permanent kidney failure, requiring regular dialysis or a kidney transplant.The costs for such patients is six times higher than other seniors, Bell said, citing a study by the MedPAC, a nonpartisan independent advisor to the government on the Medicare program.Medigap plans allowed in other states for those under 65 vary widely, he said. Some exclude medigap coverage for ESRD, because it is so costly, while others allow coverage but at higher rates that are capped, providing some savings.State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte, who introduced a bill to allow medigap policies for people under 65, said he continues to meet with the insurance lobby to see if some middle ground can be found on his legislation.“It’s a delicate balance,” Jacobson said.The senator said he wants to get something passed during the 2024 session, “if we can get over that hurdle (of cost).”Steve Kay, who had to take a job in North Dakota to provide health affordable care coverage for his wife, Jean, who has multiple sclerosis, has looked into how many people such a medigap bill might help.Using Medicare enrollment figures for those under 65 and discounting those low-income persons who get Medicaid coverage, Kay projected that a medigap law would help 17,377 Nebraskans obtain insurance coverage, less that 5% of that population. Only 496 Nebraskans with ESRD are among that group.<h2>Time to ‘close the gap’</h2>Kay, a retired lawyer, said the medigap problem has gone away for his family because his wife has reached age 65 and can purchase supplemental insurance. But, he said, it’s time to “close the gap” for others.&nbsp;“It’s bad enough to face the disability, but to also have the financial stress, it can be too much,” Steve Kay said.For now, the insurance industry in Nebraska, Bell said, recommends that disabled persons under 65 who need insurance should look into a Medicare “Advantage” plan, a type of managed care offered through private insurance.But Kay and Thompson said that in central Nebraska and rural areas, it’s hard to find providers who handle Advantage cases.&nbsp;Thompson said she would never have had to go onto Social Security disability or be on Medicare “or worry about the gap” if medicap plans were permitted for those under 65 in Nebraska.&nbsp;“I’m lucky my spouse still works,” she said. “Our plan was he would retire at 60 and we would travel. But he will have to work another 10 years.”

Proponents of providing medigap coverage for those under 65 with disabilities will try again

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/12/20/gov-pillen-decides-ne-wont-opt-into-new-18-million-child-nutrition-program/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen’s administration has decided that Nebraska won’t be participating in a new national child nutrition program that could have delivered an estimated $18 million in grocery-buying benefits next summer to kids and their families.

The decision comes despite a monthslong effort by food banks and other advocates to persuade the governor to opt into the Summer EBT program.

States across the nation face a Jan. 1 deadline to let the federal government know if they intend to be part of the summer electronic benefits transfer program.

Pillen spokeswoman Laura Strimple, responding to a query from the Nebraska Examiner, said free meals continue to be available to youths during the summer through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and summer camp programs, schools and community centers.&nbsp;

“In addition to in-person meals, those locations offer recreational, educational and other enrichment opportunities, as well as resources, that are of added benefit to kids and important for their development,” Strimple said.

Nebraska Appleseed and area food banks were among groups urging Pillen to opt into the program. Eric Savaiano, Appleseed’s food and nutrition access manager, said the nonprofit was “deeply disappointed” and found the governor’s decision “difficult to understand.”

“Come summer, we know that more families will struggle with food insecurity because of this decision,” Savaiano said.&nbsp;

Appleseed estimated that 150,000 Nebraska kids would have benefited next summer if the state had opted into the new program. Modeled after pilot projects and a nationwide pandemic-era initiative that’s now ended, Congress authorized the more permanent summer program through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023.

The program offers an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card to children whose household income makes them eligible for free and reduced school lunches during the school year. Each of those Nebraska youths would have received a card loaded with $120 to help buy food during months that school is out.

Based on Nebraska’s participation in the pandemic program, Appleseed’s review showed that Nebraska would have to pay up to $300,000 annually to administer the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/sebt/implementation-toolkit">Summer EBT program,</a>&nbsp;which was a change from the pandemic-era program, where the federal government paid all administrative costs. States would be tasked with outreach efforts and would facilitate collaboration among involved agencies.

