December 17,2024 — Rachelle Lipker, Executive Director for the American Red Cross, serving Central &amp; Western Nebraska will present the “Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders”. This is the highest award given by the American Red Cross to Reilly Shakin for saving a man’s life on May 24, 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On May 24, 2024, Reilly Shakin, trained in American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR helped to save the life of a man who was unconscious outside the Connection Homeless Shelter in North Platte, Nebraska.&nbsp; Reilly, who works at the facility as a Security Staff member was on duty when she was notified of an unconscious male lying in the alley behind the building.&nbsp; She was the first to respond and immediately began CPR while another staff member called 911.&nbsp; Reilly continued performing CPR until emergency personnel arrived and transported the male to the hospital.&nbsp; Without a doubt, the skills learned in the American Red Cross Training Services course helped to save the life of this gentleman.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trudy Merritt is also being recognized with the award of “The Lifesaving Instructor Award”.&nbsp;&nbsp; This award was crafted in 2020 and recognized instructors that trained a student that saved a life.&nbsp; Ms. Merritt has taught American Red Cross classes for over 30 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;This presentation will occur on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 12:00 noon at the Connection Homeless Shelter located at 414 E. 6th. St. North Platte, NE.&nbsp; Those invited to attend are staff of the Connection, Board of Directors of the shelter, Board of Health members, representatives from public health and the executive director of our community foundation whose grants allowed our health department to purchase the new training equipment used in the classes taught in North Platte, Red Cross staff and volunteers, along with the instructor that taught Ms. Merritt, over 30 years ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Media is invited and encouraged to attend this very special event.&nbsp;&nbsp; For more information, please reach out to Rachelle Lipker, Executive Director for the American Red Cross serving Central &amp; Western Nebraska; 308-660-0114 or Rachelle.lipker@redcross.org&nbsp;&nbsp;

About the American Red Cross:&nbsp;

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit RedCross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Red Cross to honor local residents for life saving measure

Kearney, Neb. - The University of Nebraska at Kearney sports communication majors received news that the group has been nominated in three categories for this year's IBS awards in New York City. &nbsp;

Amongst the students is North Platte native Kade Mohr who has been nominated for the second year and this year is a finalist with seniors Jon Willis and Ethan McCormick for "Best Sports Talk Show". All sporting events and talk show aired on 91.1 KLPR the student run radio station during the 2024 year. This marks another year where UNK students have been nominated for the IBS awards in New York City.&nbsp;

Ethan McCormick and Jon Willis - Best Sports Play by Play (Football)&nbsp;

Jon Willis and Traeton Harimon - Best Sports Play By Play (Womens Basketball)&nbsp;

Jon Willis, Kade Mohr and Ethan McCormick - Best Sports Talk Show (Throwin Lopes)&nbsp;

POST news director Canon Rath chatted with UNK Senior Jon Willis about the nominations and more. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) UNK Broadcasting students are heading back to New York City for national award ceremony

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, we sat down with the Head Coach of North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team Jacob Brandl to discuss the first half of the season. As well as reflect upon the team's 7-1 record in the last 8 games. All that and so much more!

Knight's Weekly #4 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

The holiday season is underway, and the Mid-Plains United Way reminds listeners that the giving tree is at FNBO at the downtown location. The tree started off with around 45 gift ideas but around 15 remain. Also, the united way will be at this year's Ladies Night Out on December 19th.&nbsp;

Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Haven Smith from the Mid-Plains United Way about everything that is going on. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) Mid-Plains United Way: Giving Tree, year end giving campaign, and more

North Platte, Neb. - The North Platte city council held a regular meeting on December 3rd and different agendas were discussed amongst the council. Topics this session welcoming new council members, Beveridge Inc's donation to the North Platte Rec Center and so much more.

On Wednesday, Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher about the different topics from the council meeting. If you would like to learn more in-depth of what went on during the December 3rd North Platte City Council meeting check out the podcast below or check out the video below the podcast.

(Audio) North Platte City Council Meeting, December 3rd recap

The Prairie Arts Center in North Platte is hosting Christmas at the Pac this Saturday with tons of different activities for everyone to enjoy. The event kicks off at 11:00am and runs until 4:00pm however brunch with Santa starts at 10:00am. Tickets for brunch with Santa are limited but are $10 and <a href="https://www.prairieartscenter.org/event-details/christmas-at-the-pac">can be purchased here</a>.&nbsp;

Saturday is shaping to be a beautiful day in North Platte and enjoy it at the PAC for holiday fun. Live artist demos from around the state, a chainsaw demo, face painting and so much more going on. During the week, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Holly Carlini from the Prairie Arts Center to talk about all the fun coming on Saturday. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) Prairie Arts Center preparing for Christmas at the Pac this Saturday

North Platte, Neb. - The Salvation Army is gearing up for the next few weeks as the group heads into their busy time of the month with Christmas quickly approaching. The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers to ring at different locations throughout North Platte and if you have time this week, it is supposed to be a very nice week to get out and ring. If you would like to sign up and ring, <a href="https://www.registertoring.com/">click here.&nbsp;</a>

Last week was the Thanksgiving box distribution for families who signed up and this year the group doubled the number of boxes compared to last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We were able to give out almost 300 boxes of food. Each food box had a turkey, and it was like a full bird turkey, they had stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, you know, some cranberries, whatever, whatever you can really think of that would go on. You would see on the Thanksgiving table.  We were able to help out almost 300 families this year," said Camon Landry. "I think last year we were around 160,170ish. So yeah, pretty close to doubling what we were able to do last year."&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Camon Landry for their weekly conversation. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) Salvation Army: Thanksgiving box distribution recap, volunteers needed to ring and more

North Platte, Ne - The Lincoln, Logan, McPherson County Extension Office recently announced the formation of a "First Lego Robotics League". According to Extension Educator Caitlyn Jacobson, the league programs and codes robots to go through obsicle courses. Jacobson said "theres a team of young people that programs and codes a robot to go through an obstacle course. Every year the state has a competition in Lincoln along with competitions around the state; but there's a different obstacle every year and you just kinda work towards as a team figuring out how to program your robot to successfully go through this obstacle course."

