UNMC will honor the inaugural director of the new White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy Dec. 15 at its Winter Commencement Ceremony. Degrees will be conferred upon approximately 400 students at the 7 p.m. ceremony at the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Baxter Arena.

Maj. Gen. (ret.) Paul Friedrichs, MD, will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree for high distinction in his service to our nation through the areas of science and medicine.

Dr. Friedrichs currently serves as Deputy Assistant to the President in addition to his role as pandemic preparedness and response policy director. He is tasked with advising the President and coordinating federal government efforts to enhance the United States and its partners’ ability to prepare for and respond to pandemics and other emergency biologic events.

He previously served as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Global Health Security and Biodefense at the White House National Security Council.

This followed a decades-long career in the U.S. Air Force which culminated in serving as the Joint Staff Surgeon at the Pentagon. Dr. Friedrichs provided medical advice for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Department of Defense (DOD) operations and served as medical advisor to the DOD COVID-19 Task Force. In this role he coordinated all issues related to health services to include operational medicine, force health protection and readiness among the combatant commands, the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the services. He also served as U.S. representative to the NATO Committee of the Chiefs of Military Medical Services.

Dr. Friedrichs is an expert on major domestic and international responses to natural disasters and biologic outbreaks, on global health diplomacy, and on health systems. As a clinician, he has cared for patients in combat and under austere conditions, including in Antarctica.

Dr. Friedrichs is an alumnus of Tulane University and of the National War College. He earned his MD from the Uniformed Services University and has earned numerous honors and medals, including the Bronze Star.

Dr. Friedrichs will conduct a Breakthrough Thinking Conference presentation entitled “Rethinking Biopreparedness” at the medical center earlier in the day on Dec. 15.

The UNMC commencement ceremony will be livestreamed.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jfY22DFSFUo" target="_blank">Access the video link here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702413779966.jpeg" alt="Maj. Gen. (ret.) Paul Friedrichs, MD" />
 <figcaption>Maj. Gen. (ret.) Paul Friedrichs, MD</figcaption>
 </figure>UNMCUNMC will honor the inaugural director of the new White House Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy Dec. 15 at its Winter Commencement Ceremony. Degrees will be conferred upon approximately 400 students at the 7 p.m. ceremony at the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Baxter Arena.Maj. Gen. (ret.) Paul Friedrichs, MD, will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree for high distinction in his service to our nation through the areas of science and medicine.Dr. Friedrichs currently serves as Deputy Assistant to the President in addition to his role as pandemic preparedness and response policy director. He is tasked with advising the President and coordinating federal government efforts to enhance the United States and its partners’ ability to prepare for and respond to pandemics and other emergency biologic events.He previously served as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Global Health Security and Biodefense at the White House National Security Council.This followed a decades-long career in the U.S. Air Force which culminated in serving as the Joint Staff Surgeon at the Pentagon. Dr. Friedrichs provided medical advice for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Department of Defense (DOD) operations and served as medical advisor to the DOD COVID-19 Task Force. In this role he coordinated all issues related to health services to include operational medicine, force health protection and readiness among the combatant commands, the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the services. He also served as U.S. representative to the NATO Committee of the Chiefs of Military Medical Services.Dr. Friedrichs is an expert on major domestic and international responses to natural disasters and biologic outbreaks, on global health diplomacy, and on health systems. As a clinician, he has cared for patients in combat and under austere conditions, including in Antarctica.Dr. Friedrichs is an alumnus of Tulane University and of the National War College. He earned his MD from the Uniformed Services University and has earned numerous honors and medals, including the Bronze Star.Dr. Friedrichs will conduct a Breakthrough Thinking Conference presentation entitled “Rethinking Biopreparedness” at the medical center earlier in the day on Dec. 15.The UNMC commencement ceremony will be livestreamed.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jfY22DFSFUo" target="_blank">Access the video link here</a>.

Maj. Gen. (ret.) Paul Friedrichs, MD, will be awarded an honorary degree at UNMC commencement

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lincoln County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702469853381.jpeg" alt="Caleb Orander - Possession Of Controlled Substance - Meth" />
 <figcaption>Caleb Orander - Possession Of Controlled Substance - Meth</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702469869473.jpeg" alt="Ely Roche - Resisting Officer, Trespassing" />
 <figcaption>Ely Roche - Resisting Officer, Trespassing</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702469884380.jpeg" alt="Amy Dyess - Safekeep Adams County" />
 <figcaption>Amy Dyess - Safekeep Adams County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702469960307.jpeg" alt="Abel Silva - Driving Under Influence Liquor, Refusal To Submit Breath/Chem Test" />
 <figcaption>Abel Silva - Driving Under Influence Liquor, Refusal To Submit Breath/Chem Test</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702469916501.jpeg" alt="Paul Comfort - Theft By Unlawful Taking, Obstructing Police, Domestic Assault 3rd Degree, Restraining Protection Order Violation" />
 <figcaption>Paul Comfort - Theft By Unlawful Taking, Obstructing Police, Domestic Assault 3rd Degree, Restraining Protection Order Violation</figcaption>
 </figure>***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702469996055.jpeg" alt="Michael Cowen - Fail To Appear (In County), Contempt Of Court | In County" />
 <figcaption>Michael Cowen - Fail To Appear (In County), Contempt Of Court | In County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702470010901.jpeg" alt="Justin Sadd - Assault-3rd Degree, Resisting Arrest, Domestic Assault-3rd Degree" />
 <figcaption>Justin Sadd - Assault-3rd Degree, Resisting Arrest, Domestic Assault-3rd Degree</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702470023426.jpeg" alt="Tyler Liles - Possess Money While Violate 28-416(1), Operate Motor Vehicle/Avoid Arrest-Felony, Tamper With Physical Evidence" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Liles - Possess Money While Violate 28-416(1), Operate Motor Vehicle/Avoid Arrest-Felony, Tamper With Physical Evidence</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702470051793.jpeg" alt="Gilberto Alvarado-Torres - DEL/DSP/DST/MAN/POS Controlled Substance-SCH 1,2,3, Fail To Appear | Out Of County x3, Possession(Meth)Amphetamine, Operating Motor Vehicle to Avoid Arrest-Felony, Tampering With Evidence, Obstruct A Peace Officer, Drive During Revocation/Impound-1st" />
 <figcaption>Gilberto Alvarado-Torres - DEL/DSP/DST/MAN/POS Controlled Substance-SCH 1,2,3, Fail To Appear | Out Of County x3, Possession(Meth)Amphetamine, Operating Motor Vehicle to Avoid Arrest-Felony, Tampering With Evidence, Obstruct A Peace Officer, Drive During Revocation/Impound-1st</figcaption>
 </figure>***<div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2>

This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint to admin@northplattepost.com.</div>

The Hot Sheets: December 13th, 2023

Post's Derek Beck chatted with Amanda Carr about the upcoming Winter Wonderland event taking place this Saturday at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE - The Lincoln County Fairgrounds is hosting a Winter Wonderland this Saturday from 4:00-8:00pm central time at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds. The family orientated event is for everyone to have a fun time. There are plenty of activities to do and the event is free. If you would like to learn more about the event, check out the podcast above.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Post&nbsp;Post's Derek Beck chatted with Amanda Carr about the upcoming Winter Wonderland event taking place this Saturday at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Lincoln County Fair gearing up for Winter Wonderland" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=66vjm-15216ef-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>NORTH PLATTE - The Lincoln County Fairgrounds is hosting a Winter Wonderland this Saturday from 4:00-8:00pm central time at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds. The family orientated event is for everyone to have a fun time. There are plenty of activities to do and the event is free. If you would like to learn more about the event, check out the podcast above.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702325378064.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

(Audio) Lincoln County Fair gearing up for Winter Wonderland

NORTH PLATTE, Nebraska (Dec. 12, 2023) – This holiday season, UScellular will give back to the local community by donating needed items to the North Platte Public Schools Foundation. With its “Gift of Connection” program, UScellular donated $5,000 worth of musical instruments to support the North Platte Public Schools Foundation’s mission to enhance educational opportunities for the community’s public-school students.    

The Tuesday morning donation at Madison Middle School included alto saxophones, flutes and general music supplies. 

“The North Platte Public Schools Foundation does so much for the community, so we want to help them deliver the much-needed support they provide with a donation of musical equipment,” said Eric Puryear, UScellular’s area sales manager for Nebraska and western Iowa. “At UScellular, we strive to unleash the power of our communities and are excited to help connect people to what matters most this holiday season.”

This donation is among 40 “Gift of Connection” nonprofit donations to organizations across the country in honor of UScellular’s 40th anniversary. The company will help organizations that bring people and communities together to enjoy genuine connections through arts, music, sports and food with needed supplies. 

“Due to budget cuts, we had a difficult time replacing instruments for our middle school music class,” said Terri Burchell, executive director of the North Platte Public Schools Foundation. “UScellular’s ‘Gift of Connection’ will assist many students. We appreciate UScellular’s support for the North Platte Public Schools.”

Since 2009, UScellular has invested more than $35 million in monetary donations, technology resources and countless experiences to nonprofit organizations across the country. 

In addition, UScellular invites the community to participate in the “Gift of Connection” through a donation drive at UScellular retail locations. People are encouraged to donate new sports equipment, art supplies or family board games. Visit uscellular.com/store-locator to find your closest location.

UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to help customers stay connected to the things that matter most. The Chicago-based carrier provides a strong, reliable network supported by the latest technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Through its After School Access Project, the company has pledged to provide hotspots and service to help up to 50,000 youth connect to reliable internet. Additionally, UScellular has price protected all of its plans, promising not to increase prices through at least the end of 2024. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, visit newsroom.uscellular.com. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702413904546.jpeg" alt="NPPSF Donation Group Photo" />
 <figcaption>NPPSF Donation Group Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH PLATTE, Nebraska (Dec. 12, 2023) – This holiday season, UScellular will give back to the local community by donating needed items to the North Platte Public Schools Foundation. With its “Gift of Connection” program, UScellular donated $5,000 worth of musical instruments to support the North Platte Public Schools Foundation’s mission to enhance educational opportunities for the community’s public-school students. The Tuesday morning donation at Madison Middle School included alto saxophones, flutes and general music supplies. “The North Platte Public Schools Foundation does so much for the community, so we want to help them deliver the much-needed support they provide with a donation of musical equipment,” said Eric Puryear, UScellular’s area sales manager for Nebraska and western Iowa. “At UScellular, we strive to unleash the power of our communities and are excited to help connect people to what matters most this holiday season.”This donation is among 40 “Gift of Connection” nonprofit donations to organizations across the country in honor of UScellular’s 40th anniversary. The company will help organizations that bring people and communities together to enjoy genuine connections through arts, music, sports and food with needed supplies. “Due to budget cuts, we had a difficult time replacing instruments for our middle school music class,” said Terri Burchell, executive director of the North Platte Public Schools Foundation. “UScellular’s ‘Gift of Connection’ will assist many students. We appreciate UScellular’s support for the North Platte Public Schools.”Since 2009, UScellular has invested more than $35 million in monetary donations, technology resources and countless experiences to nonprofit organizations across the country. In addition, UScellular invites the community to participate in the “Gift of Connection” through a donation drive at UScellular retail locations. People are encouraged to donate new sports equipment, art supplies or family board games. Visit uscellular.com/store-locator to find your closest location.About UScellularUScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to help customers stay connected to the things that matter most. The Chicago-based carrier provides a strong, reliable network supported by the latest technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Through its After School Access Project, the company has pledged to provide hotspots and service to help up to 50,000 youth connect to reliable internet. Additionally, UScellular has price protected all of its plans, promising not to increase prices through at least the end of 2024. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, visit newsroom.uscellular.com.

UScellular Supports North Platte Public Schools Foundation with Music

At approximately 8:03 PM, on December 11th, 2023, the North Platte 911 Center received two reports of a shooting at a residence located in the 300 block of S. Silber.&nbsp; The suspect was reportedly outside of the house with a handgun and left in a vehicle, with another person, prior to police arrival.&nbsp; North Platte police officers and North Platte rescue were dispatched to the residence and a description of the suspect’s vehicle was broadcast to all Lincoln County law enforcement agencies.&nbsp; 

Shortly after the broadcast, a Lincoln County deputy sheriff located the suspect’s vehicle and initiated a traffic stop.&nbsp; The suspect fled and eventually came to a stop in the 300 block of W. B St.&nbsp; The suspect exited his vehicle with a handgun, reportedly fired the gun at the deputy, and the deputy returned fire. &nbsp; After an exchange of gun fire, the suspect fled westbound on B St. in his vehicle.&nbsp; The deputy resumed his pursuit of the suspect until he came to a stop at a residence located in the 1100 block of W. B St.&nbsp; It was later determined that the residence on W. B St. was the suspect’s home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The pursuing deputy received assistance from members of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, and the North Platte Police Department.&nbsp; The suspect shot several times at the law enforcement officers before fleeing in another vehicle.&nbsp; The officers experienced visibility issues with the suspect and there were no gunshots fired by law enforcement officers on W. B St.

Officers pursued the suspect as he fled from the 1100 block of W. B St. in a different vehicle.&nbsp; Officers temporarily lost sight of the fleeing suspect, but a trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol located the suspect vehicle in the 200 block of W. Leota.&nbsp; The trooper made a U-turn and followed the vehicle as the suspect came to a stop at the traffic light at Leota and Jeffers.&nbsp; At that location, the suspect reportedly shot at the trooper who returned gunfire.&nbsp; The suspect fled and was pursued north on HW83 leaving North Platte.&nbsp; Additional gunshots were fired during the pursuit.

The suspect came to a stop after leaving the roadway near mile marker 94.5 on HW83.&nbsp; Due to safety concerns, a drone pilot from the North Platte Police Department was sent to the scene.&nbsp; Using the drone, the officers determined that there was one person in the vehicle who appeared injured and a firearm was not visible.&nbsp; Officers made a tactical approach, removed the suspect from the vehicle and transported him to an awaiting ambulance.&nbsp; A .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol was found in the suspect’s vehicle.

The suspect was identified as 38-year-old Brandon R Girkin Sr.&nbsp; He was transported to Great Plains Health, with at least two gunshot wounds, and later transferred to a Lincoln area hospital for a higher level of care.&nbsp; Girkin was last known to be in critical but stable condition.

The victim in the initial shooting in the 300 block of S. Silber was a 12-year-old boy.&nbsp; He was taken to Great Plains Health where he was treated and released.

When the suspect stopped in the 300 block of W. B St. and exchanged gunfire with the deputy sheriff, the suspect’s 14-year-old son was in the vehicle with him.&nbsp; His son was not injured.

No law enforcement officers were injured.

The North Platte Police Department is the lead investigating agency and has received full cooperation and assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation involved a moving crime scene and will take a considerable amount of time to complete.&nbsp; Once the investigation has been completed, the case will be referred to the Lincoln County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

North Platte Police DepartmentDecember 12, 2023At approximately 8:03 PM, on December 11th, 2023, the North Platte 911 Center received two reports of a shooting at a residence located in the 300 block of S. Silber.&nbsp; The suspect was reportedly outside of the house with a handgun and left in a vehicle, with another person, prior to police arrival.&nbsp; North Platte police officers and North Platte rescue were dispatched to the residence and a description of the suspect’s vehicle was broadcast to all Lincoln County law enforcement agencies.&nbsp; Shortly after the broadcast, a Lincoln County deputy sheriff located the suspect’s vehicle and initiated a traffic stop.&nbsp; The suspect fled and eventually came to a stop in the 300 block of W. B St.&nbsp; The suspect exited his vehicle with a handgun, reportedly fired the gun at the deputy, and the deputy returned fire. &nbsp; After an exchange of gun fire, the suspect fled westbound on B St. in his vehicle.&nbsp; The deputy resumed his pursuit of the suspect until he came to a stop at a residence located in the 1100 block of W. B St.&nbsp; It was later determined that the residence on W. B St. was the suspect’s home.&nbsp;&nbsp;The pursuing deputy received assistance from members of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, and the North Platte Police Department.&nbsp; The suspect shot several times at the law enforcement officers before fleeing in another vehicle.&nbsp; The officers experienced visibility issues with the suspect and there were no gunshots fired by law enforcement officers on W. B St.Officers pursued the suspect as he fled from the 1100 block of W. B St. in a different vehicle.&nbsp; Officers temporarily lost sight of the fleeing suspect, but a trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol located the suspect vehicle in the 200 block of W. Leota.&nbsp; The trooper made a U-turn and followed the vehicle as the suspect came to a stop at the traffic light at Leota and Jeffers.&nbsp; At that location, the suspect reportedly shot at the trooper who returned gunfire.&nbsp; The suspect fled and was pursued north on HW83 leaving North Platte.&nbsp; Additional gunshots were fired during the pursuit.The suspect came to a stop after leaving the roadway near mile marker 94.5 on HW83.&nbsp; Due to safety concerns, a drone pilot from the North Platte Police Department was sent to the scene.&nbsp; Using the drone, the officers determined that there was one person in the vehicle who appeared injured and a firearm was not visible.&nbsp; Officers made a tactical approach, removed the suspect from the vehicle and transported him to an awaiting ambulance.&nbsp; A .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol was found in the suspect’s vehicle.The suspect was identified as 38-year-old Brandon R Girkin Sr.&nbsp; He was transported to Great Plains Health, with at least two gunshot wounds, and later transferred to a Lincoln area hospital for a higher level of care.&nbsp; Girkin was last known to be in critical but stable condition.The victim in the initial shooting in the 300 block of S. Silber was a 12-year-old boy.&nbsp; He was taken to Great Plains Health where he was treated and released.When the suspect stopped in the 300 block of W. B St. and exchanged gunfire with the deputy sheriff, the suspect’s 14-year-old son was in the vehicle with him.&nbsp; His son was not injured.No law enforcement officers were injured.The North Platte Police Department is the lead investigating agency and has received full cooperation and assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.The investigation involved a moving crime scene and will take a considerable amount of time to complete.&nbsp; Once the investigation has been completed, the case will be referred to the Lincoln County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

NPPD says suspect is receiving medical treatment, releases updated statement

The Ogallala Indians girl's and boy's teams are making a trip east tonight to take on the North Platte St. Patricks. The girls are 3-1 on the season and will take on a 1-4 St. Pats team. The boy's matchup features the #4 team in C-1, the Indians taking on the #2 in D-1, St. Pats.

