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 14, 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>Financials</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Public Comment</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Unfinished Business</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Ordinance No. 23-10-01, an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of Grant, Perkins County, Nebraska, Amending Section 5-201 – Registration; Issuance of Permit of Article 2 – Peddlers and Solicitors of Chapter 5 – Business Regulations of the City of Grant Revised Municipal Code – Adding Language Concerning Food Trucks; and Providing When This Ordinance is in Full Force and Effect.&nbsp; (Third Reading)</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>New Business</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion Acceptance of Playground Donation by Casey and Nicole Tjaden</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Resolution 23-11-02 Resolution for the Signing of the Year-End Certification of City Street Superintendent 2023</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on 2023 Nebraska Department of Transportation Maintenance Agreement Renewal</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Action and Discussion on Resolution No. 00-96-25, a Resolution for Snow Removal by The City of Grant</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>

11/28 Grant City Council Meeting Agenda

&nbsp;OGALLALA - The Ogallala City Council is hosting their meeting tonight, November 28th. Below is tonight's agenda for the meeting.

Sandhills Post&nbsp;OGALLALA - The Ogallala City Council is hosting their meeting tonight, November 28th. Below is tonight's agenda for the meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700677969037.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700678018694.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

11/28 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/2023/11/1701173003040.jpeg" alt="Marcus Dandridge - Possession Of Weapon, Possession Of Controlled Substance (Meth)" />
 <figcaption>Marcus Dandridge - Possession Of Weapon, Possession Of Controlled Substance (Meth)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701173019034.jpeg" alt="Andrea Dandridge - Possession Of Controlled Substance (Meth)" />
 <figcaption>Andrea Dandridge - Possession Of Controlled Substance (Meth)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701173032470.jpeg" alt="Dixie Houpt - Disturbing The Peace, Resisting Officer" />
 <figcaption>Dixie Houpt - Disturbing The Peace, Resisting Officer</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701173045712.jpeg" alt="Jeffery Serrano - Driving Under Influence Liquor Over .15 (2nd), Driving Under Suspension-2nd" />
 <figcaption>Jeffery Serrano - Driving Under Influence Liquor Over .15 (2nd), Driving Under Suspension-2nd</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701180012933.jpeg" alt="Jade Achenbach - Driving Under Influence Liquor, Minor in Possession" />
 <figcaption>Jade Achenbach - Driving Under Influence Liquor, Minor in Possession</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701173068265.jpeg" alt="Andrew Boekhaut - Domestic Assault" />
 <figcaption>Andrew Boekhaut - Domestic Assault</figcaption>
 </figure>***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701173090014.jpeg" alt="Jacob Wollberg - DUI-Alcohol-2nd Offense" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Wollberg - DUI-Alcohol-2nd Offense</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701173103584.jpeg" alt="Steven Berumen - False Imprisonment-1st Degree, Assault By Strangulation Or Suffocation, Domestic Assault-3rd Degree/Prior, Terroristic Threats" />
 <figcaption>Steven Berumen - False Imprisonment-1st Degree, Assault By Strangulation Or Suffocation, Domestic Assault-3rd Degree/Prior, Terroristic Threats</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: November 28th, 2023

Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with Lauren Coleman, MPCC Assistant Director of Multicultural Leadership and Engagement about the upcoming Native American dancer/storyteller who will be in North Platte this Thursday but also chatted about Santa's Workshop that's going on next week.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE - Mid-Plains Community College Student Life Department will be hosting a free event this Thursday when they welcome Native American dancer/storyteller Garan Coons to the McCook and North Platte campuses. Coons travels all around the world to educate the public about negative Native American stereotypes by using his personal experiences. He will be performing in McCook at 11:00am at the Peter and Dolores Graff Events Center and will be in North Platte at 2:00pm at the McDonald-Belton Theatre on NPCC's south campus.&nbsp;

Also going on December 5th is Santa's Workshop at the activity center and cafeteria on NPCC's south campus. The festivals are planned to run from 5:00-7:30 with lots of fun activities for families to enjoy. Children must be accompanied by an adult. If you would like to learn more in-depth about these two events, 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 News Director Canon Rath chatted with Lauren Coleman, MPCC Assistant Director of Multicultural Leadership and Engagement about the upcoming Native American dancer/storyteller who will be in North Platte this Thursday but also chatted about Santa's Workshop that's going on next week.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) MPCC to host Native American dancer/storyteller this Thursday, Santa’s Workshop Dec. 5th" 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=5h7vv-150db65-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 - Mid-Plains Community College Student Life Department will be hosting a free event this Thursday when they welcome Native American dancer/storyteller Garan Coons to the McCook and North Platte campuses. Coons travels all around the world to educate the public about negative Native American stereotypes by using his personal experiences. He will be performing in McCook at 11:00am at the Peter and Dolores Graff Events Center and will be in North Platte at 2:00pm at the McDonald-Belton Theatre on NPCC's south campus.&nbsp;Also going on December 5th is Santa's Workshop at the activity center and cafeteria on NPCC's south campus. The festivals are planned to run from 5:00-7:30 with lots of fun activities for families to enjoy. Children must be accompanied by an adult. If you would like to learn more in-depth about these two events, check out the podcast above.&nbsp;

(Audio) MPCC to host Native American dancer/storyteller this Thursday, Santa's Workshop Dec. 5th

We are excited to announce that OHS Senior Caden Rezac, has decided to further his academic &amp; athletic career at Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Ne. Caden will be a member of the Northeast Community College baseball team.

Ogallala Public SchoolsWe are excited to announce that OHS Senior Caden Rezac, has decided to further his academic &amp; athletic career at Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Ne. Caden will be a member of the Northeast Community College baseball team.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FOgallalaSchools%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0Kf6aU9yEpGpNtcndahkHeY5xQd3dqXnCJZBeaqCCqbNZ1ip847epZbVhAaQsjjCfl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="703" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Ogallala Senior Caden Rezac commits to Northeastern Community College for baseball

West Central Nebraska Development District, Inc. (WCNDD) has received a $1 million grant from Nebraska’s Rural Workforce Housing Fund with a match of $500,000.00 from the City of Imperial. WCNDD is looking for contractors or developers that have the capacity to build home(s) that are ready for occupancy within 12 months from the start of construction. 

Beginning November 27, 2023, applications for a low rate, short term construction loan may be picked up from the City of Imperial office, WCNDD office, or via email. All applications must be submitted with the required documentation by January 3, 2024, to be considered. Please join WCNDD at the City of Imperial office, 740 Court Street, Imperial, Nebraska on December 6, 2023 at 2 p.m. for an open house to discuss the program or answer any questions. 

Anyone interested in the program may contact WCNDD directly at (308) 284-6077. This program has been made possible in part due to the generous contributions for our required local match from Imperial Beef, Imperial Public Power District, and Pinnacle Bank.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City of ImperialWest Central Nebraska Development District, Inc. (WCNDD) has received a $1 million grant from Nebraska’s Rural Workforce Housing Fund with a match of $500,000.00 from the City of Imperial. WCNDD is looking for contractors or developers that have the capacity to build home(s) that are ready for occupancy within 12 months from the start of construction. Beginning November 27, 2023, applications for a low rate, short term construction loan may be picked up from the City of Imperial office, WCNDD office, or via email. All applications must be submitted with the required documentation by January 3, 2024, to be considered. Please join WCNDD at the City of Imperial office, 740 Court Street, Imperial, Nebraska on December 6, 2023 at 2 p.m. for an open house to discuss the program or answer any questions. Anyone interested in the program may contact WCNDD directly at (308) 284-6077. This program has been made possible in part due to the generous contributions for our required local match from Imperial Beef, Imperial Public Power District, and Pinnacle Bank.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701122390979.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

City of Imperial has announced that WCNDD has received a $1 million grant, City of Imperial with a $500,000 match

It is with great sadness we announce the death of well-known entertainer and singer- songwriter Jim Salestrom. Jim passed away on Wednesday, November 22 surrounded by loved ones at his home in Arvada, CO after a decade-long battle with cancer. He was 67 years old.

James Kevin Salestrom impacted countless lives throughout his long and successful musical career. To his family he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother. He was born February 20, 1956 in Omaha, NE to Virgil and Janice Salestrom. He is survived by his wife Pamela Dailer Salestrom, his daughter Casey, son-in-law Brandon Freeman and son James Salestrom Jr. of Nashville, TN. The true joy of his life was his grandson - Casey and Brandon’s son, Thomas James. Jim also dearly loved his brothers Chuck and Tom Salestrom and their families.