Nick Newland, a local 12 year old recently signed up for the team joined Jacobson in the Eagle Media Studio to talk about the new program, Nick says, "I really like doing Legos and my mom told me about 4-H and that they have a robotics class and I was really excited because I'm really into coding and doing robotics and Legos and she told me that was for Legos too, and I was really excited when she said she could sign up."

(LISTEN TO FULL INTERVIEW HERE, Sponsored by North Platte Kubota)

Many think 4H is all about arts, crafts and animals, but according to Jacobson, "our main wheel-house is about finding out what our youth are interested in and how we can essentially get them to where we want them to go, and to grow in a positive way and be able to thrive in today's world. You know there's a whole lot of jobs in that realm that haven't even been invented yet and this is a great way for you to get their toes in and be prepared when they step out post high school when they leave and they go to college or whatever they're gonna do post high school. Then they have that experience a little little bit already so they're just that much more prepared to take whatever life throws at them. A lot of people pointed out that technology is incorporated into any job that you were going into and that's really kind of where our focus is,&nbsp; just looking at the big picture and seeing how we can help prepare our youth for right now that will help them in their future".&nbsp;

For more information, reach out to Caitlyn Jacobson at&nbsp;caitlyn.jacobson@unl.edu

(Podcast) 4H Extension Offering Robotics Team

North Platte, Neb. - The 11th Guardians of the Children's Toy Drive is off to a fantastic start with the community coming together to donate toys. Over 30 drop off locations throughout North Platte for those who wish to donate a toy. Toys need to be unopened when donating. The GOC will be collecting toys until December 7th. Click here to learn where all the drop off locations are.&nbsp;

Earlier in the week, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Tuna to give us an update on the toy drive, about upcoming events the GOC is hosting, how Tuna got involved with GOC and so much more. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) Guardians of the Children Toy Drive off to a fantastic start, other holiday events coming up

The 2024 North Platte Elks Hoop Shoot is back on December 8th at Adams Middle School. The event is for boys and girls ages 8-13 and students will shoot 25 free throws. Students who win each division will move the ranks to compete for a chance to go to Chicago for the finals. The girls shoot at 1:00pm and boys shoot at 2:00pm. The event is free for those who want to participate.&nbsp;

Earlier in the Week Post news director Canon Rath chatted with Lenny Hassel from the Elks lodge about the event. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) 2024 North Platte Elks Hoop Shoot taking place in December

The Salvation Army has been busy with the Holiday season underway. On Tuesday, Thanksgiving boxes were distributed to those who signed up. Volunteers are needed for ringing the bells and so much more. &nbsp;

On Tuesday, POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Camon and Chaslyn Landry from the Salvation Army about everything that is going on. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) Salvation Army: Ringing Volunteers needed, recap Kettle kickoff event and more!

The Hot Sheets: December 18th, 2024

Jocelyn Fattig has been selected as North Platte Community College’s Business Student of the Month for December.

Fattig is from Paxton, Neb., and is married to Lane Fattig. She is a mom to two young children and chose to attend NPCC because of the flexibility of taking classes online.

“MPCC offered me the opportunity to be a successful student and to take certification exams to better myself and my skills,” Fattig said. “I also have such wonderful professors to work with.”

Business instructor Lynn Lupomech nominated Fattig for the Student of the Month recognition.

“Jocelyn is a dedicated student who consistently demonstrates excellence in her work. She is a self-motivated learner with a positive attitude, always ready to take on any new assignment challenges. Her determination and work ethic are commendable.”

Fattig named NPCC Business Student of the Month

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/u-s-senate-changes-course-approves-bill-allowing-cabins-to-remain-at-sw-nebraska-reservoirs/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A political barrier fell, and the U.S. Senate on Monday passed a bill that would allow more than 180 lakeside cabins to remain at two southwest Nebraska reservoirs.

The proposal, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., had been held up “as political leverage” last week, but the opposition stepped aside on Monday.

The bill was introduced on behalf of cabin owners along Swanson and Red Willow Reservoirs in southwest Nebraska who were threatened with removing their abodes to make way for campground improvements planned by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, which manages the reservoirs.

Removal of the cabins, some of which have been used by families for decades, was scheduled to begin in February. Last week, it was unclear whether the bill could be passed before the Senate’s holiday recess.

The bill would put the cabins under control of Hitchcock and Frontier counties. It now goes to President Joe Biden for his signature.

“Thankfully, today Congress has agreed to right this wrong by transferring control of this land back to local officials,” Fischer said Monday in a statement.

The members of the Hitchcock and Frontier county boards thanked Fischer and the rest of the Nebraska congressional delegation for pushing the bill to approval in a joint statement.

The House of Representatives had earlier passed a version of the bill for the cabin owners that was introduced by U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, R-Neb., who represents the 3rd District.