Tip off for the girl's game is set to tip off at 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT with the boy to follow roughly 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls game.&nbsp;

Sandhills PostThe Ogallala Indians girl's and boy's teams are making a trip east tonight to take on the North Platte St. Patricks. The girls are 3-1 on the season and will take on a 1-4 St. Pats team. The boy's matchup features the #4 team in C-1, the Indians taking on the #2 in D-1, St. Pats.Tip off for the girl's game is set to tip off at 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT with the boy to follow roughly 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls game.&nbsp;

Ogallala basketball radio coverage tonight against NPSP

Lincoln, Nebraska, Dec. 12, 2023 — The 39th Nebraska Women in Agriculture Conference will be held Feb. 22-23, 2024, in Kearney, at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, 110 Second Ave. A pre-conference workshop on business entity selection for farms and ranches will be held Feb. 21. This training will be provided by Sheila Hansen, CPA, and agricultural attorney Katie Samples Dean, JD.

During the conference, attendees can look forward to hearing from keynote speakers Ashley Machado, Dr. David Kohl and renowned photographer John Noltner, who is preparing a special surprise project for the event. In addition to the keynote speakers, participants will select from over 20 workshop options that cover the five areas of agricultural risk management: production, market, financial, human and legal. The conference will also offer Continuing Education Credits for veterinary medicine professionals and certified crop advisors.

"Our annual conference is a real highlight of our programming every year," said Jessica Groskopf, Director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program. "We look forward to bringing together producers, experts and top-notch keynote speakers to leave everyone feeling empowered, enlightened and connected to each other and their operations. This year’s conference will certainly be one to remember."

Ashley Machado&nbsp;is a TedX speaker and was nominated as a 2023 FFA Change Maker. She is rethinking the way we support mental health in the food and ag space. She specializes in tangible tools and simple strategies through M Well, her mental health consulting firm that provides corporate wellness programs and mental health trainings for ag families and businesses. Machado grew up in the dairy industry and now farms and ranches with her family in California’s Central Valley.

She has a bachelor’s degree in human development and a master’s in social work with an emphasis in clinical mental health. Her goal is for everyone in the ag industry and rural America to have the tools they need in their mental health toolbox to operate and live life fully. 

Dr. David Kohl&nbsp;is an Academic Hall of Famer in the College of Agriculture at Virginia Tech. He has keen insight into the agriculture industry gained through extensive travel, research and involvement in ag businesses. He has traveled nearly 10 million miles; conducted more than 7,000 presentations; and published more than 2,500 articles in his career. Dr. Kohl’s wisdom and engagement with all levels of the industry provide a unique perspective into future trends.

John Noltner has been telling stories with words and images for 20 years. His work has appeared in National Geographic Traveler, Forbes Magazine, Midwest Living and the New York Daily News, among other publications.&nbsp;Since 2009, Noltner has been asking people the simple (or not so simple) question, "what does peace mean to you?" for his multimedia arts project, "A Peace of My Mind."

Conference registration opens on Jan. 3. The cost for a two-day registration is $150 for participants who register on or before Feb. 8. The two-day registration fee increases to $175 on Feb. 9. The pre-conference workshop has an additional registration fee.

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program will award up to 15 scholarships to students to attend the 2024 Nebraska Women in Agriculture Conference. Any student attending a four-year college/university, two-year college, a vocational/technical school, or a 4-H or FFA member may apply for a scholarship to attend. Applicants will need to prepare an essay that answers the question: "Why do you want to attend the Nebraska Women in Agriculture Conference?" The essay response is limited to 3,000 characters. Applications must be submitted online by Feb.1.

To learn more, visit the Nebraska Women in Agriculture website at&nbsp;<a href="https://wia.unl.edu/" target="_blank">https://wia.unl.edu</a>.This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2021-70027-34694.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ryan EvansLincoln, Nebraska, Dec. 12, 2023 — The 39th Nebraska Women in Agriculture Conference will be held Feb. 22-23, 2024, in Kearney, at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, 110 Second Ave. A pre-conference workshop on business entity selection for farms and ranches will be held Feb. 21. This training will be provided by Sheila Hansen, CPA, and agricultural attorney Katie Samples Dean, JD.During the conference, attendees can look forward to hearing from keynote speakers Ashley Machado, Dr. David Kohl and renowned photographer John Noltner, who is preparing a special surprise project for the event. In addition to the keynote speakers, participants will select from over 20 workshop options that cover the five areas of agricultural risk management: production, market, financial, human and legal. The conference will also offer Continuing Education Credits for veterinary medicine professionals and certified crop advisors."Our annual conference is a real highlight of our programming every year," said Jessica Groskopf, Director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program. "We look forward to bringing together producers, experts and top-notch keynote speakers to leave everyone feeling empowered, enlightened and connected to each other and their operations. This year’s conference will certainly be one to remember."About the speakersAshley Machado&nbsp;is a TedX speaker and was nominated as a 2023 FFA Change Maker. She is rethinking the way we support mental health in the food and ag space. She specializes in tangible tools and simple strategies through M Well, her mental health consulting firm that provides corporate wellness programs and mental health trainings for ag families and businesses. Machado grew up in the dairy industry and now farms and ranches with her family in California’s Central Valley. She has a bachelor’s degree in human development and a master’s in social work with an emphasis in clinical mental health. Her goal is for everyone in the ag industry and rural America to have the tools they need in their mental health toolbox to operate and live life fully. Dr. David Kohl&nbsp;is an Academic Hall of Famer in the College of Agriculture at Virginia Tech. He has keen insight into the agriculture industry gained through extensive travel, research and involvement in ag businesses. He has traveled nearly 10 million miles; conducted more than 7,000 presentations; and published more than 2,500 articles in his career. Dr. Kohl’s wisdom and engagement with all levels of the industry provide a unique perspective into future trends.John Noltner has been telling stories with words and images for 20 years. His work has appeared in National Geographic Traveler, Forbes Magazine, Midwest Living and the New York Daily News, among other publications.&nbsp;Since 2009, Noltner has been asking people the simple (or not so simple) question, "what does peace mean to you?" for his multimedia arts project, "A Peace of My Mind."Conference registration opens on Jan. 3. The cost for a two-day registration is $150 for participants who register on or before Feb. 8. The two-day registration fee increases to $175 on Feb. 9. The pre-conference workshop has an additional registration fee.The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program will award up to 15 scholarships to students to attend the 2024 Nebraska Women in Agriculture Conference. Any student attending a four-year college/university, two-year college, a vocational/technical school, or a 4-H or FFA member may apply for a scholarship to attend. Applicants will need to prepare an essay that answers the question: "Why do you want to attend the Nebraska Women in Agriculture Conference?" The essay response is limited to 3,000 characters. Applications must be submitted online by Feb.1.To learn more, visit the Nebraska Women in Agriculture website at&nbsp;<a href="https://wia.unl.edu/" target="_blank">https://wia.unl.edu</a>.This material is based upon work supported by USDA/NIFA under Award Number 2021-70027-34694.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Women in Agriculture conference registration opens January 3

Meals on Wheels will not be delivering on Christmas day so Dianne Morales will be organizing meals to be delivered to homebound. If you can please share a plate or two of your Christmas meal with a senior citizen, or someone homebound, please call or text 308-532-5085. There are no special diets &amp; deliveries can be made at a suggested time of 11-4 on Christmas Day. 

You will call the person(s) to give them an estimated time. Please make someone's Christmas by sharing your meal. God Bless! Also, if you know of someone that needs a meal have them call Dianne at 308-532-5085!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dianne MoralesMeals on Wheels will not be delivering on Christmas day so Dianne Morales will be organizing meals to be delivered to homebound. If you can please share a plate or two of your Christmas meal with a senior citizen, or someone homebound, please call or text 308-532-5085. There are no special diets &amp; deliveries can be made at a suggested time of 11-4 on Christmas Day. You will call the person(s) to give them an estimated time. Please make someone's Christmas by sharing your meal. God Bless! Also, if you know of someone that needs a meal have them call Dianne at 308-532-5085!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Christmas Share-A-Meal looking for volunteers 

Kimberly Bishop (Airport, Park &amp; Rec, Planning/Zoning)

Tierney Petersen (Cemetery, City Hall, Economic Development)

<ol>
 <li>Roll Call</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Call to Order</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Open Meetings Act Announcement</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Review and Action of Agenda</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Review and Action of Prior Meeting Minutes – November 28, 2023</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Communications (Upcoming Meetings, Etc.)</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Standing Committee Reports</li>
 </ol>Andrea Brueggeman (Library, Tree Board)Kimberly Bishop (Airport, Park &amp; Rec, Planning/Zoning)Tierney Petersen (Cemetery, City Hall, Economic Development)Sam Sims (Public Works, CRA)<ol>
 <li>Enforcement, Sheriff, and Water Reports</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Financials</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Public Comment</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Unfinished Business</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>New Business</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Council Reorganization</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Standing Committee Reorganization</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Mayoral Appointments</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Mayoral Appointment of the West Central Nebraska Development District (WCNDD) Representative – (Edward Dunn) and Alternate – (Kimberly Bishop)</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Resolution No. 23-12-01, a Resolution for the Appointment of a Nuisance Officer</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on City Attorney Agreement – Tawna Holmstedt of the Holmstedt Law Office, P.C., L.L.O.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Potential Discontinuation of the Noon and 5 P.M. Whistle</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Hastings Memorial&nbsp;Library, Hastings Memorial Library Foundation Audit, and Other Related Items</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Mayor and City Council Attendance at the NMPP Energy Annual Conference (March 19-21, 2024)</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action on Bills and Claims</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Adjournment</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>The City of Grant abides by the Nebraska Open Meetings Act in conducting business.&nbsp; A copy of the Nebraska Open Meetings Act is on display in this meeting room as required by Nebraska State Law.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>The Mayor and City Council reserve the right to enter into a Closed Session at any time during the meeting, in accordance with the Nebraska Open Meetings Act, even though the Closed Session may not be indicated on the agenda.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>It is the intention of the Mayor and City Council to take up the items on the agenda in the order they are presented above.&nbsp; However, the Mayor and City Council reserve the right to take up matters in a different order to accommodate the schedules of the City Council Members, person(s) having items on the agenda, and the public.&nbsp; The City of Grant further reserves the right to adjust the order of items on this agenda.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Anyone wishing to speak during public comment may be limited to three (3) minutes per person, with a limit of two (2) individuals speaking per topic position. &nbsp;Please come to the podium and clearly state your name and address for the record and the agenda topic you wish to speak upon in a professional manner.</li>
 </ul>

12/12 City of Grant City Council Meeting Agenda

&nbsp;OGALLALA - The Ogallala City Council is hosting their meeting tonight, December 12th. Below is tonight's agenda for the meeting.