To his fans Jim was a joy to listen to, a world class singer-songwriter and an Emmy winning performer. His love of music started at the early age of 7 when he got his first guitar. As he got older, he started writing songs, and formed several groups in Nebraska with his brother Chuck. The most notable of these was Timberline, which further launched his career.&nbsp;

He played guitar and sang in Dolly Parton’s band over the course of decades. Her shows took him all over the world. Jim also had a close relationship with John Denver and performed with him throughout the years. He shared his love of life and positive spirit through his music. He worked with countless wonderful musicians and performed for 5 U.S. Presidents, and numerous members of the U.S. Supreme Court.

He treated everyone with love and respect. Jim was known for his humor, infectious smile, positive outlook on life and a gift to make everyone feel special. He sang like an angel, and luckily his music will endure long past his lifetime.&nbsp;In one of his final notes Jim said, “I am eternally grateful for all of you, and it’s not “goodbye”, it’s just “see you later”. Plans for memorial services will be announced on Jim Salestrom’s social media and website.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701101756101.jpeg" alt="Jim Salestrom" />
 <figcaption>Jim Salestrom</figcaption>
 </figure>Chuck SalestromIt is with great sadness we announce the death of well-known entertainer and singer- songwriter Jim Salestrom. Jim passed away on Wednesday, November 22 surrounded by loved ones at his home in Arvada, CO after a decade-long battle with cancer. He was 67 years old.James Kevin Salestrom impacted countless lives throughout his long and successful musical career. To his family he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother. He was born February 20, 1956 in Omaha, NE to Virgil and Janice Salestrom. He is survived by his wife Pamela Dailer Salestrom, his daughter Casey, son-in-law Brandon Freeman and son James Salestrom Jr. of Nashville, TN. The true joy of his life was his grandson - Casey and Brandon’s son, Thomas James. Jim also dearly loved his brothers Chuck and Tom Salestrom and their families.To his fans Jim was a joy to listen to, a world class singer-songwriter and an Emmy winning performer. His love of music started at the early age of 7 when he got his first guitar. As he got older, he started writing songs, and formed several groups in Nebraska with his brother Chuck. The most notable of these was Timberline, which further launched his career.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701101838792.jpeg" alt="Jim Salestrom &amp; Dolly Parton" />
 <figcaption>Jim Salestrom &amp; Dolly Parton</figcaption>
 </figure>He played guitar and sang in Dolly Parton’s band over the course of decades. Her shows took him all over the world. Jim also had a close relationship with John Denver and performed with him throughout the years. He shared his love of life and positive spirit through his music. He worked with countless wonderful musicians and performed for 5 U.S. Presidents, and numerous members of the U.S. Supreme Court.He treated everyone with love and respect. Jim was known for his humor, infectious smile, positive outlook on life and a gift to make everyone feel special. He sang like an angel, and luckily his music will endure long past his lifetime.&nbsp;In one of his final notes Jim said, “I am eternally grateful for all of you, and it’s not “goodbye”, it’s just “see you later”. Plans for memorial services will be announced on Jim Salestrom’s social media and website.&nbsp;

Entertainer and singer Jim Salestrom passes away at the age of 67

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LGqQhSwz_Ag?si=_bHSPpRELuqeGxjv" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron.

🎤 Forward Ever: 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron

<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/2023/11/1701085535361.jpeg" alt="Brandy Hart - Driving Under Influence Liquor, Refusal To Submit To Breath/Chem Test" />
 <figcaption>Brandy Hart - Driving Under Influence Liquor, Refusal To Submit To Breath/Chem Test</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701085568658.jpeg" alt="Cody Bogseth - Traffic Offenses, Narcotic Equipment-Possession, Possession Of Controlled Substance" />
 <figcaption>Cody Bogseth - Traffic Offenses, Narcotic Equipment-Possession, Possession Of Controlled Substance</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701085580472.jpeg" alt="Christy Pinatelli - Narcotic Equipment-Possession, Ampehtamine-Possession" />
 <figcaption>Christy Pinatelli - Narcotic Equipment-Possession, Ampehtamine-Possession</figcaption>
 </figure>***Buffalo County JailNo New Arrests***<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: November 27th, 2023

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/11/22/amish-finding-a-home-well-off-the-beaten-path-in-nebraskas-sandhills/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

KILGORE — Turn south onto the blacktop out of this Cherry County ranch town, and the Sandhills seem to roll on for an eternity.

“Wide-open spaces” aptly describes the endless prairie, where cowboys still work cattle on horseback and stargazers come to get away from city lights.

You’re lucky to encounter another vehicle on the lonely, one-lane road lined by yuccas and little bluestem.

But 15 miles down the narrow route, where the road descends into the Niobrara River valley, a group of Amish newcomers from Michigan and Kentucky are setting down roots.

This isn’t traditional Amish country – that’s the eastern U.S., home to&nbsp; smaller farms, dairies, lush green pastures and castle-like barns, not the dusty Sandhills dotted with black beef cattle.

The bishop of the small-but-growing settlement south of Kilgore says his band is getting used to the omnipresent cockleburs and deer flies, the sandier soil and the dearth of nearby “Amish taxi” drivers who can give his people a lift to stores in Valentine, a 40-mile drive away.

Reuben Miller, the 46-year-old bishop of the Kilgore Amish community, said their draft horses aren’t quite acclimated yet to the drier grasses of the Sandhills, but they’re getting there.&nbsp;

“I’ve had itchy feet for a long time, and I like the West,” Miller said. “I&nbsp; wanted to get away from people.”&nbsp;

Dressed in the traditional, homemade trousers, suspenders and straw hat favored by the Amish, Miller described how he and his brothers&nbsp;sold a 160-acre farm on a busy corner near Holton, Michigan, and moved earlier this year to a 5,038-acre ranch along the Niobrara River south of Kilgore.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The settlement, which includes Miller’s family of 13, may eventually grow to 15 to 20 families. That would be enough to rival the second-largest community in Cherry County: Cody, population 167.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Miller said he was seeking a place with plenty of water and a place that wasn’t flat. He joked that a related Amish settlement in Lewiston, Montana, is so flat “you can watch a dog run for two days, and if you stand up on a bucket, for another three days….”

He said his group has been “blessed and pleased” by the friendly reception they’ve gotten from the local community. In Montana, it wasn’t so pleasant, Miller said.

“That’s one of the concerns we had,” he said. “In a way, we’re interlopers – we’re bringing 15 to 20 families, and it’s going to change the landscape.”

Erik Wenser, who writes about Amish settlement and customs via the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://amishamerica.com/amish-nebraska/">Amish America.com</a>&nbsp;website, said such communities are spreading and expanding across the country, even into remote locations like Nebraska’s Sandhills.

The traditional Amish homelands in Pennsylvania and Ohio are becoming too crowded, Wenser said, and fatal accidents involving Amish horse-drawn buggies are becoming too commonplace.

Miller said an accident that injured one of his sons played a role in his group’s move.&nbsp;

Wenser said Amish settlements are now in 32 states, totaling an estimated 367,000 people.

At least six Amish groups are in Nebraska, he said, with settlements in Dawes and Frontier Counties among the newest, established in 2020.

Attempts by the Amish to make a home in the Cornhusker State date back to the 1880s, when a group settled near Bertrand in south-central Nebraska. But that community eventually was abandoned.

The Amish returned in 1977, establishing a community near Pawnee City, but that group also eventually left to avoid a court battle over its home schooling practices.&nbsp;

But since 2003, Amish groups have set down roots near Verdigre, again in Pawnee City and in the Ewing/Orchard areas. Signs alerting motorists to watch out for Amish buggies have gone up there, as well as along roads in Dawes County.

All told, Wenser estimates that nearly 450 Amish call Nebraska home. They vary in adhering to the old ways. Some conservative Amish avoid almost all modern conveniences and even taking rides in vehicles, while “new order” Amish are OK with using power tools and tractors.

“There are a lot of types and flavors of Amish that you put under this horse and buggy umbrella,” he said.&nbsp;

The new Kilgore settlement, Wenser said, is part of the “Michigan Amish Fellowship” or “Michigan Circle,” a “reformist” network of 33 settlements that has expanded across Michigan, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Montana and Wyoming.

Their practices include allowing a telephone in their homes. Some also worship in a community hall, while&nbsp;other Amish groups hold church services in their homes.&nbsp;

At the Kilgore settlement, tractors sit parked outside the bishop’s home — a former ranch headquarters a few yards from the Niobrara — along with a fat-tire bike that Miller uses to navigate the soft, sandy roads.

Miller said the tractors cannot be used to pull planters and other farm implements — that’s job for draft horses. The tractors are used for lifting heavy loads.

The bishop has a landline phone in his home, along with a fax machine that can translate faxes into emails. The settlement allows the use of power tools, but only if they are battery-powered. There’s also a solar panel on the barn near Miller’s home.

