Post News Director chatted with Matt Graves and William Jennings of Renk Seed to learn about the company, learn about both men's positions in the company and so much more.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE - Renk Seed is a family-owned company out of Wisconsin that has dealers all in the Midwest. The company may be small but can compete with the multimarket companies. Matt Graves is the local farmer dealer for the North Platte area while William Jennings is the districts sales manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you would like to learn more about the company or check out their website, <a href="https://renkseed.com/">click here</a>. If you would like to get in contact with Matt Graves, he can be contacted at 308-214-1074 or by email <a href="mailto:magrav01@gmail.com" target="_blank">magrav01@gmail.com</a>. To learn more about the company in depth, 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>Post News Director chatted with Matt Graves and William Jennings of Renk Seed to learn about the company, learn about both men's positions in the company and so much more.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Renk Seed - Matt Graves and William Jennings" 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=x944m-1530983-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 - Renk Seed is a family-owned company out of Wisconsin that has dealers all in the Midwest. The company may be small but can compete with the multimarket companies. Matt Graves is the local farmer dealer for the North Platte area while William Jennings is the districts sales manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703190290820.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you would like to learn more about the company or check out their website, <a href="https://renkseed.com/">click here</a>. If you would like to get in contact with Matt Graves, he can be contacted at 308-214-1074 or by email <a href="mailto:magrav01@gmail.com" target="_blank">magrav01@gmail.com</a>. To learn more about the company in depth, check out the podcast above.&nbsp;

(Audio) Renk Seed - Matt Graves and William Jennings

Chase County Mini Cheer Camp sign ups

THE CITY OF NORTH PLATTE IS DECLARING A SNOW ALERT TO BEGIN AT 09:50HRS ON 12/24/23.  WARNING TO MOVE VEHICLES.

THE CITY OF NORTH PLATTE IS DECLARING A SNOW ALERT TO BEGIN AT 09:50HRS ON 12/24/23. WARNING TO MOVE VEHICLES.

City of North Platte declares snow alert

The North Platte Public Transit will be closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day in observance of both holidays. The buses will resume to normal hours the day after Christmas and New Years Day.

North Platte PostThe North Platte Public Transit will be closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day in observance of both holidays. The buses will resume to normal hours the day after Christmas and New Years Day.

North Platte Public Transit Closing Christmas Day and New Years Day

Gateway Realtys Michelle Cummings and Jodi Lynn Hinds presented Prairie Arts Centers Holly Carlini, Shelly Walchesky and Tara Conell Lienemann with a $4,400 check from their online auction for the 2023 Festival of Trees Fundraiser.&nbsp; 

This annual event not only raises money for PAC, it brings in hundreds of visitors from all over to view the decorations and trees.&nbsp;&nbsp; This has become a fun family Tradition for many and it’s all due to the many businesses, community members and groups who donate the beautiful items!&nbsp; 

This year PAC’s decorations expanded to all four floors for the statewide Nebraska Passport Program.&nbsp; Floors will be decorated through January 9th.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703335582087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PACGateway Realtys Michelle Cummings and Jodi Lynn Hinds presented Prairie Arts Centers Holly Carlini, Shelly Walchesky and Tara Conell Lienemann with a $4,400 check from their online auction for the 2023 Festival of Trees Fundraiser.&nbsp; This annual event not only raises money for PAC, it brings in hundreds of visitors from all over to view the decorations and trees.&nbsp;&nbsp; This has become a fun family Tradition for many and it’s all due to the many businesses, community members and groups who donate the beautiful items!&nbsp; This year PAC’s decorations expanded to all four floors for the statewide Nebraska Passport Program.&nbsp; Floors will be decorated through January 9th.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gateway Reality donates check to PAC for the 2023 Festival of Trees Fundraiser