Sandhills Post&nbsp;OGALLALA - The Ogallala City Council is hosting their meeting tonight, December 12th. Below is tonight's agenda for the meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702326146418.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702326165497.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

12/12 Ogallala City Council Meeting Agenda

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lincoln County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702381222616.jpeg" alt="Dixie Houpt - Resisting Officer, Disturbing The Peace-Specify" />
 <figcaption>Dixie Houpt - Resisting Officer, Disturbing The Peace-Specify</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702381262331.jpeg" alt="Dustin Marble - Commit Child Abuse Intentional/No Injury" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Marble - Commit Child Abuse Intentional/No Injury</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702381299850.jpeg" alt="Dustin Styskal -3rd Degree Domestic Assault" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Styskal -3rd Degree Domestic Assault</figcaption>
 </figure>***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702381328140.jpeg" alt="Cathleen Kent - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Cathleen Kent - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702381342457.jpeg" alt="Patrick Stevens - Fail To Appear (In County)" />
 <figcaption>Patrick Stevens - Fail To Appear (In County)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702381363246.jpeg" alt="Janice McClain - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Janice McClain - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702381375966.jpeg" alt="Thomas Nelson - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Thomas Nelson - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702381388899.jpeg" alt="Michael Scott - Criminal Trespass-2nd Degree, Obstruct A Peace Officer" />
 <figcaption>Michael Scott - Criminal Trespass-2nd Degree, Obstruct A Peace Officer</figcaption>
 </figure>***<div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2>

This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint to admin@northplattepost.com.</div>

The Hot Sheets: December 12th, 2023

According to the EMS scanner, the male suspect is in custody and has suffered multiple gunshot wounds and has been taken to Great Plains Health hospital for treatment. This is a developing story and will update when more information becomes available.

US 83 closed in both directions: Road closed

Agency icon Updated Today at 9:19 PM CST by NDOT Between NE 97; Skyline Drive and NE 92 (3 to 24 miles north of North Platte). The road is closed.

At approximately 8:03 PM, the North Platte 911 Center received a report of a person being shot at a residence in the 300 block of S. Silber.&nbsp; The suspect was reportedly outside of the house with a handgun.&nbsp; The suspect left the house in a vehicle and was spotted by law enforcement a short time later.&nbsp; Near B St. and Lincoln Ave, the male suspect exited his vehicle and fired several shots at law enforcement.&nbsp; The suspect fled in his vehicle and was pursued.&nbsp; The suspect has wrecked his vehicle north of North Platte.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The shooting victim on S. Silber suffered injuries that were not life threatening.

Additional details will be released as the investigation continues.

NORTH PLATTE - Multiple shots fired this evening North Platte. Law Enforcement looking for the suspect at this time. Please stay inside and keep your doors locked. This is a developing story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655290279721.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostUpdate 9:44pmAccording to the EMS scanner, the male suspect is in custody and has suffered multiple gunshot wounds and has been taken to Great Plains Health hospital for treatment. This is a developing story and will update when more information becomes available.Update 9:23 NDOT announces road closureUS 83 closed in both directions: Road closedAgency icon Updated Today at 9:19 PM CST by NDOT Between NE 97; Skyline Drive and NE 92 (3 to 24 miles north of North Platte). The road is closed.Update 9:20pm Official NPPD StatementDecember 11, 2023At approximately 8:03 PM, the North Platte 911 Center received a report of a person being shot at a residence in the 300 block of S. Silber.&nbsp; The suspect was reportedly outside of the house with a handgun.&nbsp; The suspect left the house in a vehicle and was spotted by law enforcement a short time later.&nbsp; Near B St. and Lincoln Ave, the male suspect exited his vehicle and fired several shots at law enforcement.&nbsp; The suspect fled in his vehicle and was pursued.&nbsp; The suspect has wrecked his vehicle north of North Platte.&nbsp;&nbsp;The shooting victim on S. Silber suffered injuries that were not life threatening.Additional details will be released as the investigation continues.NORTH PLATTE - Multiple shots fired this evening North Platte. Law Enforcement looking for the suspect at this time. Please stay inside and keep your doors locked. This is a developing story.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0P5ed7JsXPAMra2KugYrsdZ4EZ25SasVhatzuViSYHjRdtzpYqkMRGenMQpfSXpr6l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="226" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Suspect apprehended with multiple gunshot wounds according to EMS Scanner

According to the scanner, the suspect is in custody and has suffered injuries and will be taken to the hospital.

US 83 closed in both directions: Road closed.

 Agency icon Updated Today at 9:19 PM CST by NDOT Between NE 97; Skyline Drive and NE 92 (3 to 24 miles north of North Platte). The road is closed.

North Platte PostUpdate 9:44pmAccording to the scanner, the suspect is in custody and has suffered injuries and will be taken to the hospital.Update 9:23 NDOT announces road closureUS 83 closed in both directions: Road closed. Agency icon Updated Today at 9:19 PM CST by NDOT Between NE 97; Skyline Drive and NE 92 (3 to 24 miles north of North Platte). The road is closed.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid04wC52CVSgqDVJNtTn8UpWRauJQJhf29bXbmprBpiaqmgimQsXPsrMmN4QTbzzuXXl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="207" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Update 9:20pm Official NPPD StatementDecember 11, 2023At approximately 8:03 PM, the North Platte 911 Center received a report of a person being shot at a residence in the 300 block of S. Silber.&nbsp; The suspect was reportedly outside of the house with a handgun.&nbsp; The suspect left the house in a vehicle and was spotted by law enforcement a short time later.&nbsp; Near B St. and Lincoln Ave, the male suspect exited his vehicle and fired several shots at law enforcement.&nbsp; The suspect fled in his vehicle and was pursued.&nbsp; The suspect has wrecked his vehicle north of North Platte.&nbsp;&nbsp;The shooting victim on S. Silber suffered injuries that were not life threatening.Additional details will be released as the investigation continues.NORTH PLATTE - Multiple shots fired this evening North Platte. Law Enforcement looking for the suspect at this time. Please stay inside and keep your doors locked. This is a developing story.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnorthplattepost%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0P5ed7JsXPAMra2KugYrsdZ4EZ25SasVhatzuViSYHjRdtzpYqkMRGenMQpfSXpr6l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="226" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

BREAKING: Shots fired in North Platte

The North Platte Police Department in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA), is participating in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” DUI enforcement campaign.&nbsp; 

Drivers will see officers working on a special high-visibility enforcement campaign to spread the message about the dangers of drunk driving from December 15, 2023, through January 1, 2024.&nbsp; Their primary focus will be on taking impaired drivers off the road.&nbsp;

According to NHTSA, during the 2017-2021 December months, more than 4,500 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes nationwide.&nbsp; Added parties and festivities during the Holiday season bring out more impaired drivers. &nbsp; 

NHTSA and the North Platte Police Department ask drivers to make a plan before taking part in festivities by designating a sober driver or using ride share.

North Platte Police DepartmentThe North Platte Police Department in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA), is participating in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” DUI enforcement campaign.&nbsp; Drivers will see officers working on a special high-visibility enforcement campaign to spread the message about the dangers of drunk driving from December 15, 2023, through January 1, 2024.&nbsp; Their primary focus will be on taking impaired drivers off the road.&nbsp;According to NHTSA, during the 2017-2021 December months, more than 4,500 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes nationwide.&nbsp; Added parties and festivities during the Holiday season bring out more impaired drivers. &nbsp; NHTSA and the North Platte Police Department ask drivers to make a plan before taking part in festivities by designating a sober driver or using ride share.