U.S. Senate changes course, approves bill allowing cabins to remain at SW Nebraska reservoirs

Office of U.S. Senator Deb Fischer

&nbsp; WASHINGTON – On Monday, the Senate passed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2024/5/fischer-ricketts-smith-introduce-legislation-to-transfer-ownership-of-swanson-red-willow-reservoirs">legislation</a>&nbsp;to transfer the&nbsp;Bureau of Reclamation (BoR) Swanson Reservoir land to Hitchcock County and the BoR Red Willow Reservoir land to Frontier County.&nbsp;The bill, introduced by U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and U.S. Representative Adrian Smith (NE-03), now heads to the President’s desk.

“In two months, the federal government will force Swanson and Red Willow Reservoir residents to leave, destroying the communities and small businesses these Nebraskans have built over the last 50 years. Thankfully, today Congress has agreed to right this wrong by transferring control of this land back to local officials. For the sake of the residents in both these communities, I encourage the president to sign this bill into law as soon as possible,”&nbsp;said Senator Fischer.

“Today is an exciting day for Hitchcock and Frontier Counties. This bill protects Swanson and Red Willow residents and surrounding communities. I’m grateful for the months of diligent engagement from stakeholders that made this day possible. President Biden should sign this bill without delay,”&nbsp;said Senator Ricketts.“Years of extensive collaboration have culminated in the passage of this legislation which empowers local control and maintains public access at no cost to the federal government. Tourism and recreation at the Swanson and Red Willow Reservoirs are critical to economic development in Hitchcock and Frontier Counties. I have been grateful to work closely with Senator Fischer and the entire Nebraska delegation to advance this solution on behalf of the local community, property owners, and visitors,”&nbsp;said Congressman Smith.

“On behalf of the commissioners for Hitchcock and Frontier counties and the whole community of Swanson and Hugh Butler Reservoirs, we sincerely thank the U.S. Congress for acting to secure a future for their homes and businesses, which have been part of the community for generations, and preserving the great recreational area for public use. Thanks to the hard work of United States Senator Deb Fischer and Congressman Adrian Smith and their Nebraska Congressional colleagues, Senator Pete Ricketts,&nbsp; Congressman Don Bacon, and Congressman Mike Flood this crucial economic hub for local businesses, supporting jobs in outdoor recreation, tourism, and hospitality will thrive for generations to come,”&nbsp;said Hitchcock and Frontier Counties Boards of Commissioners.Background:

Following disagreement about how the BoR was managing the concession areas at the Swanson and Red Willow Reservoirs, the Nebraska congressional delegation received numerous requests to introduce legislation to transfer the ownership of the areas from the BoR to a local entity.&nbsp;In June 2023, members of the Nebraska Congressional delegation&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=48BFD43D-3EB0-404E-B7B4-2B31C6F1A331">wrote a letter</a>&nbsp;stating they would sponsor legislation to authorize a land transfer once they received official documentation from a local, public entity that was willing to accept the land, was cable of managing it for the public, and would take on the associate responsibilities and liabilities.

The bill was drafted in collaboration with Hitchcock County, Frontier County, and the Bureau of Reclamation. Hitchcock and Frontier Counties have now provided confirmation that they are supportive of the legislation as drafted.

Bill to Transfer Ownership of Swanson & Red Willow Reservoirs Heads to President

The Hot Sheets: December 17th, 2024

Philips County, Colorado -&nbsp;On 12/14/2024 at approximately 23:15 hrs, officers of the Holyoke Police Department were engaged in vehicle pursuit of a wanted suspect, Russell Scott Brown of Cozad, Nebraska. On this evening, an officer attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation. The vehicle was known to be operated by a wanted party out of Nebraska and who was believed to be armed and dangerous. Officers also had information that the male party was a known user of methamphetamines and had a lengthy criminal history, including weapons and drug offenses. 

When the officer attempted the traffic stop, the vehicle pulled over initially and waited for the officer to exit his vehicle. The vehicle then sped away from the stop heading north on HWY 385 an officer initiated a vehicle pursuit. The vehicle then turned eastbound onto Colorado HWY 23 and continued to flee from officers. Due to the belief that Brown was armed and posed a public safety risk, a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) was executed on the vehicle. The vehicle came to a stop on the highway after striking the police vehicle. Brown attempted to flee the vehicle on foot but was quickly apprehended by officers and a Deputy from the Phillips County Sheriff's Office. 

Brown was later transported to the Logan County Jail and is waiting court for felony charges related to the pursuit and possession of controlled substances. A passenger of the vehicle was found not to be a part of the criminal episode and was released on scene. All charges are alleged, and the suspect is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Cozad Man Arrested in Colorado Following Pursuit 

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/12/14/politics-in-washington-may-sink-effort-to-save-lakeside-cabins-in-sw-nebraska/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A bill to allow lakeside cabin areas to remain at two southwest Nebraska reservoirs is being threatened by last-minute opposition from departing U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, I-West Virginia, and a small group of other legislators.

U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., the chief sponsor of the bill on behalf of cabin owners along Swanson and Red Willow Reservoirs, pressed Manchin on Wednesday to reconsider his opposition to her bill, which was part of a larger measure concerning federal lands.

Fischer said her portion of the bill has widespread support in the Senate and passed the House unanimously on a voice vote.

She said her proposal is being unfairly held up “as political leverage for unrelated matters.”

“This really is outrageous,” the Nebraska senator said.&nbsp;“My legislation cannot wait.”

That, she said, is because if her bill isn’t passed, owners of cabins at two sites along the reservoirs will be required to vacate the land in February.&nbsp;

A request for response from Manchin’s office was not immediately returned on Friday.