<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/2023/12/1703404918344.jpeg" alt="Sebastian Schueth - Driving Under Suspension x2, Failure To Appear" />
 <figcaption>Sebastian Schueth - Driving Under Suspension x2, Failure To Appear</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703420102748.jpeg" alt="Edward Van Rensburg - Reckless Driving-1st, Driving Under Influence (1st) Over .15" />
 <figcaption>Edward Van Rensburg - Reckless Driving-1st, Driving Under Influence (1st) Over .15</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703404940531.jpeg" alt="Charles Gallegos - Amphetamine-Possession Controlled Substance, Driving Under Suspension-Revocation" />
 <figcaption>Charles Gallegos - Amphetamine-Possession Controlled Substance, Driving Under Suspension-Revocation</figcaption>
 </figure>***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703404958305.jpeg" alt="John Blume - Assault-3rd Degree, Assault Officer-3rd Degree Pregnant Women, Possess Controlled Substance, Obstruct A Peace Officer" />
 <figcaption>John Blume - Assault-3rd Degree, Assault Officer-3rd Degree Pregnant Women, Possess Controlled Substance, Obstruct A Peace Officer</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703404973469.jpeg" alt="Elliot Johannsen - Contempt Of Court l Out Of County" />
 <figcaption>Elliot Johannsen - Contempt Of Court l Out Of County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703404992957.jpeg" alt="Jacob Smith - Probation Sanction" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Smith - 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 24th, 2023

Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Haven Smith, Executive Director from the Mid-Plains United Way and the pair recapped the many of events the united way has been doing, update on the giving campaign and more.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE - The Mid-Plains United Way holiday campaign has flown by this holiday season with all the events that the united way has been working to help raise money for its 2023-2024 campaign. The campaign has been moving in a positive direction with donations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you would like to learn more about everything going on with the Mid-Plains United Way, 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>Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Haven Smith, Executive Director from the Mid-Plains United Way and the pair recapped the many of events the united way has been doing, update on the giving campaign and more.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) Mid-Plains United Way weekly chat" 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=3sftj-15309c3-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 - The Mid-Plains United Way holiday campaign has flown by this holiday season with all the events that the united way has been working to help raise money for its 2023-2024 campaign. The campaign has been moving in a positive direction with donations.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you would like to learn more about everything going on with the Mid-Plains United Way, check out the podcast above.&nbsp;

(Audio) Mid-Plains United Way weekly chat

Angela Hipp and Ted Pucylowski with the Community Connections Mentoring Program are delivering this fun HotWheels tree purchased by Santa at PAC’s Festival of trees annual  Fundraiser.  The tree will go to a family of four kids recently placed in Foster care this holiday season.  The kids are connected with the Community Connections mentoring program. 

  Holly Carlini, Executive Director of PAC says, “The trees, wreaths and decor are created by local businesses and organizations every year for Festival of trees Fundraiser.   The annual holiday tradition brings in thousands of dollars and visitors to the Prairie Arts Center.  We are so grateful for the community support, creativity and family traditions created here&nbsp;during the holidays.”

  The Hot Wheels tree was created and donated by Jessica Lawrence, Jill Granger, Brenda McClellan, Liz Bennett, Gretchen Swift and Jennifer Kramer.  Michael Maupin of Kansas visits PAC as Santa and is a huge supporter of the community and the arts!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703222428022.png" alt="Ted Pucylowski&nbsp; and&nbsp;Angela Hipp" />
 <figcaption>Ted Pucylowski&nbsp; and&nbsp;Angela Hipp</figcaption>
 </figure>PACAngela Hipp and Ted Pucylowski with the Community Connections Mentoring Program are delivering this fun HotWheels tree purchased by Santa at PAC’s Festival of trees annual Fundraiser. The tree will go to a family of four kids recently placed in Foster care this holiday season. The kids are connected with the Community Connections mentoring program. Holly Carlini, Executive Director of PAC says, “The trees, wreaths and decor are created by local businesses and organizations every year for Festival of trees Fundraiser. The annual holiday tradition brings in thousands of dollars and visitors to the Prairie Arts Center. We are so grateful for the community support, creativity and family traditions created here&nbsp;during the holidays.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703222480752.jpeg" alt="Ted Pucylowski and Angela Hipp" />
 <figcaption>Ted Pucylowski and Angela Hipp</figcaption>
 </figure> The Hot Wheels tree was created and donated by Jessica Lawrence, Jill Granger, Brenda McClellan, Liz Bennett, Gretchen Swift and Jennifer Kramer. Michael Maupin of Kansas visits PAC as Santa and is a huge supporter of the community and the arts!