Nearby sits a hay baler (Miller says it’s the group’s only brand-new implement) and a rusty horse trailer that he says will earn a tidy profit once his group has it repaired and refurbished.

“We’re all about spending our money wisely,” he said.

The Amish eat food they grow and can from their own gardens and make their own clothes, which are washed by hand and dried on clotheslines.

There are no lavish vacations, Miller said.

“We don’t do stuff like going to the Bahamas — you’re not going to see us there,” he said.

“Same with that place in Nevada,” he added, referring to Las Vegas.

The group is not without money — they paid $9.65 million for the 5,038 acres of land they purchased along the Niobrara River, according to Cherry County records.

Wenser, who documents Amish life, said some Amish are quite wealthy, via regular saving and regular work. And the Kilgore group likely got a high price for its land in Michigan, where farmland prices average about $6,400 an acre.

Added Miller, “We go to work every day.”

The Kilgore Amish have established two businesses so far, one for saw sharpening and another for producing log-home kits. Brand-new sheds sit along the gravel road for one business, and on a high hill, workers prepare a log home for shipment.

Miller said his group has had to travel long distances for some jobs, but their ultimate goal is to provide jobs at the settlement, so they can be close to their families.

That is the ultimate goal for the Amish, according to Wesner — to be home, with their children.

“The Amish want their kids to have land and a farm,” he added.

That often translates, Wesner said, into purchases of land in scenic areas, like along the Niobrara, and in areas that provide good hunting.

Miller said that the Amish are opposed to “modernism” and that living a simple life is part of their culture.

There are no televisions at the settlement, and he finds radio — which he hears while catching rides from local drivers — “annoying.”

“The less I hear about (the outside world), the better off I am,” Miller said, though he added that the Amish “are not opposed to society.”

“We need them,” he said, holding a battery-operated drill as he spoke.

A century ago, Miller said the Amish and the rest of society used about the same technology, but when steam engines and other modern advancements arrived, the Amish stuck with traditional ways.

“Look what has happened to family, what has happened to integrity,” he said of modern conveniences.

Nearby residents said the Amish have been a welcome addition to the area, particularly due to their willingness and skill to do construction work.

They’ve poured concrete and built additions in an area that is short of such contractors, neighbors said. A local fencing crew recently hired an Amish worker, and the settlement recently got a job moving a barn in Stapleton, 140 miles away.

“They’ll do anything,” said George Johnson of Cody, one of a handful of local residents serving as drivers for Amish work crews.

“I like all of them that I’ve met. They’re good people,” said neighbor David Galloway.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700870621062.jpeg" alt="Traditional black trousers, made by hand and worn by Amish men, hang dry on a clothesline at the Kilgore settlement. Members asked that they not be pictured. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Traditional black trousers, made by hand and worn by Amish men, hang dry on a clothesline at the Kilgore settlement. Members asked that they not be pictured. (Paul Hammel/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/11/22/amish-finding-a-home-well-off-the-beaten-path-in-nebraskas-sandhills/">Nebraska Examiner</a>KILGORE — Turn south onto the blacktop out of this Cherry County ranch town, and the Sandhills seem to roll on for an eternity.“Wide-open spaces” aptly describes the endless prairie, where cowboys still work cattle on horseback and stargazers come to get away from city lights.You’re lucky to encounter another vehicle on the lonely, one-lane road lined by yuccas and little bluestem.But 15 miles down the narrow route, where the road descends into the Niobrara River valley, a group of Amish newcomers from Michigan and Kentucky are setting down roots.<h2>“Itchy feet’</h2>This isn’t traditional Amish country – that’s the eastern U.S., home to&nbsp; smaller farms, dairies, lush green pastures and castle-like barns, not the dusty Sandhills dotted with black beef cattle.The bishop of the small-but-growing settlement south of Kilgore says his band is getting used to the omnipresent cockleburs and deer flies, the sandier soil and the dearth of nearby “Amish taxi” drivers who can give his people a lift to stores in Valentine, a 40-mile drive away.Reuben Miller, the 46-year-old bishop of the Kilgore Amish community, said their draft horses aren’t quite acclimated yet to the drier grasses of the Sandhills, but they’re getting there.&nbsp;“I’ve had itchy feet for a long time, and I like the West,” Miller said. “I&nbsp; wanted to get away from people.”&nbsp;Dressed in the traditional, homemade trousers, suspenders and straw hat favored by the Amish, Miller described how he and his brothers&nbsp;sold a 160-acre farm on a busy corner near Holton, Michigan, and moved earlier this year to a 5,038-acre ranch along the Niobrara River south of Kilgore.&nbsp;&nbsp;The settlement, which includes Miller’s family of 13, may eventually grow to 15 to 20 families. That would be enough to rival the second-largest community in Cherry County: Cody, population 167.&nbsp; &nbsp;Miller said he was seeking a place with plenty of water and a place that wasn’t flat. He joked that a related Amish settlement in Lewiston, Montana, is so flat “you can watch a dog run for two days, and if you stand up on a bucket, for another three days….”He said his group has been “blessed and pleased” by the friendly reception they’ve gotten from the local community. In Montana, it wasn’t so pleasant, Miller said.<h2>Concerned about being ‘interlopers’</h2>“That’s one of the concerns we had,” he said. “In a way, we’re interlopers – we’re bringing 15 to 20 families, and it’s going to change the landscape.”Erik Wenser, who writes about Amish settlement and customs via the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://amishamerica.com/amish-nebraska/">Amish America.com</a>&nbsp;website, said such communities are spreading and expanding across the country, even into remote locations like Nebraska’s Sandhills.The traditional Amish homelands in Pennsylvania and Ohio are becoming too crowded, Wenser said, and fatal accidents involving Amish horse-drawn buggies are becoming too commonplace.Miller said an accident that injured one of his sons played a role in his group’s move.&nbsp;Wenser said Amish settlements are now in 32 states, totaling an estimated 367,000 people.At least six Amish groups are in Nebraska, he said, with settlements in Dawes and Frontier Counties among the newest, established in 2020.Attempts by the Amish to make a home in the Cornhusker State date back to the 1880s, when a group settled near Bertrand in south-central Nebraska. But that community eventually was abandoned.The Amish returned in 1977, establishing a community near Pawnee City, but that group also eventually left to avoid a court battle over its home schooling practices.&nbsp;<h2>Pawnee City, Verdigre areas</h2>But since 2003, Amish groups have set down roots near Verdigre, again in Pawnee City and in the Ewing/Orchard areas. Signs alerting motorists to watch out for Amish buggies have gone up there, as well as along roads in Dawes County.All told, Wenser estimates that nearly 450 Amish call Nebraska home. They vary in adhering to the old ways. Some conservative Amish avoid almost all modern conveniences and even taking rides in vehicles, while “new order” Amish are OK with using power tools and tractors.“There are a lot of types and flavors of Amish that you put under this horse and buggy umbrella,” he said.&nbsp;The new Kilgore settlement, Wenser said, is part of the “Michigan Amish Fellowship” or “Michigan Circle,” a “reformist” network of 33 settlements that has expanded across Michigan, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Montana and Wyoming.Their practices include allowing a telephone in their homes. Some also worship in a community hall, while&nbsp;other Amish groups hold church services in their homes.&nbsp;At the Kilgore settlement, tractors sit parked outside the bishop’s home — a former ranch headquarters a few yards from the Niobrara — along with a fat-tire bike that Miller uses to navigate the soft, sandy roads.Miller said the tractors cannot be used to pull planters and other farm implements — that’s job for draft horses. The tractors are used for lifting heavy loads.The bishop has a landline phone in his home, along with a fax machine that can translate faxes into emails. The settlement allows the use of power tools, but only if they are battery-powered. There’s also a solar panel on the barn near Miller’s home.Nearby sits a hay baler (Miller says it’s the group’s only brand-new implement) and a rusty horse trailer that he says will earn a tidy profit once his group has it repaired and refurbished.“We’re all about spending our money wisely,” he said.<h2>No spending on vacations</h2>The Amish eat food they grow and can from their own gardens and make their own clothes, which are washed by hand and dried on clotheslines.There are no lavish vacations, Miller said.“We don’t do stuff like going to the Bahamas — you’re not going to see us there,” he said.“Same with that place in Nevada,” he added, referring to Las Vegas.The group is not without money — they paid $9.65 million for the 5,038 acres of land they purchased along the Niobrara River, according to Cherry County records.Wenser, who documents Amish life, said some Amish are quite wealthy, via regular saving and regular work. And the Kilgore group likely got a high price for its land in Michigan, where farmland prices average about $6,400 an acre.Added Miller, “We go to work every day.”The Kilgore Amish have established two businesses so far, one for saw sharpening and another for producing log-home kits. Brand-new sheds sit along the gravel road for one business, and on a high hill, workers prepare a log home for shipment.Miller said his group has had to travel long distances for some jobs, but their ultimate goal is to provide jobs at the settlement, so they can be close to their families.That is the ultimate goal for the Amish, according to Wesner — to be home, with their children.“The Amish want their kids to have land and a farm,” he added.That often translates, Wesner said, into purchases of land in scenic areas, like along the Niobrara, and in areas that provide good hunting.<h2>Radio chatter is ‘annoying’</h2>Miller said that the Amish are opposed to “modernism” and that living a simple life is part of their culture.There are no televisions at the settlement, and he finds radio — which he hears while catching rides from local drivers — “annoying.”“The less I hear about (the outside world), the better off I am,” Miller said, though he added that the Amish “are not opposed to society.”“We need them,” he said, holding a battery-operated drill as he spoke.A century ago, Miller said the Amish and the rest of society used about the same technology, but when steam engines and other modern advancements arrived, the Amish stuck with traditional ways.“Look what has happened to family, what has happened to integrity,” he said of modern conveniences.Nearby residents said the Amish have been a welcome addition to the area, particularly due to their willingness and skill to do construction work.They’ve poured concrete and built additions in an area that is short of such contractors, neighbors said. A local fencing crew recently hired an Amish worker, and the settlement recently got a job moving a barn in Stapleton, 140 miles away.“They’ll do anything,” said George Johnson of Cody, one of a handful of local residents serving as drivers for Amish work crews.“I like all of them that I’ve met. They’re good people,” said neighbor David Galloway.