But the Examiner learned that Manchin has since dropped his opposition, though Fischer’s efforts to pass a stand-alone bill on the cabin developments is being resisted by a different group of lawmakers.

With the U.S. Senate recessing for the year on Friday, Dec. 20, it is unclear if Fischer’s bill can be passed in time to avoid disrupting the cabin developments.

Manchin, a former governor of West Virginia, declined to seek re-election this year after serving in the Senate since 2010.

The cabin controversy, which the&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/06/13/rural-county-seeks-to-save-trailers-on-reservoirs-in-southwest-nebraska/">Examiner first reported</a>, pertains to the management of the two reservoirs by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the Bureau’s plan to remove the cabins to make way for improvements to campgrounds facilities.

There are 110 cabins on Swanson Reservoir near Trenton and 71 cabins at Red Willow north of McCook, and concession businesses at both lakes. All are located on land now managed by the Bureau.

Cabin owners and county officials in the area objected to the removal order, which was initially scheduled to go into effect in November 2025. They maintained that some families had enjoyed cabins on the lake for decades, and that the two cabin areas were important economic contributors to rural Hitchcock and Red Willow Counties.

Under bills introduced in the Senate by Fischer and U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., and in the House by U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, R-Neb, management of the two cabin developments would be transferred to Hitchcock and Frontier Counties. They would manage the two areas and benefit from lease payments from cabin owners and fees paid by concessionaires.

Fischer said that she has received letters from more than 1,000 local residents supporting the transfer of the property, and that the two cabin sites — among the largest communities in the two counties — should be allowed to remain.

Hitchcock County Board member Paul Nichols has said that local residents support the land transfer, which will allow communities “in place and operating for decades” to remain.

Politics in Washington may sink effort to save lakeside cabins in SW Nebraska

United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Joey G. Romero, age 37, of North Platte, was sentenced on December 12, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Romero to a total of 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Romero’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.

Between July 2022 and February 2023, Romero, Jamie Hopkins, Michael Stroble, Luke Schwartz, and others conspired to sell meth in and around North Platte, Nebraska.&nbsp; The group was responsible for the distribution of pounds of meth and was subject to multiple controlled buys, search warrants, and arrests.&nbsp; During the life of the conspiracy, a Confidential Informant (“CI”) made purchases from each co-conspirator.&nbsp;

In July and August 2022, a CI made five controlled buys from Hopkins and Romero.&nbsp; In these buys, the CI purchased 26 grams of meth and 10 pills.&nbsp; The pills later tested positive for meth and fentanyl.

In addition to the CI, three other informants provided information on Romero’s role in the conspiracy.

Schwartz was sentenced August 22, 2024, to 120 months imprisonment. Hopkins was sentenced on October 17, 2024, to 120 months imprisonment.

Stroble’s case is pending, and he is&nbsp;presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case was investigated by the CODE Task Force which is made up of law enforcement agencies throughout a 22-county area in west-central/southwest Nebraska and includes the North Platte Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Ogallala Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

North Platte Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jessica Binegar, a/k/a “Jessica Keo”, age 38, of North Platte, Nebraska was sentenced on December 12, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of distribution of 5 grams or more of meth. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Binegar to a total of 43 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Binegar’s release from prison, she will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.

Beginning in 2021, the FBI and CODE Drug Task Force opened an investigation into drug trafficking in the North Platte area. March of 2022, law enforcement set up a controlled buy over Facebook with a Confidential Informant (“CI”). In the course of the buy, Binegar was observed approaching the buy location. She was also heard on the recorded audio associated with the buy. Through surveillance and debriefings, law enforcement learned that Binegar was the source of the meth that was sold during the controlled buy.

The meth purchased by the CI was turned over to law enforcement and sent to the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab, where it was confirmed to be 12.9 grams of meth with 100% purity for 12 grams of actual meth.

Subsequently, law enforcement was able to conduct three additional controlled buys with Binegar, all for meth.&nbsp;

This case was investigated by the CODE Task Force which is made up of law enforcement agencies throughout a 22-county area in west-central/southwest Nebraska and includes the North Platte Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office, Frontier County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

North Platte Woman Sentenced to over 3 Years for Distribution of Methamphetamine

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Nebraska senior libero Lexi Rodriguez has been named one of four finalists for the AVCA National Player of the Year Award, which will be presented on Friday at the AVCA All-America awards banquet.&nbsp;

Last week, Rodriguez became the first ever libero to be named AVCA Region Player of the Year. She is a three-time Big Ten Defensive Player and Libero of the Year and will look to become the third player in program history to be selected as a four-time All-American when the postseason honors come out on Wednesday.&nbsp;

A four-year starter and three-year team captain, Rodriguez has climbed to No. 2 in school history in career digs with 1,882, needing just nine more to break Justine Wong-Orantes' school record of 1,890.

Rodriguez is one of five Huskers in school history to earn first-team all-conference honors four times in a career, and she is only the second player in Big Ten history to earn three Big Ten Defensive Player/Libero of the Year honors (Paula Gentil, Minnesota, 2002-04).