Said Savaiano: “If it’s a money issue, how can spending a mere $300,000 in state funds for administrative costs and receiving $18 million — a 60-fold return on investment — not make financial sense?”

He added, “If it’s an ideological issue, how can deciding that economically disadvantaged children are better off going hungry make moral sense?”

A group of 15 state senators, upon learning of the decision, sent a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services asking the administration to rethink the situation. The letter said that while the governor has the final say, DHHS and the Department of Education “also have decision-making power on this matter.”

“So many Nebraskans are struggling with the cost of living right now and, as a result, people are growing hungry,” said Sen. Jen Day of Gretna, who led the letter-writing effort. “Opting into this program is imperative and not doing so is a huge moral and economic failure.”

Cindy Gonzalez<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/12/20/gov-pillen-decides-ne-wont-opt-into-new-18-million-child-nutrition-program/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen’s administration has decided that Nebraska won’t be participating in a new national child nutrition program that could have delivered an estimated $18 million in grocery-buying benefits next summer to kids and their families.The decision comes despite a monthslong effort by food banks and other advocates to persuade the governor to opt into the Summer EBT program.States across the nation face a Jan. 1 deadline to let the federal government know if they intend to be part of the summer electronic benefits transfer program.Pillen spokeswoman Laura Strimple, responding to a query from the Nebraska Examiner, said free meals continue to be available to youths during the summer through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and summer camp programs, schools and community centers.&nbsp;“In addition to in-person meals, those locations offer recreational, educational and other enrichment opportunities, as well as resources, that are of added benefit to kids and important for their development,” Strimple said.She offered no additional explanation.Nebraska Appleseed and area food banks were among groups urging Pillen to opt into the program. Eric Savaiano, Appleseed’s food and nutrition access manager, said the nonprofit was “deeply disappointed” and found the governor’s decision “difficult to understand.”“Come summer, we know that more families will struggle with food insecurity because of this decision,” Savaiano said.&nbsp;Appleseed estimated that 150,000 Nebraska kids would have benefited next summer if the state had opted into the new program. Modeled after pilot projects and a nationwide pandemic-era initiative that’s now ended, Congress authorized the more permanent summer program through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023.The program offers an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card to children whose household income makes them eligible for free and reduced school lunches during the school year. Each of those Nebraska youths would have received a card loaded with $120 to help buy food during months that school is out.Based on Nebraska’s participation in the pandemic program, Appleseed’s review showed that Nebraska would have to pay up to $300,000 annually to administer the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/sebt/implementation-toolkit">Summer EBT program,</a>&nbsp;which was a change from the pandemic-era program, where the federal government paid all administrative costs. States would be tasked with outreach efforts and would facilitate collaboration among involved agencies.Said Savaiano: “If it’s a money issue, how can spending a mere $300,000 in state funds for administrative costs and receiving $18 million — a 60-fold return on investment — not make financial sense?”He added, “If it’s an ideological issue, how can deciding that economically disadvantaged children are better off going hungry make moral sense?”A group of 15 state senators, upon learning of the decision, sent a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services asking the administration to rethink the situation. The letter said that while the governor has the final say, DHHS and the Department of Education “also have decision-making power on this matter.”“So many Nebraskans are struggling with the cost of living right now and, as a result, people are growing hungry,” said Sen. Jen Day of Gretna, who led the letter-writing effort. “Opting into this program is imperative and not doing so is a huge moral and economic failure.”In addition to Day, those signing the letter: Sens. Carolyn Bosn of Lincoln, Jana Huges of Seward, Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha, John Cavanaugh of Omaha, Megan Hunt of Omaha, Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, Tony Vargas of Omaha, Terrell McKinney of Omaha, George Dungan of Lincoln, Jane Raybould of Lincoln, John Fredrickson of Omaha, Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, Lynne Walz of Fremont, Carol Blood of Bellevue.The funding for the program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture is intended to supplement, not replace, existing programs that help families, including summer meal sites and the year-round SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).According to the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, which oversees such nutrition programs, more than 29 million children across America could benefit from the 2024 Summer EBT program.