Amish finding a home well off the beaten path in Nebraska’s Sandhills

North Platte, Neb. – Great Plains Health has joined the annual&nbsp; statewide effort organized by the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) to heighten&nbsp; awareness of lifesaving lung cancer screening during November, Lung Cancer&nbsp; Awareness month.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Many cases of lung cancer are not found until after the cancer has been growing for&nbsp; some time,” said Dr. Todd E. Hlavaty, medical director of radiation oncology at the&nbsp; Great Plains Health Callahan Cancer Center and board member of NC2. “That can&nbsp; make the cancer more difficult to treat. When doctors find cancer early, it is often a&nbsp; smoother journey for patients, which is why it is so important to talk to your primary care&nbsp; provider about the screenings you need.”&nbsp;

Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in Nebraska for both men and women. In 2023,&nbsp; the American Cancer Society estimates 1,340 new cases and 630 deaths from lung&nbsp; cancer in Nebraska. The stage of diagnosis strongly affects outcomes. The most recent&nbsp; Nebraska data indicates that the five-year relative survival rates for lung cancer are 61&nbsp; percent for early-stage diagnoses, while rates for later-stage cases fall to 34 percent for&nbsp; regional diagnoses and seven percent for distant diagnoses.&nbsp;

“It’s important for Nebraskans with a history of smoking to talk to their health care&nbsp; provider about screening as soon as possible, especially those who have postponed&nbsp; appointments because of the pandemic,” added NC2 President Dr. Alan Thorson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Screening for lung cancer with a yearly low-dose CT scan for those at high risk can&nbsp; reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20 percent by detecting tumors at early&nbsp; stages when they are more likely to be curable according to the American Lung&nbsp; Association (ALA). Lung cancer screening is recommended by the CDC for people ages&nbsp; 50 to 80 years with a 20 or more pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or&nbsp; have quit within the past 15 years. In 2022, the ALA reported only six percent of&nbsp; Nebraskans at high risk for lung cancer were screened.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700870423997.jpeg" alt="Dr. Todd Hlavaty" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Todd Hlavaty</figcaption>
 </figure>Great Plains HealthNorth Platte, Neb. – Great Plains Health has joined the annual&nbsp; statewide effort organized by the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) to heighten&nbsp; awareness of lifesaving lung cancer screening during November, Lung Cancer&nbsp; Awareness month.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many cases of lung cancer are not found until after the cancer has been growing for&nbsp; some time,” said Dr. Todd E. Hlavaty, medical director of radiation oncology at the&nbsp; Great Plains Health Callahan Cancer Center and board member of NC2. “That can&nbsp; make the cancer more difficult to treat. When doctors find cancer early, it is often a&nbsp; smoother journey for patients, which is why it is so important to talk to your primary care&nbsp; provider about the screenings you need.”&nbsp;Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in Nebraska for both men and women. In 2023,&nbsp; the American Cancer Society estimates 1,340 new cases and 630 deaths from lung&nbsp; cancer in Nebraska. The stage of diagnosis strongly affects outcomes. The most recent&nbsp; Nebraska data indicates that the five-year relative survival rates for lung cancer are 61&nbsp; percent for early-stage diagnoses, while rates for later-stage cases fall to 34 percent for&nbsp; regional diagnoses and seven percent for distant diagnoses.&nbsp;“It’s important for Nebraskans with a history of smoking to talk to their health care&nbsp; provider about screening as soon as possible, especially those who have postponed&nbsp; appointments because of the pandemic,” added NC2 President Dr. Alan Thorson.&nbsp;&nbsp;Screening for lung cancer with a yearly low-dose CT scan for those at high risk can&nbsp; reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20 percent by detecting tumors at early&nbsp; stages when they are more likely to be curable according to the American Lung&nbsp; Association (ALA). Lung cancer screening is recommended by the CDC for people ages&nbsp; 50 to 80 years with a 20 or more pack-year smoking history who currently smoke or&nbsp; have quit within the past 15 years. In 2022, the ALA reported only six percent of&nbsp; Nebraskans at high risk for lung cancer were screened.&nbsp;

Great Plains Health joins statewide effort to encourage lung cancer screenings 

<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/2023/11/1701000323759.jpeg" alt="Laura Schnell - Amphetamine-Possession" />
 <figcaption>Laura Schnell - Amphetamine-Possession</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County JailNo New Arrests***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701000348561.jpeg" alt="Matthew Simmons - Fondling - Sexual Assault Without Consent-3rd Degree, Trespass-2nd Degree/Defy Orders To Leave" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Simmons - Fondling - Sexual Assault Without Consent-3rd Degree, Trespass-2nd Degree/Defy Orders To Leave</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701000378476.jpeg" alt="William Harvey III - Domestic Assault 3rd Degree" />
 <figcaption>William Harvey III - Domestic Assault 3rd Degree</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: November 26th, 2023

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Federal inspectors have twice found hundreds of defects in the locomotives and railcars Union Pacific uses at the world’s largest railyard in Nebraska, but none of those seem to explain why a shipping container filled with toxic acid exploded there this fall.

Investigators haven’t confirmed the cause of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-railyard-fire-hazardous-materials-9527651cde6c629f18bb947f95ab9f42">Sept. 14 blast</a>&nbsp;in a remote corner of the railroad's Bailey Yard in North Platte, Nebraska, about 250 miles west of Omaha. The explosion didn't spread far, but investigators appear to be delving into the questionable decision to load dozens of plastic barrels of perchloric acid inside a shipping container with a wood floor and possibly atop wooden pallets, even though that acid is known to react with wood or any other organic material.

“I don’t know if you’ve ever read about perchloric acid, but when it comes in contact with organic material, it becomes highly volatile. So that car was doomed from the day it was loaded,” said Andy Foust, a Nebraska leader of the largest rail union that represents the workers who were switching those railcars just before the explosion.

The explosion highlighted not only potential problems at the sprawling railyard but also the national rail network's reliance on everyone involved in shipping hazardous materials taking proper precautions. As the Nebraska explosion made clear, there can be problems that are hard to spot before potentially disastrous accidents occur.

Some details about the explosion might never be known because the shipping container carrying the acid was destroyed. Federal Railroad Administration spokesman Warren Flatau said “the leaked acid reacted with the wooden floor of the intermodal container, and any other organic material within the container (i.e., pallets).”

The resulting explosion propelled shrapnel up to 600 feet away and prompted first responders to evacuate everyone within a mile outside the railyard. After the first container exploded, a second metal shipping container — believed to hold memory foam — fell down on top of it and caught fire, but no other cars ignited.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told a gathering of rail labor leaders in Nebraska the explosion could have been much worse and "grabbed national headlines had the wind been blowing a little bit different or had things gone just a little bit different in the yard that day” — much like Norfolk Southern’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-pete-buttigieg-evacuations-ohio-explosions-64908a6416662b5866809387f210aee5">fiery derailment</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-updates-bf5a60de2243cd6f7f730096aa33294c">eastern Ohio</a>&nbsp;did.