NPPD is participating in the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign

North Platte, Neb., December 11, 2023 – Great Plains Health is giving patients more control over their medical care through the new price estimator in the MyChart patient portal. The tool is designed to provide patients with a resource to help them make informed decisions about care.&nbsp;

There are more than 400 services in the new price estimator, presenting patients with&nbsp; estimates of out-of-pocket expenses based on services and health insurance coverage.&nbsp;

"This price estimator gives patients more control over their care, and leverages&nbsp; technology to help patients understand health care costs,” said Ivan Mitchell, Great&nbsp; Plains Health Chief Executive Officer. “Seeking health care services can be stressful.&nbsp; We want to eliminate some of that stress by providing patients with another tool to explore information on costs.”&nbsp;

The price estimator is just one feature in the My Chart patient portal. With the click of a&nbsp; button, My Chart also allows patients to securely communicate with providers, access&nbsp; test results and health records, request prescription refills, manage appointments and&nbsp; more. To create a MyChart account, visit gphealth.org/mychart on a desktop computer,&nbsp; or find the mobile app by searching for MyChart in the app store.&nbsp;

When using the tool, patients should keep in mind that the prices displayed are only estimates. This tool allows Great Plains Health to follow up with patients to answer questions about services and offer the best customer service possible. With more specific questions about price estimates, billing and financial assistance, contact Great Plains Health patient financial services at 308.568.7455, or visit gphealth.org.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702323557436.jpeg" alt="GPH 2023 Drone shot. Photo provided by Great Plains Health" />
 <figcaption>GPH 2023 Drone shot. Photo provided by Great Plains Health</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Plains HealthNorth Platte, Neb., December 11, 2023 – Great Plains Health is giving patients more control over their medical care through the new price estimator in the MyChart patient portal. The tool is designed to provide patients with a resource to help them make informed decisions about care.&nbsp;There are more than 400 services in the new price estimator, presenting patients with&nbsp; estimates of out-of-pocket expenses based on services and health insurance coverage.&nbsp;"This price estimator gives patients more control over their care, and leverages&nbsp; technology to help patients understand health care costs,” said Ivan Mitchell, Great&nbsp; Plains Health Chief Executive Officer. “Seeking health care services can be stressful.&nbsp; We want to eliminate some of that stress by providing patients with another tool to explore information on costs.”&nbsp;The price estimator is just one feature in the My Chart patient portal. With the click of a&nbsp; button, My Chart also allows patients to securely communicate with providers, access&nbsp; test results and health records, request prescription refills, manage appointments and&nbsp; more. To create a MyChart account, visit gphealth.org/mychart on a desktop computer,&nbsp; or find the mobile app by searching for MyChart in the app store.&nbsp;When using the tool, patients should keep in mind that the prices displayed are only estimates. This tool allows Great Plains Health to follow up with patients to answer questions about services and offer the best customer service possible. With more specific questions about price estimates, billing and financial assistance, contact Great Plains Health patient financial services at 308.568.7455, or visit gphealth.org.&nbsp;

Great Plains Health launches price estimator tool 

OMAHA, NEB. - The University of Nebraska at Omaha will be hosting graduation this Friday at Baxter Arena. UNO will host two different ceremonies during the day. The 9:00am ceremony will feature College Arts and Sciences, College of Education, Health and Human Services and College of Engineering (UNL).&nbsp;

The second ceremony starts at 2:00pm and will feature College of Business Administration, College of Public Affairs and Community Service, College of Information Science &amp; Technology and College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media.

For more information in regard to UNO's graduation, <a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/fall-2023-commencement.pdf">click here</a>.

North Platte PostOMAHA, NEB. - The University of Nebraska at Omaha will be hosting graduation this Friday at Baxter Arena. UNO will host two different ceremonies during the day. The 9:00am ceremony will feature College Arts and Sciences, College of Education, Health and Human Services and College of Engineering (UNL).&nbsp;The second ceremony starts at 2:00pm and will feature College of Business Administration, College of Public Affairs and Community Service, College of Information Science &amp; Technology and College of Communication, Fine Arts and Media.For more information in regard to UNO's graduation, <a href="https://www.unomaha.edu/fall-2023-commencement.pdf">click here</a>.

UNO December graduation information for this upcoming weekend

Post News Director Canon Rath talked with Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company President Bill Buckles about the new Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company facility being built in North Platte.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE - Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company has officially broken ground at their new location 3402 Jeffers Street in North Platte. Community members gather around for the groundbreaking ceremony. The company is located across five states: Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Ohio and was founded in 1982. The company has 29 locations across the five states. Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company is one of John Deere's largest North America construction Equipment dealer organizations.&nbsp;

Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company is building an operations facility in North Platte. "Our new operations facility is modern, more efficient facility we have today where we sell and service John Deere equipment," said Bill Buckles, Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company President. "We are looking forward to expanding our services and growing the business."&nbsp;

If you would like to hear a more in-depth of the new facility coming to North Platte, check out the podcast above.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701969206880.jpeg" alt="Members digging into the ground for the ground breaking ceremeony of the new Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>Members digging into the ground for the ground breaking ceremeony of the new Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Post&nbsp;Post News Director Canon Rath talked with Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company President Bill Buckles about the new Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company facility being built in North Platte.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Murphy Tractor & Equipment Company breaks ground at new North Platte location" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=fbthj-151c815-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>NORTH PLATTE - Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company has officially broken ground at their new location 3402 Jeffers Street in North Platte. Community members gather around for the groundbreaking ceremony. The company is located across five states: Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Ohio and was founded in 1982. The company has 29 locations across the five states. Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company is one of John Deere's largest North America construction Equipment dealer organizations.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701969206880.jpeg" alt="Members digging into the ground for the ground breaking ceremony of the new Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>Members digging into the ground for the ground breaking ceremony of the new Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company is building an operations facility in North Platte. "Our new operations facility is modern, more efficient facility we have today where we sell and service John Deere equipment," said Bill Buckles, Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company President. "We are looking forward to expanding our services and growing the business."&nbsp;If you would like to hear a more in-depth of the new facility coming to North Platte, check out the podcast above.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701969144138.jpeg" alt="Members getting ready to break ground at the New Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company location at 3402 Jeffers St, North Platte. Photo taken by Lewys Carlini/North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>Members getting ready to break ground at the New Murphy Tractor &amp; Equipment Company location at 3402 Jeffers St, North Platte. Photo taken by Lewys Carlini/North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701969427754.jpeg" alt="Members gather around the Murphy Tractor &amp; Construction Company sign. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>Members gather around the Murphy Tractor &amp; Construction Company sign. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

(Audio) Murphy Tractor & Equipment Company breaks ground at new North Platte location

LINCOLN, NEB. - While schools in the University of Nebraska system is gearing up for graduations this weekend, individual schools have been announcing ceremony information. UNL has Graduate Commencement Friday and Undergrad Commencement on Saturday. If you would like to learn more about UNL's graduation, <a href="https://commencement.unl.edu/ceremony-details">click here.</a>

North Platte PostLINCOLN, NEB. - While schools in the University of Nebraska system is gearing up for graduations this weekend, individual schools have been announcing ceremony information. UNL has Graduate Commencement Friday and Undergrad Commencement on Saturday. If you would like to learn more about UNL's graduation, <a href="https://commencement.unl.edu/ceremony-details">click here.</a>

UNL December graduation information for this upcoming weekend

KEARNEY, NEB. - The University of Nebraska at Kearney is getting ready for winter commencement this Friday at the Health and Sports Center on the UNK campus. 446 students are going to receive their degree. Many students from the coverage area will be walking.&nbsp;

The ceremony is set to begin at 10:00am central time. For folks who can't attend, graduation will be livestreamed by <a href="https://www.unk.edu/about/event-dashboard.php">click here</a>. If you would like to see the names of the students graduating Friday, <a href="https://unknews.unk.edu/2023/12/11/university-of-nebraska-at-kearney-to-celebrate-446-graduates-at-winter-commencement/">click here</a>.

North Platte PostKEARNEY, NEB. - The University of Nebraska at Kearney is getting ready for winter commencement this Friday at the Health and Sports Center on the UNK campus. 446 students are going to receive their degree. Many students from the coverage area will be walking.&nbsp;The ceremony is set to begin at 10:00am central time. For folks who can't attend, graduation will be livestreamed by <a href="https://www.unk.edu/about/event-dashboard.php">click here</a>. If you would like to see the names of the students graduating Friday, <a href="https://unknews.unk.edu/2023/12/11/university-of-nebraska-at-kearney-to-celebrate-446-graduates-at-winter-commencement/">click here</a>.

446 students set to graduate from UNK Friday, includes many from the area

Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Cassie Condon, Vice President of Operations for the North Platte Area of Chamber and Development talked about the Shop North Platte event that is going on tell December 12th.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE – Shop North Platte is officially under way and will continue on until December 12th. Shop North Platte was created to shop locally at North Platte businesses this holiday season. Over 30 local businesses are taking part in this year's event. Shoppers who shop locally have a chance to win $5,000. Shoppers will receive a blue ticket and every $10 spent, shoppers can earn another blue ticket. Folks just entering the business will also receive the blue ticket. The drawing is set for December 14th. Shoppers must be 18 and older to participate in the drawing.&nbsp;

Shop North Platte replaces the old passport system that was used for the past 4 years. “I absolutely loved the passport program as it highlighted our local entrepreneurs and small businesses that give so much back to our community... but our one-day program we felt just wasn’t enough,” said Cassie Condon. “We really wanted to find something that encouraged customer loyalty and raise more awareness for retail availability... we really wanted to expand it from a one-day program to a three-week program and reward people for shopping locally.”&nbsp;

If you would like to learn a more in-depth about the Shop North Platte event that’s going on, more about the blue tickets, how it was designed, check out the podcast above. To see all the participating businesses, check the graphic below.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte Post&nbsp;Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Cassie Condon, Vice President of Operations for the North Platte Area of Chamber and Development talked about the Shop North Platte event that is going on tell December 12th.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Shop North Platte is underway" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mac8m-150f24f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>NORTH PLATTE – Shop North Platte is officially under way and will continue on until December 12th. Shop North Platte was created to shop locally at North Platte businesses this holiday season. Over 30 local businesses are taking part in this year's event. Shoppers who shop locally have a chance to win $5,000. Shoppers will receive a blue ticket and every $10 spent, shoppers can earn another blue ticket. Folks just entering the business will also receive the blue ticket. The drawing is set for December 14th. Shoppers must be 18 and older to participate in the drawing.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701205876514.jpeg" alt="North Platte Area Chamber and Development Vice President of Operations Cassie Condon. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>North Platte Area Chamber and Development Vice President of Operations Cassie Condon. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Shop North Platte replaces the old passport system that was used for the past 4 years. “I absolutely loved the passport program as it highlighted our local entrepreneurs and small businesses that give so much back to our community... but our one-day program we felt just wasn’t enough,” said Cassie Condon. “We really wanted to find something that encouraged customer loyalty and raise more awareness for retail availability... we really wanted to expand it from a one-day program to a three-week program and reward people for shopping locally.”&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNorthPlatteChamber%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02uEK7GyGstiKycBgw7JnANcug1xAUwDeqHKYBVETLwVck2VQWiGNPaFUEdU3jZKi9l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="668" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>If you would like to learn a more in-depth about the Shop North Platte event that’s going on, more about the blue tickets, how it was designed, check out the podcast above. To see all the participating businesses, check the graphic below.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701361763310.png" alt="Shop North Platte Post Participating Stores Updated/Graphic provided by North Platte Chamber and Development" />
 <figcaption>Shop North Platte Post Participating Stores Updated/Graphic provided by North Platte Chamber and Development</figcaption>
 </figure>