Members of the Community Connections Mentoring Program to donate HotWheels Tree

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805794423.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Lincoln County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703334248713.jpeg" alt="Ashley May - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Ashley May - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County JailNo New Arrest***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703334279144.jpeg" alt="Jason Szafrajda - DUI-Alcohol-3rd Offense, Tamper W/ Circumvent Interlock With .02+" />
 <figcaption>Jason Szafrajda - DUI-Alcohol-3rd Offense, Tamper W/ Circumvent Interlock With .02+</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703334317685.jpeg" alt="Jacob Gutierrez - Possess Controlled Substance" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Gutierrez - Possess Controlled Substance</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703334330671.jpeg" alt="Melanie Ocampo - Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Melanie Ocampo - Probation Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703334343251.jpeg" alt="Nicholas White - Possess Controlled Substance, Possess Or Use Drug Paraphernalia" />
 <figcaption>Nicholas White - Possess Controlled Substance, Possess Or Use Drug Paraphernalia</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 23rd, 2023

NORTH PLATTE - Al's Lock and Safe partnered with Eagle Radio delivered Christmas gifts to the residents at&nbsp;The Maple at Centennial to celebrate the upcoming holiday.&nbsp;

Over 100 gifts were donated from the community. Residents may not have the opportunity to receive a gift for various reason, but with the community stepping up, residents will have a gift to cherish and to have a wonderful Christmas. The gifts were delivered just in time for the residents Christmas party.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703223303884.jpeg" alt="North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostNORTH PLATTE - Al's Lock and Safe partnered with Eagle Radio delivered Christmas gifts to the residents at&nbsp;The Maple at Centennial to celebrate the upcoming holiday.&nbsp;Over 100 gifts were donated from the community. Residents may not have the opportunity to receive a gift for various reason, but with the community stepping up, residents will have a gift to cherish and to have a wonderful Christmas. The gifts were delivered just in time for the residents Christmas party.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703223346996.jpeg" alt="North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703223371129.jpeg" alt="North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703223396894.jpeg" alt="North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703223414384.jpeg" alt="North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Al's Lock and Safe/Eagle Radio delivered gifts to The Maple at Centennial

GRANT, NEB. - Day 1 of the 2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament has flown by. We will have radio coverage of tonight's girls' and boys' first place games. Both games will feature Perkins County taking on Wallace.

The girls' first place game will tipoff first at 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT. Our Kwik Stop pregame show is set to begin at 4:45pm MT/5:45pm CT with the boys to tip off 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls' game. Join Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7 or listen online <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;

2:00pm MT/3:00pm CT - Main Gym - Boys' 3rd Place Game Hyannis (H) vs South Platte (A)

3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT - Main Gym - Girls' 3rd Place Game Hyannis(H) vs South Platte (A)

5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT - Main Gym - Girls' 1st Place Game Perkins County (H) vs Wallace (A) - (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

6:30pm MT/7:30pm CT - Main Gym - Boys' 1st Place Game Perkins County (H) vs Wallace (A) - (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Sandhills PostGRANT, NEB. - Day 1 of the 2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament has flown by. We will have radio coverage of tonight's girls' and boys' first place games. Both games will feature Perkins County taking on Wallace.The girls' first place game will tipoff first at 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT. Our Kwik Stop pregame show is set to begin at 4:45pm MT/5:45pm CT with the boys to tip off 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls' game. Join Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7 or listen online <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;Today's Game Schedule:2:00pm MT/3:00pm CT - Main Gym - Boys' 3rd Place Game Hyannis (H) vs South Platte (A)3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT - Main Gym - Girls' 3rd Place Game Hyannis(H) vs South Platte (A)5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT - Main Gym - Girls' 1st Place Game Perkins County (H) vs Wallace (A) - (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)6:30pm MT/7:30pm CT - Main Gym - Boys' 1st Place Game Perkins County (H) vs Wallace (A) - (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament, Day 2 radio coverage 

&nbsp;OGALLALA - The Ogallala City Council is hosting their meeting today, December 22nd. Below is today's agenda for the meeting.