That February derailment — and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-train-derailment-evacuation-ethanol-fire-73cc3e80f616070806f8f8b35191a616">others</a>&nbsp;that followed — put the focus on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-tank-car-ohio-minnesota-c60f33b64e9c7dc05768a78ae20f3ce5">railroad safety</a>&nbsp;and prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/derailment-ohio-safety-senate-legislation-brown-vance-82c55dc95aca9524d6ae8e6d01336dbe">Congress</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-accidents-transportation-pete-buttigieg-ohio-pennsylvania-f1cd9d79cdd66b1f45d1dcdf1e53ff58">regulators</a>&nbsp;to propose&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">reforms</a>, which have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/east-palestine-train-derailment-safety-regulations-railroad-4db52c68daf68da05425b5b70363fb0a">largely stalled</a>.

Foust said Union Pacific never evacuated the railyard. Nearby workers left the area on their own, but most in the railyard continued working. Foust expects that to change because he said UP is revising its emergency response plan.

“There was a large part of that yard that had no idea what was going on, and they were told to continue doing their job,” said Foust, who has discussed the explosion with FRA inspectors, the railroad and first responders because of his role with the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers-Transportation Division union.

Railroad officials said at the time that the wind blew smoke away from the facility, and because the railyard is up to eight miles (13 kilometers) wide, most UP workers were a safe distance away.

Despite the explosion, the method of loading 56 barrels of acid doesn't appear to violate any regulations, so such shipping methods could still be occurring. A Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration spokesman said that “as the regulations prohibit any leakage from a package, the regulations do not specify what materials the drums are loaded onto.”

Shippers are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-172/subpart-H/section-172.704">required</a>&nbsp;to take precautions when loading hazardous materials, including ensuring that plastic drums can’t tip over. The drums used to ship hazardous materials also must undergo extensive testing.

In this case, the FRA spokesman said investigators couldn’t determine what loading precautions were taken because the container was destroyed.

The perchloric acid, used in explosives and some industrial processes, was produced at a company in Ohio that hasn’t been publicly identified. Norfolk Southern transported the acid, then handed it off to Union Pacific. Both railroads declined to comment on the explosion, citing the ongoing investigation.

Given the timing of the explosion, the leak likely happened inside UP's railyard.

Railroads inspect railcars before they pick them up for mechanical problems or signs of tampering, but they assume shippers have properly packed them.

“We really rely on them to know best how to package and do it in a safe way, so it isn’t going to become an issue for us,” said North Platte Fire Chief Dennis Thompson, who led the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railyard-explosion-railroad-safety-3bdef4a60fef58836eb2773e370cf0bc">response to the explosion</a>.

Thompson said the emergency response went smoothly because the weather conditions and location were favorable, and the railroad let him know within 25 minutes exactly what they were dealing with.

Before the explosion, inspections at the railyard in July and August prompted the head of the FRA to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-safety-fra-defects-a3727942095fc3bd585b42d60c45fa6e">write a letter</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-ceo-jim-vena-06b2fbdf515e7f5aa8d82c0b2cafbc88">UP’s CEO</a>&nbsp;highlighting that the rate of defects was twice the national average. In September, the week after the explosion, inspectors returned to follow up and turned up more than 500 additional problems.

Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena said he understands and welcomes the agency's scrutiny.

Vena said Union Pacific and other major railroads have become safer over time. But there were still&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-territories-ohio-canada-business-accidents-d57651e17b2f9e0163c50298106950a3">more than 1,000 derailments</a>&nbsp;last year, and as the East Palestine derailment demonstrated, just one train crash can be disastrous if hazardous materials are involved.

“Do we have more to do? Absolutely,” said Vena, who became CEO in August. “And that’s what I’m challenging the team with here at Union Pacific is we have to get better ... We’ll invest in it. We’ll spend money on technology. We’ll spend money on people.”

FRA regulators who oversee the inspectors aren’t overly concerned, with the head of the agency’s Office of Railroad Infrastructure and Mechanical saying violations are common when he sends a team out.

“We did not find any systematic issues that would indicate they are operating unsafe equipment that put the public at risk,” the FRA's Charlie King said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700869565501.jpeg" alt=" Smoke emanates from a railroad car after an explosion at Union Pacific's Bailey Yard, Sept. 14, 2023, in North Platte, Neb. The explosion of a shipping container filled with toxic acid inside the world’s largest railyard, combined with hundreds of rules violations inspectors found there, raises questions about Union Pacific's safety and the effectiveness of the rules for shipping hazardous materials. The Sept. 14 blast fortunately happened in a remote corner of the railyard and the resulting fire did not spread widely. (Ryan Herzog/The Telegraph via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption> Smoke emanates from a railroad car after an explosion at Union Pacific's Bailey Yard, Sept. 14, 2023, in North Platte, Neb. The explosion of a shipping container filled with toxic acid inside the world’s largest railyard, combined with hundreds of rules violations inspectors found there, raises questions about Union Pacific's safety and the effectiveness of the rules for shipping hazardous materials. The Sept. 14 blast fortunately happened in a remote corner of the railyard and the resulting fire did not spread widely. (Ryan Herzog/The Telegraph via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Federal inspectors have twice found hundreds of defects in the locomotives and railcars Union Pacific uses at the world’s largest railyard in Nebraska, but none of those seem to explain why a shipping container filled with toxic acid exploded there this fall.Investigators haven’t confirmed the cause of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-railyard-fire-hazardous-materials-9527651cde6c629f18bb947f95ab9f42">Sept. 14 blast</a>&nbsp;in a remote corner of the railroad's Bailey Yard in North Platte, Nebraska, about 250 miles west of Omaha. The explosion didn't spread far, but investigators appear to be delving into the questionable decision to load dozens of plastic barrels of perchloric acid inside a shipping container with a wood floor and possibly atop wooden pallets, even though that acid is known to react with wood or any other organic material.“I don’t know if you’ve ever read about perchloric acid, but when it comes in contact with organic material, it becomes highly volatile. So that car was doomed from the day it was loaded,” said Andy Foust, a Nebraska leader of the largest rail union that represents the workers who were switching those railcars just before the explosion.The explosion highlighted not only potential problems at the sprawling railyard but also the national rail network's reliance on everyone involved in shipping hazardous materials taking proper precautions. As the Nebraska explosion made clear, there can be problems that are hard to spot before potentially disastrous accidents occur.Some details about the explosion might never be known because the shipping container carrying the acid was destroyed. Federal Railroad Administration spokesman Warren Flatau said “the leaked acid reacted with the wooden floor of the intermodal container, and any other organic material within the container (i.e., pallets).”The resulting explosion propelled shrapnel up to 600 feet away and prompted first responders to evacuate everyone within a mile outside the railyard. After the first container exploded, a second metal shipping container — believed to hold memory foam — fell down on top of it and caught fire, but no other cars ignited.U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told a gathering of rail labor leaders in Nebraska the explosion could have been much worse and "grabbed national headlines had the wind been blowing a little bit different or had things gone just a little bit different in the yard that day” — much like Norfolk Southern’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-pete-buttigieg-evacuations-ohio-explosions-64908a6416662b5866809387f210aee5">fiery derailment</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-updates-bf5a60de2243cd6f7f730096aa33294c">eastern Ohio</a>&nbsp;did.That February derailment — and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-train-derailment-evacuation-ethanol-fire-73cc3e80f616070806f8f8b35191a616">others</a>&nbsp;that followed — put the focus on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/railroad-safety-derailments-tank-car-ohio-minnesota-c60f33b64e9c7dc05768a78ae20f3ce5">railroad safety</a>&nbsp;and prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/derailment-ohio-safety-senate-legislation-brown-vance-82c55dc95aca9524d6ae8e6d01336dbe">Congress</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rail-accidents-transportation-pete-buttigieg-ohio-pennsylvania-f1cd9d79cdd66b1f45d1dcdf1e53ff58">regulators</a>&nbsp;to propose&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-train-derailment-congress-6288cdfb0b4381de4c9bfb05199b8ba6">reforms</a>, which have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/east-palestine-train-derailment-safety-regulations-railroad-4db52c68daf68da05425b5b70363fb0a">largely stalled</a>.Foust said Union Pacific never evacuated the railyard. Nearby workers left the area on their own, but most in the railyard continued working. Foust expects that to change because he said UP is revising its emergency response plan.“There was a large part of that yard that had no idea what was going on, and they were told to continue doing their job,” said Foust, who has discussed the explosion with FRA inspectors, the railroad and first responders because of his role with the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers-Transportation Division union.Railroad officials said at the time that the wind blew smoke away from the facility, and because the railyard is up to eight miles (13 kilometers) wide, most UP workers were a safe distance away.Despite the explosion, the method of loading 56 barrels of acid doesn't appear to violate any regulations, so such shipping methods could still be occurring. A Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration spokesman said that “as the regulations prohibit any leakage from a package, the regulations do not specify what materials the drums are loaded onto.”Shippers are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-172/subpart-H/section-172.704">required</a>&nbsp;to take precautions when loading hazardous materials, including ensuring that plastic drums can’t tip over. The drums used to ship hazardous materials also must undergo extensive testing.In this case, the FRA spokesman said investigators couldn’t determine what loading precautions were taken because the container was destroyed.The perchloric acid, used in explosives and some industrial processes, was produced at a company in Ohio that hasn’t been publicly identified. Norfolk Southern transported the acid, then handed it off to Union Pacific. Both railroads declined to comment on the explosion, citing the ongoing investigation.Given the timing of the explosion, the leak likely happened inside UP's railyard.Railroads inspect railcars before they pick them up for mechanical problems or signs of tampering, but they assume shippers have properly packed them.“We really rely on them to know best how to package and do it in a safe way, so it isn’t going to become an issue for us,” said North Platte Fire Chief Dennis Thompson, who led the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railyard-explosion-railroad-safety-3bdef4a60fef58836eb2773e370cf0bc">response to the explosion</a>.Thompson said the emergency response went smoothly because the weather conditions and location were favorable, and the railroad let him know within 25 minutes exactly what they were dealing with.Before the explosion, inspections at the railyard in July and August prompted the head of the FRA to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-safety-fra-defects-a3727942095fc3bd585b42d60c45fa6e">write a letter</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/union-pacific-railroad-ceo-jim-vena-06b2fbdf515e7f5aa8d82c0b2cafbc88">UP’s CEO</a>&nbsp;highlighting that the rate of defects was twice the national average. In September, the week after the explosion, inspectors returned to follow up and turned up more than 500 additional problems.Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena said he understands and welcomes the agency's scrutiny.Vena said Union Pacific and other major railroads have become safer over time. But there were still&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-territories-ohio-canada-business-accidents-d57651e17b2f9e0163c50298106950a3">more than 1,000 derailments</a>&nbsp;last year, and as the East Palestine derailment demonstrated, just one train crash can be disastrous if hazardous materials are involved.“Do we have more to do? Absolutely,” said Vena, who became CEO in August. “And that’s what I’m challenging the team with here at Union Pacific is we have to get better ... We’ll invest in it. We’ll spend money on technology. We’ll spend money on people.”FRA regulators who oversee the inspectors aren’t overly concerned, with the head of the agency’s Office of Railroad Infrastructure and Mechanical saying violations are common when he sends a team out.“We did not find any systematic issues that would indicate they are operating unsafe equipment that put the public at risk,” the FRA's Charlie King said.