(Audio) 2 days left in the Shop North Platte event

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lincoln County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702293945308.jpeg" alt="Zachary Mowry - Driving Under Influence - Liquor (2nd)" />
 <figcaption>Zachary Mowry - Driving Under Influence - Liquor (2nd)</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County Jail&nbsp;No New Arrests***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702293998295.jpeg" alt="Guillermo Leonico-Jorge - Criminal Trespass-2nd Degree, Possession Controlled Substance, Contempt Of Court | Out Of County x2, Willful Reckless Driving-1st Offense, City Code Violation, No Valid Registration/Expired Plates, Fail To Display In-Transit Sticker" />
 <figcaption>Guillermo Leonico-Jorge - Criminal Trespass-2nd Degree, Possession Controlled Substance, Contempt Of Court | Out Of County x2, Willful Reckless Driving-1st Offense, City Code Violation, No Valid Registration/Expired Plates, Fail To Display In-Transit Sticker</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702322981269.jpeg" alt="Ashley Coronado - Contempt Of Court | In County" />
 <figcaption>Ashley Coronado - Contempt Of Court | In County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702294041923.jpeg" alt="Pamela Scheuffele - Probation Sanction" />
 <figcaption>Pamela Scheuffele - Probation Sanction</figcaption>
 </figure>***<div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://northplattepost.com/category/arrests/" target="_blank">Click Here To See Past Hot Sheets</a></h2>

This information is not a criminal history. Criminal charges are often dropped or reduced. All individuals included in this post are presumed innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law. The North Platte Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. Any person who believes information provided is not accurate may submit a complaint to admin@northplattepost.com.</div>

The Hot Sheets: December 11th, 2023

(Lexington, Neb.)&nbsp;– Dawson Public Power District reports that the 2023 irrigation season was the second highest revenue year in the past decade. That was noted at Dawson PPD’s Board of Directors meeting held December 6.

Irrigation revenue is at $26.6 million compared to $29 million in 2022. Customers used about 179.5 million kilowatt hours of electricity over the 2023 growing season compared to 215.8 million kWh in 2022. Dawson PPD’s net margin is currently $4.3 million over budget through October 31, however, present mild temperatures may reduce the net margin by year end.

“We expect to finish the year strong,” said Carmen Ackerman, Dawson PPD Manager of Finance and Administration.

As a not-for-profit, publicly owned electric utility, Dawson PPD reinvests its revenue into its electric grid to provide safe, reliable and affordable power to its customers. The excess funds will be used to fulfill the District’s mission and help finance 2024 construction projects.

Other topics from the December Dawson PPD Board of Directors Meeting included:

<a href="http://www.dawsonpower.com/" target="_blank">Dawson Public Power District</a>&nbsp;is a Nebraska rural electric utility system that serves south central Nebraska along the Platte River Valley. Organized in 1937, Dawson PPD provides service to more than 23,000 electric meters and maintains over 5,800 miles of power lines. The district’s 5,800 square miles territory includes all of the rural areas in Dawson and Buffalo Counties, approximately two-thirds of Gosper County, a third of Lincoln County and parts of Custer, Sherman and Frontier Counties.

Dawson PPD also serves several villages including Hershey, Maxwell, Brady, Farnam, Eustis, Elwood, Eddyville, Smithfield, Overton, Sumner, Miller, Riverdale, Amherst, Odessa and Pleasanton. To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dawsonpower.com/" target="_blank">www.DawsonPower.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702072812918.jpeg" alt="Craig Wietjes - Director Craig Wietjes (right) was recognized for successfully completing his National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Board Leadership Certificate training. He is pictured with Dawson PPD Board President Dan Muhlbach." />
 <figcaption>Craig Wietjes - Director Craig Wietjes (right) was recognized for successfully completing his National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Board Leadership Certificate training. He is pictured with Dawson PPD Board President Dan Muhlbach.</figcaption>
 </figure>Dawson Public Power and District(Lexington, Neb.)&nbsp;– Dawson Public Power District reports that the 2023 irrigation season was the second highest revenue year in the past decade. That was noted at Dawson PPD’s Board of Directors meeting held December 6.Irrigation revenue is at $26.6 million compared to $29 million in 2022. Customers used about 179.5 million kilowatt hours of electricity over the 2023 growing season compared to 215.8 million kWh in 2022. Dawson PPD’s net margin is currently $4.3 million over budget through October 31, however, present mild temperatures may reduce the net margin by year end.“We expect to finish the year strong,” said Carmen Ackerman, Dawson PPD Manager of Finance and Administration.As a not-for-profit, publicly owned electric utility, Dawson PPD reinvests its revenue into its electric grid to provide safe, reliable and affordable power to its customers. The excess funds will be used to fulfill the District’s mission and help finance 2024 construction projects.Other topics from the December Dawson PPD Board of Directors Meeting included:<ul>
 <li>Dawson PPD’s annual inventory audit showed an adjustment of less than one quarter of a percent, the lowest it has been since 2016. An inventory adjustment is an increase or decrease in a company’s inventory to explain theft, broken products, loss or other errors.</li><li>Board Member Pat Hecox has finished his two-year term as the Nebraska Rural Electric Association Board President. NREA is a private, non-profit trade association for rural electric systems. During his tenure, Hecox successfully visited all member systems – something that was not previously done. NREA members noted that they appreciated the personal contact and opportunity to address concerns directly with leadership. Hecox said that “it was time well spent” and he “hopes the next group does the same.”</li><li>Three board members were recognized for their milestone years of service:</li><li>Joe Jeffrey – 40 years</li><li>Brad Brodine – 30 years</li><li>Pat Hecox – 25 years</li><li>Director Craig Wietjes was recognized for successfully completing his National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Board Leadership Certificate training.</li><li>The January 2024 Dawson PPD Board of Directors Meeting has been rescheduled from Wednesday, January 3, to Thursday, January 4. It will begin at its usual time of 10:00 a.m. and will be located in the Board Room of the Lexington Headquarters at 75191 Road 433.</li>
 </ul><a href="http://www.dawsonpower.com/" target="_blank">Dawson Public Power District</a>&nbsp;is a Nebraska rural electric utility system that serves south central Nebraska along the Platte River Valley. Organized in 1937, Dawson PPD provides service to more than 23,000 electric meters and maintains over 5,800 miles of power lines. The district’s 5,800 square miles territory includes all of the rural areas in Dawson and Buffalo Counties, approximately two-thirds of Gosper County, a third of Lincoln County and parts of Custer, Sherman and Frontier Counties. Dawson PPD also serves several villages including Hershey, Maxwell, Brady, Farnam, Eustis, Elwood, Eddyville, Smithfield, Overton, Sumner, Miller, Riverdale, Amherst, Odessa and Pleasanton. To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dawsonpower.com/" target="_blank">www.DawsonPower.com</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702072901118.jpeg" alt="Pat Hecox – Director Pat Hecox (left) was recognized for 25 years of service on Dawson PPD’s Board. He is pictured with Dawson PPD Board President Dan Muhlbach." />
 <figcaption>Pat Hecox – Director Pat Hecox (left) was recognized for 25 years of service on Dawson PPD’s Board. He is pictured with Dawson PPD Board President Dan Muhlbach.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702072944281.jpeg" alt="Brad Brodine – Director Brad Brodine (left) was recognized for 30 years of service on Dawson PPD’s board. He is pictured with Dawson PPD Board President Dan Muhlbach.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Brad Brodine – Director Brad Brodine (left) was recognized for 30 years of service on Dawson PPD’s board. He is pictured with Dawson PPD Board President Dan Muhlbach.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702073013543.jpeg" alt="Brad Brodine – Director Brad Brodine (left) was recognized for 30 years of service on Dawson PPD’s board. He is pictured with Dawson PPD Board President Dan Muhlbach." />
 <figcaption>Brad Brodine – Director Brad Brodine (left) was recognized for 30 years of service on Dawson PPD’s board. He is pictured with Dawson PPD Board President Dan Muhlbach.</figcaption>
 </figure>

2023 Dawson PPD irrigation season second highest revenue year in past decade

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to enter closed session at any time as necessary to discuss the agenda item currently before the board.

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to take agenda items out of order for the convenience of the involved parties.

Meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on December 11, 2023, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:00 A.M.

Meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on December 11, 2023, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:15 A.M.

Recess as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization.

Adjourn or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.

Closed session to discuss strategy with respect to pending or imminent litigation, real estate purchase, deployment of security personnel and devices or evaluation of job performance as to prevent needless injury to reputation (if necessary)

Hear concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, or their representative.