This season, Rodriguez leads the Huskers with 3.91 digs per set as the team has climbed to No. 4 nationally in opponent hitting percentage on the season (.139). NU led the nation in opponent hitting percentage in both 2022 and 2023. Rodriguez was named to the NCAA Lincoln Regional All-Tournament Team on Sunday after leading the Huskers to two more dominant defensive outings. Nebraska is holding its opponents in the NCAA Tournament to a combined .066 hitting percentage, the best mark of any team.&nbsp;

Rodriguez and the Huskers will face No. 2 Penn State on Thursday night in the NCAA Semifinals on ESPN. The match will begin 30 minutes after the conclusion of the first semifinal between No. 1 Pittsburgh and No. 4 Louisville at 5:30 p.m. (CT).&nbsp;

Rodriguez named finalist for AVCA National Player of the Year

FRISCO, Texas, December 17, 2024&nbsp;–&nbsp;Student athletes from the Memphis Tigers and West Virginia Mountaineers football teams took a timeout from their bowl game preparations to pack lunches for K-12 students facing food insecurity in the Frisco, Texas area.

Nearly 50 college students from both teams competing in the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl joined representatives from Scooter’s Coffee and the Frisco Bowl to give back to the Frisco community. The teamwork was in support of Frisco Fastpacs, an area non-profit whose mission is to ensure that no child in Frisco has to endure hunger when school is not in session.

Each team hustled to pack Scooter’s Coffee reusable lunch bags with delicious and satisfying foods. Cheered on by team and Scooter’s Coffee mascots, the Tigers and Mountaineers collectively packed about 1,000 meals. In addition to donating the food items, Scooter’s Coffee generously donated reusable lunch bags that students can use for years to come.

“The partnership between Frisco Fastpacs and Scooter's Coffee has been nothing short of remarkable. Their team has provided numerous opportunities for collaboration to improve the lives of the food-insecure children we serve in Frisco ISD,” said Heather Canterbury, executive director of Frisco Fastpacs. “Having the title sponsor of your local bowl game lead the way in volunteer service is such a blessing to our community and a true testament to the superb culture at Scooter's Coffee.&nbsp;For this we couldn't be more thankful to be their partner during the bowl season and beyond.”

The Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl will present a check to Frisco Fastpacs during the game on Tuesday, Dec. 17. Scooter’s Coffee will be matching the bowl game’s donation to Frisco Fastpacs through funding the purchase of food and lunchbags used in the packing event and through additional financial support.

Frisco Fastpacs serves more than 1,200 students weekly across all 77 Frisco ISD schools through pre-packed meal bags of non-perishable food. Parents of eligible children can register for the Frisco Fastpacs program at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.TZ663KbgBa-2FTTklgYFe0HIuGiKVi1Qa-2BN-2BEMHhVo7KVMHRiWkb7EZZ-2B0MR-2B690HoWYw2_zp2viNv8WmCDmvKbS8g-2FumCH-2BSIkHTUhcISA1gweg93LIwGEu7Eu0ohNOhpJ1nCtFwRbSsOR-2BccTRSiF15eQTyDA0EttF5IBJrGGJ2afHbUQmo3xzj2gJ5Y0-2FIk-2BSSVWtUPlWTOj4P0Dykye1lrGot-2BUzi0iRtAcQ6qDoO-2FL-2BWt2s44SkH-2BzUsDki39NI9n5RZegXZ2yp4WUc9-2BtCPj2EbqyvFAQMhv7HQK-2FK-2BX-2Fn2SfbjnSwGPvtU7LpqCiMB13MNsp-2BPKbKLlGIU-2B2EPkkN0PEHZCDBtKR3ASBuRT81EHrMVkhdI7rSDQceOz-2FvdMV-2BWQzIMm8iIgxwQQdPZrxU6dtZTKsEhZr-2B50zyUcrAUBVZhPqcXCsmWnJQ8DoqhwbIJPtwK3GzjTtSFK3sZkWSw-3D-3D" target="_blank">friscofastpacs.org</a>.

The 25th-ranked Memphis Tigers will kick off against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the 2024 Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl on Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. CT. The game will air on ESPN and will simulcast on ESPN+.

College Athletes Pack Lunches for Students in Need Ahead of Scooter’s Coffee® Frisco Bowl

Three more NPHS IronDawgs punched their tickets to the USAPL National High School tournament at the Lexington USAPL meet on Saturday, bringing the total number of qualified NPHS powerlifters up to 10. Carlie Berliner, Grace Wilke, and Jamison Rhoades all hit qualifying totals, with Aadyn Smith, who had previously qualified, also qualifying in a new weight category.&nbsp;

Medalists at the meet included Berliner and Wilke both picking up champion medals at their respective weight divisions, with Karly Knapp snagging a bronze medal.&nbsp; For the boys, Cole Tomlinson was the lone boys champion, with Rhoades picking up silver, and Smith and Brock Matuszczak nabbing bronze medals.

Coach Arttie Parker said he was impressed with the effort of the lifters who competed, with some of the lifters hitting personal best marks in their efforts to qualify.

&nbsp;The IronDawgs will take the holidays off before heading back to Lexington for a high school tournament, followed by the State tournament, both in January. A home duel with Niobrara-Verdigree will be held at Adams Middle School on February 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NPHS Powerlifting Lift Their Way into USAPL Tournament 

Basketball - Hastings/Grand Island Vs. North Platte

Story by Chadron State College Athletics&nbsp;

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Danny Woodhead officially became the first Chadron State player inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame with his inclusion in the 2024 class at the National Football Foundation (NFF) Awards Dinner on December 10 in Las Vegas, Nevada.&nbsp;

Woodhead, a two-time Harlon Hill Trophy winner with the Eagles in 2006 and 2007, was part of a group of 19 former college football players and three coaches to join the Hall of Fame ranks.&nbsp;

"I don't see it as myself going in the Hall," Woodhead said. "I feel like there's 100 other dudes coming in with me. My lineman, my receivers, the defense that got us the ball back. None of the 8,000 yards is possible without good teammates and good coaches around you. I'm blessed to represent Chadron."&nbsp;

The North Platte, Nebraska native ended his career as college football's all-time leading rusher across all divisions and to this day holds the career rushing record for Division II. In four years in a Chadron State College uniform, Woodhead racked up 7,962 career rushing yards and 9,480 all-purpose yards while adding 109 career touchdowns, including a streak of 38 straight games scoring a TD.