Railyard explosion, inspections raise safety questions about Union Pacific's hazmat shipping

NOVEMBER 25, 2023 (NORTH PLATTE, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is investigation multiple fatality crashes that occurred during Friday’s winter storm. Troopers responded to 14 crashes and performed 36 motorist assists in areas experiencing winter driving conditions Friday into Saturday morning. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

At approximately 2:10 p.m. Friday, troopers were dispatched to a crash on Interstate 80 near mile marker 184. The crash involved three vehicles. Preliminary investigation shows that a GMC Yukon was westbound on I-80 when it lost control, crossed the median, and struck an eastbound Honda SUV and a semi. The driver of the GMC, Lezter Juarez, 27, and passenger, Janice Arriaga-Martinez, 25, both of Lincoln, were ejected from the vehicle. Both were pronounced deceased at the scene.

All four occupants of the Honda were transported to Great Plains Health in North Platte with serious injuries. Three have since been transferred to UNMC in Omaha for further treatment. The semi driver was not injured. I-80 was reopened at approximately 8:30 p.m.

At approximately 5:45 p.m. Friday, NSP responded to a single-vehicle crash on I-80 near mile marker 211. A Ford pickup had been traveling westbound when it lost control in winter driving conditions and rolled. The driver, identified as Joseph Dodson, 53, of North Platte, was ejected from the vehicle. A passenger and a trooper attempted life-saving measures until EMS arrived. Dodson was transported to Gothenburg Health Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The passenger in the vehicle suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Winter driving conditions continue in many areas of the state today. NSP urges all motorists to reduce speeds in winter driving conditions. Check&nbsp;<a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">511.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated road conditions throughout the state.

Cody Thomas - Nebraska State PatrolNOVEMBER 25, 2023 (NORTH PLATTE, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol is investigation multiple fatality crashes that occurred during Friday’s winter storm. Troopers responded to 14 crashes and performed 36 motorist assists in areas experiencing winter driving conditions Friday into Saturday morning. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At approximately 2:10 p.m. Friday, troopers were dispatched to a crash on Interstate 80 near mile marker 184. The crash involved three vehicles. Preliminary investigation shows that a GMC Yukon was westbound on I-80 when it lost control, crossed the median, and struck an eastbound Honda SUV and a semi. The driver of the GMC, Lezter Juarez, 27, and passenger, Janice Arriaga-Martinez, 25, both of Lincoln, were ejected from the vehicle. Both were pronounced deceased at the scene.All four occupants of the Honda were transported to Great Plains Health in North Platte with serious injuries. Three have since been transferred to UNMC in Omaha for further treatment. The semi driver was not injured. I-80 was reopened at approximately 8:30 p.m.At approximately 5:45 p.m. Friday, NSP responded to a single-vehicle crash on I-80 near mile marker 211. A Ford pickup had been traveling westbound when it lost control in winter driving conditions and rolled. The driver, identified as Joseph Dodson, 53, of North Platte, was ejected from the vehicle. A passenger and a trooper attempted life-saving measures until EMS arrived. Dodson was transported to Gothenburg Health Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The passenger in the vehicle suffered non-life-threatening injuries.Winter driving conditions continue in many areas of the state today. NSP urges all motorists to reduce speeds in winter driving conditions. Check&nbsp;<a href="http://511.nebraska.gov/" target="_blank">511.Nebraska.gov</a>&nbsp;for updated road conditions throughout the state.

NSP Investigating Multiple Fatality Crashes

The City of North Platte has lifted the SNOW EMERGENCY.

The City of North Platte has lifted the SNOW EMERGENCY.

City of North Platte has lifted the snow emergency

Annual Keith County Parade of Lights registration form

Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with 4-H'er Nattellia Boyer and 4-H Development Extension Educator Caitlyn Jacobson about the 4-H Lottery Pig Project.&nbsp;

NORTH PLATTE - NORTH PLATTE - 4-H is America's largest youth development program across the United States that helps learn skills that will last a lifetime. The age requirement for 4-H is the ages of 8-18. There are many different categories that 4-H'ers can participate in during their time in the program. The Lottery Pig Project is new to Lincoln and Logan County 4-H'ers to participate in.&nbsp;

The Lottery Pig Project gives all youths in 4-H who participates a chance to learn about the pig and how to raise it. For these 4-H'ers, they all start at the same spot when participating in the Lottery Pig Project. Getting a pig ready for competition takes time for the 4-H'ers. "It starts months before because you have to train them to walk, train their hair, but it takes a lot, but it's a lot of fun and learning," said Natellia Boyer.&nbsp;Boyer was reserved champion last year in the Lottery Pig Project.&nbsp;

If you would like to learn more in-depth on the Lottery Pig Project and Boyer's involvement with 4-H, check out the podcast above. To follow along on Facebook for more information about Lincoln, Logan or McPherson Counties 4-H, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LLM4h">click here</a> or for their website, <a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/lincolnmcpherson/?fbclid=IwAR14YEAUI3fP9PwgydGtWvFLZyWMmc8p1vwQBk9gs8GkhzWK1THrQjZq3eI">click here.&nbsp;</a>

<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 PostPost News Director Canon Rath chatted with 4-H'er Nattellia Boyer and 4-H Development Extension Educator Caitlyn Jacobson about the 4-H Lottery Pig Project.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="(Audio) 4-H Lottery Pig Project" 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=gyb6i-1507326-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 - 4-H is America's largest youth development program across the United States that helps learn skills that will last a lifetime. The age requirement for 4-H is the ages of 8-18. There are many different categories that 4-H'ers can participate in during their time in the program. The Lottery Pig Project is new to Lincoln and Logan County 4-H'ers to participate in.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700682224373.jpeg" alt="Caitlyn Jacobson and Natellia Boyer. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post" />
 <figcaption>Caitlyn Jacobson and Natellia Boyer. Photo taken by Canon Rath/North Platte Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Lottery Pig Project gives all youths in 4-H who participates a chance to learn about the pig and how to raise it. For these 4-H'ers, they all start at the same spot when participating in the Lottery Pig Project. Getting a pig ready for competition takes time for the 4-H'ers. "It starts months before because you have to train them to walk, train their hair, but it takes a lot, but it's a lot of fun and learning," said Natellia Boyer.&nbsp;Boyer was reserved champion last year in the Lottery Pig Project.&nbsp;If you would like to learn more in-depth on the Lottery Pig Project and Boyer's involvement with 4-H, check out the podcast above. To follow along on Facebook for more information about Lincoln, Logan or McPherson Counties 4-H, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LLM4h">click here</a> or for their website, <a href="https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/lincolnmcpherson/?fbclid=IwAR14YEAUI3fP9PwgydGtWvFLZyWMmc8p1vwQBk9gs8GkhzWK1THrQjZq3eI">click here.&nbsp;</a>