Lincoln County Commissioners Committee Reports

NOTICE OF HEARING AND AGENDAMonday, December 11, 2023The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to enter closed session at any time as necessary to discuss the agenda item currently before the board.The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners reserves the right to take agenda items out of order for the convenience of the involved parties.Meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners to be held on December 11, 2023, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:00 A.M.Meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Equalization to be held on December 11, 2023, at the Lincoln County Courthouse in the Commissioners Room at 9:15 A.M.<ol>
 <li>Open with prayer</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Approve minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners meeting		&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>held on December 4, 2023<ol>
 <li>Consider the following:</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>Claims &amp; Treasurer’s Receipts</li><li>Receive and order filed the fee report submitted by the County Clerk &amp; the Register of Deeds</li><li>Authorize the Chairman to sign a right-of-way application submitted by Telcom Construction for Lumen (Century Link)</li>
 </ul>Recess as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners and convene as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization.<ol>
 <li>9:15 A.M.	Discuss and consider the following:</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>Approve minutes regarding the Lincoln County Board of Equalization meeting</li>
 </ul>held on December 4, 2023<ul>
 <li>Certificates of correction and refund as submitted by the County Assessor</li><li>Motor vehicle tax exemption application as submitted by the County Treasurer</li>
 </ul>Adjourn or recess to time certain as the Lincoln County Board of Equalization and reconvene as the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.<ol>
 <li>9:20 A.M.	Discuss and consider authorizing the Chairman to sign the FY2024 VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) grant documents for the NE Crime Commission</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>9:40 A.M.	Discuss and consider Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office request to move forward with the School Resources Officer acceptance of grant funds</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>10:00 A.M.	Receive bids for a new tractor for Lincoln County Department of Roads</li>
 </ol>Consider acceptance of bid<ol>
 <li>10:10 A.M.	Presentation by Dana F. Cole concerning required county audits</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>10:30 A.M.	Discuss and consider to authorize West Central Nebraska Development District to research and apply for technical assistance grants for Lincoln County for potential multimodal infrastructure projects</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>&nbsp;&nbsp;10:50 A.M.	Discuss and consider pay application #2 for the North Sutherland Bridge Project</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>&nbsp;&nbsp;11:10 A.M. Discuss and consider cost of the relocation of NPPD transmission line within the project limits</li>
 </ol>Closed session to discuss strategy with respect to pending or imminent litigation, real estate purchase, deployment of security personnel and devices or evaluation of job performance as to prevent needless injury to reputation (if necessary)Hear concerns from Elected Officials, Department Heads, or their representative.Lincoln County Commissioners Committee Reports								Rebecca J. Rossell								Lincoln County Clerk

Lincoln County Board of Commissions Agena for Monday

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department

Many respiratory illnesses go around in the fall and winter in southwest Nebraska. During the month of November, cases of RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID-19 spiked, with an average of 30 to 60 cases of COVID per week reported to Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD). 

Flu (influenza) rates were still low. Colds, flu, RSV, and COVID-19 can all have similar symptoms so it can be very challenging to know when it is serious or when to get medical care. For those more at risk of getting very sick, it is important to get tested so the right treatments can be given.&nbsp;

COLDS: Mild illness with symptoms usually starting 1 to 3 days after exposure. Symptoms include cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, watery eyes, and sneezing.&nbsp; Colds may last up to 10 days. Younger children are more likely to have colds, often 3 or more per season. There is no vaccine or treatment that can combat a cold, though rest and over-the-counter medicines can help with symptoms.&nbsp;

INFLUENZA (flu): Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually starting 2 to 4 days after exposure. Symptoms come on suddenly and include fever (not everyone will experience a fever), chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, and fatigue (tiredness). Some people have stomach issues, though this is more common in children. Symptoms may last 5 to 7 days with a shorter time for people who got a flu shot.&nbsp; Flu shots are available every year and help decrease the severity of symptoms as well as how long it lasts. Influenza is treatable with antiviral medication if identified within 48 hours after symptoms start, so check with your medical provider.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually starting 5 days after exposure. Symptoms of RSV in children are fever, runny nose, loss of appetite, coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. Symptoms in adults are low grade fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing and headache. Symptoms may last 2-8 days. Severe illness from RSV is more common in young children and older adults, with labored breathing, thick mucus, or whistling sounds while breathing. Seek medical care for any of these symptoms. Multiple RSV vaccines are now available for young children and seniors aged 60 and older, to prevent severe illness.&nbsp;

COVID-19: Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually starting 2 to 14 days after exposure. Symptoms may include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you get COVID-19 and are at risk of getting very sick, treatments are available that can reduce your chances of needing to be hospitalized, so check with your medical provider or local pharmacy. COVID-19 vaccines are available that help decrease the severity of the symptoms as well as how long symptoms will last.&nbsp;

As with any illness, seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else is having trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure that is not going away, confusion, trouble waking up or staying awake, bluish lips or face, or an uncontrolled fever after taking fever reducing medication.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information contact Melissa Propp, Clinic Manager at 308-345-4223.&nbsp; SWNPHD serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties. You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, You Tube and TikTok, or view the website at www.swhealth.ne.gov which contains many resources and additional information helpful to prevent disease, promote and protect health. Call 308-345-4223; one number three locations, McCook, Imperial, and Ogallala.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Southwest Nebraska Public Health DepartmentMany respiratory illnesses go around in the fall and winter in southwest Nebraska. During the month of November, cases of RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID-19 spiked, with an average of 30 to 60 cases of COVID per week reported to Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department (SWNPHD). Flu (influenza) rates were still low. Colds, flu, RSV, and COVID-19 can all have similar symptoms so it can be very challenging to know when it is serious or when to get medical care. For those more at risk of getting very sick, it is important to get tested so the right treatments can be given.&nbsp;COLDS: Mild illness with symptoms usually starting 1 to 3 days after exposure. Symptoms include cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, watery eyes, and sneezing.&nbsp; Colds may last up to 10 days. Younger children are more likely to have colds, often 3 or more per season. There is no vaccine or treatment that can combat a cold, though rest and over-the-counter medicines can help with symptoms.&nbsp;INFLUENZA (flu): Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually starting 2 to 4 days after exposure. Symptoms come on suddenly and include fever (not everyone will experience a fever), chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, and fatigue (tiredness). Some people have stomach issues, though this is more common in children. Symptoms may last 5 to 7 days with a shorter time for people who got a flu shot.&nbsp; Flu shots are available every year and help decrease the severity of symptoms as well as how long it lasts. Influenza is treatable with antiviral medication if identified within 48 hours after symptoms start, so check with your medical provider.&nbsp;&nbsp;RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually starting 5 days after exposure. Symptoms of RSV in children are fever, runny nose, loss of appetite, coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. Symptoms in adults are low grade fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing and headache. Symptoms may last 2-8 days. Severe illness from RSV is more common in young children and older adults, with labored breathing, thick mucus, or whistling sounds while breathing. Seek medical care for any of these symptoms. Multiple RSV vaccines are now available for young children and seniors aged 60 and older, to prevent severe illness.&nbsp;COVID-19: Mild to severe illness with symptoms usually starting 2 to 14 days after exposure. Symptoms may include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you get COVID-19 and are at risk of getting very sick, treatments are available that can reduce your chances of needing to be hospitalized, so check with your medical provider or local pharmacy. COVID-19 vaccines are available that help decrease the severity of the symptoms as well as how long symptoms will last.&nbsp;As with any illness, seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else is having trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure that is not going away, confusion, trouble waking up or staying awake, bluish lips or face, or an uncontrolled fever after taking fever reducing medication.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information contact Melissa Propp, Clinic Manager at 308-345-4223.&nbsp; SWNPHD serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties. You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, You Tube and TikTok, or view the website at www.swhealth.ne.gov which contains many resources and additional information helpful to prevent disease, promote and protect health. Call 308-345-4223; one number three locations, McCook, Imperial, and Ogallala.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Fever and Cough – When is it serious? 

LINCOLN, Neb. -&nbsp;The No. 1 Nebraska volleyball team advanced to the NCAA Semifinals with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over third-seeded Arkansas Saturday evening in front of 8,713 fans at the Bob Devaney Sports Center.

Nebraska erased a late five-point deficit to rally and win set one, 26-24. The Huskers then cruised to a 25-14 victory in set two but Arkansas (28-6) battled over the next two sets. The Razorbacks won set three, 25-21, handing the Huskers their first set loss of the NCAA Tournament. Arkansas then led 19-17 in set four before NU rallied for a 25-23 victory.

Nebraska (32-1) will head to the NCAA Semifinals for the 17th time in program history and the sixth time in the last nine years. The Huskers will face No. 4 Pittsburgh on Thursday at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla. The match is set for 6:00 pm CST, followed by Wisconsin vs. Texas.

The Huskers, who finished 21-0 at home this season, hit just .194 in the match, but Nebraska held Arkansas to a .100 attack percentage. The Huskers had the advantage in kills (57-47), blocks (17-9) and digs (78-62), but the Razorbacks served up eight aces while Nebraska's lone ace came on the first point of the match.

Merritt Beason, the NCAA Lincoln Regional Most Outstanding Player, finished with a match-high 19 kills. She recorded a double-double by adding 11 digs and nearly posted a triple-double after finishing with eight blocks, tying her career high. Harper Murray had 15 kills and 12 digs for the Big Red. Bergen Reilly also had a double-double with 40 assists and 16 digs.