"I always wanted to be as good as I could be," Woodhead said. "I had a lot of confidence in my abilities, but it was never about thinking 'this week, I hope I get five touchdowns.' I never thought that way. I wanted to be the best player I could be to help the team succeed."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chadron State went 35-11 during Woodhead's career as an Eagle, a tally that included back-to-back RMAC Championships and NCAA Tournament appearances in 2006 and 2007.&nbsp;

"I wanted to win a national championship," Woodhead said. "That didn't end up happening, but we still had two of the best teams in Chadron State history."&nbsp;

Woodhead is in plenty of exclusive company with his induction. According to the College Football Hall of Fame, less than two one-hundredths of a percent (.02%) of the individuals who have played or coached college football have earned Hall of Fame induction.

A former National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete during his playing career, Woodhead is now one of only 44 NFF Scholar-Athlete recipients to go on to be inducted into the NFF Hall of Fame. Woodhead credited his parents for establishing his academic and overall work ethic.&nbsp;

"My dad was a teacher, and I was homeschooled kindergarten through eighth grade, so my mom was a teacher, too," Woodhead said. "They obviously instilled in me that getting good grades and doing the right thing was important."

While Woodhead's induction Tuesday focused solely on his collegiate achievements, he went on to have a successful 10-year career in the NFL, proving the ability of Division II players to compete at the next level.&nbsp;

"I would recommend the Division II experience all day," Woodhead said.

Woodhead played with the Jets, Patriots, Chargers and Ravens, accumulating 2,238 NFL rushing yards and 2,698 NFL receiving yards, including a touchdown reception from Tom Brady in Super Bowl XLVI in 2012.

Previously, Woodhead was inducted into the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame in 2018 and the Chadron State College Hall of Fame in 2023.

CSC Alum and Former North Platte Bulldog Woodhead joins College Football Hall of Fame

Lincoln&nbsp;- Freshman Britt Prince pumped in a game-high 19 points to lead No. 24 Nebraska to a low-scoring 63-50 women's basketball win over Tarleton State on Wednesday evening at the Pinnacle Bank Arena.&nbsp;

The Huskers improved to 9-1 despite struggling through their worst shooting performance of the season, hitting just 17-of-57 field goal attempts (.298). Nebraska entered the game as the Big Ten's best team in both field goal and three-point field goal percentage while ranking among the top 10 teams in the nation. The Big Red extended its home winning streak to 11 games while improving to 8-0 at PBA on the year.

Nebraska did manage to knock down 7-of-22 three-pointers (.318), including three by Prince, who added five rebounds, two assists and a steal on the night.

Fellow freshman Amiah Hargrove was the most efficient Husker on the night, going 5-of-6 from the field including a three-pointer on her way to a career-high 13 points. Hargrove also contributed three rebounds and a steal.

Senior Alexis Markowski put three Huskers in double figures with 15 points and six rebounds. The All-America candidate scored 10 points in the first half to reach 1,500 in her career, becoming just the fourth Nebraska player in history to achieve the combined career totals of 1,500 points and 1,000 rebounds, joining first-team All-Americans Karen Jennings, Kelsey Griffin and Jordan Hooper.&nbsp;

While those three Huskers combined for 47 points, the rest of the Big Red managed just 16 total points. But Nebraska's defense made the total stand by forcing 21 Tarleton State turnovers and holding the Texans to 38.5 percent shooting (20-52). The Huskers also won the rebounding battle, 38-36, including a 14-8 edge on the offensive glass.

Tarleton State, which fell to 5-6, was committed to making everything difficult for Nebraska, committing 23 fouls compared to 10 for the Huskers on the night. The Big Red cashed in by outscoring the Texans 22-2 at the free throw line.

The teams were tied at 13 after a low-scoring first quarter, but Nebraska built a 33-26 lead at halftime. The Huskers took control with a 13-2 surge midway through the third quarter to claim a 48-30 lead after a Kendall Moriarty free throw with 2:13 left. Hargrove scored seven straight points during the burst.

Tarleton State refused to give up, cutting the margin to 49-35 at the end of the third, before holding Nebraska without a field goal for nearly the first six minutes of the fourth quarter. The Texans trimmed the lead to 50-44, before Hargrove, Markowski, Moriarty and Callin Hake combined on an 8-0 run to put the game out of reach at 58-44 with 2:53 left.

Karyn Sanford led Tarleton State with a career-high 14 points, including four three-pointers, while grabbing four rebounds. Faith Acker added a double-double with 10 points and a game-high 11 rebounds.

Nebraska finishes its five-game home stand by playing host to Chattanooga on Sunday, Dec. 15, at Noon (CT). Tickets are available now at Huskers.com. The game will be televised live statewide by Nebraska Public Media with a live video stream for subscribers of B1G+. It can be heard across the Huskers Radio Network, including Huskers.com.

Husker Defense shows grit in Win over Texans

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The Nebraska Kearney volleyball team has placed four players on the 2024&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.avca.org/award/2024-avca-division-ii-womens-all-america-teams/">American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) All-American</a>&nbsp;team and one on the&nbsp;Division II Commissioners Association (D2 CCA) All-American&nbsp;squad.