Sandhills Post&nbsp;OGALLALA - The Ogallala City Council is hosting their meeting today, December 22nd. Below is today's agenda for the meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703224823460.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703224823460.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

12/22 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/2023/12/1703225610876.jpeg" alt="Jordan Bohman - Fugitive From Justice -Morrill County, Provide False Information On Handgun Application" />
 <figcaption>Jordan Bohman - Fugitive From Justice -Morrill County, Provide False Information On Handgun Application</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703225629001.jpeg" alt="James Cervantes - Restraining/Protection Order Violation" />
 <figcaption>James Cervantes - Restraining/Protection Order Violation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703225724232.jpeg" alt="Paul Wiezorek - Conditional Release Violation, Driving Under Influence Liquor (3rd), Traffic Offenses including: Driving without Ignition Interlock, No Proof of Insurance, Driving during Revocation/Impound, NO Valid Registration" />
 <figcaption>Paul Wiezorek - Conditional Release Violation, Driving Under Influence Liquor (3rd), Traffic Offenses including: Driving without Ignition Interlock, No Proof of Insurance, Driving during Revocation/Impound, NO Valid Registration</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703225735592.jpeg" alt="Kristina Anderson - Fugitive From Justice - Dawson County" />
 <figcaption>Kristina Anderson - Fugitive From Justice - Dawson County</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County JailNo New Arrests***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703247522805.jpeg" alt="Trevion Jackson - Theft-Unlawful Taking $5,000+ (x2), Criminal Mischief-$5,000 Or More, Possession Of Burglary Tools" />
 <figcaption>Trevion Jackson - Theft-Unlawful Taking $5,000+ (x2), Criminal Mischief-$5,000 Or More, Possession Of Burglary Tools</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703225839500.jpeg" alt="Tabitha Blackelk - Fail To Appear (In County)" />
 <figcaption>Tabitha Blackelk - Fail To Appear (In County)</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 22nd, 2023

Dec. 21, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;— The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is excited to announce winners of its third annual “Name A Snowplow” contest. This contest strives to bring awareness about winter weather preparedness and safety to Nebraska’s elementary school students.

This year, NDOT received over 1,100 submissions from across the state, a new record for the contest. NDOT’s district teammates visited the winning schools across the state to congratulate the winning students in person. All students were able to see the newly named snowplows and ask NDOT snowfighters questions about plows and snow removal.

“Getting the opportunity to engage with kids – Nebraska’s next generation of drivers – is a chance for us to bring safety directly to the schools. It was also a great learning moment to share information about all the hard work that goes into keeping our roads safe in winter driving conditions,” stated NDOT Director Vicki Kramer.

NDOT uses its fleet of more than 600 snowplows to keep drivers safe in winter weather, which are ready to go, complete with full liquid tanks and more than 200,000 tons of salt to clear Nebraska’s roads. As winter approaches, if you need to travel be sure to track the newly named snowplows and past winners in real time on&nbsp;<a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">511.nebraska.gov</a>.

Video and photos from the events are available here:&nbsp;<a href="https://ndot.info/snowplow" target="_blank">ndot.info/snowplow</a>

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

Snowplow Name&nbsp;District&nbsp;School

Baby Snoda - Hershey Public School

Chips &amp; Salt-sa - Thedford Elementary

Abominable Snow Monster - Hitchcock County Elementary

‘Snow’ More Math - Maywood Public Schools

Thunder Plow - Johnson County Central School

A Little Pushy- South Elementary School (Falls City)

Frostisaurus Rex - Blumfield Elementary (Omaha)

Scoopy Doo - Blumfield Elementary (Omaha)