Defensively, Bekka Allick had a career-high 12 blocks. Her 12 stuffs were the most ever by a Husker in an NCAA Tournament match during the rally-scoring era and were just one shy of the program record for any postseason match. Lexi Rodriguez had a match-high 20 digs to lead the Nebraska floor defense, as five Huskers finished with double-digit digs.

Reilly and Rodriguez joined Beason on the Lincoln Regional All-Tournament team.

Three Razorbacks finished with double-digit kills, led by 14 from Jillian Gillen.

Set 1:&nbsp;Arkansas went up 6-3 after three straight kills. The Razorbacks led 12-6 after a kill and ace by Gillen on back-to-back rallies. Murray and Beason posted back-to-back kills, and Beason and Allick combined for a block as the Huskers pulled within 12-10 after a 4-0 run. Arkansas answered with three points in a row and held a 16-11 lead before a kill by Batenhorst and Arkansas hitting error made it 16-13. However, the Razorbacks restored their five-point lead at 18-13. Back-to-back kills by Jackson brought NU back within three, 19-16, but once again Arkansas had an answer with a kill and block by Gillen to go up 21-16. Murray posted a sideout kill, which brought Kennedi Orr in to serve. From there, Murray terminated again and then added a block with Allick. A hitting error by Arkansas cut its lead to one, 21-20, after the Huskers' 4-0 run. The Razorbacks led 23-21 when a service error and block by Allick and Beason tied the score at 23-23. Beason terminated a kill for the Huskers' first lead since 2-1 and set point, 24-23. An Arkansas kill tied it 24-24, but Beason once again put down a kill to earn a second chance at set point. This time, a block by Beason and Jackson won the set, 26-24.&nbsp;

Set 2:&nbsp;Allick had a block and kill, and Beason, Batenhorst and Jackson combined for six kills as the Huskers went ahead 9-2. Back-to-back kills by Jackson and Reilly kept the lead at seven, 11-4. Arkansas cut it to 15-10, but a kill by Beason and block by Beason and Jackson made it 17-10 Huskers. Arkansas got within five again, 17-12, but Beason recorded a kill and Jackson terminated on the slide to make it 19-12 Huskers. Jackson and Murray had kills for a 23-13 lead, and a kill by Beason and block by Allick and Reilly closed the set out, 25-14.&nbsp;

Set 3:&nbsp;Arkansas held an 8-7 lead when kills by Allick and Beason put the Huskers on top, 10-8. Back-to-back aces by Gillen put Arkansas back in front, 13-12, but Batenhorst and Murray terminated two straight kills for a 15-14 NU lead at the media timeout. But the Razorbacks responded with a 4-0 run out of the break to claim an 18-15 advantage, and the Huskers used a timeout. A solo block by Murray ended the run, and a kill by Murray and block by Beason and Allick cut it to 19-18. But after a timeout, the Razorbacks got a kill and a block to go up 21-18, and the Huskers called timeout. Beason then tallied her 14th kill, and a back-row kill by Murray got NU within 21-20. The Razorbacks answered with a 4-1 run to win the set, 25-21.&nbsp;

Set 4:&nbsp;Nebraska led 9-8 when a kill by Murray brought Orr in to serve again, and she delivered a 4-0 Husker run that put the Big Red up 13-8. Reilly and Allick had a block in that run, and Reilly dumped a kill. A kill by Murray put the Huskers ahead 14-10, but two straight hitting errors and a net violation allowed the Razorbacks within 14-13. Arkansas tied the score at 16-16, but Beason hit off the block and out to put NU back on top. But a service error and hitting error put Arkansas in front, 18-17, and an ace made it 19-17 Arkansas. Batenhorst terminated after a timeout, and a kill by Beason tied the score at 19-19. Arkansas regained a 20-19 lead but the committed a service error and attacking error to give the Huskers a 21-20 lead. Gillen answered with a kill, but the Huskers won the next three points on a pair of blocks and a third Arkansas attack error. The Razorbacks then fought off two match points before a service error sent Nebraska into the NCAA Semifinals.

LINCOLN, Neb. -&nbsp;The No. 1 Nebraska volleyball team advanced to the NCAA Semifinals with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over third-seeded Arkansas Saturday evening in front of 8,713 fans at the Bob Devaney Sports Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702233128991.jpeg" alt="#1 Huskers win their regional vs Arkansas, it's Nebraska's 17th Final Four" />
 <figcaption>#1 Huskers win their regional vs Arkansas, it's Nebraska's 17th Final Four</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska erased a late five-point deficit to rally and win set one, 26-24. The Huskers then cruised to a 25-14 victory in set two but Arkansas (28-6) battled over the next two sets. The Razorbacks won set three, 25-21, handing the Huskers their first set loss of the NCAA Tournament. Arkansas then led 19-17 in set four before NU rallied for a 25-23 victory.Nebraska (32-1) will head to the NCAA Semifinals for the 17th time in program history and the sixth time in the last nine years. The Huskers will face No. 4 Pittsburgh on Thursday at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla. The match is set for 6:00 pm CST, followed by Wisconsin vs. Texas.The Huskers, who finished 21-0 at home this season, hit just .194 in the match, but Nebraska held Arkansas to a .100 attack percentage. The Huskers had the advantage in kills (57-47), blocks (17-9) and digs (78-62), but the Razorbacks served up eight aces while Nebraska's lone ace came on the first point of the match.Merritt Beason, the NCAA Lincoln Regional Most Outstanding Player, finished with a match-high 19 kills. She recorded a double-double by adding 11 digs and nearly posted a triple-double after finishing with eight blocks, tying her career high. Harper Murray had 15 kills and 12 digs for the Big Red. Bergen Reilly also had a double-double with 40 assists and 16 digs.Defensively, Bekka Allick had a career-high 12 blocks. Her 12 stuffs were the most ever by a Husker in an NCAA Tournament match during the rally-scoring era and were just one shy of the program record for any postseason match. Lexi Rodriguez had a match-high 20 digs to lead the Nebraska floor defense, as five Huskers finished with double-digit digs.Reilly and Rodriguez joined Beason on the Lincoln Regional All-Tournament team.Three Razorbacks finished with double-digit kills, led by 14 from Jillian Gillen.Set 1:&nbsp;Arkansas went up 6-3 after three straight kills. The Razorbacks led 12-6 after a kill and ace by Gillen on back-to-back rallies. Murray and Beason posted back-to-back kills, and Beason and Allick combined for a block as the Huskers pulled within 12-10 after a 4-0 run. Arkansas answered with three points in a row and held a 16-11 lead before a kill by Batenhorst and Arkansas hitting error made it 16-13. However, the Razorbacks restored their five-point lead at 18-13. Back-to-back kills by Jackson brought NU back within three, 19-16, but once again Arkansas had an answer with a kill and block by Gillen to go up 21-16. Murray posted a sideout kill, which brought Kennedi Orr in to serve. From there, Murray terminated again and then added a block with Allick. A hitting error by Arkansas cut its lead to one, 21-20, after the Huskers' 4-0 run. The Razorbacks led 23-21 when a service error and block by Allick and Beason tied the score at 23-23. Beason terminated a kill for the Huskers' first lead since 2-1 and set point, 24-23. An Arkansas kill tied it 24-24, but Beason once again put down a kill to earn a second chance at set point. This time, a block by Beason and Jackson won the set, 26-24.&nbsp;Set 2:&nbsp;Allick had a block and kill, and Beason, Batenhorst and Jackson combined for six kills as the Huskers went ahead 9-2. Back-to-back kills by Jackson and Reilly kept the lead at seven, 11-4. Arkansas cut it to 15-10, but a kill by Beason and block by Beason and Jackson made it 17-10 Huskers. Arkansas got within five again, 17-12, but Beason recorded a kill and Jackson terminated on the slide to make it 19-12 Huskers. Jackson and Murray had kills for a 23-13 lead, and a kill by Beason and block by Allick and Reilly closed the set out, 25-14.&nbsp;Set 3:&nbsp;Arkansas held an 8-7 lead when kills by Allick and Beason put the Huskers on top, 10-8. Back-to-back aces by Gillen put Arkansas back in front, 13-12, but Batenhorst and Murray terminated two straight kills for a 15-14 NU lead at the media timeout. But the Razorbacks responded with a 4-0 run out of the break to claim an 18-15 advantage, and the Huskers used a timeout. A solo block by Murray ended the run, and a kill by Murray and block by Beason and Allick cut it to 19-18. But after a timeout, the Razorbacks got a kill and a block to go up 21-18, and the Huskers called timeout. Beason then tallied her 14th kill, and a back-row kill by Murray got NU within 21-20. The Razorbacks answered with a 4-1 run to win the set, 25-21.&nbsp;Set 4:&nbsp;Nebraska led 9-8 when a kill by Murray brought Orr in to serve again, and she delivered a 4-0 Husker run that put the Big Red up 13-8. Reilly and Allick had a block in that run, and Reilly dumped a kill. A kill by Murray put the Huskers ahead 14-10, but two straight hitting errors and a net violation allowed the Razorbacks within 14-13. Arkansas tied the score at 16-16, but Beason hit off the block and out to put NU back on top. But a service error and hitting error put Arkansas in front, 18-17, and an ace made it 19-17 Arkansas. Batenhorst terminated after a timeout, and a kill by Beason tied the score at 19-19. Arkansas regained a 20-19 lead but the committed a service error and attacking error to give the Huskers a 21-20 lead. Gillen answered with a kill, but the Huskers won the next three points on a pair of blocks and a third Arkansas attack error. The Razorbacks then fought off two match points before a service error sent Nebraska into the NCAA Semifinals.

Local