A panel of head coaches from around the country select the AVCA team with the D2CCA chosen by College Sports Communications (CSC). For both, a player must first make their respective all-region team.

UNK's four AVCA selections tie the program record (2004) for the most in one season. They are setter&nbsp;Peyton Neff&nbsp;(first team), middle&nbsp;Mia Berg&nbsp;(third team), libero&nbsp;Alli Wiese&nbsp;(third team) and outside hitter&nbsp;Asha Regier&nbsp;(honorable mention). Wiese is now a three-time AVCA All-American (2022 and 2023 h.m.) with Neff a two-timer (2023 h.m.). These are the first honors for both Berg and Regier.

Next, Wiese becomes the 11th Loper to earn CCA (previously Daktronics) All-American honors and the first in five years. This is her first time making the squad. Finally, since&nbsp;Rick Squiers&nbsp;took over the program in 1999, UNK has had 29 different players earn a total of 43 All-American honors.

Neff finished her third year as a starter averaging 12.4 assists, 2.5 digs, 0.7 blocks, and 0.5 kills per set while serving up 17 aces. One of three Lopers that appeared in all 112 sets, she guided an offense that averaged 14.6 kps and hit .258. Finally, Neff (North Platte) was one of five Lopers with at least 10 solo blocks and one of six with a double-digit ace total.

In her lone year in Kearney, Wiese (Mattawan, Mich.) averaged 5.5 digs per set with a team-best 34 aces, 92 assists and a .970 serve receive percentage. Playing in all 112 sets, her dig average is the second highest 29 years, and she completes a five-year career with 2,887 digs and 227 aces.

Next, Berg was UNK's top scorer (398.0 points) as she ranked second on the team in kills (3.1 per set) and first in blocks (1.2 per set). Hitting .318, she played in 104 sets and managed team-bests in both solo (26) and assisted (94) blocks. Offensively, Berg (Eureka, Mo.) was one of three Lopers to reach 300 kills.

That trio included Regier (Newton, Kan.) who led UNK in both kills (354) and kps (3.4). She finished the year strong once again, reaching at least 10 kills in the final 11 matches. That included a career-high 20 in the NCAA Tournament loss to Washburn. Also supplying 44 blocks, 87 digs, 12 assists and two aces, the multi-year starter ends a four-year career with 916 kills.

UNK (30-3) won the 2024 MIAA regular season title, was MIAA tourney runners up for a third straight season and made the NCAA's for a 25th consecutive fall.

North Platte native Peyton Neff Honored As All-American

Norfolk, Neb.- The NSAA Board of Directors have voted 5-3 in favor of Hastings hosting the softball state tournament with the state championship games being held at UNL Bowlin Stadium through 2026. The state championship games have been played the past two years at Connie Claussen Field located at the UNO campus. 

Championship games were moved to a different venue so the games can be televised on Nebraska Public Media.

NSAA awards Hastings State Softball through 2026, finals to be played in Lincoln

Atlanta, GA - The State of Nebraska had two legends inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame on Tuesday night in Atlanta, Georgia. Former Husker Football coach Frank Solich, and North Platte native Danny Woodhead.

Solich led the Huskers to the 2002 BCS National Championship game. Solich served as an assistant at Nebraska from 1979-97, coaching the running backs, before becoming the head coach. As an assistant to Hall of Fame coach Tom Osborne, Solich was part of the coaching staff on three national championship teams (1994, 1995, 1997), and he recruited and coached Heisman Trophy winner and College Football Hall of Famer Mike Rozier .Solich is the winningest coach in Mid-American Conference history with 115 overall wins, Solich led the Bobcats to four MAC East titles (2006, 2009, 2011, 2016), and his 77 conference wins rank second only behind College Football Hall of Fame coach Herb Deromedi, who posted 90 victories during his career at Central Michigan. The Cleveland, Ohio, product became the first inductee ever from Ohio and the seventh coach from Nebraska to enter the Hall.

Woodhead, a North Platte High legend, finished his career at Chadron State as college football's all-time leading rusher before a near 10 year run in the NFL including a super bowl appearance with the New England Patriots..

Woodhead is Chadron State's first-ever College Football Hall of Fame inductee.

 He was A three-time First Team All-American (2004, 2006-07), Woodhead twice claimed the Harlon Hill Trophy as the most valuable player in Division II (2006, 2007). A four-time Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) First Team selection, he was the RMAC Offensive Player of the Year three times after being selected as the RMAC Offensive Freshman of the Year in 2004. He was named the most valuable player for Chadron State all four years in college, and he was also named the All-Century Offensive Player by the RMAC.

 Woodhead finished his Chadron State career as college football's all-time rushing leader with 7,962 yards, and he owned 21 NCAA Division II records when he graduated. The records included most consecutive games rushing 100 or more yards (16), games rushing 200 or more yards (19), most consecutive games scoring a touchdown (38) and most yards rushing in a season (2,756 in 2006).

Woodhead currently is the co-CEO of Arise Venture, a business consulting firm in Nebraska. A scratch golfer, Woodhead made a run at becoming a professional golfer, falling just short of qualifying for the U.S. Open. He was inducted into the Chadron State College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2023.