Scoop There It Is! - Battle Creek Elementary

The Banana Scooper - Northeast Elementary

Fast and the Flurryous - Ravenna Elementary

Snow Slayer&nbsp; -Crawford Public Schools

Meowcicles&nbsp; - Valentine Elementary School

NDOTDec. 21, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;— The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is excited to announce winners of its third annual “Name A Snowplow” contest. This contest strives to bring awareness about winter weather preparedness and safety to Nebraska’s elementary school students.This year, NDOT received over 1,100 submissions from across the state, a new record for the contest. NDOT’s district teammates visited the winning schools across the state to congratulate the winning students in person. All students were able to see the newly named snowplows and ask NDOT snowfighters questions about plows and snow removal.“Getting the opportunity to engage with kids – Nebraska’s next generation of drivers – is a chance for us to bring safety directly to the schools. It was also a great learning moment to share information about all the hard work that goes into keeping our roads safe in winter driving conditions,” stated NDOT Director Vicki Kramer.NDOT uses its fleet of more than 600 snowplows to keep drivers safe in winter weather, which are ready to go, complete with full liquid tanks and more than 200,000 tons of salt to clear Nebraska’s roads. As winter approaches, if you need to travel be sure to track the newly named snowplows and past winners in real time on&nbsp;<a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">511.nebraska.gov</a>.Video and photos from the events are available here:&nbsp;<a href="https://ndot.info/snowplow" target="_blank">ndot.info/snowplow</a>Here are the schools with winning snowplow names and the districts to which they will be assigned:Snowplow Name&nbsp;District&nbsp;SchoolBaby Snoda - Hershey Public SchoolChips &amp; Salt-sa - Thedford ElementaryAbominable Snow Monster - Hitchcock County Elementary‘Snow’ More Math - Maywood Public SchoolsThunder Plow - Johnson County Central SchoolA Little Pushy- South Elementary School (Falls City)Frostisaurus Rex - Blumfield Elementary (Omaha)Scoopy Doo - Blumfield Elementary (Omaha)Scoop There It Is! - Battle Creek ElementarySnow Warrior - Richland ElementaryThe Banana Scooper - Northeast ElementaryFast and the Flurryous - Ravenna ElementarySnow Slayer&nbsp; -Crawford Public SchoolsPrincess PlowGordon-Rushville ElementarySlush Sleigher - Keya Paha County SchoolMeowcicles&nbsp; - Valentine Elementary School

NDOT Reveals Winners of Third Annual “Name A Snowplow” Contest, includes winners from our covarage area

The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors met for its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 p.m. (CST) Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, in Room 200 of the W.W. Wood Building on the North Platte Community College North Campus, 1101 Halligan Drive, North Platte, Neb.

Board Chair Ben Lashley started the meeting with a roll call. In addition to Lashley, those present were MPCC President Ryan Purdy and Board members: Jo Etta Brown, Matthew Broz, Kirk Crawley, Cynthia Duncan, Ted Klug Jr., Ernie Mehl, Tyler Pribbeno and Tricia Schaffer. Board members Kim Korgan and Kent Miller were absent and excused.

MCC student trustee Graci Nelson was also present. NPCC student trustee Reece Halley was absent and excused.

2. OPEN FORUM (Comments from students, faculty, staff, public and Board)

a. David Gale, on behalf of the Nebraska Public Power District, presented two checks totaling $15,000 to MPCC for&nbsp;scholarships for students pursuing careers in the trades and STEM fields.

b. Sen. Mike Jacobson spoke to the Board about legislative activities.

c. MCC student trustee Graci Nelson gave a report on activities at McCook Community College.

d. Tad Pfeifer, director of Institutional Effectiveness, was recognized in front of the Board for his recent nomination by MPCC for the Nebraska Community College Association Administrator of the Year.

e. The Board was introduced to Jennifer Edson, the new campus administrator for the MPCC Valentine Campus.

f. Board member Ernie Mehl reminded the Board about the upcoming&nbsp;Legislative Day Feb. 28 in Lincoln.