(Audio) 4-H Lottery Pig Project

<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/2023/11/1700887983051.jpeg" alt="Zachary O'Gwynn - Leave Accident-Fail To Furnish Information" />
 <figcaption>Zachary O'Gwynn - Leave Accident-Fail To Furnish Information</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700887997143.jpeg" alt="Kara Jackson - Theft by Unlawful Taking $0-$500, Contempt Of Court, Trespassing-2nd Degree, Failure To Appear Or Comply With Citation" />
 <figcaption>Kara Jackson - Theft by Unlawful Taking $0-$500, Contempt Of Court, Trespassing-2nd Degree, Failure To Appear Or Comply With Citation</figcaption>
 </figure>***Keith County JailNo New Arrests***Buffalo County Jail<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700888013796.jpeg" alt="Leonardo Ramirez&nbsp; Jr- Probation Violation" />
 <figcaption>Leonardo Ramirez&nbsp; Jr- Probation Violation</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: November 25th, 2023

North Platte, Neb - Interstate 80 near North Platte opened back up just before 9pm Friday evening after it had been closed for nearly 7 hours after a fatal multi-vehicle accident 4 miles east of North Platter earlier in the day due to winter driving conditions. Nebraska State Patrol's Cody Thomas confirmed to the POST that 2 people were killed in the accident. Names have not been released and others were transported to Great Plains Health in North Platte according to scanner traffic.&nbsp;

Multiple accidents have been reported throughout the afternoon around the area. A snow emergency was issued for North Platte for Friday evening into Saturday so city crews can clean up the snow covered streets.

North Platte, Neb - Interstate 80 near North Platte opened back up just before 9pm Friday evening after it had been closed for nearly 7 hours after a fatal multi-vehicle accident 4 miles east of North Platter earlier in the day due to winter driving conditions. Nebraska State Patrol's Cody Thomas confirmed to the POST that 2 people were killed in the accident. Names have not been released and others were transported to Great Plains Health in North Platte according to scanner traffic.&nbsp;Multiple accidents have been reported throughout the afternoon around the area. A snow emergency was issued for North Platte for Friday evening into Saturday so city crews can clean up the snow covered streets.

I-80 is open after fatal accident closed road for nearly 7 hours Friday

&nbsp; THE CITY OF NORTH PLATTE IS DECLARING A SNOW EMERGENCY TO BEGIN IMMEDIATELY. ALL VEHICLES AND TRAILERS PARKED ON A SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTE, AS MARKED BY THE SMALL RED, WHITE, AND BLUE SIGNS, ARE TO BE REMOVED FROM THESE ROUTES OR RISK BEING TICKETED AND POSSIBLY TOWED BY LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT.

THE OBJECTIVE IS TO KEEP ALL EMERGENCY SNOW ROUTES OPEN TO TRAVEL AND DRY AS POSSIBLE. THESE VITAL TRANSPORTATION LINKS WERE SELECTED SO THAT EMERGENCY VEHICLES CAN REACH ALL PARTS OF THE CITY AND THE LOCAL HOSPITAL&nbsp;&nbsp;

City of North Platte&nbsp; THE CITY OF NORTH PLATTE IS DECLARING A SNOW EMERGENCY TO BEGIN IMMEDIATELY. ALL VEHICLES AND TRAILERS PARKED ON A SNOW EMERGENCY ROUTE, AS MARKED BY THE SMALL RED, WHITE, AND BLUE SIGNS, ARE TO BE REMOVED FROM THESE ROUTES OR RISK BEING TICKETED AND POSSIBLY TOWED BY LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT.THE OBJECTIVE IS TO KEEP ALL EMERGENCY SNOW ROUTES OPEN TO TRAVEL AND DRY AS POSSIBLE. THESE VITAL TRANSPORTATION LINKS WERE SELECTED SO THAT EMERGENCY VEHICLES CAN REACH ALL PARTS OF THE CITY AND THE LOCAL HOSPITAL&nbsp;&nbsp;

City of North Platte declares snow emergency

North Platte, Neb - Nebraska State Patrol's Cody Thomas confirmed to the POST that 2 people were killed in a multi-vehicle accident 4 miles east of North Platte Friday afternoon. Names have not been released and others were transported to Great Plains Health in North Platte according to scanner traffic. Thomas said he could not confirm when I-80 would reopen but said "they are working to get it cleared now".&nbsp;

North Platte, Neb - Interstate 80 (East Bound) continues to be closed due to an accident just east of North Platte. According to Lincoln County Emergency Management, they do not know when the interstate will reopen and ask for eastbound traffic to consider an alternate rout.

The accident was reported just after 2:30pm CST on Friday afternoon. More details forthcoming.

Derek Beck/Eagle MediaUpdate: 8:55pm 11/24/23&nbsp;I-80 is openUpdate: 5:55pm 11/24/23North Platte, Neb - Nebraska State Patrol's Cody Thomas confirmed to the POST that 2 people were killed in a multi-vehicle accident 4 miles east of North Platte Friday afternoon. Names have not been released and others were transported to Great Plains Health in North Platte according to scanner traffic. Thomas said he could not confirm when I-80 would reopen but said "they are working to get it cleared now".&nbsp;Original StoryNorth Platte, Neb - Interstate 80 (East Bound) continues to be closed due to an accident just east of North Platte. According to Lincoln County Emergency Management, they do not know when the interstate will reopen and ask for eastbound traffic to consider an alternate rout.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I-80 EB is closed at Exit 177 North Platte due to an accident. It is unknown at this time when it will reopen. If you are traveling east today, choose an alternate route.&mdash; lincoemgt (@lincoemgt) <a href="https://twitter.com/lincoemgt/status/1728175748777914611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/CcLadyAWVD">pic.twitter.com/CcLadyAWVD</a>&mdash; NSP Troop D (@NSP_TroopD) <a href="https://twitter.com/NSP_TroopD/status/1728156128767312086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The accident was reported just after 2:30pm CST on Friday afternoon. More details forthcoming.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700862355973.jpeg" alt="1-80 North Platte Friday afternoon" />
 <figcaption>1-80 North Platte Friday afternoon</figcaption>
 </figure>

2 fatalities in I-80 accident Friday afternoon, Interstate remains closed (eastbound) at North Platte 

North Platte Community College will join the American Red Cross in celebrating the 20th anniversary of the movie, “Elf,” next week.

NPCC will host a blood drive from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Tuesday in the concessions area of the McDonald-Belton Building on the NPCC South Campus, 601 W. State Farm Rd. The event is open to the public.

Everyone who donates blood, platelets or AB Elite plasma will receive an exclusive pair of “Elf” and Red Cross socks, while supplies last.

Blood cannot be manufactured or stockpiled and can only be made available through the kindness of volunteer donors. The holidays are traditionally hard on the nation’s blood supply because seasonal illness, winter weather and busy schedules lead to lower appointment numbers and decreased donor turnout, making it hard to keep up with demand for blood products.

Donors of all blood types are currently needed, especially those with type O blood and those giving platelets. Right now, there is an especially high need for type O blood and platelets. Type O positive is the most transfused blood type and can be transfused to Rh-postive patients of any blood type. Type O negative is the universal blood type and what emergency room personnel reach for when there is no time to determine the blood type of patients in the most serious situations.

Donors are urged to make an appointment ahead of time using the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/sport-clips, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

A blood donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification will be required at check-in.

Heather Johnson NPCCNorth Platte Community College will join the American Red Cross in celebrating the 20th anniversary of the movie, “Elf,” next week.NPCC will host a blood drive from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Tuesday in the concessions area of the McDonald-Belton Building on the NPCC South Campus, 601 W. State Farm Rd. The event is open to the public.Everyone who donates blood, platelets or AB Elite plasma will receive an exclusive pair of “Elf” and Red Cross socks, while supplies last.Blood cannot be manufactured or stockpiled and can only be made available through the kindness of volunteer donors. The holidays are traditionally hard on the nation’s blood supply because seasonal illness, winter weather and busy schedules lead to lower appointment numbers and decreased donor turnout, making it hard to keep up with demand for blood products.Donors of all blood types are currently needed, especially those with type O blood and those giving platelets. Right now, there is an especially high need for type O blood and platelets. Type O positive is the most transfused blood type and can be transfused to Rh-postive patients of any blood type. Type O negative is the universal blood type and what emergency room personnel reach for when there is no time to determine the blood type of patients in the most serious situations.Donors are urged to make an appointment ahead of time using the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/sport-clips, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.A blood donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification will be required at check-in.