Woodhead & Solich inducted into College Football Hall of Fame

Holiday travel can be hectic for just about everyone who does it, but it can be especially challenging for&nbsp;the nearly&nbsp;36,000 Nebraska residents living with Alzheimer’s. Even short trips to visit family and friends during the holidays can be stressful for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementia. While not all living with Alzheimer’s are able to travel, people living with early- and mid-stage Alzheimer’s often do want to attend family gatherings and holiday celebrations.&nbsp;Careful and thoughtful planning can help ensure safety, comfort and holiday enjoyment for everyone involved.

When planning your holiday destination, consider these tips from the Alzheimer’s Association to provide for a more calming travel experience for someone living with Alzheimer’s:

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Evaluate best mode of travel:&nbsp;Based on needs, abilities, safety and preferences, decide what would provide the most comfort and the least anxiety. If the destination requires air travel, the Alzheimer’s Association provides these&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/safety/traveling">tips</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://alz.org/">alz.org</a>.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pick a practical destination:&nbsp;Consider everyone’s needs and desires as you plan your trip and discuss the plan with the person living with dementia. Elaborate sightseeing trips or complicated tours may cause anxiety and confusion. And it is always important to consider destinations that have easy access to emergency health services and pharmacies.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Simplify your travel&nbsp;itinerary:&nbsp;Try not to overload the person with many directions or too much information.

○&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry with you an itinerary that includes details about each destination. Give copies to family members or friends you will be visiting or to emergency contacts at home.

○&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Travel during the time of day that is best for the person. For example, if he or she becomes tired or more agitated in the late afternoon, avoid traveling at this time.

○&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Allow plenty of time for rest and don’t over-schedule.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Keep travel necessities close:&nbsp;If traveling by air, keep necessary medications, up-to-date medical information, a list of emergency contacts and photocopies of important documents in your carry-on baggage. For longer car trips, make sure water and snacks are available.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brief your host:&nbsp;If you are staying with family or friends, make sure everyone knows what to expect. If you will be staying in a hotel, consider informing the staff ahead of time of your specific needs so they can be prepared to assist you.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Be prepared:&nbsp;Environmental changes or new locations can cause anxiety and agitation in people with Alzheimer’s. These events can also trigger wandering. Monitor your loved one closely for signs of stress or confusion. Keep them close to you in crowded, unfamiliar places.&nbsp;

“The holidays should be a fun and relaxing time for friends and family, including people living with dementia,” said Sadie Hinkel, Programming Director. “By keeping your loved one’s needs top of mind while making travel decisions, it will cause less stress and provide an enjoyable time for all.”

More travel tips can be found by visiting the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://alz.org/help-support/resources/holidays">Alzheimer’s Association</a>&nbsp;website. The Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline also provides reliable information and support to all those who need assistance. Call the helpline toll-free anytime, even holidays, at 1.800.272.3900.

Holiday Travel Tips for Families Facing Alzheimer’s

LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– Governor Jim Pillen joined other Republican governors supporting President Donald J. Trump’s nomination of South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as the next secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and calling for her swift confirmation. The letter to U.S. Senate leadership cites Noem’s extensive experience addressing the crisis at the southern border, as well as her leadership as governor with broader homeland security challenges:

“Her record includes a strong focus on disaster preparedness and response, imposing limited and constitutional measures, training and supporting of law enforcement, and historic investments in cybersecurity. All of these are integral to the mission of DHS.”

Gov. Pillen joined these other governors in the letter of support: Gov. Mike Dunleavy (Alaska), Gov. Sarah Sanders (Arkansas), Gov. Brian Kemp (Georgia), Gov. Brad Little (Idaho), Gov. Eric Holcomb (Indiana), Gov. Kim Reynolds (Iowa), Gov. Jeff Landry (Louisiana), Gov. Tate Reeves (Mississippi), Gov. Mike Parson (Missouri), Gov. Greg Gianforte (Montana), Gov. Chris Sununu (New Hampshire), Gov. Doug Burgum (North Dakota), Gov. Kevin Stitt (Oklahoma), Gov. Henry Dargin McMaster (South Carolina), Gov. Bill Lee (Tennessee), Gov. Greg Abbott (Texas), Gov. Spencer Cox (Utah), Gov. Glen Younkin (Virginia), Gov. Jim Justice (West Virginia), and Gov. Mike Gordon (Wyoming).

The entire letter is linked&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rga.org%2Fgovernor-noems-nomination-to-be-the-secretary-of-homeland-security%2F&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cjim.buehler%40nebraska.gov%7C67bb9180acf044555a8f08dd1e04a1ea%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C638699727428760298%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=11EKILWpRwUiHcr1drT5hni7LGfCUkuf0XTh5ccELaM%3D&amp;reserved=0">here</a>.

Gov. Pillen Joins Other Republican Governors in Voicing Support for Noem Confirmation as DHS Secretary

Lincoln, Ne - Nebraska senior libero Lexi Rodriguez has been named one of four finalists for the AVCA National Player of the Year Award, which will be presented on Friday at the AVCA All-America awards banquet.

Last week, Rodriguez became the first ever libero to be named AVCA Region Player of the Year. She is a three-time Big Ten Defensive Player and Libero of the Year and will look to become the third player in program history to be selected as a four-time All-American when the postseason honors come out on Wednesday. 

This season, Rodriguez leads the Huskers with 3.91 digs per set as the team has climbed to No. 4 nationally in opponent hitting percentage on the season (.139). NU led the nation in opponent hitting percentage in both 2022 and 2023. Rodriguez was named to the NCAA Lincoln Regional All-Tournament Team on Sunday after leading the Huskers to two more dominant defensive outings. Nebraska is holding its opponents in the NCAA Tournament to a combined .066 hitting percentage, the best mark of any team. 

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