3. CONSENT ITEMS.&nbsp;On a single consent motion, the board approved:

a. Minutes from the Nov. 15 Board Work Session and Regular Meeting

c. The faculty retirement of Anne Schmit, effective Dec. 31, 2023.

a. The Board approved bills for November in the amount of $2,160,906.96.

b. The Board approved a sole source purchase from Sirius in the amount of $57,762.10 for the annual renewal of maintenance and licensing of the MPCC network equipment and software from Cisco.

c. The Board approved the purchase of LED video displays, controllers, shot clocks, locker room clocks, accessories, subscription services, installation and training from ScoreVision in the amount of $180,380 for the McCook Events Center Gymnasium.

d. The Board approved the sole source bid for an ambulance simulator from Echo Healthcare including onsite installation and shipping at a cost of $290,000.&nbsp;

a. The Board heard a report from Vice President of Student Affairs and MCC Kelly Rippen on the Strategic Enrollment Action Plan.

b. Cabinet Reports: The Board heard reports from MPCC President Ryan Purdy, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Student Affairs and MCC Kelly Rippen, Director of Institutional Effectiveness Tad Pfeifer, Director of Human Resources Rebecca Wrage, Director of Institutional Advancement Jake Rissler and Director of Marketing and Public Information Daniel Stinman.

a. The Board went into closed session at 7:57 p.m. to discuss personnel and real estate. The Board reconvened in open session at 8:20 p.m. No action was taken.

Upon hearing no further business, the Board moved to adjourn at 8:20 p.m. The next Board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Jan. 17 in North Platte.

1. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALLThe Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors met for its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 p.m. (CST) Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023, in Room 200 of the W.W. Wood Building on the North Platte Community College North Campus, 1101 Halligan Drive, North Platte, Neb.Board Chair Ben Lashley started the meeting with a roll call. In addition to Lashley, those present were MPCC President Ryan Purdy and Board members: Jo Etta Brown, Matthew Broz, Kirk Crawley, Cynthia Duncan, Ted Klug Jr., Ernie Mehl, Tyler Pribbeno and Tricia Schaffer. Board members Kim Korgan and Kent Miller were absent and excused.MCC student trustee Graci Nelson was also present. NPCC student trustee Reece Halley was absent and excused.2. OPEN FORUM (Comments from students, faculty, staff, public and Board)a. David Gale, on behalf of the Nebraska Public Power District, presented two checks totaling $15,000 to MPCC for&nbsp;scholarships for students pursuing careers in the trades and STEM fields.b. Sen. Mike Jacobson spoke to the Board about legislative activities.c. MCC student trustee Graci Nelson gave a report on activities at McCook Community College.d. Tad Pfeifer, director of Institutional Effectiveness, was recognized in front of the Board for his recent nomination by MPCC for the Nebraska Community College Association Administrator of the Year.e. The Board was introduced to Jennifer Edson, the new campus administrator for the MPCC Valentine Campus.f. Board member Ernie Mehl reminded the Board about the upcoming&nbsp;Legislative Day Feb. 28 in Lincoln.3. CONSENT ITEMS.&nbsp;On a single consent motion, the board approved:a. Minutes from the Nov. 15 Board Work Session and Regular Meetingb. The financial report for November.c. The faculty retirement of Anne Schmit, effective Dec. 31, 2023.4. ACTIONS REQUIRED BY LAWa. The Board approved bills for November in the amount of $2,160,906.96.b. The Board approved a sole source purchase from Sirius in the amount of $57,762.10 for the annual renewal of maintenance and licensing of the MPCC network equipment and software from Cisco.c. The Board approved the purchase of LED video displays, controllers, shot clocks, locker room clocks, accessories, subscription services, installation and training from ScoreVision in the amount of $180,380 for the McCook Events Center Gymnasium.d. The Board approved the sole source bid for an ambulance simulator from Echo Healthcare including onsite installation and shipping at a cost of $290,000.&nbsp;5. REPORTSa. The Board heard a report from Vice President of Student Affairs and MCC Kelly Rippen on the Strategic Enrollment Action Plan.b. Cabinet Reports: The Board heard reports from MPCC President Ryan Purdy, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Student Affairs and MCC Kelly Rippen, Director of Institutional Effectiveness Tad Pfeifer, Director of Human Resources Rebecca Wrage, Director of Institutional Advancement Jake Rissler and Director of Marketing and Public Information Daniel Stinman.6. CLOSED SESSIONa. The Board went into closed session at 7:57 p.m. to discuss personnel and real estate. The Board reconvened in open session at 8:20 p.m. No action was taken.7. ADJOURNMENT&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon hearing no further business, the Board moved to adjourn at 8:20 p.m. The next Board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Jan. 17 in North Platte.FUTURE REPORTS<ul>
 <li>February – Retention and Enrollment</li><li>March – Program Scorecard</li><li>March – Three-year Instructional Equipment Plan</li><li>April – Quarterly Facilities Master Plan</li><li>April – Quarterly Financial Report</li><li>April – Three-year Capital Improvement Plan</li><li>May – CCPE Program Reviews</li><li>July – Quarterly Facilities Master Plan</li><li>July – Quarterly Financial Report</li><li>July – Institutional Advancement and Grants</li><li>September – Annual Report</li><li>October – Quarterly FMP Report</li><li>October – Quarterly Financial Report</li><li>November – Auditor’s Report</li><li>November – Retention and Enrollment</li>
 </ul>UPCOMING MEETINGS<ul>
 <li>Jan. 17 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Feb. 4-7 – National Legislative Summit, Washington, D.C.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Feb. 21 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Feb. 28 – Legislative Day, State Capitol, Lincoln, Neb.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>March 20 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>April 17 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. McCook Community College, McMillen Hall #213</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>May 22 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Valentine Community Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>July 17 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. McCook Community College, McMillen Hall #213</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Aug. 21 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Sept. 25 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Oct. 23 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m. McCook Community College, McMillen Hall #213</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Nov. 20 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Dec. 18 – Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Room 200, W.W. Wood Building, North Platte Community College North Campus&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