NPCC blood drive will have “Elf” theme

City of North Platte is declaring a local SNOW ALERT to begin immediately. The SNOW ALERT is to give people advance notice to move cars from snow routes.

City of North Platte is declaring a local SNOW ALERT to begin immediately. The SNOW ALERT is to give people advance notice to move cars from snow routes.

City of North Platte declares snow alert

(SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol has arrested one person following a reported drive-by shooting and standoff in Oshkosh overnight.

At approximately 11:00 p.m. MT Wednesday, the Garden County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a drive-by shooting that had occurred in the 400 block of East Avenue H in Oshkosh.&nbsp;There were no injuries reported in the shooting.&nbsp;The involved vehicle was located a short time later at a residence in the 400 block of West 5th&nbsp;Street.

Garden County deputies requested assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol. The suspect was identified as Henry Schuff, 54, of Oshkosh. Schuff is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

NSP investigators made contact with the suspect at the residence, but the suspect refused to exit the home. The NSP SWAT team was activated. Additional attempts were made to have the suspect exit. At approximately 4:50 a.m., the suspect voluntarily exited the residence and was taken into custody.

NSP SWAT performed a search warrant on the home and located numerous firearms. Schuff was lodged in Scotts Bluff County Jail for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Additional charges are pending. NSP continues to investigate the drive-by shooting.&nbsp;

Cody Thomas(SCOTTSBLUFF, NEB.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Nebraska State Patrol has arrested one person following a reported drive-by shooting and standoff in Oshkosh overnight.At approximately 11:00 p.m. MT Wednesday, the Garden County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a drive-by shooting that had occurred in the 400 block of East Avenue H in Oshkosh.&nbsp;There were no injuries reported in the shooting.&nbsp;The involved vehicle was located a short time later at a residence in the 400 block of West 5th&nbsp;Street.Garden County deputies requested assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol. The suspect was identified as Henry Schuff, 54, of Oshkosh. Schuff is prohibited from possessing a firearm.NSP investigators made contact with the suspect at the residence, but the suspect refused to exit the home. The NSP SWAT team was activated. Additional attempts were made to have the suspect exit. At approximately 4:50 a.m., the suspect voluntarily exited the residence and was taken into custody.NSP SWAT performed a search warrant on the home and located numerous firearms. Schuff was lodged in Scotts Bluff County Jail for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Additional charges are pending. NSP continues to investigate the drive-by shooting.&nbsp;

Suspect Arrested After Drive-By Shooting, Standoff in Oshkosh

LINCOLN, Neb – The, Nebraska Cattlemen registration is available online for the 2023 Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Convention and Trade Show. This year’s event will take place at Younes Conference Center South in Kearney, Neb. from Dec. 6-8.

“Every year, hundreds of Nebraska Cattlemen members and allied industry representatives gather to elect new leadership, shape policy for the upcoming year, and hear from experts about current industry issues,”&nbsp;said Steve Hanson, president of Nebraska Cattlemen.&nbsp;“We look forward to seeing everyone in Kearney as we work together to protect our livelihoods and keep the cattle community strong.”

From carbon credits and extreme weather to Farm Bill updates, attendees will have many opportunities to learn about current events throughout the entirety of Convention. In addition to council and policy committee meetings, attendees will want to check out the trade show in the Crystal Ballroom, as it will be filled industry partners and companies on Wednesday and Thursday.

Further, on Thursday night the annual NC Awards Banquet will honor this year’s Hall of Fame, Industry Service, and Friend of the Foundation award recipients. Following the Awards Banquet, TopShelf Country will be performing live during the banquet dance.

The final day of Convention will kick off with a market outlook presentation by Jeff Stolle, Nebraska Cattlemen’s vice president of marketing. Convention will conclude with the Annual Business Meeting and a Board of Directors meeting.

See the full 2023 Annual Convention and Trade Show schedule and to register, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fr20.rs6.net%2Ftn.jsp%3Ff%3D001Dqn-egzxG5ufB89JKNpI4I_WELf53TZD6l81fdsyP5YTW0h49fMyO-UQDaRz6pUDGCJRPSymAYRWMnUf1XmzDFl2tEriui7iclcM6fcWDMi0jrQ2cZtCVwwu40e4vk9NP9sVQoYARAhGE-GOLM0GP6PDMNW6xaly3_ik66lGSejFZtUSCEHduw%3D%3D%26c%3DPs9YaeBcshB9mAzYGBJqx2TCrTVg6NUF-EGwmFtRGcNsHT25McA0OA%3D%3D%26ch%3DmndgvG3qxTxKaS3vl4V9EJd_ebneM1ZPhAwwKSdWunNOWYFVrEwpcg%3D%3D&amp;data=05%7C01%7Clschroeder%40necattlemen.org%7C124b33ac4d704438bceb08dbdb1f2856%7C6fc8c748896a4b9285f876b7b6973abd%7C0%7C0%7C638344699102232245%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=LI2dZ5xyIzyXahhJsAlVNHuC4eISkOiqbEjxHzQrMQI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nebraskacattlemen.org/convention-trade-show</a>. Early registration will be available through Thursday, Nov. 30.

Derek Beck caught up with Nebraska Cattlemen President Steve Hanson while he was hauling dry corn from his farm in Perkins County. Hanson spoke about the Cattlemen preparing for their upcoming Convention in Kearney, December 6-8.&nbsp;

LINCOLN, Neb – The, Nebraska Cattlemen registration is available online for the 2023 Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Convention and Trade Show. This year’s event will take place at Younes Conference Center South in Kearney, Neb. from Dec. 6-8.“Every year, hundreds of Nebraska Cattlemen members and allied industry representatives gather to elect new leadership, shape policy for the upcoming year, and hear from experts about current industry issues,”&nbsp;said Steve Hanson, president of Nebraska Cattlemen.&nbsp;“We look forward to seeing everyone in Kearney as we work together to protect our livelihoods and keep the cattle community strong.”From carbon credits and extreme weather to Farm Bill updates, attendees will have many opportunities to learn about current events throughout the entirety of Convention. In addition to council and policy committee meetings, attendees will want to check out the trade show in the Crystal Ballroom, as it will be filled industry partners and companies on Wednesday and Thursday.Further, on Thursday night the annual NC Awards Banquet will honor this year’s Hall of Fame, Industry Service, and Friend of the Foundation award recipients. Following the Awards Banquet, TopShelf Country will be performing live during the banquet dance.The final day of Convention will kick off with a market outlook presentation by Jeff Stolle, Nebraska Cattlemen’s vice president of marketing. Convention will conclude with the Annual Business Meeting and a Board of Directors meeting.See the full 2023 Annual Convention and Trade Show schedule and to register, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fr20.rs6.net%2Ftn.jsp%3Ff%3D001Dqn-egzxG5ufB89JKNpI4I_WELf53TZD6l81fdsyP5YTW0h49fMyO-UQDaRz6pUDGCJRPSymAYRWMnUf1XmzDFl2tEriui7iclcM6fcWDMi0jrQ2cZtCVwwu40e4vk9NP9sVQoYARAhGE-GOLM0GP6PDMNW6xaly3_ik66lGSejFZtUSCEHduw%3D%3D%26c%3DPs9YaeBcshB9mAzYGBJqx2TCrTVg6NUF-EGwmFtRGcNsHT25McA0OA%3D%3D%26ch%3DmndgvG3qxTxKaS3vl4V9EJd_ebneM1ZPhAwwKSdWunNOWYFVrEwpcg%3D%3D&amp;data=05%7C01%7Clschroeder%40necattlemen.org%7C124b33ac4d704438bceb08dbdb1f2856%7C6fc8c748896a4b9285f876b7b6973abd%7C0%7C0%7C638344699102232245%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=LI2dZ5xyIzyXahhJsAlVNHuC4eISkOiqbEjxHzQrMQI%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.nebraskacattlemen.org/convention-trade-show</a>. Early registration will be available through Thursday, Nov. 30.Derek Beck caught up with Nebraska Cattlemen President Steve Hanson while he was hauling dry corn from his farm in Perkins County. Hanson spoke about the Cattlemen preparing for their upcoming Convention in Kearney, December 6-8.&nbsp;SPONSORED by Western Nebraska Bank<div><iframe title="Nebraska Cattlemen Report - October 2023" 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=yn9n4-14e0b35-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><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681925044052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Local