MPCC Board of Governors meeting wrap up report

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mid-Plains Community College President Ryan Purdy receives&nbsp;two checks totaling $15,000 from&nbsp;David Gale, member of the Nebraska Public Power District Board of Directors,&nbsp;during a MPCC Board of Governors meeting in North Platte Wednesday night.

The funds were raised during the&nbsp;<a>32nd annual Wells Fargo Nebraska Open golf tournament&nbsp;</a>in Columbus in September.

The Wells Fargo Nebraska Open is endorsed and operated by the Nebraska Section of the PGA and the Nebraska Golf Association and is coordinated by NPPD.&nbsp;

The $75,000 raised from the tournament this year will be distributed to five community colleges within NPPD’s service area in the form of scholarships.

MPCC’s share will be split evenly between McCook and North Platte campuses and used to provide scholarships to students pursuing careers in the trades and STEM fields.

The golf tournament has generated $1,936,821 in scholarship money over the past 32 years. Of that, MPCC has received $386,160.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703168748516.jpeg" alt="NPPD check presentation" />
 <figcaption>NPPD check presentation</figcaption>
 </figure>Heather Johnson MPCCMid-Plains Community College President Ryan Purdy receives&nbsp;two checks totaling $15,000 from&nbsp;David Gale, member of the Nebraska Public Power District Board of Directors,&nbsp;during a MPCC Board of Governors meeting in North Platte Wednesday night.The funds were raised during the&nbsp;<a>32nd annual Wells Fargo Nebraska Open golf tournament&nbsp;</a>in Columbus in September.The Wells Fargo Nebraska Open is endorsed and operated by the Nebraska Section of the PGA and the Nebraska Golf Association and is coordinated by NPPD.&nbsp;The $75,000 raised from the tournament this year will be distributed to five community colleges within NPPD’s service area in the form of scholarships.MPCC’s share will be split evenly between McCook and North Platte campuses and used to provide scholarships to students pursuing careers in the trades and STEM fields.The golf tournament has generated $1,936,821 in scholarship money over the past 32 years. Of that, MPCC has received $386,160.

   Nebraska Public Power District donates $15,000 in scholarship funds to MPCC

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

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

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

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

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

But what has happened since infuriates Thompson.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In addition to Day, those signing the letter: Sens. Carolyn Bosn of Lincoln, Jana Huges of Seward, Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha, John Cavanaugh of Omaha, Megan Hunt of Omaha, Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, Tony Vargas of Omaha, Terrell McKinney of Omaha, George Dungan of Lincoln, Jane Raybould of Lincoln, John Fredrickson of Omaha, Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, Lynne Walz of Fremont, Carol Blood of Bellevue.

The funding for the program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture is intended to supplement, not replace, existing programs that help families, including summer meal sites and the year-round SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

According to the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, which oversees such nutrition programs, more than 29 million children across America could benefit from the 2024 Summer EBT program.

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

Gov. Pillen decides NE won’t opt into new $18 million child nutrition program

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 </figure>Lincoln County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703159991577.jpeg" alt="Jacob Hoffa - Possession Of Controlled Substance - Psilocybin Mushrooms, Marijuana Possession-More Than 1 Oz Less Than LB" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703160004552.jpeg" alt="Jeff Moats - Amphetamine-Possession, Possession Of Controlled Substance Fentanyl" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Moats - Amphetamine-Possession, Possession Of Controlled Substance Fentanyl</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County JailNo New Arrests***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703160031896.jpeg" alt="Derek Jackson - Contempt Of Court | In County" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703160049921.jpeg" alt="Lora Brum-Lague - Contempt Of Court | In County, Contribute To Delinquency Of Child, Hold-Court" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703160063744.jpeg" alt="Dominick Tavis - Probation Violation" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703160077354.jpeg" alt="Abraham Bordeaux - Fail To Appear (In County)" />
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 </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 21st, 2023

The Dundy County Courthouse will be closed this Friday and will also be closed on Monday, December 25th in observance of the Christmas holiday.

Dundy County Sheriff's OfficeThe Dundy County Courthouse will be closed this Friday and will also be closed on Monday, December 25th in observance of the Christmas holiday.

Dundy County Court House closed Friday and Monday

&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College will close at 3 p.m. Dec. 22 for winter break. That includes all campuses in McCook, North Platte, Broken Bow, Imperial, Ogallala and Valentine. Campuses will reopen Jan. 2.

MPCC&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College will close at 3 p.m. Dec. 22 for winter break. That includes all campuses in McCook, North Platte, Broken Bow, Imperial, Ogallala and Valentine. Campuses will reopen Jan. 2.

All MPCC campuses closed for winter break beginning Friday afternoon

Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher as they recapped the December 19th, North Platte City Council meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE - NORTH PLATTE - The North Platte city council held their regular meeting on December 19th and there were different agenda that was discussed amongst the council. A few of the items discussed at the meeting were: street improvement district for via ducts, language translation services, housing plan and so much more.&nbsp;

If you would like to learn more in-depth of what went on during the December 19th, North Platte City Council meeting, 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;&nbsp;Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher as they recapped the December 19th, North Platte City Council meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) North Platte City Council Meeting, December 19th Recap" 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=xmap6-152f025-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 - NORTH PLATTE - The North Platte city council held their regular meeting on December 19th and there were different agenda that was discussed amongst the council. A few of the items discussed at the meeting were: street improvement district for via ducts, language translation services, housing plan and so much more.&nbsp;If you would like to learn more in-depth of what went on during the December 19th, North Platte City Council meeting, check out the podcast above.&nbsp;

(Audio) North Platte City Council Meeting December 19th Recap

Looking back on the year 2023, there were many things to celebrate. Enjoy the “Best of 2023."

Part of the University of Nebraska system, the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture is a two-year institution with a statewide mission of preparing students for successful careers in agriculture,&nbsp;veterinary technology, and related industries. 

NCTA is known for its affordable tuition, high job-placement rate for its graduates and the success of student teams in competitive activities, including crops judging, ranch horse events, livestock judging, shotgun sports, stock dog trials, and&nbsp;intercollegiate rodeo. The college is consistently ranked as one of the best two-year schools in the&nbsp;nation.

NCTALooking back on the year 2023, there were many things to celebrate. Enjoy the “Best of 2023."Part of the University of Nebraska system, the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture is a two-year institution with a statewide mission of preparing students for successful careers in agriculture,&nbsp;veterinary technology, and related industries. NCTA is known for its affordable tuition, high job-placement rate for its graduates and the success of student teams in competitive activities, including crops judging, ranch horse events, livestock judging, shotgun sports, stock dog trials, and&nbsp;intercollegiate rodeo. The college is consistently ranked as one of the best two-year schools in the&nbsp;nation.<figure>
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